Hello ST! Hopefully all those effected are weathering Sandy (excuse the pun) in good health. Best of luck to those in the east!
I have reached my breaking point with my Cateye Strada Double Wireless computers. I own and constantly use 2 of these small simple computers and aside from having to replace batteries seemingly every 60-90 days, I have had to return one already and now the other is acting up (the were both less than 2 years old when they started to “fail”). I use these computers 5-6x’s per week out of the racing season, so about 8 months/year.
Now I am getting very odd and inconsistent numbers on the screen for all functions (including the time!). Of course I tried various positions, placements, even a different magnets and batteries, and I’m finally fed up. I hate to be without a computer for a long time and don’t want to receive another re-furb from Cateye.
I would like to know your best picks for simple bike computers. Cadence and wireless are a must… I also like the fact that the Cateye computers are very small, and can be mounted anywhere. I do not require power on these computers. I searched the forum, but didn’t find anything specific on this going back the last 6-8 months. Again, I don’t require power or gps on these… just your basic speed, time, cadence, averages, etc.
What would be your top choices for simple, wireless computers (with cadence). Thanks!
If cadence is must the Garmin 500, if its not the Garmin 200 ($130).
Both have rudimentary tracking but you don’t have to use it. The are rechargeable and a charge lasts maybe 9-11 hours. the 200 gives speed, avespeed, distance, top speed, odometer. Auto stop start.
Even if you don’t use the GPS one nice thing if you ride in unfamiliar places, you just ride, then hit reverse course and arrows will guide you on a reverse route to the ride start.
I gave up on wireless computers that aren’t gps based long ago and my cat used to regularly chew the wires on wired ones
I’ve used the same cateye astrale for over 10 years and only had to replace the battery a couple times. The only issue is that it is wired but it’s great and cheap
You cannot go wrong with the Garmin Edge 500/800. Both are bombproof, (SUPER) easy to use, and if anything does go wrong Garmin has top notch service
Thanks everyone… yea, it’s looks like I’m getting closer to making the Garmin switch. Wife/training partner already has and yes, they have some great service.
Thanks for the responses!
If you don’t intend to train with power, then get the Polar CS500. It’s an awesome computer with crisp, clear display with digits that are easy to read and zero glare, unlike the poor display on the Garmin 500/800. Plus, the Polar HR strap is bulletproof without any erratic or dropped readings. I have a red Garmin 500, and I’m about to ditch it for something more legible.
Interesting thought(s)… thanks.
Maybe I’ll hear from Bmanners about the Polar option.
I’ve had good luck with Mavic Wintech computers. They have a good size display, easy to read and most should have a cadence option.
One thing I appreciate is that the sensor is built in to the skewer so nothing is hanging from your fork leg.
Retail is $75 without the cadence sensor but I’ve seen them lower. You’ll need to get the cadence sensor and 2nd bike kit separately.
I have both the Garmin Edge 500 and 800…the 500 is the way to go…unless you’ll eventually want to measure power, then i’d go with the 800.
Get the BarFly, too…
Thanks to all… good feedback.
Keep it coming if you have more input!