jfviffer

YES, this Nuvi 550 allows you to create and upload routes. The software to do this comes with the Nuvi. Well, it doesn't actually come 'in the box', rather you have to go to the Garmin.com site and dig around a bit. Once you find your way around, when you try to download map/software updates, you have to first register your device, and create a user account. It's not really that difficult if you're the slightest bit computer savvy. With the Garmin software MAPSOURCE it is quite simple to create routes and once you're done you upload it to your device. The FULL map database resides on your computer, so everything that your Garmin can see/detect, is available to you when you build your custom route. The custom route is developped by stringing 'waypoints' together to build the overall route. If I remember correctly the Nuvi 550 is capable of 10,000 waypoints. So if route planning is the defining feature in your purchase, make sure the model you buy can store lots. The Nuvi 550 is essentially the same as the Zumo 550, EXCEPT the Nuvi doesn't have Bluetooth. Somehow +600$ :fing02: for Bluetooth didn't seem worth it... "take you to the middle of nowhere"...I've been there too many times already, :blush: that's why I bought the dang thing :fing02: BI Thanks, this is great info!!! was saving for a Zumo its just way too much coin right now. you answered my #1 question about rout planning. can you see this screen in the direct sunlight? my cheap Magellan is unreadable in sunlight. also will it track your rout and then allow you to download into your PC so you can save and repeat. i know this feature is available on zumo. if this one doesn't have blue tooth dose it have head phone jack?

I'm not so sure great grip but after only 2500 miles I'm down to wear bars on rear!!! front still have 50% left i just had corsa III installed in DEC and looking for a new tire already. thinking of going back to conti rd attack got 4000 miles out of them almost as grippy. what kinda mileage are you guys getting on a rear pr2 ?