I would like to hear from others on there GPS experiences,likes and dislikes,which brand is the most favorite,would maping be of any use for trail riding,cost,some have true or working compass (when not moving)durability/water proof...
I know that a good trail map is still hard to beat but, in unfamiliar areas I think a GPS may helpful.

 

I own a magellan 315, its an ok unit. If I had it to do over again, then I would go with a unit from Garmin. Garmin has more accessories for their units. Such as different ways to mount a GPS to your quad. Also, I would recommend a GPS with the mapping function.

 

Those things are neat.

Do you have to pay a monthly fee? or do you just buy it and no more paying?

I don't think you have to pay but i'm not sure.
I could get a small one for like $200 but where would you mount it?

 

Personally, I prefer the Garmins. They have some cool units like the GPS III+ and the e-Map. Check out their site at www.garmin.com.

No, we already paid for the GPS system in tax dollars. Also, for those of you who didn't know it, S.A. (Selective Availability) was turned off in March. Now instead of the GPS being accurate to 100 meters it is accurate to no worse than 15 meters.

 

Winston;
Garmin's make very reliable GPS receivers. The one's with the antenna in the case (not clipped on) can't have their antennas knocked off by limbs, crashes, etc. However, most can have an external antenna attached that can be hard mounted to your quad for better coverage in dense foliage.
I like my Garmin 12XL, but now use a Lowrance GM100 because I want to see the trails on the GPS screen as I ride. The GM100 has a built-in database of trails, and I can add to them if I choose, using third party software. Mind you, adding your own trails entails a new hobby endeavor that can take a lot of your time. I know there are Delorme software products ("Topo") that may not only add trails, but the topographic contour maps that really help you understand where you are. Like I said, though, it is a hobby unto itself but can be terribly rewarding if you hate not knowing where you are all the time.
If you follow someone else's lead on the trails, having a gps lets you relax and enjoy the scenery because you have an electronic trace of where you've been. Later, you can go out on your own and just follow that trace. If you wander too far, a "waypoint" at the start will always show you how to get to the trailhead.
GPS receivers are one great asset to quad riding in unfamiliar territory; where I enjoy riding the most. Good luck in your endeavor.

 

I have a Garmin GPS "etrex"... cost about $120 and has plenty of features. Works well on the trail, is waterproof (1 meter for 30 minutes), small enough to fit in a shirt pocket and you will have enough money left to buy gas for your ride!

 

I use a Garmin GPS 12. It is one of their most basic models. Does everything I need it to do.
I have both external power and data cables. I like to keep mine on at all times when I'm out hunting so that I don't have to wait for the unit to "locate" its position. I can get off my quad, grab the GPS and go. The data cable I use to up and download waypoints to/from my PC.

 

Garmin E-trex is my choice, simple to use and I use it in my car, boat and on the trails. I don't use half of the functions. If you want lots of fufu stuff get another brand. If you want to just get home it work's GREAT!!

 

I use a Garmin 45 with the external antenna. It works well but the antenna is vulnerable to breaking (which I have done) My next unit will have the internal antenna. Probably the GPS12map

 

I appreciate all the great information.
It sounds like one of the basic Garmin's is the choice.
I did download the user manuals on each of these and do agree that the e-trex or 12,12xL is the model that would do most of what I need.
Thanks