Since regular compasses would struggle with the magnetic field of your motorcycle, it is necessary to look at alternatives such as car compasses and marine compasses. One reliable option within this range is the Ritchie Navigation Explorer Compass. For beginners, this compass can be easier to work with, but you do have to take the battery into account. So, if you are plan a motorcycle trip in the middle of nowhere, be sure you have some spare batteries or a charger on hand. By definition, a compass will have a magnetic needle that always points to the magnetic north. Beyond that, compasses can sport a bevy of features, from liquid-filled needle casings and rotating bezels to whistles and thermometers (some are more useful than others), generally depending on the price range. Clinometers measure the angle of elevation, the slope, or the height from the ground. Clinometers measure the height of objects and the steepness of hills (useful in avalanche terrain). They also gauge the height of your bear hang when you’re setting up camp. Global Needle The basic compass has only one feature: a needle that points toward the magnetic north. It’s handy for any situation in which you only need to know your approximate direction. They tend to be inexpensive as well, so they can be useful for keeping as a spare.

Which bicycle compass? | CycleChat Cycling Forum Which bicycle compass? | CycleChat Cycling Forum

Fixed within the compass housing, these lines are designed to align with the vertical grid lines on maps. Orienting Arrow In the past, caring for a compass would just mean not dropping it or crushing the casing. Now, people need to consider the plethora of electronic devices that can threaten a compass’s lifespan. Be sure to store your compass away from computers and other electronic devices — the magnetic fields can damage it. We tested the compasses on this list while recreating in the field. Like all compass users, we prefer models that are accurate, durable, and intuitive. The compasses on this list represent the best of the best. The Ritchie Navigation HB-741 Helmsman is made with hardened steel pivot dial movement and scientifically matched sapphire jewel. So, despite the additional initial cost, this is a compass you can trust.The short lesson on compasses is very simple: The compass needle always points to magnetic north. With that knowledge, you can maintain a consistent direction of travel relative to north.

Motorcycle Compass For Handlebars: 5 Choices For 2020 Motorcycle Compass For Handlebars: 5 Choices For 2020

Learning orienteering can be a daunting proposition to the uninitiated, and some of the more feature-rich compasses on this list can be intimidating for someone looking to learn to navigate without GPS devices. For beginners, we recommend a simple and inexpensive option on which you can learn the basics. Besides the basic features mentioned above, these additional features can serve to make navigation easier or more accurate. They allow you to measure height and slope and to find north on any part of the globe. Declination Adjustment Sighting compasses have flip-up lenses that allow users to get bearings from a distant object like a nearby peak. Put simply, use the sight notch to identify your desired location, adjust the bezel to align with the needle to identify the direction you need to go to get there, then follow the heading. GPS units come with their own built-in compass as well. Of course, bikers often obtain compasses too so they can find their way when their GPS unit fails. Nevertheless, it is a good idea to own a GPS unit for your motorcycle as well. Here are some of our personal favorites. 4. Koolertron 4.3 Inch Motorcycle GPSFor general direction-finding, a basic compass will do. But for more in-depth orienteering, you’ll want a compass with the following features: Needle