GPS units here in Japan

[Dana]

I know mihama pulled out some fancy little GPS unit looking thing when we rode down towards Odawara, but how do they really work?  I've been tempted to pick up a Garmin 60CSX and download the Japanese maps onto it, but it still sounds like a pain in the arse to map out routes and such, not to mention it doesn't acknowledge one way streets and telling you to turn off a highway when there is no exit...

Talk to me people! 

Do you think they are worth it if I wanted to do some longer rides? (Tsukuba, Fuji area, etc)

Dana

[mihama01]

I only have experience of Garmin eTrex models....

The screen is too small to use it as a replacement for a map, but it is a great safety tool. I find myself registering locations I visit frequently and then jusr using the "Go To " function which just tells me the direction and distance, I pick the roads myself.

You can plan routes by using the PC software that is included.

If you buy an english one, you will need to purchase additional Third Party Japan map. All locations will be in english. Alternatively purchase the Japanese one which includes the map but you had better learn Kanji.

Lastly there is the mounting issue. I use the Garmin Bicycle mount, but it is not too robust. Alternatively just leave it in map compartment of your tank bag.

Actually I have a couple of units that I don't use. A yellow basic etrex with no map display functionality or an eTrex Legend C with mapping , both english. Let me know if you are interested.

[Dana]

Alright, so I finally bought the Garmin 60CSX and the Japanese map.  I tried it out heading to destinations I already knew.  Using the software, I had it map out a route (auto) and while it wasn't the fastest way, it still got me there.  Sometimes it will tell me to go around the block and then continue with the route...just have to work with the zoom in and out to see if some turns are really necessary.

My overall feelings are the routes planned are usually not the fastest way, but they'll get you there. 

Dana

[LilGuns V2.0]

I only have experience of Garmin eTrex models....

The screen is too small to use it as a replacement for a map, but it is a great safety tool. I find myself registering locations I visit frequently and then jusr using the "Go To " function which just tells me the direction and distance, I pick the roads myself.

You can plan routes by using the PC software that is included.

If you buy an english one, you will need to purchase additional Third Party Japan map. All locations will be in english. Alternatively purchase the Japanese one which includes the map but you had better learn Kanji.

Lastly there is the mounting issue. I use the Garmin Bicycle mount, but it is not too robust. Alternatively just leave it in map compartment of your tank bag.

Actually I have a couple of units that I don't use. A yellow basic etrex with no map display functionality or an eTrex Legend C with mapping , both english. Let me know if you are interested.

I might be interested in one of those units. I will see if we can meet when I get back from Hiroshima.

Phil