GPS Beginner

[PlayWithGravity]

   I've got a Tom Tom for the car, but I'm interested in a more functionally-diverse and weather-proof unit for the bike.  So my big question is where does one go to learn the features and options that are available in these new fangled GPS units??  Do I go to Circuit City and compare/contrast, or a different store, or someplace crazy that I'd never think of?  Anyone?  Bueller??

[ST1300Rider]

If you don't mind wading through a ton of info in your own, THIS page is a good starting point. HTH

[JNUNZMAN]

I just did the same thing myself. Lots of information to go thru and this is a great place to look. Do a search under GPS and you'll get some great information.
Look at http://www.gpsinformation.net
also great is http://www.advrider.com  under the heading "laying down tracks".
After all of the research, I narrowed it to a Garmin Etrex Legend CX for cost and usefulness. My close second was Garmin 60CX.

I just wanted a unit to find gas or hotels or food or get my butt home if I got lost, plus didn't want to spend mega bucks.

[RickC1957]

Actually most Garmin units are weather proof. Which means they can keep out water when submerged to a depth of one meter for 30 mimutes. My Garmin 2610 has been in numerous wet conditions, a few times in rain so bad and for so long, I thought I should have stopped and built and ark

[badger]

IMO,  the short list of essentials for a motorcycle GPS are:

Autorouting
Expandable memory with cards (unless it has all detailed maps preloaded)
updateable (newer maps can be loaded)
waterproof

Nice things to have are:

option of battery or bike power
larger screen
touch screen
Motorcycle friendly buttons

Unnecessary for motorcycle (again IMO):
voice commands
XM radio

[basco]

Some of the GPS links need to be fixed or the board has more bug issues. The site I go to is www.gpspassion.com

[Raphy]

If i had the cash i'd get the Garmin Zumo 550 and be done with it.... but since i don't, i have the Garmin Quest... quite happy with it.... do somea reaserch into thos two units  

[PlayWithGravity]

Thanks for the input -  this'll certainly keep me busy!  Now I just have to find a way to get a cheap/refurbished/or used-from-someone-who-wants-to-upgrade.   THANKS AGAIN !!

[CBRXXBLACKBIRD]

I have a Garmin C330 and its great has a ton of features. Also cheap at Walmart and they have a great return policy if you don't like it.

[RBEmerson]

One thing your bike GPS must not have is an internal hard drive (Magellan is bad about this, for example).  Basically, the drive gets banged hard enough something ugly happens and you wind up owning a unique and expensive doorstop.