Search found 1316 matches

by hexhome
13 Apr 2014, 10:32pm
Forum: On the road
Topic: Cycling in Aberdeen (Video)
Replies: 24
Views: 3231

Re: Cycling in Aberdeen (Video)

Nice ;-)
by hexhome
11 Apr 2014, 12:19am
Forum: Does anyone know … ?
Topic: Maps for Garmin
Replies: 25
Views: 2473

Re: Maps for Garmin

After a considerable amount of testing various map solutions for cycling using a Garmin GPS I have concluded that Velomap is superior MOST of the time. There are one or two provisos but generally, with Velomap enabled in a Garmin GPS (all other maps disabled) navigating with the GPS set for Driving or Car, the GPS will route by a suitable 'leisure' route. With the GPS set to Bicycle, the route will be more direct but still take in some sensible diversions from unsuitable roads.

No one solution will give the perfect result every time and it has been difficult to assess the effectiveness of the various maps whilst keeping an open mind. I am however fairly convinced having extensively testing five OSM based maps over the course of two years. Of course, what suits me won't suit everyone, my cycling is a mix of leisure and utility. The testing was as scientific as I could make it whilst fitting in with other activities. Testing was carried out all over the UK and at a few European locations.

All the maps tested worked to a good standard and only two were rejected early on as being unsuitable for cycling. Interestingly, one of those is a regular favourite of CTC Forumites, make of that what you will!

I have absolutely no connection with Velomap other than a user and have made a voluntary payment.

http://www.velomap.org/
by hexhome
3 Apr 2014, 6:50pm
Forum: Does anyone know … ?
Topic: Maps for Garmin
Replies: 25
Views: 2473

Re: Maps for Garmin

Sweep, as I understand it, Openfeitsmap designates cycle routes such as NCNs as highways /motorways. By setting the GPS to route for automobile, favours longer cycle specific routes. Setting the GPS to route for cycle or walking weakens this tendency. It's counter intuitive but a little experimentation with Base camp should show illustrate the preferences.
by hexhome
31 Mar 2014, 4:56pm
Forum: Does anyone know … ?
Topic: Maps for Garmin
Replies: 25
Views: 2473

Re: Maps for Garmin

Mick F wrote:I repeat, if you go about selling the stuff and/or passing it off as "original", you're standing into great danger.


Actually, you're safer there as this can be dealt in a Magistrates Court and has a maximum fine attached which was £5000 though there is a proposal (which may have been accepted by now) to raise that to £50000.

Breaching a copyright license could end up in the High Court. Unlikely maybe, but possible.
by hexhome
31 Mar 2014, 4:41pm
Forum: Does anyone know … ?
Topic: Maps for Garmin
Replies: 25
Views: 2473

Re: Maps for Garmin

Just a note that Openfietsmap is will favour cycle routing if device set to 'car'. It is not able to give routes for cars and so if set like this will give the best cycle friendly routes. For the same reason do not untick highways/motorways.

If you need maps for walking or motoring, you will need to use a generic routable map, openfeitsmap will only route for cycling. The beauty of the Etrex series is that it is easy to have multiple maps installed and just enable the one which you need.
by hexhome
31 Mar 2014, 11:33am
Forum: Does anyone know … ?
Topic: Maps for Garmin
Replies: 25
Views: 2473

Re: Maps for Garmin

Just a word of warning to anyone tempted by Mick's advice. Whilst it is unlikely to be caught copying illegally unless you downloaded it! The penalties are extremely serious. IP theft is dealt with in the High Court and just getting there can cost your house! Ignore copyright if you wish, but at least do so with your eyes open.
by hexhome
22 Mar 2014, 4:59pm
Forum: Does anyone know … ?
Topic: Maps for Garmin
Replies: 25
Views: 2473

Re: Maps for Garmin

Nothing wrong with garmin maps it's just that they are expensive. The only advantage of using different maps is to get different results when using your Etrex as a standalone navigational device.
by hexhome
20 Mar 2014, 11:35pm
Forum: On the road
Topic: Retorts
Replies: 33
Views: 8151

Re: Retorts

paulcuthbert wrote: as the car STILL should give at LEAST a car's width, and thus be overtaking in the other lane.


Is this true or even realistic? It's not what the Highway Code says!
by hexhome
20 Mar 2014, 11:08pm
Forum: Does anyone know … ?
Topic: Maps for Garmin
Replies: 25
Views: 2473

Re: Maps for Garmin

The answer depends upon the intended use of the maps. The Etrex is extremely good as a stand alone route creator but it relies (as do all SatNavs) on the map. The options available have differing routing preferences. One of my favourites is Velomap which is excellent for leisure rides as it weights routes along designated cycleways. It also has an excellent 'self loading' program as part of the package. Another option is OpenFeitsMap which again weights the routing for cycling but with perhaps a more direct rather than leisure bias. I have also used TalkyToaster and although personally it did not suit me, it is another viable option. One important detail is that in some cases setting the Etrex to route for Car will produce the best cycle route which is counter intuitive but a function of how the maps weigh routing options.

There can be problems if creating a route which is then uploaded to the Etrex. The mapping will try to route according to it's weighting. Two ways to avoid problems, use sufficient viapoints to make the route unambiguous, or upload it as a track.

Basecamp takes a bit of getting used to but is an easy tool for loading maps onto the Etrex. More info available if needed, but a search of the forum should unearth the essentials.

The best thing about the Etrex though is that you don't have to limit yourself to one map! Personally, I would have OpenFeitsMap and Velomap installed for cycling and a generic OSM map for walking.

Useful links;

http://www.velomap.org/ http://garmin.openstreetmap.nl/ http://www.openfietsmap.nl/
by hexhome
1 Mar 2014, 2:12pm
Forum: On the road
Topic: get off your phone!!
Replies: 41
Views: 23105

Re: get off your phone!!

Over 1,000,000 UK drivers have been convicted of using a mobile device whilst driving. Given that this is the tip of the iceberg, it would indicate that most drivers commit this selfish, dangerous act. Driving a lorry, I see roughly 1 in 10 drivers on the phone or texting. If you include holding ones crotch, 3 in 10!

Today, I was almost hit head on by a VERY prominent person, driving with phone pressed to ear.
by hexhome
14 Feb 2014, 4:48pm
Forum: On the road
Topic: Recording yourself breaking the law
Replies: 10
Views: 14441

Re: Recording yourself breaking the law

mrjemm wrote:Is that a tax disc just resting loosely on the dash?


Keeps it handy for waving at cyclists!
by hexhome
14 Feb 2014, 1:42pm
Forum: Does anyone know … ?
Topic: new hi vis jacket
Replies: 3
Views: 8673

Re: new hi vis jacket

I recently bought a Gore jacket. It is OK but no more breathable nor waterproof than my Tenn jacket which cost less than a quarter of the Gore. If you do buy from Tenn, the size is exactly as stated ie if you have a 40 chest, buy a 40!
by hexhome
11 Feb 2014, 8:24pm
Forum: Does anyone know … ?
Topic: Wild northumberland roads- cycling access?
Replies: 17
Views: 14386

Re: Wild northumberland roads- cycling access?

There is a very responsive and helpful organisation in Northumberland to promote cycling in the area. They will be delighted to answer any questions you may have on cycling in the region.

http://www.cyclepad.org.uk/
by hexhome
3 Feb 2014, 9:47am
Forum: Does anyone know … ?
Topic: which bike for comfort ?
Replies: 35
Views: 9674

Re: which bike for comfort ?

AlastairS wrote:HI, I would like a bike for day runs with my local CTC group, and for commuting (12miles total).
Would like the bike to be light (10kg) and maybe be able to take 28mm tires(as i've heard that makes the bike more comfortable).
Would have dropped handlebar and good range of gears (happy with double chainwheel). Prefer to be able to take mudguards.
I would probably buy bike used.
Must be comfortable to ride and be responsive and last years if looked after.
Can you recommend me one please ?


Some good deals on Raleigh Clubmans about - http://www.winstanleysbikes.co.uk/produ ... wwod-UoADg