GPS Tracking Device Cycling

A regular run of the mill cycling computer gives you information such as your current speed, maximum speed, average speed, trip distance, odometer and cadence. Imagine now being able to monitor also; your position by latitude and longitude, your elevation above sea-level, the count down of the distance to your destination, calculate the time left of the trip at the current average speed and more.

The best GPS devices for cycling purposes will give you all of the above benefits, including most of the functions covered by regular cycling computers. Some have a GPS mapping feature which allows for the display of a map centered on your current position, with the overview of your route according to pre-entered co-ordinates or waypoints. Some portable GPS systems can calculate a route and provide instructions which navigate you in much the same way as a car's GPS navigation system.

So what equipment would you need to have these features available to you on the bicycle? Well you will need a GPS receiver, a handlebar mount for the receiver, a computer with a connection to the receiver and some data in the form of waypoints and a map which will allow your position to be showed with reference to your surroundings. For connecting the GPS device to the computer to store information, look for a USB compatible GPS device, otherwise you will probably need to by an adapter from USB to the older RS232 connection.

Garmin and Magellan are the two GPS manufacturers who are the main providers of receivers for cycling purposes, although Garmin receivers are more commonly used. Whichever product you choose, take into consideration the battery life and weather resistance of the receiver.

Will the battery last the length of your audax trip? If the device uses AA or AAA batteries it is easy to carry spares and they are easily available. There are GPS receivers out there small enough to fit comfortably on the handlebar, so don't feel obliged to endure a clumsy bulk on your bar. The smallest models come from Garmin's Forerunner and Edge series, or the Geko series.

Another important element to consider when choosing your GPS product is the display. Car or marine GPS units have the biggest displays, but these are mostly too bulky and heavy on batteries to make them practical for cycling. Look for a device with the best display for the size of the unit. If you are riding at night a headlight on your helmet might assist in reading the display without having to activate the illuminating back light of the unit, since this can take a lot of battery power