back up computer to use with edge?

[maillotpois]

DH had that happen with his 205. It died once and he exchanged it and then it died again, but came back. Weird. That is WAY too expensive a piece of equipment to be so unreliable.

[Eden]

Sigma Sport BC 1200 Bike Computer

Its simple to use, easy to install, super easy to read, can mount in any direction (I have mine mounted to my stem now) very reliable even in the pouring rain and on sale at REI for $13 right now.

and btw - REI has an extremely good return policy, they took back a waterproof breathable jacket that was delaminating after about 3 or 4 years, no questions, no hassle - they just exchanged it for the newest model. I would have never thought to return something so old, but my husband and I had the exact same jacket and mine was fine - his the coating was peeling right off in big strips. They owned up that some of the jackets had a problem and just took it back. I'm pretty sure they are like Nordstroms - no questions asked return policy.

[Blueberry]

I'm glad I didn't jump the gun and order the Garmin - I was *so* tempted (I posted recently about what kind of bike gadgets are good for altitude). Hmmm....choices seem to be wait for Garmin to fix the bugs (though I worry a bit amout the battery life - *if* I get into the more "epic" rides eventually - I think it's only 10 hours).

I'm leaning towards the Polar 720i since it's the only one I haven't heard complaints about. Hmmm....decisions, decisions....

No matter what, I'm leaving my basic specialized wireless computer on the bike - it works great and was very inexpensive. Has distance, current speed, average speed and time. Just about all I really *need*

By the way, I have to second the comment on REI's return policy. They are GREAT! Hadn't heard that amount Nordstrom - good to know (though I'm a bit peeved at them right now - went clothes shopping for the new job and they told me my eyebrows looked terrible and I had to have them waxed. No thanks!).

[caligurl]

CA in NC..... i had a polar 720i before the edge... i like it (at least the calorie count was better! lol!) the only problem/issue i has was being affected (effected?) by outside sources... i.e. power lines.... but that didn't happen too often where i ride....

i loved the calendar that it uploaded too (the polar software)....

i've owned 3 polars.... and i always feel you can't go wrong with them.... (i just really LOVE toys and REALLY wanted the garmin! but i shoulda known to wait until they worked out the bugs... just like with first model year cars... never buy them!) maybe they've worked out some bugs in the one they sent me!

[TsPoet]

I'm glad I didn't jump the gun and order the Garmin - I was *so* tempted (I posted recently about what kind of bike gadgets are good for altitude). Hmmm....choices seem to be wait for Garmin to fix the bugs (though I worry a bit amout the battery life - *if* I get into the more "epic" rides eventually - I think it's only 10 hours).
.

I absolutely love my EDGE. They put out software upgrades occasionally, and I upgraded to one that didn't work (you mean I can't convince you that I rode 301 mph?). The next upgrade fixed the problem. Never had the problem before/since.
Sence I ride recumbent, I can't use the speed sensor and am dependent upon the GPS for distance/speed (equivalent to the 205). I have found that wet weather (not just clouds, has to be high humidity/rain) and the GPS can't get a very good lock. I left my old computer on the bike. They compare well as long as it isn't raining.
I have been doing TTs - it's been great to race myself, I improve everytime by seeing what I've done in the past. It also gives tons of information for any ride - HR, speed... elevation gain... I haven't used it with MotionBased, but everyone says that's where it really shines.
And there are a number of battery backup option available to extend the life. The farthest I've ridden since getting it was 48 miles, so I can't speak to the power question. but, I've bought a Solio solar charger for tours and I have a battery charger on order - for $15 it can sit next to the unit and, I'm told, add 4x as much time to the power.

Sue

[caligurl]

*sigh* here, too!

i didn't/don't want this to turn into a garmin thread..... i REALLY want opinions, options, suggestions, recommendations for a back up computer..... i have my opininion of the edge... other's have there's... but here.. please recommend a GOOD back up! cuz i HAVE had issues... and HAVE lost data on two IMPORTANT rides... and don't want it to happen again!

i just had another thought, too... the shimano one? is that any good as a back up??

i just made a thread to talk about the edge!

[Blueberry]

I have a very basic specialized - I think it's called the speedzone elite. It's wireless, very reliable and provides all of the basic mileage data (average speed, odo, miles per trip, etc). It replaced a very unreliable cateye wireless (don't like to worry about the wires...I kept having them break)

I've also heard good things about the basic sigma, but don't know for sure.

If distance is what you want to make sure you have, the simpler the better IMO

[caligurl]

distance is the MOST IMPORTANT when i'm on a ride.... cuz i do use it for... (for lack of a better word) motivation to get to the next point....

i'd like wireless... but i am a tad bit concerned about interference... however... i don't think it will be an issue... cuz i already have been using the f11.. which of course is a wireless HRM... (i actually wear both HR straps the garmin one and the polar wearlink!) and neither has bothered the other! wireless is much neater! one of the reasons i always liked the 720i!

that's why i want to get it at performance... if it interfers... i can return it and try another one! (plus i get team performance points and 2nd day shipping upgrade!)