GP-E2 and the 7D

I hate synchronizing clocks with my current non-Canon GPS logger and my 7D.

I just heard about the new Canon GP-E2.

I understand there are some limitations on using the GP-E2 with the 7D.

My main concern however is that the GP-E2 only interfaces with the 7D via the USB port. I'm concerned with how the GP-E2 will be carried.

Can it still be attached via the hot shoe, I never use a flash so i don't care if the hot shoe is blocked?

If not will I have to use some kluge to attach the GP-E2 to the camera?

Does Canon supply a cable that's the right length if the GP-E2 is supposed to be connected to the camera? I'd hate to have a foot long cable hanging around the camera getting caught on things.

Is there a competing non-Canon product? The canon unit is pretty expensive.

Thanks for any information!