Suggestions for GPS Heart Rate Monitor

[MauiRockHopper]

DH wants to get me a Garmin 305 for my birthday, but after researching it, found some complaints that it shuts off and has other issues.

I want to know what GPS HRM device you suggest that has good software features. I'd like to see Hybrid maps or the ability to overlay the info on Google Earth, not just a one-dimensional street map. Mahalo!

P.S. Budget under $500.

[jobob]

I've only been using my Edge 305 regularly for a few months now - ever since SadieKate turned me on to SportTracks (http://www.zonefivesoftware.com/SportTracks/) for logging my miles (way cool software btw) - but I've had no problems with my Edge shutting off.

I know those complaints came out when the 305 was first introduced, but firmware updates have resolved those issues. I think.

[ilima]

I'm using a Forerunner 305. If your hubby is primarily a cyclist, the Edge would be a better choice, but if he's a triathlete the Forerunner has a bike mount option.

Other than the time my unit popped out of the bike mount as I was on some of Honolulu's famously bad roads, I've had zero issues.

I'm on a Mac and use Ascent software, which looks fairly similar to the SportTracks jobob is using. Depends on what type of computer you have.

http://www.montebellosoftware.com/

[maillotpois]

The shutting off issue was a battery contact issue which I think they have fixed with newer models. DH fixed his on his own by taking it apart and bending the contacts. Mine is newer and never had the problem.

The 305 is great.

[OakLeaf]

What I've read is that with the 305s there was/is both a hardware and a firmware issue with the random shutoffs, while the issue with the 705 series was firmware only and has been resolved.

You should be able to get a 705 with cadence and HRM, but without the street maps, for $500. You can use SportTracks to view your track on a Google Maps view (street, hybrid or satellite only, but if there's topo I haven't found it). You won't have onboard street mapping or navigation unless you buy the software from Garmin, though, which will cost you extra. But you could add that at a later date when your budget allows.

If you buy City Navigator on CD then you can run it on your computer for route planning and navigation in all your vehicles, and view your tracks in Training Center with street level detail. If you buy the map chip bundled with the 705 you will NOT get the unlock codes to allow you to do that. I bought the bundle without realizing that. I BELIEVE I've read from other people that if you buy the CD, you can then transfer the map data to your own micro SD card and call Garmin for unlock codes to allow the unit to recognize it.

I'm on a Mac and I run SportTracks under Parallels. I'll have to check out Ascent, though. Gee, ANOTHER geeky program to put my data in... GTC for Mac, GTC for Windows (not identical), SportTracks, BikeJournal...


ETA: You can also view your tracks in Google Earth via MotionBased. A free membership only allows you to view a limited amount of your history, but it's full-featured for viewing your last few rides. I'm not sure what options Mapmyride has for importing, as I've only ever used it for export. SportTracks is shareware and un-crippled. I like it well enough that I sent them the full suggested donation which I believe was $25.

[ilima]

And compatible with new wireless powermeters.

17th St Photo has the 705 with cadence, HR, and Street Maps for $550 (backordered). I've twice ordered Garmin stuff from 17th with zero issues; they are reputable. But you do have to be careful ordering electronics.

http://www.17photo.com/product.asp?id=0100055540

[TrekTheKaty]

LOVE my 305. It's never shut off. I also have the cadence option.

[pinkbikes]

One more vote for the Edge 705.

I got one as sort of a late Christmas present when DH decided to update his 305 (also great - has sold it to a friend) so have only had it a couple of weeks.

I'm just loving it! Truly everything it was cracked up to be!

I bought it in Oz so have Oz topographical maps on it as it came (really pretty ordinary maps for navigational purposes) but have also downloaded some maps of the local MTB trails in our state forests and some more detailed street maps. They all overlay each other and I am finding I use it more and more for navigational purposes.

I really like the software you can download for it - Garmin Training Centre - which is stand alone on your computer. It allows analysis of all your stats etc. I also upload to the GarminConnect site (I think it replaced MotionBased for the later products) and it does the nice superimpose on GoogleMap/Earth thing and allows you to share your rides etc. But I find it doesn't offer the same range of analysis you used to get on MotionBased or on the Training Centre software. Maybe I just can't drive it so well yet!

But Yep - one more vote! And it was only A$555 so surely you'd get it in your budget!

[Miranda]

I love it when other people post threads about things on my mind:cool:. The price for the 305 would be about my max. The features look nice. I read about the 305 unit shutting off as well. Good to know if it has had some resolve.

[BikeDutchess]

I still have problems with the 305 shutting off randomly. It really irritates me. Wish I were brave enough to open it up to do "surgery" on it. The 705 sure looks nice though.

[bluebug32]

I really like my 305 and haven't had any problems with it. I just bought my FDH a 705, so he will be selling his 305. PM me if you're interested and I can find out more details.