Bike Computer/HRM Opinions

[betagirl]

Hi everyone

Wanted to get your opinions on bike computers and heart rate monitors. Mine bit the big one on RAGBRAI this year in the 2 days of rain we got. I wasn't too impressed with it anyway, so I'm not too broken up about it

I'd like one that synch's with my computer. I've also been looking at computers that measure both speed etc. and heart rate in 1.

Any tips would be greatly appreciated!

Gracias!

[Veronica]

Check out these two threads for some info.

V.

Heart Rate Monitor Recommendations

Heart Rate Monitors

[betagirl]

Excellent.

I was looking at the Polar models. So thanks, this helps.

[spazzdog]

I installed the Mavic wireless with cadence on my bike. I already had a heart monitor (Polar) so I didn't get the next bump up for a combo.

I use training log software that allows for download but my monitor isn't equipped, so I manually enter my info after each training session. The software: UltraCoach 3, multi-sport. I've used it since it's first release in early 90's. I can track whatever workouts I do; bike, run, lift, etc... whatever I want to define.

[Trek420]

posted by betagirl wrote: "Wanted to get your opinions on bike computers and heart rate monitors."

I use a cateye wireless, and a Polar HRM. The HRM mounts on the bars of my roadbike when not on my wrist of course. I don't want tooooo much info while I'm riding. I use a hightech workout tracking softwear called a wall calender, compatible with pencil and post-it technologies ;-)

My ol' Trek had Flightdeck, which I miss for the sole reason it gave me both cadence and gearing. Cadence not so much, I have a feel for RPM (knees hurt-too low, knees feel good-just right) but I truly miss gearing, nice to know "I've never been able to take this hill in this gear before" or "wow, I've got one more gear". But it doesn't work with Campy Record.

[spazzdog]

Trek420 wrote:

I use a hightech workout tracking softwear called a wall calender, compatible with pencil and post-it technologies ;-)

You are cuttin' edge grrl!! I use that 'software' whenever my laptop poops the bed...

I admit it though, I am a gear hound. I actually looked at and REALLY wanted the Ciclosport HAC4 Plus... but alas, with cadence it was tweaking that "over $500" mark. I have no control when I look at gear other than that required by my bank acct. Thus no HAC4 combo heartmonitor/cyclometer.

[Trek420]

spazzdog wrote: "You are cuttin' edge grrl!! I use that 'software' whenever my laptop poops the bed... "

eeewww! Didn't know laptops can do that ;-)

I debated, gasp, leaving the Polar wristwatch on my wrist but decided the extra motion of turning my wrist was far to much for me to do.

I've considered training software but most is not compatible with the Mac hence the "Calendar 2004" version. Plus my crosstraining is just kinda hard to quantify.

[snapdragen]

Originally posted by Trek420
But it doesn't work with Campy Record.

Doesn't Campy have their own version of the flight deck - the Ergobrain?


Happily spending your money....

Janet

[Trek420]

they do...my LBS doesn't like it, don't know why, I think he feels it's overpriced.

I walzed into my LBS days before the AIDS ride to get a computer. Wanted flightdeck, he told me "you have Campy...no Flightdeck". I said "ok, tear the bike apart, put Ultegra on it ....just kidding"

Chris laid out several options including the Cateye, wired or wireless, he has that Campy version of flightdeck, he said it's expensive and would take at least a couple hours to install and adjust. He may have been lobbying against it 'cuz he opened the shop on Sunday so i could come in ;-)