“MAP” is a name that, for new generations, is almost as unknown as letters written by hand, on paper. The power and capabilities of GPS and email have won the “war of evolution,” and well done.
But there is always the question that arises: What to do if, “in the middle of nowhere” we suddenly find ourselves without access to GPS? And for those who are often out there on their trips, you know that this can happen for the most unexpected reasons.
The last time it happened to me, we were coming from Denmark and while crossing Germany, in the mountainous area, at night, we were caught by an extreme meteorological phenomenon, a sudden storm, the kind we definitely want to avoid. The rain that fell was immense and the lightning and thunder were deafening.
Consequently, the electromagnetic charge in the atmosphere was such that the motorcycle’s instruments on the dashboard had small interferences, the GPS suddenly went black, then it turned on again, it wanted to give music, information in miles, the indicated route was different, well… it looked like it was alive.
As it was a mountain highway, I adjusted my driving to the falling flood and continued forward to try to find the next service area and stop.
I felt some relief when I remembered that, as always when traveling, the old friend map is always in the luggage. This faithful companion is not influenced by extreme atmospheric phenomena (he just must be in a plastic cover).
Fortunately, like most of these phenomena, sometime later it disappeared, giving a relief and some rest on the journey, leaving only the wet road.
So, when we were able to stop, we just had to turn everything off, turn it back on, and there the ZUMO XT was “booming” again as if nothing had happened (it went well).
Still, I went to the “Top Case” and made sure that my old paper friend was at hand, in case I would really need his support, further along the route.
At this time of year when many are planning their trips, here’s a tip: Don’t forget to take your old friend map (updated), and that way you’ll never feel alone in the middle of nowhere trying to find the best route to your destination.
Technology is fantastic, but more vulnerable to external factors.
Enjoy your ride.
