*ALWAYS be sure to let someone know when and where you are riding - especially if in a remote or dangerous area - and when you expect to return. *USE a bike computer that lets you know the distance you have travelled, the time, and the elevation. Get a watch with a compass built in if your computer does not have one - or carry a small compass with you. *GPS is a great idea, but you must learn how to use it properly, have extra batteries, and be able to receive a signal. See below for additional info... *TOPO maps specific to the area you are in are very good to carry with you. Use altitude readings to help you locate your position, and to help find your location on the map. *CELL phones are a safety feature in case of failed navigation, or an emergency situation, so this is a must to carry with you - just don't answer it while pedaling. Some are equipped with GPS service. *ORIENTEERING before you ride makes sense. Know your altitude before you leave - take note of any nearby prominent landscape features - figure out which way is North - check out the position of the sun or moon - ask for directions if needed - and note your start position on the map. *NIGHT riders take note of prominent lights in view when you start the ride, and don't stray as far on your excursions - it is simple to get disoriented at night, especially in unfamiliar terrain. Ride with partners at night and never alone. *PLAN in case of accident or separation from other riders what the plan will be - do this before you ride. Arrange a meeting point or strategy if you become lost or separated. *RESEARCH the area you are riding in and speak to local riders if possible. Learn about the terrain, and specifics about your ride - look at a map and study your route. *MARK waypoints on your ride if you plan to return the way you came in at prominent turns and intersections - just use a few logs, rocks, or limbs, etc.. to mark a spot on the trail, or mark waypoints on your GPS. *CONSIDER the consequences of failed navigation or getting lost if riding new or unfamiliar terrain... will you spend a quite night on the beach, or have a life threatening situation in a storm in freezing conditions!! ****************************************************************************** FOR GPS INFO: I’m an avid mountain biker, and my new book has just been released. GPS Mapping – Make Your Own Maps gives you plenty of great tools including free or low-cost maps, aerial photos and software. Learn to update topos with info from aerial photos, automatically link digital photos to where they were shot, and even create your own custom maps for your GPS! Since I did 99% of my field research on a mountain bike, I guess you could say it was written from a biker’s perspective. Please check it out at www.MakeYourOwnMaps.com. |
