If you don't listen, is it still cheating?

Probably like any other transportation discussions, there’s a sometimes heated debate on the motorcycle forums about the use of GPS and other navigational devices. Many people feel that anything more than a map briefly consulted prior to the trip takes away from the adventure of the ride. This is often backed up with such sayings as “it’s the trip, not the destination, that is the adventure”. The idea of heading across the country (or state, or town) with only a general direction in mind is half the fun.

Other people feel that the adventure is in knowing where you are and where you are going and being able to experience the things that have been planned along the way. Not having to worry about where you are going to get gas or sleep leaves you to enjoy the other adventures you’ve planned for.

Well, knowing I’d be spending a lot of time on the road, and at times actually wanting to get somewhere, I decided to purchase a navigation system. From a previous system, I knew which features I wanted, needed or didn’t particularly like. I ended up with the Garmin Zumo 550, which they claim was created specifically for motorcycles, but comes with adapters to work in a vehicle as well. It also has the ability to get XM Satellite radio, which I figured would be handy as I cruise thru some of the more rural areas of the country. I was also able to plug in the memory card from my MP3 player, which plugs into an amplifier/speakers on the bike so I could take my blues with me until I subscribe to XM.

My trip to Chicago on the bike was the first run with the new device. I took an atlas along, just in case, but for the most part followed the instructions of the soft-spoken voice that would warn me of upcoming turns and “recalculating route” when I missed turns (I’m gonna need to name this “lady” that will be traveling with me).

Here are some highlights of my trial run –
The first night, as I pulled into Hope, AR to find a room, I discovered that the GPS had a selection under Points of Interest for “Entertainment – Bar/Night Club”. I was thrilled, until I entered “find nearest to Hope, AR” and it came back with “You’re Screwed”. Seems most of Arkansas is still “dry” and the nearest adult beverage was back in Texas!

But, the next day it redeemed itself when it lead me to Myrtle’s Place for lunch in the old part of Poplar Bluff, Missouri. And, I figured if it was the special of the day, the liver and onions was as good of a bet as any. And it was.

The rest of the trip was stress-free as far as directions were concerned. As the bike would near empty, the unit would warn me (a “motorcycle only” option) and then show me where the nearest gas stations along my route were. This allowed me to know if I needed to stop immediately, or go the additional 20 or so miles I had on that tank of gas.

So, I’m still able to wander and get lost (the true purist would be proud), but when it comes time for food or gas (or alcohol if I’m not in Arkansas), the Zumo is going to be very handy. And did I mention I can set a point for “Here”, so that way I can find my way back to those favorite places, like where I parked the camper!