Cub Driver wrote:
Or am I too late to the party? Will I hate myself next year because I
don't have a color screen?
I run the GPS on most flights, typically an hour a week, on the AA
batteries. Will I notice a shorter battery life?

I don't think so Dan.
The 16-levels of gray on the 196 provide sufficient contrast for your
useage. Color sucks the life out of batteries. If you just do local
flying, consider two sets of high capacity, rechargeable NiMH batteries.
They can be purchased in 2200mHr or 2500mHr.
I have a 195 and I only use disposable alkaline when I am travelling.
You might consider the 195. Prices for the 195 are down in the $300-$400
range. For your use in the Cub, you don't really need all the features
of the 196, do you?
In the flying clubs I belong to, I fly everything from a Champ to a
Bonanza. The 195 meets all my needs.