What Will A GPS Do For Me While Trail Riding With My ATV?

If you haven't looked into getting a GPS (Global Positioning System) for when you're riding your ATV, you're missing out! If you aren't familiar with GPS, it does exactly what its name implies, it tells you exactly where you and your ATV are at any given point on earth.

If you're curious how a GPS works, it's very simple. There are 30 GPS satellites, called NAVSTARs, in place and the oldest one was launched in 1989. A GPS will calculate its position using the signal emitted by 3 or more of those satellites. The more satellites it is able to communicate with, the more accurate its calculation of your ATVs exact location.

Even the lowest quality GPS units have an accuracy of 300 to 500 meters real time which is more than enough for your ATV riding needs. When activated, the GPS will search and attempt communication with all the satellites it can contact. The lower priced units are nearly impossible to use inside of buildings (especially buildings with steel girders) or in densely wooded areas.

If you find a new trail when you're out riding your ATV, all you need to do is jot down coordinates or even better, if your model of GPS has a "save" feature, you're in luck, you'll never have to remember where a particular ATV trail begins or ends again.

One good bit of advice, spare no expense on your GPS mount for your ATV, and consider the placement in relation to tree branches and other outside forced that might hit your GPS and damage it. Even a low priced GPS will improve your ATV ride by letting you know where you are at all times, look into getting a GPS and a good mount for your ATV.