Cycling with a GPS is becoming quite normal these days and we are no exception to this.

That said a GPS should never replace your own capabilities of navigating and finding your way as this is one of the fun parts of cycle touring. We see the GPS as a tool or aid to our experience while on the bicycle in remote or unknown places. We have earlier done a write up on how we navigate in the post This is how we navigate.

We have used earlier versions of Garmin GPS the Etrex 30 and found it lacking some functionality so before our big journey we decided on the Garmin GPSmap 62st and in this review we cover the experience with this GPS.

Quick facts and specifications:

    Physical dimensions 6.1 x 16.0 x 3.6 cm
    Display size 3.6 x 5.5 cm; diag 6.6 cm
    Display resolution 160 x 240 pixels
    Display type transflective, 65-K color TFT
    Weight 223 g with batteries
    Battery 2 AA batteries; NiMH or Lithium recommended
    Battery life 20 hours
    		garmin-gpsmap62st

    Functionality:

    We have cycled more than 45000km in total with the Garmin GPSmap 62st and we find it really easy to use and has the functions we need. When a map is loaded it comes with POI’s which gives some handy information from water points to campsites or hotels. When map or track is loaded with topographic information the GPS can tell you what climbs are coming. At least but not last the map screen shows you position on the map and you have a few data fields displaying other info as well such as time and altitude. Again you can have a look in this post This is how we navigate to have an idea how we use the GPS while cycling.

    Durability:

    The Garmin GPSmap 62st is a real beast and has not let us down, it’s been used in weather from +45c to -30c and in dry or wet conditions. The casing is now wearing down a bit after our intense use. Still there is nothing broken so really a good piece of technology.

    Power supply:

    We power our GPS from the dynamo of our bicycles or from a power pack, this has really proven it self and we have used this method trough some of the roughest places you can get on a loaded bicycle. See our post Power Harvesting on Tour.

    Company responsiveness:

    We have never needed to contact Garmin so we do not know how responsive they are.