Over the past 10 years I have owned a Polar S710i , the top of the line Polar bike computer ( introduced 2005 , cannot recall model ) , RS800.
In a nutshell , constant problems , inaccuraccies , frequent servicing required , RS800 batteries needed changing every 6-8 weeks , pending mileage.
I am not alone in my thoughts either , I have 3 friends who are avid triathletes and are fed up with "donating" money to Polar.
My wife bought me the Garmin 300XT in October from the US. Funny enough ,the original unit's screen was faulty. The problem was rectified shortly afterwards.
The Garmin is an absolute pleasure to run with. 100% user-friendly , hassle free ( no "retro" footpods requiring pre-setting , etc and shoe transfrers ).
Downloading of Garmin through the "Ant" technology is a breeze and the "Dashboard" is fun to play around with :)
The ability to measure identical routes , runs , etc. I find to be very valuable , as is the feedback provided , pending how you set up your custom levels.
I set mine up to show me accumulated pace , and "auto-lap" at 1km. Enables me to analyze my calories , pace ( mins/km and km/hr ) , time , HR , etc. per km .
In a nutshell , Polar is 3-5 years behind IMO.
I would HIGHLY recommend the watch.
Oh disadvantges..............................you get to see exactly how slow you really run :)
Terry
"You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream" - Les Brown
"Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment" - Jim Rohn