Garmin GPSMAP 67i For Bikepacking
While bike computers have become increasingly capable through the years we still like to have a handheld gps unit with us, especially one that is able to trigger an SOS in case of an emergency. I've been using the GPSMAP devices for nearly the last decade. I first bought one after what should have been an 8 mile hike turned into an abysmal 24 mile slog.
The beauty of the Garmin GPSMAP 67i, and all the other iterations, is the simplicity. No fancy touch screen. No dials. No extraneous features. It just has a nice bright screen, big chunky buttons that work with gloves on, and fantastic mapping software. You can load your own routes via a GPX file and easily follow along.
The built in topo maps are accurate and easy to read. You've got a compass, altimeter, way point tracking, and a huge host of navigation and mapping features. Well, with this most recent iteration they fixed the only complaint i've ever had with this unit...battery life. With the new Garmin 67i you can say hello to a whopping 160 hours of battery life WHILE tracking. Turn it onto expedition mode and you've got 400ish hours. Oh, and of course, it can be mounted on your handlebars with an accessory.
What makes the Garmin 67i so special?
I'm so glad you asked. There is so much that goes into this handheld device but we'll try to make it brief and look at it from a specifically cycling perspective.
Preloaded Basemap
The basemap on the Garmin was 67i is incredibly detailed and allows you to zoom in to see all the little details like the names of surrounding peaks, roads, and other points of interest. This helps to orient you if you need that. You have the additional option to download satellite imagery to make even the most challenging route finding a bit easier.
Simple design
Touch screens are nice on our phones and other devices but when it comes to a GPS device you need to rely on, nothing beats a regular screen and big chonky buttons that are easy to push. In the ten years that I've utilized a GPSMAP system from Garmin, the layout really hasn't changed. The buttons are big and easy to push, even with gloves on. Thanks to a well connected app store you can even get added functionality from the power button. A short press pulls up various widgets that you can use.
Battery life
The Garmin 67i took a massive leap forward in terms of battery life over the old 66i model. This new unit packs 160 hours of battery life with 10 minute tracking enabled. That's nearly an entire week. You get up to 400 hours in expedition mode which limits tracking to once per hour and essentially turns the unit off. If you're doing a long tour like the Tour Divide, that means you don't even have to think about charging your unit for two whole weeks. Not bad. One added bonus with the battery upgrade is that it finally brings the USB-C standard to this device.
Garmin Messenger and Explore apps
The integration with the Garmin Messenger and Explore apps is well done, even though I really would prefer to see the two applications merged. From these apps you can send messages to your contacts, check the weather (even in other locations, which is an awesome touch), build and view routes, and a heck of a lot more. There truly is everything you could ever need for both navigation and communication.
Interoperability
I do love that this device can play nice with other devices and file formats although I haven't played around with it as much as I'd like. If you're like me and build your big routes on a platform like GAIA GPS or CalTopo, you can easily send the gpx file to this device. In fact, doing it from your phone is incredibly easy, probably easier than from your computer. If you work in the Mac eco system it can be as simple as air dropping routes or choosing to open a GPX file with the Garmin app. It truly is incredible.
The device also plays nice with various sensors. I have a heart rate monitor from COROS and it works perfectly with my Garmin. I also use a COROS Dura cycling computer but it doesn't appear those two work together. My COROS Vertex 2s watch is able to broadcast HR to the Dura, but not the Garmin. That's just as well because I'd rather not wear a watch while on the bike. I have not tested if the Apple Watch is able to broadcast HR to the 67i so that's something i'll have to check out.
Who is Garmin?
Garmin is likely the most well known GPS and fitness device maker in the outdoor industry. From watches to bike computers and ever overlanding equipment, Garmin is synonymous with adventure. The 67i is their most mature offering in hand held gps devices to date and we can't wait to see how they iterate on this nearly perfect product.
Garmin GPSMAP 67i
The latest and greatest iteration of this trusted hand held gps device
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