Garmin Edge 500 -- ? re: cadence sensor package

[zoom-zoom]

I see that there are different packages for this unit. I already have the cadence sensor that works with my Forerunner 305. If I purchased an Edge 500 without the cadence sensor (included in some packages) would it work with the one I already own? I'm assuming that all of the 500s are the same, aside from the package deals...?

[ny biker]

I bought the basic Edge 500 that came with just the bike mount, power cable and USB cable. I didn't need the Garmin speed/cadence sensor because I wanted to use the Bontrager Duotrap sensor instead, and I don't need a HRM.

I'm pretty sure (but not 100%) that the Garmin speed/cadence sensor that comes with the Edge in the package deal is the same one you can buy a la carte.

BTW even if you get the package that comes with everything, you might still need to get a spoke magnet.

[zoom-zoom]

I'm pretty sure (but not 100%) that the Garmin speed/cadence sensor that comes with the Edge in the package deal is the same one you can buy a la carte.

BTW even if you get the package that comes with everything, you might still need to get a spoke magnet.

Ok, that is what I suspected.

Does your spoke not come close enough to the sensor to pick it up? We got DS a bike computer with cadence sensor for his tiny CX bike, but we think we may need a stronger magnet, since it doesn't pick up.

[ny biker]

My spoke magnet works fine. I don't know the brand or anything about it -- a mechanic at the LBS put it on the bike for me, probably when I first bought the bike and they were setting up my old Polar cycle computer for me.

I do have problems with the speed sensor on my mountain bike not working, even when it is hitting the magnet as the wheel spins. That bike has a low-end Bontrager computer on it. I haven't yet tried to figure out what the problem is with it.

[ny biker]

Just checked DC Rainmaker -- perhaps this will answer your question.

http://www.dcrainmaker.com/2009/11/g...th-review.html

Looks like the magnet is included with the bundle package that comes with the speed/cadence sensor.

I think I need to take the time to read this whole thing in detail. It looks jam-packed with info.

[Blueberry]

Dcrainmaker's site is very helpful for all things Garmin!

Magnets can definitely de-magnetize. I've had to buy spares to replace them before (they just stopped working - new magnet fixed it).