gps navigation

The KAP sani2c uses full GPS navigation. Although important turns will be marked to ensure everyone gets to the finish, it is essential for at least one rider in your team to have a GPS device. These are the important things to note:

• Upload your tracks before the event. The EasyBike team will be at registration to offer support, but it will not be practical for them to upload your files. Take charge. Do it yourself. Our instructions follow below. There are plenty of instructional videos on YouTube should you need further help.
• Descent and ascent measurements are estimations.
• Do not share any of these routes. We have permission to access private land for this event only. If anyone is found on the route when the event is not underway, the repercussions will be dire.
• Supporters are not permitted on the route outside designated supporter stops.

faq about gps navigation

Why do I need a GPS device? Can’t I use my phone?

This is a good question. Many parts of the ride are out of range and data connection for phones is unavailable. While you can theoretically use some apps on your phone to link to GPS direct without requiring network signal, it is not optimal. Phones are not appropriate as your main GPS device because:

• A GPS device is made for this purpose.
• Phone batteries discharge quickly.
• Phone screens are difficult to see in the sunshine and time-out to delay batteries discharging. You need to keep activating the screen, which expedites battery use and distracts you from the route. This can be dangerous.
• You will need to find a bike mount for your phone.
• Most phones are not waterproof.
• Phones are not as robust as GPS devices.

So, should I leave my phone behind?

Take your phone as a backup. It is not ideal as a GPS device, but better than nothing.

What should I do if I need to buy a GPS with files uploaded or if I am looking for an upgrade?

If you don’t have a GPS yet or want to upgrade, EasyBike has great "sani2c" specials available. Email Matt, [email protected], or checkout the website www.easybike.co.za. Quote “sani2c” when placing orders.

What type of GPS do I need?

Any light GPS that can be mounted on a bike, upload tracks and allows you to follow these tracks.

What devices are recommended?

Sani2c does not endorse any particular GPS. To find out if your GPS unit is suitable, you need to establish if it can upload GPX files to follow tracks. Go online to check. There are many forums and websites in. Simply type the name of the model you are interested in and the word GPX, and you will find all the info you need. Do some research and, if in doubt, contact Matt [email protected]. It’s a good idea to get your GPS device well before the event and train with it.

When will we receive the route files to upload to our GPS devices?

We will email the final daily routes to you. These files will also be available at registration at our GPS helpdesk. However, try not to wait until registration to upload. It’s more effective to get comfortable with your system before the event.

How do I upload these files?

We will send you GPX files of the final route. Each device has its own software or online offering, which you will need to be familiar with to upload from your computer. Your device will come with all that information. However, we are available to provide help on all devices.

Do I need to upload maps on to my device?

NO, and this is a big NO. Maps are not necessary. All you need to do is follow the route on your device. Maps are difficult to follow on a small device like a bike GPS and consume battery power. With our GPX files, you simply track a route each day. Most devices have a warning to let you know you are off the route. With GPS, you could go wrong but you will never get lost.

How does GPS work?

You will have the route for each day uploaded in your device. Select the day and off you go. You will follow what is called the “breadcrumb” track. If you go off the track, most devices let you know. In addition, you will see your arrow is off the track.

Will I have enough battery life?

You should have more than enough for each day and in some cases even more. Select a device that offers the longest battery life. Most modern units have good battery life.

Will I have access to charging stations every day?

Yes, there will be charging stations.

Do both riders in the team have to have GPS?

Yes. This helps you navigate quicker because you can check on one another. It also makes racing safer and faster. Having two units allows you to plan ahead. One rider can have an overview of what’s ahead while the other rider zooms in closer up.

What happens if my GPS runs out of battery life or stops working while I am on the route?

You will need to follow other riders. Our off-road rescue partners ensure all riders get back safely.

What is stopping me from taking shorter routes?

We have checkpoints to ensure all riders are on track. This also lets us know if anyone is lost.