Maps vs. GPS

I use both, they each ahve advantages. I like the map for planning, you can see what is near your route and get a sense of scale. The GPS is nice to remind you of when to turn or to find a gas station or food quickly.

You have to remember the limitations of each. A map is at least 2 yeasrs old the day it is printed, the one in my saddlebag is at least 3 years old so data is 5 years old. GPS will have newer data if you have an update service, but it will still be old. A GPS can break or not get a signal so not only do you not know where to go you don't know where you are.

Either one requires you to think, due to coding errors a GPS may show a road as a different classification then it really is, but why would you drive down a dirt road when you are on an intercity trip? don't blindly follow either one.
 
GPS is superior because it is so much easier. Instead of memorizing directions or stopping to read a map (or worse, trying to read a map on the tank bag while in actual traffic) you really just need to listen. Doesn't matter how complex the turnabouts or exits get, you just follow directions.

Considerably less distracting than trying to read signs and figure out what lane you want to be in etc. Sure, if you follow a GPS blindly you sometimes wind up in weird places but your chances of going wrong with a map is far higher.

Even maps have gone electronic, planning on an electronic map is vastly easier. Just going to Google Maps, entering start point and end point and poof, you have distances calculated, you have estimated drive times etc.

Maps are fine as a backup, shoving a road map into a bag in case disaster strikes makes sense, but a GPS is hugely better. Which is why paper maps are an endangered item. Mapping and electronic maps are bigger than ever though.
 

Great, I'll let you ride lead. I'll ride slower behind. Road signs give something for inmates to do besides gang bangin each other. I am old, the satellite confuses me. Give me paper or sheepskin. I rode to RAA 6 behind friends with two GPS units mounted on their bike. We stopped just after getting on the parway to adjust their units. We stopped at the the road side rest before the highest point on the parkway, to adjust yet again. Then it took them off and back through Waynesville into Maggie Valley instead of staying on the BRP to Soco Road at the top of the mountain and dropping into Maggie like screaming banshees. Kind of sucked because I had looked at a map and knew better , so I quit following their lead after that. Its a personal choice. Seems that a lot of us are 50 plus and prefer paper. I would like an elevation checker, do they do that function ?
 


oops pressed the wrong button!! meant to say I second this
 

Yes elevation, speed, speed limit, points of interest (gas, food, hotels) where you live, where you've been, the dates you traveled. All for someone that steals your unit.
 
nolton said:
Yes elevation, speed, speed limit, points of interest (gas, food, hotels) where you live, where you've been, the dates you traveled. All for someone that steals your unit.
Click to expand...

That's nobody's business but mine,
and I've never had anybody steal my map,,,,,.
But hey, technology is a great thing if ya understand it and if it works.
Maps been around awhile, learned to read them in cub scouts,
I'll take a map EVERY time.
 

You are talking about Jay correct? I think he is pulling your leg if he said he is a 78model
 
I carry both maps are good for planning and viewing an expanded area. But I find a gps far Superior for navigation ... Yes I am a geek I also carry a satellite beacon that allow me to communicate without cell coverage.... so all you old school biker fire when ready.
 
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