What type of emtb rider are you ?

What type of emtb rider are you ?

  • Adventure mountain trails and long tours Off-road

    Votes: 40 37.7%

  • All day Off-road with the occasional bike park

    Votes: 30 28.3%

  • Mainly Bike park and downhill rider

    Votes: 13 12.3%

  • Anything and everything on emtb's

    Votes: 41 38.7%

  • Nothing too adventurous, just like to get out on me bike

    Votes: 18 17.0%

  • It sits in the living room staying warm, ask me next year when The sun comes out

    Votes: 4 3.8%

  • Generally just a Bike park

    Votes: 2 1.9%

  • To the local coffee/cake shop and home again

    Votes: 1 0.9%

  • Use a gps map

    Votes: 28 26.4%

  • Use a cycle computer and a gps map not too important

    Votes: 6 5.7%

  • Use a paper map

    Votes: 2 1.9%

  • Starbucks is just down the road and if I get lost the Mrs will come and get me

    Votes: 0 0.0%

  • Use the stars

    Votes: 1 0.9%

  • Don't need a map, gps or cycle computer

    Votes: 7 6.6%

  • Everyday commuter to work

    Votes: 5 4.7%
  • Total voters
    106
  • Poll closed .
JJ765

JJ765

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I ask this question as I'm looking for a gps navigator to fit on the bars of my emtb. Seems to me the likes of garmin think we all want a cycle computer to record every element of our riding, health etc and the actual navigation off-road is not really a priority. All I want is a gps that I can load topo UK off-road maps that will assist me on the mountains and trails, must be very accurate, not too big or heavy and have a high resolution bright screen. Something between a garmin gpsmap H1 (too big/bulky🚛), a garmin edge 1050 (a cycle computer 🙄) and a garmin etrex touch (no micro sd card and low res screen 😵‍💫). Something from all of the above mixed into one would be ideal, 1050 form and size, H1 accuracy/navigation/tech and ease of use, and somewhere not too far north of the etrex on price.

so do you need, use a gps or cycle computer for your rides? If you just ride on bike parks you probably wouldn't both, but if you like to get away up mountain trails etc, you probably do.

Are you a Off-road Adventure rider who likes to get up high on the hills/mountains, or do you spend most of your time in the local bike park/forest? Maybe you just like getting out on your emtb and have a go at anything, or maybe you like to go as far as you can for the day, exploring green lanes and trails along the coast.

it doesn't matter what emtb you have or what you use your emtb for, as long as you're having a blast and it takes you away from all the day to day worries and stress.

personally I love to get out in the forest trails and up a few mountains for the views and peace and quiet, with a nice long down hill ride back to the car. But just getting out and occasionally to the odd bike park is enjoyable too. So a gps would be very useful.

so whats driving you to get out on your's, a great days Adventure or a Downhill adrenalin rush? Do you need, want or use gps on your emtb?
 
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JJ765 said:
Do you need, want or use gps on your emtb?
Click to expand...
I have trailforks running on my phone, which is mounted in landscape, on low profile quadlock mount on the stem cap. This insures the phone is completely behind the bars. And I have a USB-C port just below it on my display just below it, if I need to keep the phone charged.

I have had some pretty decent falls and the phone has been unscathed. Worst thing that's happen is my knee hits the phone in a fall, and the quad lock disc breaks. Cheap repair from Aliexpress.

I always use trailforks, because I want to try different trails each week, rather than just the one's I know. I wouldn't ride without it.

When in Canberra. I use the very elaborate bike path systems to get to the trails. Google Maps, with bicycle mode set, is really good for that. So the phone works great again.

The Avinox App and Strava track all my stats on my phone. It's very detailed. And the bike display also has all the details I need. This includes Distance, Time, Heartrate, Cadence and Vertical Metres climbed.

I have never felt the need to get an additional device like a garmin. It's just one more device you need to maintain and remember.
 
It’s funny… when I first bought a Garmin Edge 5 years ago, I wanted it almost exclusively for the Trailforks and GPS mapping features and so my spouse could track my more adventurous solo rides for safety. I couldn’t have cared less about all the ride statistics, performance and health metrics that it included.

I started recording my rides because, why not? And now, I’ve found that I use that recorded data way more than I ever thought I would by tracking my health, fitness and recovery trends to get an idea of when I can push myself harder and when I should throttle back a bit. It’s oddly satisfying. I never imagined that would interest me.

I’ll also regularly look up old ride stats if I’m returning to an area after a period of time for trip and battery usage/assist level planning (I’m on a SL emtb with a 360Wh battery, so range planning is crucial for big days).

The Garmin is nice and small, lightweight, rugged, waterproof and it’s battery lasts for many days of riding. Basically, it just sits there on top of my stem and does it’s job without any fuss. The touchscreen version running the Trailforks application is recommended. You just need to plug it into your computer once or twice a year to download any new trails that may have been added.
 
Personally I am an electronic aficionado. I use the app komoot for planning on my phone and my garmin watch to record where I go if I know the area. I never really felt the need to have a dedicated bycicle computer.

And BTW, nice poll, but "everyday commuter to work", like me, is missing... :)
 
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Guesswork. I was out at Climachx near Dyfi a few weeks ago and went 2.5 miles the complete wrong way... but it's all good, i worked it out.
Guesswork is the only way to ride, you'll find a road eventually :)
 
In my area, the maps can be inaccurate (old unmaintained trails, deforestation in full swing etc) so sometimes I have to rely on general sense of orientation as well. Maybe check on which side of trees moss is growing too :D
 
I use OS maps for planning and upload the route (course) to a Garmin 1050. I have my phone as a backup in case of temporary disorientation
I don’t use any of the fitness/training bits of the Garmin, I find that with all these things 90% of uses only use 10% of the features
 
I bought an 840, but find it difficult to read (old eyes), and actually the vast majority on it, I find completely pointless and not for me. The main reason I wanted a dedicated gps, was route info on a map, and because I found the phone hopeless when there is no signal.

I think I’m going to have to sale the 840, and save up a bit more, and maybe get the 1050. Anybody using the 1050, what’s your thoughts on it for following route, and its screen and map clarity?

(Anybody looking for a virtually brand new , hardly used Garmin Edge 840, at a bargain price, let me know).
 
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Use OS Explorer 1:25,000 maps on an Android phone - never run out of phone battery because can draw power from the non-smart Kiox using a Micro USB-A to USB-C cable.
 
I have used Bike Garmins for mapping for absolutely ages, so simple to use and if you dont want to look at the stats you dont have to.
They are not overly priced and are designed to be on the bike unlike your phone. they dont rely on phone signal and the GPS is more accurate.
I've used mine in race scenarios and also navigating coast to coast and as simple rides around the local hills.
Get the right tool for the job.
If you dont like Garmin there are others, but I like them :)
 
pagheca said:
Personally I am an electronic aficionado. I use the app komoot for planning on my phone and my garmin watch to record where I go if I know the area. I never really felt the need to have a dedicated bycicle computer.

And BTW, nice poll, but "everyday commuter to work", like me, is missing... :)
Click to expand...
Fixed for you 😉👍🏻
 
I use a Garmin Edge Explore with the talkietoaster map pack for navigation on long XC rides. Load a gpx on and leave it set on the map screen, I don’t use the data much, but it’s nice having time of day and distance so I know how far through the ride I am. It’s easier to use than my other approach of pulling a phone out to check route every 5 minutes.

If you really don’t want data, get a cheap phone, quad lock and a mapping app.
 
Dax said:
If you really don’t want data, get a cheap phone, quad lock and a mapping app.
Click to expand...

This ^^^ plus a cheap power bank in case the phone runs out of juice because having the screen on constantly will quickly deplete the battery. Also be careful of 'screen burn' caused by having the screen on constantly with the brightness turned up to make it more legible in sunshine - don't ask me how I know about this ;)
 
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My favorite local trails are a network of janky loamers that I can ride to from home, plenty of steep chutes, granite, and slippery roots. These trails are hard on equipment. I’ve broken phones, bike computers, and fingers here, so I avoid mounting anything valuable on my handlebars.

For me, the e-MTB is just another tool in the toolbox rather than my identity as a mountain biker. A typical ride involves a 7km commute to the trailhead, a 20-25km enduro-style loop, and a 7km ride home (with a stop at the taco joint). Riding home in eco hoping I have enough battery for the last climb makes me happy.

My electronics setup focuses on safety and durability. I tuck my phone into my hydration vest and track the ride on my Garmin watch. Because there are many cellular dead zones in the backcountry, I always carry a Garmin InReach Mini when I'm soloing. I learned this the hard way after a crash left me with a sprained ankle out of cell range, requiring a three-hour, one-legged pedal to get signal. When I do use a bike computer, I mount it on the top tube using a 76 Projects Enduro Mount, though I’ve been eyeing the Garmin Edge MTB for its ruggedness and Trailforks integration.
 
I live in NW Arkansas. Probably 80% of the time, I load my bike onto my car and go to a local trail system, which is anywhere from a 10 to 30 minute drive away, mostly for a 10 mile or so (1 to 1 1/2 hours) ride. Sometimes I just ride the greenway trails and streets to get to the trails (nearest is about 3 miles away). Rarely use GPS, except to record the rides, because I'm very familiar with all the trail systems in the area.
 
Never needed a map , Strava , GPS ect .
Just went out and rode , for over the last 40 years . I mean that's what it's all about is it not .
 
I guess I ride enduro style. It’s really about the downhills for me but lift or shuttle service riding is hours away, so I got an eMTB to serve as my portable shuttle. My favorite drug is going fast, so bombing down a flowy trail is ideal, but I do enjoy the challenge of gnarly, tough downhills too.
 
jackamo said:
Never needed a map , Strava , GPS ect .
Just went out and rode , for over the last 40 years . I mean that's what it's all about is it not .
Click to expand...
It is indeed, except you cannot just ride anywhere you like. For all our overseas friends, 99% land in the UK is privately owned.

You can legally cycle on
most roads (excluding motorways), cycle tracks, bridleways, restricted byways, and byways open to all traffic (BOATs). Riding on public footpaths is a civil trespass unless specifically signed as shared use, and you cannot ride on pavements unless they are marked as cycle paths.

Roads and tracks
  • Roads: Any road open to normal traffic is legal for cycling, including A-roads and dual carriageways, though quieter roads are often safer.
  • Cycle lanes: These are specifically for cyclists and are usually marked with white lines or blue signs.
  • Cycle tracks: These are designated paths for cyclists.
  • Bridleways: These are rights of way for cyclists, horse riders, and walkers.
  • Restricted byways: These are rights of way for cyclists, horse riders, and vehicles without a motor.
    • Byways open to all traffic (BOATs): These are paths that are open to all types of traffic, including cyclists.
    • National Cycle Network: These are signed routes across the UK for cycling and walking.


Paths and pavements
  • Pavements: It is illegal to cycle on pavements, but you may ride on them if they are specifically designated as shared use with a "cycle" sign.
  • Footpaths: You do not have the legal right to cycle on public footpaths. Doing so is a civil trespass unless the landowner has given permission.
  • Pedestrian crossings: You can walk your bike across a pedestrian crossing.

  • scotland has its own rules with right to roam etc, but still many restrictions on where you can legally ride.
This is why knowing where you can ride and making sure you don't ride on private land without permission, or ride tracks and paths that is illegal is important to uphold, unless emtbs want the ramblers association to lobby the government to ban cycles with motors, just like 4x4's and motorcycles.

there are plenty of online maps you can look at to determine where you can and can't ride, but have routes download on a gps thats easy to read and accurate is how I wish to enjoy riding in the countryside legally.

The New Forest is a perfect example, there are cycle routes that mtb's and emtb riders can use, but it is illegal to just ride anywhere and for good reason. I grew up in the New Forest and remember when you could drive down tracks, cycle anywhere, backpack and camp anywhere, but those days are long gone due to fires and damage to the ground. We may want to go where we like, but unfortunately thats not reality and if we want to keep the offroad access we have, we all need to be respectful of the land owner, the law and other users, whilst enjoying our sport.
 
JJ765 said:
It is indeed, except you cannot just ride anywhere you like. For all our overseas friends, 99% land in the UK is privately owned.

You can legally cycle on
most roads (excluding motorways), cycle tracks, bridleways, restricted byways, and byways open to all traffic (BOATs). Riding on public footpaths is a civil trespass unless specifically signed as shared use, and you cannot ride on pavements unless they are marked as cycle paths.

Roads and tracks
  • Roads: Any road open to normal traffic is legal for cycling, including A-roads and dual carriageways, though quieter roads are often safer.
  • Cycle lanes: These are specifically for cyclists and are usually marked with white lines or blue signs.
  • Cycle tracks: These are designated paths for cyclists.
  • Bridleways: These are rights of way for cyclists, horse riders, and walkers.
  • Restricted byways: These are rights of way for cyclists, horse riders, and vehicles without a motor.
    • Byways open to all traffic (BOATs): These are paths that are open to all types of traffic, including cyclists.
    • National Cycle Network: These are signed routes across the UK for cycling and walking.


Paths and pavements
  • Pavements: It is illegal to cycle on pavements, but you may ride on them if they are specifically designated as shared use with a "cycle" sign.
  • Footpaths: You do not have the legal right to cycle on public footpaths. Doing so is a civil trespass unless the landowner has given permission.
  • Pedestrian crossings: You can walk your bike across a pedestrian crossing.

  • scotland has its own rules with right to roam etc, but still many restrictions on where you can legally ride.
This is why knowing where you can ride and making sure you don't ride on private land without permission, or ride tracks and paths that is illegal is important to uphold, unless emtbs want the ramblers association to lobby the government to ban cycles with motors, just like 4x4's and motorcycles.

there are plenty of online maps you can look at to determine where you can and can't ride, but have routes download on a gps thats easy to read and accurate is how I wish to enjoy riding in the countryside legally.

The New Forest is a perfect example, there are cycle routes that mtb's and emtb riders can use, but it is illegal to just ride anywhere and for good reason. I grew up in the New Forest and remember when you could drive down tracks, cycle anywhere, backpack and camp anywhere, but those days are long gone due to fires and damage to the ground. We may want to go where we like, but unfortunately thats not reality and if we want to keep the offroad access we have, we all need to be respectful of the land owner, the law and other users, whilst enjoying our sport.
Click to expand...
Wow and you wonder why you never get invited to the fun parties.

I've rode all over the UK , Scotland Wales and now Northern Ireland where I now live .


There maybe be private land but I don't recognise private land , never have .

I been building and maintaining trails on private land near me for nearly 20 years .
Constantly get thanks from other cyclists , dog walkers hikers and up till she passed away the lady who owned the land .
She never gave permission because she didn't want to be liable for compensation claims . But she never said no .

Google Lordwardans, Dufferin trail and Helen's tower and see what I've been up to.
And still will be up to until I physically can't .
 
jackamo said:
Wow and you wonder why you never get invited to the fun parties.

I've rode all over the UK , Scotland Wales and now Northern Ireland where I now live .


There maybe be private land but I don't recognise private land , never have .

I been building and maintaining trails on private land near me for nearly 20 years .
Constantly get thanks from other cyclists , dog walkers hikers and up till she passed away the lady who owned the land .
She never gave permission because she didn't want to be liable for compensation claims . But she never said no .

Google Lordwardans, Dufferin trail and Helen's tower and see what I've been up to.
And still will be up to until I physically can't .
Click to expand...
Good for you 👍🏻. Being held legally liable for injury or death is a big problem in sport etc, but most private land owners are not so happy for people using their land without permission, or will just refuse access. Just to confirm, if you have a private garden, can we come over for a rip up party and maybe camp out for a few nights for a bbq and piss up 👍🏻
 
JJ765 said:
It is indeed, except you cannot just ride anywhere you like. For all our overseas friends, 99% land in the UK is privately owned.

You can legally cycle on
most roads (excluding motorways), cycle tracks, bridleways, restricted byways, and byways open to all traffic (BOATs). Riding on public footpaths is a civil trespass unless specifically signed as shared use, and you cannot ride on pavements unless they are marked as cycle paths.

Roads and tracks
  • Roads: Any road open to normal traffic is legal for cycling, including A-roads and dual carriageways, though quieter roads are often safer.
  • Cycle lanes: These are specifically for cyclists and are usually marked with white lines or blue signs.
  • Cycle tracks: These are designated paths for cyclists.
  • Bridleways: These are rights of way for cyclists, horse riders, and walkers.
  • Restricted byways: These are rights of way for cyclists, horse riders, and vehicles without a motor.
    • Byways open to all traffic (BOATs): These are paths that are open to all types of traffic, including cyclists.
    • National Cycle Network: These are signed routes across the UK for cycling and walking.


Paths and pavements
  • Pavements: It is illegal to cycle on pavements, but you may ride on them if they are specifically designated as shared use with a "cycle" sign.
  • Footpaths: You do not have the legal right to cycle on public footpaths. Doing so is a civil trespass unless the landowner has given permission.
  • Pedestrian crossings: You can walk your bike across a pedestrian crossing.

  • scotland has its own rules with right to roam etc, but still many restrictions on where you can legally ride.
This is why knowing where you can ride and making sure you don't ride on private land without permission, or ride tracks and paths that is illegal is important to uphold, unless emtbs want the ramblers association to lobby the government to ban cycles with motors, just like 4x4's and motorcycles.

there are plenty of online maps you can look at to determine where you can and can't ride, but have routes download on a gps thats easy to read and accurate is how I wish to enjoy riding in the countryside legally.

The New Forest is a perfect example, there are cycle routes that mtb's and emtb riders can use, but it is illegal to just ride anywhere and for good reason. I grew up in the New Forest and remember when you could drive down tracks, cycle anywhere, backpack and camp anywhere, but those days are long gone due to fires and damage to the ground. We may want to go where we like, but unfortunately thats not reality and if we want to keep the offroad access we have, we all need to be respectful of the land owner, the law and other users, whilst enjoying our sport.
Click to expand...

What you didn't say is it's 100% legal to push your bike along any footpath in the UK and if you're actually caught riding your bike, the only thing a landowner legally can do is showing you the shortest route off the land and he/she cannot push charges and prosecute. We have lots of bridleways around here that turn into footpaths, usually at unmarked junctions and to expect anyone to know one from another is impossible, it's not until you hit a stile that you're even aware you've taken the wrong turn. Just be courteous, apologise and 99% of landowners are 100% okay and realise that you're not a low life dickhead casing out their joint, livestock or whatever and usually have a great conversation with you.
 
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