Garmin 500 800 or Polar

ebeard

Hi,

I'm looking to get a decent bike computer, but having looked through all the other forum posts on this have a few questions to help decide, but so far I've been unable to find answers for.
Is Garmin's heart rate training stuff anywhere as near as good as Polars in terms of programmes etc? (If no then I reckon I'd go with a decent Polar)
Can you pre-programme the 500 with a route and then the breadcrumb trail directs you on that route? And if you come off that route does it have a navigational meltdown or guide you back? (If yes I reckon I'd go with the 500, if no then the 800).
Any help, views and opinions greatly appreciated,

Ed

StillGoing

Garmin's HR function is as good as Polar.
Do a search as there are numerous posts advocating the merits of the 500 and the 800 and what each model can and can't do.

drlodge

Don't think the 500 can direct you on routes, I've got the 800 and it does. HR function has been flawless.

rolf_f

ebeard wrote:

Can you pre-programme the 500 with a route and then the breadcrumb trail directs you on that route? And if you come off that route does it have a navigational meltdown or guide you back?

Yes, you can programme a breadcrumb trail which will guide you along a route. However, all it can do if you go off route is drag you back the way you came until you are back on the route again (it can't find an alternative way back to your route because, unlike an 800, all it knows is where it is and where the route is - it doesn't know where the roads are). Normally this should be straightforward but if you hit a diversion, you'll have to rely on instinct and the diversion signage.

Mikey23

But that being said, the 500 is a lovely bit of kit and with the price imo

ebeard

Thanks all,
Having a look around it may be a good idea to wait until the Edge 900 is out - either because it will be significantly better, or because it will make the 800 significantly cheaper...

t.m.h.n.e.t

MIO Cyclo 305HC worth a look?

rolf_f

T.M.H.N.E.T wrote:

MIO Cyclo 305HC worth a look?

Or one of the Holux machines, or the Bryton 40 and 35 - all cheaper than the 500 (and rather better packaged in the case of the Bryton 40).

There's also the Garmin 200 which still has the navigation but not the ANT+ sensor capability.

seanorawe

T.M.H.N.E.T wrote:

MIO Cyclo 305HC worth a look?

I was looking at that myself, but its the same price as a edge 800. Has anyone used both?