recommendations for a newbie.....long

Hello all, I'm looking at purchasing a GPS unit to use mostly while riding
an ATV, I'd like to be able to store "rides" in different area that others
have lead the way on so I can go back later and not need a"tour guide' . I'd
probably use it while travelling in unknown territory in the car also. I've
looked online at the Legend, Legend C, Vista, and Vista C. The Legend only
has 8 MB of memory, but I'm not really sure how much memory I'm going to
need. Then we have the Vista, basically the same except it has 24 MB of
memory, batteries are only good for 12 hours, and it has a built in
electronic compass and a barometric altimeter. Don't all GPS units have a
compass and altimeter ? Then we have the Legend C, color screen, 36 hours
out of the batteries ( is this really accurate) , a different set of "base
maps" , which I know nothing about. Upgraded to 24 MB of memory. USB
connection, proximity waypoints ( what are these ? ) Audible alarms ( don't
care about these), 500 less waypoints How many do I need ?) a patch antenna
vs. a "built in" antenna ( which is better ? ) and no electronic compass or
barometric altimeter. Then we have the Vista C ( getting a little pricey for
me now) that has the best of all the features ( or so it would seem) . I'm
looking at a price range here from $102 to $254, and I'm confused as hell,
what do I really NEED, and what will I kick myself in the *** for later if
I don't get it ? Also, I started my search just looking at Garmins because
they seem to be the "big" name out there, but I'm not opposed to another
brand, I've been seeing where people don't particularly care for the fact
that Garmin forces you to use their proprietary software, what are your
thoughts on this ? Thanks for all your help.

Dennis


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