SMART PHONE

The following instructions were provided back in 2012.  
A LOT has changed since then.
Exceptional capabilities are available on cellphones
that include VECTOR GPS maps that continue to work
in areas where there is no cell service.
 
iPHONE
(instructions provided by Demetrius in 2012)

Here is a good option for those who like to have map functions but don't want to buy a pricey Garmin. On the iPhone, you can use RidewithGPS or Garmin data (GPX files) and open it on the iPhone with a program called: MotionX-GPS (.99 cents on iTunes).  A good alternate to Garmin!

Here is how it works:
(1) Get the program (Duh) and install it.

(2) Downloaded the RidewithGPS .gpx file of a route that you want to do to your desktop

(3) Email that to yourself where you can pull it up and see it on your iPhone email program

(4) Open that email on your iPhone

(5) You will see the attachment, that should also have the MotionX Icon next to it

(6) Click on it and it will look like a bunch of numbers, but in the upper right corner of the iPhone, will have a little arrow box that, when you press it, states, Open in MotionX-GPS.

(7) Do that...now!

(8) MotionX-GPS will open and you will see an import button, press that (Duh Duh)

(9) Once that completes, press Menu, then Tracks, then Import and you will see your file.

(10) Select that and your route will pop up

Now in MotionX-GPS, you can select different map types, colors, different modes of transportation, etc... even has a built in photo and share button to take pics along the way and tag/send it to as a part of a route.

The program also allows you to drag and drop .GPX files into iTunes, which has less steps than above. The directions for that can be found inside the MotionX program.

Within the program, you can record all the normal data, speed, pace, elevations, etc... plus mark way-points, email your whereabouts with a few touches, take pics, tons of stuff. Can be also be linked to Facebook, Twitter, Email, etc.. linked to other riders with it...

I don't have some of the other gadgets, but can also be compatible with certain heart-rate monitors and such...

For what is is worth (.99 cents) it seems like a good alternative to a Garmin, but will work your battery a bit. If you dont have an iPhone; One... you are not cool... two...sorry!

ANDROID

Here is a good option for those who like to have map functions but don't want to buy a pricey Garmin. On the Android Phone, you can use RidewithGPS or Garmin data (GPX files) and open it on the your phone with the FREE program OsmAnd.  It may be BETTER than Garmin!

What makes this App exceptional is vector maps are stored on your phone thereby reducing battery typical of apps using Google Maps for navigation.  Some people have reported 20 hours of use on a single battery charge.

Here is how it works:
(1) On Google Store search for OsmAnd and install it to your Android.

(2) Launch the program and download your maps.  You can download up to 10 world maps for free.  

(3) Once you get this app on your phone your are going to have to do some configuration.  It is a very powerful program with many features.  Check out the "How To" on the OsmAnd website (click here). 


(4) Add the folder ../tracks in the /OSMAND folder on your phone.


(5) Connect your phone to your computer and downloaded the RidewithGPS "gpx" file of a route that you want to do to your /tracks folder.


(6) With OsmAnd running tap the menu icon in the lower left corner and select "Directions" in the pop-up menu.


(7) Select the bicycle icon and tap GPX route.  When OsmAnd show the routes (actually they are tracks) tap your route.


(8) In the next screen cheek "Pass along entire track" and tap Apply.

(9) Your route will display on your screen.


The program has a whole bunch of features that you can learn about on the OsmAnd website including VOICE prompts just like a car Garmin.  So if you don't want to try to follow the display, plug in your ear-buds and listen to instruction.  Just like having your wife in the seat next to you!


Click here for detailed instructions on how to use OsmAnd with RideWithGPS on a Samsung Galaxy S4 and Window 7.  These instructions may be suitable for other Android phones, but we haven't tested on any other phone.