Some units (Street Pilot) will not accept downloads; Ip seems to think the Nuvi is one of them.

 

It looks like I'll be the real cheap azz here. I have a $100 Nextar that hasn't failed me in trips across a good portion of the country. I bought a $10 mount off eBay. Found what I needed to find and got to where I wanted to be.

 

If you have a cell phone with an unlimited internet data plan, Google has a free Google Earth application for your cell phone. I have it on my Blackberry Pearl now and also used it previously on my Razor. The key is the unlimited internet data part on your cell phone plane, otherwise you'll end up shelling out A LOT of extra cash every month.

The Google Earth application for cell phones works almost exactly like the regular computer app. You can search for restaraunts, ATM's, hotels, or just a regular address. When in need of directions, you can use your current location as the starting point, and the directions are turn by turn. You can zoom in and out, save destinations, use satellite view or a clear map, and even see traffic in areas that support traffic updates. The accuracy of the current location is fairly accurate as well. When I'm driving, it's usually withing 3 meters or so.

If you search for restaraunts, hotels, etc. it also shows you the rating given to that establishment, just like you see on a regular internet search. If you want to call ahead to make a reservation or check if a hotel has a vacancy, the phone number is also given and you can call directly from the link in the Google Earth app. In other words, you don't have to memorize the number or write it down and then exit the application to make the call. Just scroll down to the phone number link and hit OK or the green dial button.

I've used this application everywhere from downtown Chicago to the middle of South Dakota. You do have to be in an area with a cell signal that allows for internet data service. But I've been in only a couple of small areas in BFE that didn't have that. Almost all interstates have good cell coverage and I'm guessing it's only going to get better.

I wouldn't recommend getting the unlimited internet data plan just so you can use the Google Earth application. You're betting off spending $400 - $500 up front for a good GPS unit. But, if you're like me and use the internet on your phone for other purposes, the Google Earth application is free to download and use, and when Google updates it maps the updates are free to download as well.

If you don't like to text with your cell phone or would prefer a larger screen to view maps and directions, you're probably better off going with a regular GPS unit.

 

I have a Garmin Nuvi 780, which is great. I got it on Ebay for half the price you would pay for it new. Also got a Ram mount that works great with this Garmin and protects it from the weather. Check it out
www.ram-mount.com
Dan

 

Everyone has likes and dislikes on the many brands and models of GPS's. Choosing a model based on feedback from this forum will be difficult.
My only advise to you is get a waterproof one and use a RAM mount. No matter what model you have a RAM mount will not let you down and they look the best.
I personally use the Quest 2. It's waterproof, and has a 20 hour battery but it does have a small screen.
Ram mount on the bike, truck and ATV.
Good luck with your choice.

 

For what it's worth the Garmin Quest that I metioned earlier for $75 is waterproof and has an internal battery.

 

I have one of those eTrex (Vista), but it seems the screen is just too damn small to use on a ride. I think I'd rather get a unit that his BIG direction arrows when it's routing me to a destination, rather than squinting at a tiny map on that thing. Different purpose.

However, I do take it with me and toss it in the tour pak to save my routes. Sometimes I find a decent new road and want to remember how the hell I got there.

 

I have the entry level GPS nuvi 205 and am more than satisfied with what it provides. higher dollar units equal a whole lot of bells and whistles I'll never use. JMO

 

I hear you about cheap, bro, but when it comes to a delicate electronic instrument on the handlebars of a Harley, cheap may just be money thrown away. I don't know of anybody that uses a suction cup, never seen one being used, and I wouldn't even consider or trust one one for more than 5 minutes. I'm not bashing your ideas or thoughts, it's just that if you're gonna mount a GPS, it needs to be MOUNTED. Buy inexpensive if you must, but mount it securely! For mounts, check out ram-mount.com.

 

Thanks for all the advice. As usual this place is the best for getting everyones opinions on what they think is best. Not sure what route I am going to go yet, but now I know what to look for.