Best GPS Navigation Systems for Mountain Bikers

In a constantly growing electronic market, there is a huge variety of GPS navigation systems to choose from. However, many are geared mainly towards vehicles and on-road navigation. Listed here are 5 of the best outdoor, handheld/bike mounted GPS systems you can find - most of which are also great to use inside the car, as well.

Garmin eTrex Vista HCx

The Vista HCx is probably one of the best outdoor GPS systems for its quality and price. At around $360, you get a device that provides a huge amount of features and customization ability.

Included is basic map editing software with a decent map set already installed, an electronic compass, barometric altimeter, MicroSD card slot so you can add your own memory card if you ever need extra storage, and automatic routing that begins to map the trail once you arrive there. The display is large and bright, making it easy to read while riding. Tree cover or canyons won't get in the way of the high-sensitivity of the antenna, which gets good reception almost anywhere.

On a slight downside, the many features make this something you really have to sit down and take the time to learn. If you are a beginner, you might want to look for a product that's more basic and straightforward.

Lowrance XOG Crossover GPS Navigator

For a GPS system that works great whether using it in a vehicle or on a bicycle off-road, the innovated Lowrance averages at a price around the $200 area, making it an ideal choice when it comes to navigation.

With a waterproof and tough exterior, this system comes with very accurate basic maps along with a huge database of points-of-interest. It's great for beginning GPS users, with its easy-to-understand directions and display, but has enough depth and features for more advanced users. One of the best things about it is the option to use maps downloaded from Lowrance's MapCreate software, each with extreme detail and great topographic maps as well. There are even fishing maps available for those taking it out on the boat.

Also included with the system is a 2 GB internal flash memory with street maps of the US and Canada, a car power adapter, USB cable, built-in rechargeable battery, and 3-inch color display with touchscreen control.

The only downside is the life of the battery, only lasting about 3 hours tops between charges. But there is also the option to bring extra AA battery packs and put those in if you can't charge it after it runs out.

Garmin Edge 705

Some may think $500 is overly pricey when it comes to an outdoor GPS device. It really depends on what you're looking for. If you want something basic, then yes, you're best bet is to probably look for something cheaper. But if you desire a near-limitless set of features and customization, the Edge 705 is really something to consider.

More than just a navigator, it's also a training cycle-computer. It automatically measures your speed, time, distance, altitude, and calories burned, and records it for your review later on. You even have the ability to use its wireless capability to share your data with other users of the Edge 705.

Also included is an easy-to-use bike mount, a built-in basemap and a MicroSD slot so you can add your own card stored with more maps, workouts and saved courses. Its high-sensitivty inner antenna receives signals even under thick tree cover, and the large color display makes it easy to navigate and customize the menu to suit your needs and preferences.

Garmin Edge 305

Ranging around $350-$400, the Edge 305 is very similar to the newer, more expensive 705 but great if you don't have as much to spend.

Also performing as a personal trainer and cycle computer along as a GPS navigation system, this device also comes with a heart rate monitor and speed sensor to provide data feedback. Also included is its barometric altimeter to record elevation, a calories-burned counter, a highly sensitive satellite receiver that works well even under the cover of trees and amidst buildings and canyons, and a "Virtual Partner" that can "race" against you, making training more fun.

Another unique feature is the Auto Pause, which stops the training timer when you slow down below a speed that you specify yourself, and resumes when you get going again. Other interesting things included are the Auto Lap function and the Training Center software that helps you create courses and download others.

The Edge 305 is geared more towards advanced users, but it is easy in its navigation and installation so even beginners can learn and enjoy.

A bike mount is also included.

Garmin eTrex Vista CX

This full-color device seems pretty simple in its function, but actually has a lot to learn when using all the features to its greatest potential. At around $200, the Vista CX is definitely one of the best GPS systems for its price.

The automatic routing, insane 20-hour-long battery life, barometric altimeter, electronic compass, extra MicroSD memory slot with extra memory card, and full color display are just some of what makes this device great.

Take some time to absorb the directions, snap the system into the included bike mount, and go on your way. It may be a small piece of material, but don't let that scare you away, as the display is bright and easy to read even when you're riding at night - in which case you can turn on its backlight function.

The Vista CX is made primarily for outdoor use, but does also work from inside the car. It's also great for both advance GPS users and beginners alike, as it has many features but is quite easy to understand.