Why is a Garmin cycle computer worth getting?

[ny biker]

I have been using a Polar cycle computer for years, and I'm starting to have mechanical problems with it so I think I will have to replace it soon. I haven't used the HRM feature in years, just the basic distance, speed and cadence functions.

Since my new bike is a Madone, I will get a DuoTrap sensor for speed and cadence, since it will fit neatly on the chainstay. It works with ANT+ technology, so I need a cycle computer that also uses ANT+.

I could stay with Bontrager products and get a Node 1 or Node 2. They seem to be pretty basic wireless cycle computers, and are among the less expensive options for products that work with the DuoTrap. The Node 2 measures altitude and percent grade. I never use the altitude feature of the Polar, but percent grade might be nice to know, since some of the hills around here are pretty steep.

I'm trying to figure out if it would be worth the extra cash to get a Garmin Edge 500, or even an 800 though I'm pretty sure that's more than I can afford right now. What does the GPS actually do for you on a cycle computer?

Thanks as always for all your answers!!


(FYI, this is the DuoTrap speed and cadence sensor: http://bontrager.com/model/08298)

[OakLeaf]

I could get lost on a football field. But it's not only on roads I "ought" to know by now that the Garmin is helpful.

If I'm doing an organized ride, I can download the .gpx and be sure I haven't missed road markings - some rides are better than others. If I'm going to be in an unfamiliar area by myself, I can plan a route (looking at satellite maps to be sure of the roads), or download a public route drafted by someone local, who has knowledge of traffic patterns, etc.

Nowadays my phone gives me emergency mapping, but I'm not aware of any phone apps that let you travel a pre-set route. Plus, obviously bike computers have way more battery life than phones.

[ny biker]

My understanding of the Edge 500 is that it doesn't replace cue sheets, because it doesn't show maps or tell you when to turn.

If I'm concerned (or curious) about a new ride I will check out the cue sheet on google maps before I leave. In general I only have problems following cue sheets when there is an error or a sign is missing.

I only use the map on my phone by stopping to check it if needed. While I'm riding the phone stays in a ziploc bag in my bento box.

[OakLeaf]

I don't know much about the 500, but I do use mapping on my Forerunner 310XT on long runs. It's just a breadcrumb trail - no road maps and no turn-by-turn directions, just a picture of the track and a warning if you're off course - and it's more involved getting the maps in there than it is with the 705 - but it does work. I'd expect it's similar with the 500 and other Garmin devices that don't have road maps.

I got religious about mapping my long runs last year, after I missed a turn one 95-degree day and wound up 13 miles from home with 4 miles' worth of water. Luckily I was in phone range and DH was home.

[HillSlugger]

The DuoTrap is great! So much cleaner than the usual setups. I do use mine with Garmin; love the GPS and HR data.

[hulagirl]

I have the 310XT and have the cycle mount. It's great for triathlon training, easily swaps from wrist to bike, etc. No maps. Does cadence, speed, HR, etc.

I'm on my 5th unit. ;-)

I picked up an Edge 800 when hubby and I got our Bike Friday's. We were in Seattle for 3 weeks and I was getting sick of stopping to look at google maps on my iphone at every red light. It's not cheap, but it's great for places you aren't familar with.

I didn't expect to use it much at home here in Hawaii. Because well, it's an island and there aren't many places I can't figure out. You either head toward the mountains or not and in 15 minutes you will get to water or the end of a road. Pretty simple.

But, I find I like the size of the 800's screen much more that the 310xt. My speed and cadence are big and easy to see. I like the elevation display (we have plenty of that here!) and the temperature tracking is pretty fun too.

I also like that it does turn by turn directions and I can use it in my car. (I don't have a GPS device in my car) So it will double as something to use on the bike when we are traveling and for trips in the car. As a training tool, I like the display better than the 310xt.

I won't give up my 310xt. I still use that for triathlons.