So, I’m on the hunt for a GPS to take cycling, but not specifically a cycling computer…I stopped logging my rides years ago - post-children - just riding is enough!
However, I’d like to get a device to plan routes (say in RidewithGPS), load these routes then have the device to refer to for navigation. As I also do a bit of hiking, so it would be good to get something useful across disciplines. I’d use the gps as my primary navigation, with a phone only available as a back up. Battery life will be important, as it’s likely to be used bikepacking and overnight hiking too.
The Etrex 22 is still really popular for bikepacking if you want the ability to use AAs and maps but there is no connectivity with phones as such. There is a more modern Etrex SE with a paperwhite styled screen with crazy long battery life but im pretty sure it doesn’t do detailed maps. If I was splashing out Id get the Coros Dura.
EDIT: The modern Extrex SE does AAs as well. Crikey. Ok. The website is a little bit sneaky. Looks like there are 3 versions…
I suggest looking into the Coros Dura. It’ll do all the things you want on the bike. It’s not designed for hiking, but Coros makes watches that are. I’ve commented more about the Dura in other threads here.
Garmin bike computers aren’t designed for hiking either, and anything Garmin with similar bike functionality will be more expensive than the Dura. But I think some folks bike - touring, not racing - with Garmin hiking GPS devices, so you might look into that.
I would think so. Its only the old standard etrex that is non communicative. The new extrex is actually called a hand held, that looks like a mount on the back?
Yes, some people like the watch type devices even for bikepacking. Ive seen a couple anyway.
One of the Garmin watches with maps could be another option. Depends a bit on the form factor you want (i.e. handheld or wrist mounted). You can get a handlebar mount for some models for easier navigating on a bike ride.
I would stick to a cycling computer for cycling. RWGPS is great for planning and can send routes to your garmin or whatever. For navigation, the trailforks phone app is the way to go for mtb. I would stick with phone for other activities too. Gaia gps has been the goto for a long time for hiking/climbing/mountaineering but caltopo is catching up rapidly as Outside enshittifies Gaia (outside also owns TF). Goat maps is also looking promising. It was founded by some of the Gaia people after outside starting ruining Gaia. Also your phone will last quite a long time for navigation if you have it airplane mode. I’ve done 4 day trips with just a small powerbank to recharge.
Personally, I use a garmin on the bike and usually wear an apple watch. For non bike activities, it’s a phone app, and either apple watch or an ancient garmin watch.
You might want to take a look at the Beeline Velo 2.
It’s not a standalone bike computer, as it relies on a smartphone app for GPS and routing (it does have a built-in accelerometer, gyroscope, and magnotometer). It’s more of a nice secondary display that is powered by a smartphone app. It provides turn-by-turn and a digital compass and some stat readouts.
It looks like the etrex 22 is a great option, I just wish it was lithium battery/usb-c rechargeable instead of only AA’s… still, something I can probably work with.
The Coros Dura looks like a fantastic option too, with fantastic battery life. I’m looking more into this….