X_HOBBES said:Anybody else have any feedback on GPS usage for biking?
I'm searching for GPS data for NJ trails and am finding nothing. I
wonder
Quoted message said:if I should start up a free site to post some of this information...
I'm
Quoted message said:sure there's GPS data out there for some of these trails. =-)
X_HOBBES
How well they work depends on where you are riding, what time of day it
is and how dense the canopy is (and how wet it is). Satellite
configuration changes throughout the day and affects the quality of
your position. Anything that blocks your view of the sky can block the
satellite signal too. Steep/deep canyons or heavy tree cover makes GPS
unreliable. Tall buildings also cause GPS to go haywire.
In Arkansas, I've seen GPS report me being a quarter of a mile from
where I really was. If you have to GPS trails in the trees, do it
during the winter when the leaves are off. If it's a pine forest, good
luck.
Some GPS receivers come with software that will tell you the best time
of the day to collect data in your general area. Look for that and plan
the best time to go out.
I have used mine on the road several times with good results. If yours
can use an external antenna, buy one and attach it to your camelback or
helmet for the best reception. An external antenna really improves the
quality of your position data.
Most GPS units have options to set data collection style (units, etc.)
and frequency. To get good results, set the receiver to collect once
per second (that is the fastest it can go unless it runs in carrier
phase mode).
Most also output in NMEA standard. If you upload NMEA as a text file,
most people should be able to convert it and upload the trail to their
GPS unit.
Let us know how it goes!
-Buck
