Outdoor Basecamp

Never Get Lost Again Whilst Cycling by Using a Bicycle GPS Unit

Nov
23

Nature is a mystery, even to those that venture through it day by day. It’s sort of funny how the same trails can change overnight or even during the day, giving off one image in the bright morning light, a different picture in the afternoon and a new world at night. Especially when cycling throughout the day, there can be times when the sun begins going down and trails begin to change right before your eyes. The use of a bicycle GPS unit may be unfamiliar but you will quickly find that there is a real benefit of having a global tracking monitor by your side when you are trying to make it safely home.

What is a Bicycle GPS Unit?
If you are a driver, you should be well aware of the average GPS unit and all its many benefits and uses. The same applies to a bicycle GPS unit that can be attached to the bicycle, pinpointing your exact location and the surrounding area. You will be given full directions on the trail you are traveling, as well as any surrounding hotspots that are good to know, including camping grounds, police stations, and any medical short stops within the area. You will also be able to find any resting areas and any amenities that are found in the area, including vending machines and other useful stopping point items.

Why Use a GPS Unit?
There are many reasons you would want to have a bicycle GPS unit with you as you bike the trails, for instance:
• Staying on trail
• Finding your way
• Getting detailed directions
• Finding surrounding stops

Even though you are in nature, you want to utilize technology to your advantage. The old days of using a compass are not gone, but many are seeking that extra measure that ensures everyone gets where they are going safely, without getting lost. Getting lost in the woods, mountains, or along any other types of biking trails can be very dangerous for many reasons including:
• Dropping temperatures
• Wild life
• Lack of food
• Lack of clean water

Even those of you with great experience on the bike trails are subject to get lost, especially if you misjudge your timing and end up still on the trail at dusk. As the sun goes down, your perception of the trail can go as well, which is why it can be quite a wise and useful practice to carry a bicycle GPS unit.

Safety is First
Whether you are biking alone or have friends or family with you, safety should be the number one rule. Staying safe means knowing where you are going at all times. Getting lost on a bike trail or wandering off the trail, especially at night, can be extremely dangerous and has claimed lives before. Carrying a GPS unit with you while you are biking can be essential to maintaining the appropriate safety measures while you are adventuring through the bike trail. Safety should be your main concern and the only way to stay safe is to keep an eye on your path with a bicycle GPS unit.

How much will it Cost?
Getting a bicycle GPS unit may sound like a costly investment, but you will be quite surprised to find it is extremely inexpensive if you are looking in the right places. You can find these units for as low as $50 used or ranging from $89 to $500 or more for new units. Of course, if there are more features on the GPS unit, it will cost a bit more, but if you are looking for a simple unit you can find one for a relatively low cost.

Staying safe while you are traveling the bike trails is nothing new, but using a bicycle GPS unit could be a new practice to maintain on your journeys. You never want to be stuck in nature without a clue of where you are, and that is just what can happen without a GPS unit on your bike. Getting directions through the trail will ensure you stay on course, avoiding the tricks of the light and the deceit of nature that can be very common.

This post was written by

JasonJason – who has written posts on Outdoor Base Camp.
Jason is an avid outdoor enthusiast. Kayaking, hiking, trail riding, and any chance to get outdoors.

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