I've had mine since 2008 and it's an eTrex HCX (or something like that) I believe it has been superseded by newer models. Best of luck with your foray into the world of GPS. There are umpteen device / mapping software combinations, its a bewildering confusion of choices!
Just thought, have a chat with Huggy. He uses a Garmin and bikeroutetoaster which is free. I use Garmin's own mapping software (Mapsource City Navigator) which wasn't free which works well for me so I won't be changing.
JohnT,
I use a Garmin Edge 705 with Garmin City Navigator maps for UK & Ireland on memory card. You need the additional maps for street level detail and turn-by-turn navigation
confusion assistance.
When programming routes to load in to the GPS for navigating by I use
bikeroutetoaster, as OD says. I have used bike hike too, there are other free sources of mapping where you 'pays your money and takes your choice'. Once I've worked out the route I wish to (try to) follow I transfer the gpx and tcx tracks to the Garmin and depending upon my mood will either let it tell me where to turn or just follow the friendly pink line.
A big choice in final GPS selection will be if you're happy with circa 15 hours of internal battery life or you want the flexibility of power coming from AA's. I use a PowerMonkey external battery pack for times when I think 15 hours may not be enough. Personally I've never had an issue with battery run-time on my Edge 705, but then I've only had it 8 months (there you go, set myself up for a big fail now!!). The other choice you may want to make is touch screen or not - I'm quite happy with the non-touch screen of the 705.
A similar setup is used by Chief of this parish too.
Ultimately, you will get a different response to this topic as there are people using cycling GPS units!
I have recently noticed there seems to be a recent huge hike in prices of GPS units - mine came as a birthday pressie from Amazon last April for a little over £200 plus £25 for the maps, but they seem to be significantly more than that currently although I haven't done an exhaustive search of the best deals around at the moment.
Finally, as OD wishes you, I'll echo - Best of luck with your foray into the world of GPS
If we do meet up on a MEMWNS ride sometime soon I'll be happy to show you mine