GPS Navigation

• EasyBike GPS Programme – (Windows users only) – easiest and preferred method; or
• Dropbox GPS files for manual use (other users).

1. EasyBike GPS Programme (Windows users only)
   EasyBike’s GPS programme will either (i) assist you to download your GPS files or (ii) direct you to its website for assistance and instructions.
   The download will be available directly from our Newsletter to your computer.  All you have to do is follow the simple on screen instructions. Once the download is complete, install and run the programme.
   
2. Drop Box GPS Files (other users and as a last resort for Windows users)
   The DropBox links will also be available from our Newsletter. Alternatively, Click Here to download them from the EasyBike website once they become available.
   Make sure you have the correct file format (GPX, FIT or TCX) for your GPS unit. If you download the wrong files you may not get all the added features available for your GPS unit (eg water point, Virtual Partner) and it may not work.

For extra help, go to Easybike’s website for instructions if you choose to upload yourself.  Click Here
Different GPS brands, if unsure it is supported or require help, please contact EasyBike sales@easybike.co.za

• Can be mounted on a bike
• Can upload GPX files to follow tracks.

Check online (forums and websites) that your GPS unit model can upload GPX files to follow tracks.  Simply type your model’s name and the word “GPX” to find out.

We are not endorsing any particular unit. These are some suitable GPS units suggested by EasyBike:

Suunto Ambit Ambit 2 Ambit 3 Polar Polar V650 Polar V800 PowerTap Joule GPS

Garmin eTrex 10, 20, 30 eTrex Touch 35 Oregon 400, 450, 500, 600, 650, 610, 680 GPSMAP 62, 62s, 64, 64s Montana 600, 610, 650, 680 Fenix, Fenix 2, Fenix 3, Fenix 3 HR Tactix Bravo Edge 20, 25, 200, 500, 510, 520, 800, 810, 820, 1000

Bryton Rider 40 Rider 50 Rider 60 Rider 330 E Rider 530 E

Whilst some apps on your mobile phone link to GPS direct without requiring network signal, this is not optimal because there are sections of the route without data connection for mobile phones.  Unless connected to a network, the GPS on a mobile phone is not accurate which means you will get lost or lose signal if you use your mobile phone.

Other reasons a mobile phone is unsuitable as your main GPS device:

• its battery will run out quickly
• its screen times out to avoid running down the battery running – but by re-activating it, you further waste battery
• you will need to find a bike mount for it
• most are not waterproof, if it rains or you fumble in the river crossings
• its screen is difficult to see in the sun
• most are not robust and will shatter if you fall.  GPS units are more rugged.

So rather use your mobile phone as a backup but do not rely on it.  Your GPS device is easy to see and follow, it will stay on at all times, it uses a fraction of the battery power and it is designed for this purpose.

Within the week before the race, we will send a Newsletter to our riders containing the GPS files for each day’s routes. These files will also be available at registration at our GPS helpdesk if you struggle to download at home but we would prefer you to try first.

NO and this is a big NO. Maps are not necessary – all you need to do is follow the route on your GPS device. Maps are difficult to follow on a small device like a bike GPS and they chow battery. You are simply tracking a route each day and most devices have a warning to let you know you are off the route. Remember with GPS you could go wrong but you will never get lost!

You will have the route for each day uploaded in your device. You will select the day and off you go. You will follow what is called the “breadcrumb” track. If you go off the track most devices let you know that you are off, in addition you will see your arrow is off the track.

You should have more than enough for each day and in some cases even more. Every manufacturer is different but look for a device that has the longest battery life.  Most modern units have very good battery life.

Mostly, you will be able to charge your GPS unit in your room.  There will be additional charging stations for those staying in the backpackers and tents on Day 0.

No. One GPS unit per team will be okay.

You will need to follow your partner and other riders. Our safety marshals will ensure all riders get back safely. This is also another reason why you and your partner both need a GPS.

We will be having checkpoints to ensure all riders are on track. This will also ensure we know if anyone is lost.

No, you cannot ride our route outside our event. Most of our route is through private land and you will be trespassing. It would also jeopardise any future events.

EasyBike has tried a few makes from entry-level through to top-end and they all work well. The main thing to consider is your budget, your needs and their support level. Questions you should ask: do I want more than a GPS ie training, heart rate, power etc.

We will have full GPS support from EasyBike who know their stuff at registration. Your manufacturers will have websites devoted to helping you too, visit their sites and ask loads of questions.