Needing a new GPS watch for biking and running

[WindingRoad]

So, I think my Garmin Forerunner 50 has outlived it's relatively short life span (about a year). I hear this is an especially problematic model or as others online have described it (a total piece of $h!t). However most people say very positive things about their Garmins so I'm willing to try again.

The deal is that I run and bike so I want one I can use for both. I use a heart rate monitor too so this leads me to look at the Forerunner 405 or 405 CX depending on if I can use the Garmin Heart Rate Monitor strap I already have on a new watch??? I hate to pay an extra $50 for the CX if I can just use the HRM I already have and possibly the foot pod too for indoor running. The HRM I have looks exactly like what Garmin sells online to add to existing watches so that makes me think it would work. Since my Forerunner 50 isn't that old this also makes me think it would work. I've emailed Garmin to see if there is any warranty or repairs that can be made to the watch I have but I seriously doubt it. I am guessing this is why Costco was selling them for $99 dollars.

Any suggestions on a replacement or do any of you know if I can use the old HRM on a new model? I know many of you probably use these run/bike devices and have a lot more experience with them than I do.

I guess I should clarify that my old model didn't do the bike stuff but I'd like to get one that will even if I have to buy the cadence attachment separately.

Please help!

[Bike Chick]

Winding, I have had the 405 for over a year now and use it for both running and cycling. I have the footpod for indoor running and the cadence monitor for cycling. I like the fact that you can use the same training device for both activities and can download it into my training center on the computer. The only thing I don't like about it is that you have to manually change the modes from bike to running so you can't use it during a triathlon or biathlon without losing valuable time. It's not that big of a deal once you learn how to change the modes. There is a bit of a learning curve with it but since you already have the 50, this shouldn't be a big deal for you.

My husband had an extra hrm with his Garmin and I used it when I got my 405 and it paired just fine. We have 3 different Garmin's between us and they all use the same hrm.

Hope this answers your questions.

[zoom-zoom]

I have a 305 and LOVE it. It looks bulky, but I don't notice it on my wrist and the screen is large, so I can easily view 4 fields at once and toggle between 3 screens.

Not sure about the HRM issue...I have honestly never even used the strap that came with my 305. One of these days I will, but the underwires in my regular running bras is what has been a deterrent. I'm not sure how to fit the strap around/under those and if I put it lower-on my ribcage I don't see it staying put.

If my 305 died today I'd probably buy another one...or maybe the 310XT, but I could buy like 3 305s for the same price.

[OakLeaf]

All the current model Garmin HR straps are compatible. The ones that went with the 301 are different, but if it's one of the ANT+ straps, it will work.

You're probably actually better off with the old, hard strap. People report a lot of problems with the new "premium" soft strap.


ETA: BikeChick, are you sure the 405 doesn't have auto-multisport? So many people have complained about the 310XT not having that feature, that I thought that all the prior models had it. The 301 did, even.

[zoom-zoom]

I know the 305 doesn't have auto multisport. I mean, it won't detect changes in race mode, or anything--is that what you mean? I have to go into the menu and set up what the 3 modes of my duathlon will be, then start at the start, press the lap button for transition, again as I leave transition, etc. It does automatically set the watch up for each mode on race day, but only when I have manually told it what to do beforehand.

[OakLeaf]

Right, rather than having to manually switch to bike mode while you're in transition, and then back to run mode in T2.

[Bike Chick]

ETA: BikeChick, are you sure the 405 doesn't have auto-multisport? So many people have complained about the 310XT not having that feature, that I thought that all the prior models had it. The 301 did, even.

Oak, my 405 model is manual and doesn't have auto-multisport. I sure wish it did. I understand the new models now have it.