Hello all,
Looking at getting a Harley GPS. Have the "non" Harley Zumo 660 now and have had nothing but problems with loading routes from rider planner even when I get one loaded it sometimes dosen't stick to it, have also used base camp which I find is terrible.Has anyone tried the new Harley 590 or should I just buy the Harley 660. Any feed back would be greatly appreciated. Thank you

 

I do just great with google maps on my iphone...used it all over the world.

I don't see any advantage to a stand alone unit which may not have updated or as comprehensive mapping.

I figure out my routes in my browser and use google to email me a link...open that up on my iphone.

Mike

 

Keep in mind that all GPS units will operate the same way.
When you build a route on a computer, you are using that software's mapping algorithms.

Now when you import that route into a GPS unit (any of them), the only thing that gets imported are the starting point, ending point, and any way points in between.

The GPS unit then uses its built in mapping algorithm to calculate the route between those points.

If you want to force the GPS to follow your exact route, you have to make sure you have enough data points so that no matter what map you use, it takes the same route between points.

If there are multiple ways to get from point A to point B, then you might need more data points.
If there is only one way to drive between those points, then you won't need as many way points.

 

I uses the TomTom Rider. I've never used the ride planner software that comes with it but I'm very happy with how it works. It even has a winding road option when it calculates routes. It's bulky but I like the way TomTom's work and the display's better than the Garmin in my company truck.

Typical, I just looked and they have a newer model than mine and it's not as bulky.

You have other options than Garmin.

 

Problem with Google maps is that there's a small, finite number of waypoints you can use. When you want to plan a scenic, back road ride, you use them all up quickly. Which stinks. I'm not sure why they limit you (to 10 or so?) but it makes the ride planning of minimal use.

 

The 590 will have some advantages over the 660, like a bigger screen and has a faster CPU. But I agree with RollaMo on the waypoints. Nice feature on the Garmin is you can simulate your route or do a dry run directly on the GPS. Just turn the GPS Simulator on in the settings. You can add additional waypoints during this also. You can modify the Avoidances also for more accuracy.

 

I also have a TomTom Rider, the first wide screen version. It is storm proof and I can confirm that, which is one reason it is a bit bulky. I also use Tyre routing software, although when swapping between the two one has to wary of the algorithms as RollaMo mentioned.

 

I can't count the number of times I don't have any cell service when out riding which means the GPS doesn't work on the phone. A stand alone unit is still a more reliable electronic navigation tool. Until the cell phone companies fix that issue (which they won't) google maps on my phone can never be a replacement for my stand alone GPS. Of course I always have a paper map too.

 

Have you checked out the app Maps.me NO CELL service required.. I just did a post here on HD about this app... Nice 'Plan B'

http://maps.me/en/home

 

Plus google nav is a battery killer. Must be constantly plugged in.

My experience anyway.