Which cycle computer?

Adamskii

I'm on the hunt for a new cycle computer. Apart from the obvious features, I'd like it to contain an integrated heart rate monitor and cadence sensor. I also like the idea of it having an altimeter but that function isn't essential. Budget would obviously depend on whats available.

Any thoughts? cheers.

Jamey

Yesterday morning I was in the exact same position as you and by the time it got to 5pm I'd ordered a Garmin Edge 305 with heart rate strap and cadence/speed sensor.Total price £191 delivered.

When I started searching in the morning I only wanted to spend around £70 - £100 but the more reviews I read, the more obvious it became that the computers in that price range aren't that reliable, are fiddly and don't have a nice big screen that allows you to customise what readouts you want to see, how big they are and what section of the screen you want them to show in.

After trawling through pages of people complaining about things going wrong and sensors going haywire under power cables I began to despair. I got to the stage where everything I read was pointing towards Garmin and I just thought "sod it". I'd rather spend a bit more on something that really works and that I'll be totally happy with.

Plus I got some basic sat nav functionality into the bargain and I expect the resale value will stay reasonably high, should I decide to sell it anytime soon.

Adamskii

I did have a look at the Garmin range but initially put off by the cost but I'll definitely reconsider them. I was also looking at the Cateye V3 but can't seem to find any reviews on them!

When was the last time C+ did a cycle computer comparison?!

Jamey

No idea.

I was looking at the Polar ones but everybody seemed to be moaning. The Cateye V3 stuff is, as you say, elusive right now. Maybe in a couple of months there will be more info but I've got a feeling everybody's got their boffins working overtime to bring out systems that can stand up to Garmin, even without GPS.

I know the cost is high but better to buy the right thing first time round than buy something crap and then buy something to replace it with.

Adamskii

O.K. Although the Garmin range look amazing I just couldn't bring myself to part with the cash as it's been an expensive month having just bought bike all be it second hand (pictures soon).

I decided on the Cateye Strada 9 wired with cadence. The wires might prove to be annoying but at least I won't get any interference on group rides. No heart rate either, I'm just going to have to stick with my trusty old polar!

COVEC

Adamskii wrote:

O.K. Although the Garmin range look amazing I just couldn't bring myself to part with the cash as it's been an expensive month having just bought bike all be it second hand (pictures soon).

I decided on the Cateye Strada 9 wired with cadence. The wires might prove to be annoying but at least I won't get any interference on group rides. No heart rate either, I'm just going to have to stick with my trusty old polar!

I have the V3 and it is a great bit of kit, well worth the extra dosh If you have not ordered already have a look at the V3 stuff HERE and HERE
It is very easy to set-up, it only took me 20 minutes.
If you have any Q's? feel free to ask me about it.

COVEC

Hugh A

For a real bargain (no HR etc.) try the Lidl bike computer - a fine object with large numbers for £2.99!

campagone

You could try a Blackburn Delphi 6.0, at around £70, it has cadence (wired), wireless front sensor, hrm and an altimeter, though the altimeter isn't 'that' accurate it does display the gradient quite accurately.

Adamskii

sod sod sod sod sod... Already ordered the Strada, should have gone for the V3... bugger...