The 276 is a very competent GPSR, but it is primarily a MARINE GPSR, with secondary functionality for automotive use.

It does not have the full software functionality for automotive (and motorcycle) navigation that the 'pure automotive' GPSR's, such as the SP 2610 or SP 2620 have. The 276 also has limited map storage capacity - the biggest memory chip available for it is 256 megs, which really limits its usefulness for long distance touring.

I own a SP 2650 and a GPSMAP 296. The 296 is the 'big brother' of the 276 - although it is the same size and form factor, the 296 has aviation capabilities as well as marine and automotive capabilities.

Even though the 296 is over twice the price of the SP 26xx series, it does not do as good a job for automotive navigation as the SP 26xx. My suggestion is that if you intend to use your GPSR primarily for moto use, you get a SP 26xx product. If you plan to use it primarily for marine use, and want the benefit of automotive use as well, then get the 276.

Your total cost of ownership (for long distance touring) will be much less with a SP 26xx than with a SP 276, and you can avoid the hassle of reloading the data chip enroute by purchasing a large (1 gig) CF card for your SP 26xx at any big-box retail store. The SP 26xx uses generic (CF) data cards that you can buy anywhere, the 276 and 296 use smaller, proprietary data cards.

Yes, I know the screen on the 276 is amazing, but that's the only benefit it has over the SP 26xx for moto use. They are both equal so far as waterproof qualities and durability qualities go.

PanEuropean