 I need a Garmin tutor
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Joined: May 2006
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Can anyone tell me how to load a route onto my Garmin Nuvi 255? I want to start using it on the bike. I have a couple routes planned out for the rally, and I don't know how to load them onto the Garmin.
06 America 904
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Loquacious
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Did you create them on the Garmin mapping software (Mapsource or Basecamp)?
Kevin - Luceo Non Uro
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Joined: Apr 2008
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I got the same problem! Wanted one for the GA. rally.  I bought a Navman off fleabay last weekend for $5, & $5 S&H. The same day, the wife bought me a Magellan @ the local flea market for $15. Both work great, both had cig. chargers, but neither had the manuals!  Their on line, but NOT the kind of English I speak!  Luckily for me, I got a twenty year old in the house. They JUST KNOW, without reading.  (You NEED to find a kid!) 
And you may see me tonight
With an illegal smile
J. Prine
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Joined: Oct 2009
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Adjunct
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Scott, Moe gave me a lot of good advice that worked real well with my garmin: Quote:
... you can convert Google maps to a gpx file for import into same.
GMmapToGPX
Google Chrome is a PITA to use when it comes to the GPX conversion utility. I still haven't figured out that one yet. So I'll use chrome to lay out the route, then copy the route link to a firefox browser for conversion.
Quote:
The GPX conversion routine creates billions of waypoints. Not a problem if you heads up ride. Map source is a Garmin routing software that allows one to manipulate GPX files. Using Mapsource not only allows one to remove all these extraneous waypoints but allows one to verify the accuracy of the conversion.
A route in memory (imported) taxes your gps overhead. Slows up the recalculations etc. One or two routes in memory are fine. More than that are not. If the GPS blinks, the routes in memory are lost. Thus you having the routes on a card is perfect. Import as needed.
I didn't have Mapsource, without it worked fine.
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Joined: Apr 2006
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Loquacious
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"A route in memory (imported) taxes your gps overhead. Slows up the recalculations etc. One or two routes in memory are fine. More than that are not. If the GPS blinks, the routes in memory are lost. Thus you having the routes on a card is perfect. Import as needed." I'm not sure what this means. When I make a route on Mapsource, I might use a handful of hard waypoints, and a great number of "shaping points". Then I download the route from Mapsource on my home computer to the Garmin's removable SDHC card - 4GB. At any one time I might carry well over a dozen routes in memory, with no problem. If you worry about losing a route, have a backup SDHC card. They're what, like $10? 
Kevin - Luceo Non Uro
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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I contacted Garmin customer service and they told me "Your nuvi 255 does not support multiple point routing. As such, it will not be possible to transfer a route from your computer to the device. I apologize for any inconvenience." It does have a slot for a micro SD card, and I was thinking I could download mapsource and use it from the card, but if the nuvi won't support it, I don't want to waste the money. 
06 America 904
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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I would suggest a Garmin Zumo or a newer Garmin motorcycle specific GPS.
I have a Zumo 450 and it has served me well for almost 4 years and over tens of thousands of miles.
Kevin - Luceo Non Uro
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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The ones in memory would be the ones imported, the ones that you can use regardless of whether the microSD card is in or not. Personally I've never had any issues there, but I don't use it that heavily. A Back up SD card - hmm, if you are really dependent on your routes...I picked mine up for < $4 for 2GB (smallest I could find locally).
Zumo vs Nuvi ? I'm not convinced the motorcycle specific are worth it... my Nuvi 1490 has a very large 5" screen, I can hear it over my pipes (Scott's, that might be a different story) and through my full face helmet and even over a mp3 player earphones, vibration doesn't seem to effect it. It is not waterproof - but sitting behind the windshield...I was caught in showers both ways on my recent trip, and no problems. Given ebay has new 1490's with life time map updates for $130 (1450s a litle cheaper), versus almost $500 for the cheapest new zumo...I am sure the zumos are great, but I could replace mine several times for that, and still have gas money for a +1000 mile trip.
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Joined: Jun 2007
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Loquacious
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Loquacious
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I got a nuvi and use it a lot. It doesnt seem too difficult to program on the fly without a computer.
The main problem I have is needing to switch what state the destination is. Its kinda complicated and stupid.
Google's really messing us up with the ability to search and find any/everything on the dime without difficulty.
Have ya called 411 lately?.....they dont know sht!....I'm telling them "would you just google the fuking number already!"
So whats the problem?....You hit "where to"....type in the address, city, number, street....set to destination. Then what I do is type in another destination and hit "add to something something route" and it adds it along with as a spot along the way.
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,354
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,354 |
Quote:
I contacted Garmin customer service and they told me "Your nuvi 255 does not support multiple point routing. As such, it will not be possible to transfer a route from your computer to the device. I apologize for any inconvenience."
It does have a slot for a micro SD card, and I was thinking I could download mapsource and use it from the card, but if the nuvi won't support it, I don't want to waste the money.
I use that micro SD card slot for using maps when overseas. Garmin sells maps, for different rsgion of the world, loaded on SD cards. I used it twice when we were driving around Australia, it worked great. 
I don't know if you can use it (micro SD card slot) to load preset directions. I've never thought of doing that before, hmmmm
Blue/White 2007 TBA, Thruxton needles, Unifilter, AI removed, Polaris Bellmouth, Bubs, Nology Coils/wires, Lightbar, Ricor Intiminators, Hagon Nitros, Tall Sissy Bar w/luggage rack, Dart flyscreen & Lowers. 130 Mains, TrueGel Battery MG12-BS.
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Joined: May 2006
Posts: 2,647
Loquacious
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Loquacious
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Quote:
So whats the problem?....You hit "where to"....type in the address, city, number, street....set to destination. Then what I do is type in another destination and hit "add to something something route" and it adds it along with as a spot along the way.
Well, I don't have addresses, just some roads on a map out in the boondocks, I guess maybe I can make some up. Garmin says I can't do multiple point navigation with my model...guess I got the el cheapo version.
06 America 904
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Joined: Jan 2008
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I have the Garmin Quest. It does multi-point route mapping and I use the Mapsource software with great results. I use it for all my cycle trips. Since I'll be at the rally, send me a PM, let me know where you want to go and I will set up the route. I'll ride it with you!!
2003 TBA Thunderbike pipes / floorboards / and the most uncomfortable seat known to man....
Barry aka: 8-Ball
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Loquacious
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The ability to use multi-point routing with Mapsource is perfect for those "roads on a map out in the boondocks". That's the kind of riding we like and the Garmin helps us avoid congested and boring roads. On a 4,000 mile trip over a couple of weeks, having your daily routes pre-planned on the Garmin is priceless.
Kevin - Luceo Non Uro
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Joined: May 2006
Posts: 2,647
Loquacious
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I guess in the future i'll upgrade to something compatible with mapsource if I can't get this one to work.
Barry-definitely going to have you out in front at the rally!
06 America 904
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Joined: Jun 2007
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Loquacious
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yeah I dont use my Garmin on the bike, that would be difficult/impossible with mine too.
Point to point sounds like it'd be useful for the car when planning trips too. I usually have to find an address on google when planning a route.
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 11,126 Likes: 13
Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
Joined: Jan 2005
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Quote:
The ability to use multi-point routing with Mapsource is perfect for those "roads on a map out in the boondocks".
That's the kind of riding we like and the Garmin helps us avoid congested and boring roads.
On a 4,000 mile trip over a couple of weeks, having your daily routes pre-planned on the Garmin is priceless.
This is what I refer to as overhead. The routes that tax the systems (once in memory) are the large ones. Thus I'll break down the routes into day rides. Day 1, Day 2, etc...If I load a three day route, the recalculations take FOREVER! Recalculation being if you vary from the route. The GPS will recalculate a sub route to put you back on the main route. The key to all custom routes made on a computer are gpx files. If you upload a route from mapsource the route is in memory. Should the gps lock up or you mess up, the route is lost. While if the route is on a SD card in GPX format, it will always be available for import (placement in memory). AS the key are gpx files, check the menus on your gps unit to see if an import function exist. If it does exist, then you can import routes.
Blowing gravel off rural roads
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 11,126 Likes: 13
Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 11,126 Likes: 13 |
Quote:
...So whats the problem?....You hit "where to"....type in the address, city, number, street....set to destination. Then what I do is type in another destination and hit "add to something something route" and it adds it along with as a spot along the way.
That is fine for simple routes. Matter of fact that is how I created a route from Woodbridge, VA to Silver Spring MD this past Friday morning. It took a while as I had to drop several via points on the base line route. I road US1 to the George Washington Parkway then crossed the river on 495 and rolled through DC up to Silver Spring. Even this simple route made on the zumo would have been a breeze on a computer. The computer (Google Maps) is so much better than a 2" screen on the gps (zumo).
Parameters:
When using the gps to route, setting avoidances,i.e, navigation parameters is critical. Shorter Route, Faster Route is one. Avoiding toll roads, dirt roads, interstates highways are others. Using a combination of the above one can create routes on the fly easily. Thing is it is a Garmin route, not my route. My route being me selecting every road for the route. When I crossed the river on 495, I set the gps to avoid interstates and toll roads and then let it pick my route to Silver Spring. I helped it out by looking at the route and simply riding on a road I thought looked better. The gps recalculated the route based on my physical route modifications.
Blowing gravel off rural roads
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 11,126 Likes: 13
Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 11,126 Likes: 13 |
A key and extremely important thing NOT TO DO when using google maps is have more that two destinations. Using more than two destinations will cause the GPX conversion routine to create a route for each set of destinations. Say a three destination route. A, B and C. A route will be created for A to B and from B to C. When you really wanted one route from A to C. So don't convert a dropped point to a destination if you want a single 'route'.
Also save each day's route in Google Maps as a favorite. That way you can readily look at the route when you are cross checking it's accuracy upon gpx conversion. The only way I know to create a bookmark for google maps that works is to first create a bookmark for any other webpage besides google maps. Then edit that bookmark, changing both the name and the location. The location is the link that Google maps provide for the route you created.
Blowing gravel off rural roads
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Joined: Mar 2007
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Check Pants
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Check Pants
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I have not tried this but I saw this on ADV rider... web page
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NEW: 19 Goldwing Tour DCT
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 2,623 Likes: 2
Loquacious
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Loquacious
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Quote:
Quote:
The ability to use multi-point routing with Mapsource is perfect for those "roads on a map out in the boondocks".
That's the kind of riding we like and the Garmin helps us avoid congested and boring roads.
On a 4,000 mile trip over a couple of weeks, having your daily routes pre-planned on the Garmin is priceless.
This is what I refer to as overhead. The routes that tax the systems (once in memory) are the large ones. Thus I'll break down the routes into day rides. Day 1, Day 2, etc...If I load a three day route, the recalculations take FOREVER! Recalculation being if you vary from the route. The GPS will recalculate a sub route to put you back on the main route. The key to all custom routes made on a computer are gpx files. If you upload a route from mapsource the route is in memory. Should the gps lock up or you mess up, the route is lost. While if the route is on a SD card in GPX format, it will always be available for import (placement in memory). AS the key are gpx files, check the menus on your gps unit to see if an import function exist. If it does exist, then you can import routes.
I would never make a route longer than a single day. Why would I?
You start from Point A in the morning, you take a circuitous route, and you end at Point Z at night. Some days may have multiple routes. So, no problem.
I've found it very rare that the Garmin has a problem. If that's a concern for you, you can download a route twice so you have a backup, or carry a backup SD card. So, no problem.
We've riddent tens of thousands of miles with the Garmin using some pretty complex routes. Problems are very rare. I'll take the Garmin any day.
Kevin - Luceo Non Uro
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 11,126 Likes: 13
Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 11,126 Likes: 13 |
I've had my zumo lockup twice. The remedy was removing then re-installing the battery. If you enter mass storage mode, i.e., connect the zumo to a puter, and you press cancel, you will loose any routes in memory. GPX files can be stored on an SD card and on the zumo's hard drive. Either way the GPX files are available for import. And yes, I do carry a spare/backup SD card, with both mp3 and gpx files. Complex routes? lol! My friends hate it when I route us on virgin roads, er roads with no painted lines. Route complexity is true riding.  the majority of my routes can in no way be written down and followed in any easy manner. Too many turns, roads, and directions. Thus the beauty of using google maps to route with. One can really ride rural roads with not a worry! I agree that there is realy no reason to plot a route longer than a days ride. Even then 600 miles rural road days are VERY complex and are large gpx files. Back when I started the route gpx thing, I made the mistake of trying to route the whole excursion.  Just trying to help others avoid that mistake.
Blowing gravel off rural roads
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Loquacious
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Quote:
Complex routes? lol! My friends hate it when I route us on virgin roads, er roads with no painted lines. Route complexity is true riding. the majority of my routes can in no way be written down and followed in any easy manner. Too many turns, roads, and directions. Thus the beauty of using google maps to route with. One can really ride rural roads with not a worry! I agree that there is realy no reason to plot a route longer than a days ride. Even then 600 miles rural road days are VERY complex and are large gpx files. Back when I started the route gpx thing, I made the mistake of trying to route the whole excursion. Just trying to help others avoid that mistake.
Moe, I'm with you on the "virgin" roads. That's where the fun is! I'm disappointed if on ride one of those new roads turns out to NOT be dirt at some point, at least for a quarter mile or so.
The first time I planned a day's ride with Mapsource on the Garmin it was like a revellation. Having the route on the Garmin frees you up to enjoy the ride and the scenery.
Kevin - Luceo Non Uro
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 11,126 Likes: 13
Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 11,126 Likes: 13 |
A gps is my gateway to Americana.
Blowing gravel off rural roads
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Re: I need a Garmin tutor
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Joined: Apr 2006
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Loquacious
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Loquacious
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Quote:
A gps is my gateway to Americana.
Careful, Garmin may pirate that as a marketing slogan!
Kevin - Luceo Non Uro
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