As also noted by others, the built in base map does not provide much data. It’s the same map that was in the old unit. I purchased separately the pre-programed street maps on micro SD card which provides full street and point-of-interest data for the entire country. (Google search “010-10679-50″ for the best deal on this essential accessory.) I didn’t by Garmin software maps because I use a Macintosh and Garmin has never supported the Mac. (They now have something they call “Bobcat” which is supposedly a Mac program to allow map manipulation and transfer. I haven’t tried it.)

Anyway I use National Geographic TOPO! maps on my Mac and can download (eTrex to Mac) track data and plot maps of my outings and obtain elevation profiles and ride distances. It’s also possible to transfer waypoints and routes both ways with TOPO!.

Another note regarding cycling; in the old unit I had to purchase a special back plate to allow it to clip to the handlebar mount. The new garmin Legend  HCx comes with a clip that attaches to the back and allows it to slide into my old mount. (If you don’t already have a bike mount kit, you’ll need that accessory as well.)

Another problem with the old model that’s fixed in this new unit is that the batteries are securely clipped in with. My old unit would shut down when I hit even mild bumps until I damped the battery clips with small bits of handlebar tape.

Bottom line is that I’m very pleased with this Garmin Legend  HCx, but note that it is not complete without detailed maps. The street maps work for me; you may want other maps for other types of use.

eTrex Legend HCx Good for biking is a post from: Satellite TV