Submitted by
G Money
a Weekend Warrior
from Charlotte Nc Date Reviewed: March 6, 2010
Favorite Trail:
All
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
great display, love the temp,can rest mileage easy to set up can be transfered to another bike
Weaknesses:
easy to zero out the current mileage and the max speed sometimes shows the incorrect speed
Similar Products Used:
sigma 9 wire multiple cateye units
Bike Setup:
K2 Disco monkey
Bottom Line:
I love this computer I have not had any problems except for the max speed display the temp gauge is reasonably acurate If you need a computer for a good price this just may be the one rain or shine street or dirt I have done it all with this unit
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dan0
a Cross Country Rider
from Nashua, NH Date Reviewed: October 26, 2008
Favorite Trail:
meat grinder
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
no buttons, all in one screen
Weaknesses:
temp gauge not so accurate
Similar Products Used:
specialized, cateye
Bike Setup:
niner rip 9, specialized enduro
Bottom Line:
great computer for the money, never any issues, dont really ride in the rain, but got caught a couple of times but no problems (stream crossings? are you kidding me? what do you drag your bike behind you? the computer is 3' off the ground) as far as the poeple whos keep falling off and cutting out, they have the clamp too tight, if you overtighten the clamp it starts curving to match the bars and wont clip in properly and the contacts dont fully contact
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Guiltyr1
a Weekend Warrior
from North Wales Date Reviewed: June 8, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$23.00
Purchased At:
Amazon.com
Strengths:
Great display - love not having to use buttons. simple to install and even easier to use.
Weaknesses:
None so far. Haven't really taken notcie to see if the weather reads correctly or not...
Bike Setup:
S 40 Schwinn
Bottom Line:
I haven't used it much but what I have used I like.. I am not a professional biker and this one I use jsut for fun...My handle bars were too small, I contacted customer service and they sent me a smaller bracket free. I got it in a fe days. Way to go Planet Bike...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken
a
from Columbus, Ohio, USA Date Reviewed: May 22, 2008
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Jenson
Strengths:
Good readout, simple to reset, allows you to keep your total miles when replacing a battery. Easy to remove. Overall quality
Weaknesses:
Does not like to get wet.
Similar Products Used:
Cateye, Sigma
Bike Setup:
Surly LHT for commuting and touring/Giant Rincon for commuting/Specialized Allez for group rides/Vision A40 for touring and commuting/Easy Rider Tandem for the only time I enjoy my wife at my back.
Bottom Line:
This is an affordable, durable computer that has a large comprehensive readout. The unit does not like to get wet, so use a sandwich bag when it looks like it might get wet. I have had the 9.0 and some of its lesser brethren on all of my bikes, and nothing has been as durable. Except for the Cateye EL410, I have never had a Cateye product last. Sigma, I won't even go there. I love this computer so much I ended up getting the new wireless version for less than $35. Additionally, Planet Bike donates 25% of all profits to bicycle advocacy groups. It's a great company that does its best to put out a useable, reliable and affordable products for cyclists.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim
a Cross Country Rider
from Rockville, MD, USA Date Reviewed: November 12, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
Online clearance item
Strengths:
Sensor can fit any size fork, display keeps all critical info up constantly (speed, distance and time of ride) and can select between sets of other two variables to display, programming for 29er was a cinch, thermometer works great if you are not a moron and not just a fair weather--summertime cyclist, supports a socially responsible manufacturer.
Weaknesses:
THe ties provided to mount the sensor are probably fine for a road bike but cannot be tightened enough to keep the sensor from moving after the fork takes a big hit. Solving the problem is easy enough--use heavy duty, laminated twist ties and tighten by twisting with a pliers.
Similar Products Used:
Cateye Micro
Bike Setup:
Stock Gary Fisher Caliber 29
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike computer, especially at deep discount. The thermometer feature has been trashed below, but it really is one of the more valuable things about this computer that sets it apart from much of the competition. Especially if you are a cold weather or winter cyclist, having an accurate reading of the temperature where and when you are riding (rather than from your home thermometer or TV weathercaster or online report) is a huge benefit in developing the best clothing matches for varying conditions. For hot weather the thermometer works just like every other thermometer in the world--put it in the sun and it will read higher than the ambient temperature in the shade--doh! If you complain about this, then you are too clever by half. Your skull in a helmet, in the sun, is sensing much what the sun-baked PLanet Bike computer is sensing. If the computer reads 103 but you know it is only 90 in the shade (and you are upset about this), then your brain has been cooked.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jared Fielding
a Racer
from Shelley, ID Date Reviewed: July 12, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Lithium
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
large display, easy to reset and change view
Weaknesses:
temp. is often inaccurate in heat or sun. falls out of clamp, mine broke because of this. it is too wasy to reset and happens on accident a lot.
Similar Products Used:
Vetta
Bike Setup:
Giant OCR C3
Bottom Line:
It isn't very good because it is unreliable and falls out and breaks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randy
a
from Jessup PA Date Reviewed: May 22, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Prompton Dam
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Lots of Data at a glance.
Weaknesses:
Resets itself too frequently, wrong temperture displayed
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Ibex Asta
Bottom Line:
Don't buy this piece of crap! I love the way this computer works, when it actually works. Today I had it with the computer because I reset it right before a ride and EVERYTHING was reset. I had to stuff it in my pack before I smashed it off a rock. If you can get it dirt cheap or free, get it for gift or something. Nice design, not reliable.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
J cote
a Weekend Warrior
from ottawa Date Reviewed: September 1, 2006
Favorite Trail:
chelsea
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Jenson
Strengths:
junk
Weaknesses:
BIGGEST PIECE OF JUNK I HAVE EVER SEEN. GO DESIGN JUNK!!! WHERE DO THEY GET THERE ENGINEERS!!!! The piece of junk has no real place for the ties for one. Two, the piece of junk sits on the handle bar like its made for my grandmas bike. Its JUNK. STAY AWAY FROM THIS BLACKBURN AND CICLOCOMPUTER. ALL ARE JUNK!!!! USE CATEYE. I JUST BOUGHT ONE. SIMPLE. EVERYTHING IS STRONG. IT STAYS PUT. IT FITS NICE. SIMPLE DISPLAY. ENGINEERS WORK FOR THIS COMPANY I CAN SEE NOT SOME DEAD BEAT IDIOTS!!! IF YOU CAN'T BUILD IT RIGHT THEN DON'T SO I;m NOT STUCK WITH YOUR MISFIT DESIGN!!!!
Similar Products Used:
Blackburn sucks ciclocomputer sucks buy cateye!
Bike Setup:
TItus racerx - XTR rocky blizzard - XT
Bottom Line:
SUCKS BIG BIG BANANAS. I HAVE A RACE TOMORROW AND I WAS COUNTING ON THIS. ITS JUST JUNK!!! NOW I HAVE 100 mile race without a damn computer. THANKS FOR DESIGNING JUNK FOR YOUR GRANDMA!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
D Davis
a
from Cedar Falls, IA, USA Date Reviewed: July 13, 2006
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Large display, changes functions easily
Weaknesses:
POOR build quality, horrible customer service.
Bottom Line:
Horrible product, among many bad Planet Bike products i've bought. I've had two of these units fail, and NO, absolutely NO help from their customer service dept.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a
from PA Date Reviewed: April 29, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bottom Line:
Worked fine for about a month then faltered. Tried to get tech help from company but that was a waste of time. Went through this process a number of times to no avail. On the positive side, loved the large display with multiple functions viewable on the same screen. Design great, performance poor. Avoid this cyclometer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gmccorkl
a Cross Country Rider
from Odessa, Tx , USA Date Reviewed: September 17, 2005
Favorite Trail:
XC
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
WEB
Strengths:
Large display, thermometer, multi-line readout.
Weaknesses:
Inaccurate temperature readings in sunlight. Fragile construction.
Similar Products Used:
Cateye
Bike Setup:
Giant NRS1
Bottom Line:
Possibly a good roadie computer but a weak mtn bike computer because: Unit changed modes on technical sections, unit reset on technical sections, display blanked occasionally and unit stopped recording, after one year of use the computer actually fell off the mount during a ride. Conclusion: Good features, nice display, weak implementation.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: July 27, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$23.00
Purchased At:
www.eBay.ca
Strengths:
Inexpensive, Extra & Multi Function, Multi Line Display. More info at one glance then you really need. Only 1 ($5-6/CAN) battery to replace then 2 ($4.50/CAN) batteries for my Sigma Sport BC1200/yr.
Weaknesses:
The temp. feature is wide ranging in bright sunlight. It went from 17C indoors to 30C in bright sunlight after a 1/2 hour as it was only 27C. Looking at all the displayed items can cause you to get distracted. I have 2, one came with a little scratch on the LCD display and the other has two dirt/fingerprints on the inside of the clear plastic casing on the screen. Thick wire from sensor to base. Spoke magnet is huge and heavy. My Sigma Sport BC1400 wheel magnet is on (much smaller and lighter) and it's great.
Similar Products Used:
Vetta C-10, Sigma Sport BC1200, Sigma Sport BC1400.
Bike Setup:
2001 Trek Fuel 90 Disk/stock - tires changed to slicks. Will consider putting the 2nd unit on the 1996 GT Ricochet if it survives/holds up to late fall, early winter temps. for 2005(down to a max. of -5C windchill not temp.) As every comp. I've used in winter slow down and dull the display, when the windchill gets in the -1C to -5C range.
Bottom Line:
Excellent comp. for the price. Alot of functions. Alot of info displayed at one time & it has a temp. feature. Bottom Line: Other then an eBay seller sending me 1 with a little scratch on the LCD display and the other having fingerprints during assembly from the manufacturers it's superb!(these may just be my pet peeves, but I think the display should be clean/clear/perfect,No?)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MTB
a Weekend Warrior
from TN Date Reviewed: July 14, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Lots os information displayed at once
Weaknesses:
Temperature is always wrong. Ever try to re-program this after the battery dies? I have 2 of them and neither one could be re-programmed correctly even when going step by step through the instructions
Bottom Line:
Good until the battery dies.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lonnie Jackson
a Weekend Warrior
from Lemoore, CA USA Date Reviewed: July 8, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Buckridge
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$17.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA
Strengths:
Esay install and setup. Big display, easy to read. NO BUTTONS. Very easy to use. Temp. display.
Weaknesses:
Not wireless, no clamp for 31.8mm handlebars. Thermometer little inaccurate in direct sun.
Similar Products Used:
Performance brand. Schwinn
Bike Setup:
05 Ibex Ignition 2
Bottom Line:
This is a great computer for mountain biking. The push function is really a neat tool. No trying to push small buttons with your thick gloved fingers. Has all your basic functions and a thermometer. The temp. is a little inaccurate when it sits in direct sunlight for a while. Mine would jump around from 97 to 93 as I would go from sun to shade. The nice big display is easy to read. So far very durable. I had to rig it to my handlebars with a zip tie since they don't make a 31.8mm clamp kit. I only wish they had a wire less kit for it then it would be perfect. Great price for a good computer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lance
a Cross Country Rider
from Southington, CT Date Reviewed: May 29, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$19.00
Purchased At:
Jenson
Strengths:
Great display, lots of info on one screen.
Weaknesses:
None, until today, when after a ride with minor rock garden action seemed to dislodge it and tossed it into the woods. Looked down after the ride and it was gone.
Similar Products Used:
Cat Eye Enduro 8
Bike Setup:
Specialized Rockhopper '05
Bottom Line:
I really liked this unit until it flew off it's mount and was lost into the woods. For the money this is a great little unit. I only wish that it more securely sat in it's mount. I opted to purchase a Cat Eye Enduro 8, since all of the LBS's around me all raved about Cat Eye's reputation. I must say the new Cat Eye seems to have a better locking mechanism. We shall see...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a
from Modesto, CA Date Reviewed: March 13, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Features are set up nicely. Real easy to change screen views.
Weaknesses:
Thermometer won't give you an accurate temperature unless you're riding in the shade. I also had to stuff the battery compartment with paper because it kept resetting itself everytime I went over a bump. This started after using it for a week. Has a hard time resetting.
Similar Products Used:
Planet Bike 5.0
Bike Setup:
KHS XC504
Bottom Line:
Save your money and buy the cheaper version. The cheaper one that I bought works a lot better! Could be a defected unit but after reading the reviews, I don't think it's a problem that only my unit is experiencing!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ed
a Weekend Warrior
from Helena, MT, USA Date Reviewed: October 1, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Large display, provides lots of info, great customer service
Weaknesses:
sensor was wimpy and had to be mounted very close to the magnet. Sensor eventually crapped out, but it was replaced for free with a new one that seems to work much better
Similar Products Used:
Bell 4-function
Bike Setup:
Giant Warp DS2
Bottom Line:
The temperature is only accurate if you have kept it in the shade, but a ballpark figure is nice. It is easy to use and the large display gives you a lot of info at a quick glance. Easy to toggle through the screens. When I first got it, the sensor was wimpy and I had to mount it so it practically touched the magnet. Then after a few months it stopped working all together. I think the zip ties that are supplied with it crimped the sensor wire too hard and damaged it. I emailed Planet Bike and told them about what happened, and they replaced the sensor quickly and for free. This new one seems to work much better. I did not use zip ties this time, I just wound the slack wire around my front brake cable.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg
a
from Pocatello Date Reviewed: September 27, 2004
Favorite Trail:
City Creek
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$18.00
Purchased At:
Instant Replay
Strengths:
Large display screen with multiple displays that show without changing all the time. Has the major functions needed for riding. Easy to change displays if you want to check other criteria. Easy to set up and use.
Weaknesses:
The temperature is not accurate if riding in the sun. It reads much hotter than actual.
Similar Products Used:
Sigma
Bike Setup:
Bontrager hardtail.XTR components.
Bottom Line:
I like the protege and purchased an 8 for my 11 year old. I am an old man so the large display is nice for me. I have had hard falls, ride rough trails and no problem with it. Where others had problems with it not working, I have riden in the rain and through the mud with no problem. However, once when washing my bike it was soaked in water and did not work for a few hours until completely dried out. It was over a year old so I thought it was the battery. It could be more water prooof but a great computer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
D
a Cross Country Rider
from WA Date Reviewed: September 19, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Jenson USA
Strengths:
Large display
Weaknesses:
On the second battery in 10 months. Also the display can be reset very easily while crashing or leaning over the bars.
Similar Products Used:
CatEye
Bottom Line:
Now after 10 months the display no longer works. I do not the battery is dead. I am going to send this computer back to the manafacturer right away.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bruce Pylant
a Weekend Warrior
from Decatur,AL Date Reviewed: September 4, 2004
Favorite Trail:
road
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
directly from Planet Bike Website
Strengths:
Easy to read - all basic info in view or can get it with a push or tow
Weaknesses:
will not work in the rain - very frustrating - when the back contacts get wet it's useless until you can dry it completely, which you can't do riding in the rain- don't know why they would make such a good unit that can only be used in dry condtions - I'm switching to another one that's truly weaterproof and functional in the rain!
Similar Products Used:
Trek Computers, Cat Eye
Bike Setup:
Trek 2300 , full Ultegra, Speedplay pedals, 12x27 rear cogs
Bottom Line:
Great unit to use in dry conditions - useless in the rain - won't buy another one
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brett
a Cross Country Rider
from Tahoe Date Reviewed: June 28, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Tahoe Singletrack
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$35.00
Strengths:
Easy to set up, no buttons, quick to change display
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Cateye Miti
Bike Setup:
Rocky Mountain ETSX
Bottom Line:
Great computer. No messing around with buttons. All you need to do is press the computer forward to change the display setting. Display takes a little getting used to but no real shortcomings in the year that I have owned it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City UT Date Reviewed: June 27, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Utah Lake Century
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Dont remember
Strengths:
This little computer hasnt let me down after 3000 miles. Very easy to set up and use. Nice big display. Lots of information on one screen, no buttons to push.
Weaknesses:
Would be really really nice if this came in a wireless version.
Similar Products Used:
Just about every type of computer out there.
Bike Setup:
Cannondale T2000, custom setup by yours truly.
Bottom Line:
This is the best computer I have used to date. Every single computer I have used died after less than extensive riding. My 9.0 hasnt had a single hiccup, in the rain, heat, snow or otherwise......dont know if i would use this computer for serious off road stuff though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Glenn Vernes
a Cross Country Rider
from Middletown CT Date Reviewed: June 22, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Mail order
Strengths:
Nice big display, shows multiple functions at once.
I can't recommend it. I had it on my ROAD BIKE and it stopped working when I got caught in the rain. It started working again once it dried out but stopped again for good soon thereafter. It got condensation on the inside during the rainstorm, the kiss of death. It would never survive puddle splashes and stream dunkings. It also had a very fussy sensor mount that didn't grip the fork well. It would move and stop sensing the magnet. That might not be a problem on a large diameter suspension fork, though. It's a nice design with the large digits and simultaneous function views, but it needs to be sealed better against water.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ren Desa
a Cross Country Rider
from Camp Humphreys, Korea Date Reviewed: June 14, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Cp Humphreys Outer Loop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Jenson USA
Strengths:
Very easy to steup and operate. No buttons to mess with, no hassle! The screeen is packed with info, and it's easy to see (unless you have bad vision...) For tewnty bucks it has lots of info: current, average and top speed, ride time, clock, trip odometer, totoal odometer, temperature and you can use it on two bikes (must buy extra mount). The wire from the mount to the pick up is thick and looks very sturdy, as opposed to some computers that have thin, fragile wires.
Weaknesses:
The magnetic pick up buzzes like a bee when going fast, but I couln't find any harm with the buzz... It seems it might be just some aerodinamic buzz, no harm...
Similar Products Used:
None recently
Bike Setup:
2004 Gary Fisher Tarpon, Truvativ crank and rings, Crank Bros. Mallet C Pedals, Easton 80mm 0deg stem, Kore handlebar, Kalin bar ends, Shimano hydraulic front disc brakes, Shimano deore front hub on Bontrager rims.
Bottom Line:
Great value for the price, easy to use and to setup, I am planning on buying another mount for my go-to-work bike...
With no buttons to push you can concentrate on the trail instead of the computer, you can even change the display screen without looking at it, just touch the computer and give it a quick push forward... it's that easy!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Jokisch
a Weekend Warrior
from Mt. Pleasant, MI Date Reviewed: June 8, 2004
Favorite Trail:
anything and everything
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Jensonusa.com
Strengths:
large screen, no buttons, temp. gauge
Weaknesses:
none that i have found yet
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
04 Specialized Hardrock Pro Disc, LX F. derailer, WTB Rocket V saddle, Race Face Good&Evil grips.
Bottom Line:
I have had no problems with this computer at all. We have a had really wet summer so far and I have rode in both deep water, muddy trails and a ride in the rain and have had no problems at all with the computer. The temp gauge isnt too acurrate, give or a take a few degrees, but for the same price difference I would go for it. Great little computer at a great price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brother Jethro
a Cross Country Rider
from Vancouver, WA, USA Date Reviewed: May 27, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Any
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$24.00
Strengths:
Hard to beat the features for the price. I love having everything on the display at the same time. I also love the simplicity of only one button.
Weaknesses:
Magnet mount is bulky and weak: Mine broke after 300 trail miles, but was replaced for free.
Bike Setup:
Fisher Sugar
Bottom Line:
You get a lot of features for your money with this computer. I have two: One on a road bike, one on a mountain bike. I have about 400 miles on each. So far I've had no problems except that on my mountain bike the magnet mount broke after about 300 hard trail miles. I sent an email to planet bike and they replaced it for free. Can't complain. BTW, I've had no problems with water resistance -- have ridden in the rain, mud, and even accidentally submerged the whole thing in a stream.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony
a Weekend Warrior
from San Francisco, CA Date Reviewed: May 19, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Jenson
Strengths:
Small unit, big display, lots of good info, good cable thickness, nice features. Installation was easy enough, though I had to apply a bit of pressure to get the ring attached to the handlebar with only the 1mm rubber shim. Definitely follow the instruction advice and check the tire travel distance when you configure it - mine was off by 6+ inches compared to the default suggestion for tire size.
Weaknesses:
Programming buttons on the bottom are a little squirelly but serviceable. Temp gauge is finicky, often changes by in cold weather by 5F up-down every 2-3 seconds, so you never really know for sure. Display discolors slightly no matter what the temp (at 60F in the shade this really shows up like thin oil on clear water). Feels like it would only take a good jolt to lose the computer itself - I know I'll have to shim it in or wrap it in rubber bands to keep it in place for a wild ride. And kiss your trip stats goodbye before you drop it in your pocket; Resets too easily when not mounted. Silly ODO stats that give you only 1000 miles combined for two bikes, but 100,000 miles for each bike individually? Phhhhht!!!
Similar Products Used:
10yo Cateye hocky-puck cycleputer - lasted forever, and you could drop a bomb on it and it'd still run. Gave it to my brother with my old '94 HKEK.
Bike Setup:
2004 Gary Fisher HKEK, stock.
Bottom Line:
Seems to be a good unit and worth the price I paid, IMO. Has it's flaws, seems too fragile for anything but road riding, but I have yet to do anything that would kill it or lose it on a trail, so will reserve my judgement on that until I'm actively trying to kill it or lose it. ;) Overall, if you don't mind experimenting $20 (no more!) with a small unit with a large and comprehensive display, it's a good buy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg
a Cross Country Rider
from Northern, Ohio Date Reviewed: April 24, 2004
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Jenson
Strengths:
Large multiple display, temperature reading, quality, easy install & setup
Weaknesses:
Not for mountain bike use. You can tell just by looking at it.
Bottom Line:
I really this product, with it mutliple & large display. Mine has been very dependable for my application on the road and bike paths its nearly perfect.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bjorndoggie Cruiser
a Weekend Warrior
from Sacramento CA, USofA Date Reviewed: April 15, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Forresthill Divide Loop
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Has everything I need on one regular sized screen.
Weaknesses:
Well, it's not immune from my anger.
Similar Products Used:
Speed Comp.
Bike Setup:
'03 Stumpy tricked out.
Bottom Line:
This is an update (I think I did the first review of this product). Well I had been enjoying my favorite computer for two years now. I was just riding along... and I broke a spoke! What does that have to do with my Protege? When I flipped my bike over to get the spoke out of the way, BAM! I cracked my crystal on a rock. I called John at Planet Bike and (laughing as I said it) asked if the warranty covered stupidity. He said no it sounded like my damage was operator error. However, I could qualify for their crash replacment program. He shipped me a new head for a reduced price and four days later I'm back in business! Still love the computer and I liked the company before because they try to give back to the cycling community but now I love 'em. Thanks again John and don't work too hard (but I know you will).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nitish Nag
a Cross Country Rider
from Fremont, CA Date Reviewed: January 16, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Skeggs Point
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
jenson USA
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up on my review. The computer just felw off the handle bar, during a moderately paced downhill ride on smooth fireroad. This really disappointed me, as now the whole computer itself is missing. The design that places the locking mechanism for the computer is defective. Maybe it was just bad quality control.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nitish Nag
a Cross Country Rider
from Fremont, Ca Date Reviewed: December 19, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$24.00
Purchased At:
Jenson USA
Strengths:
Great readability. Super easy to use. Accurate. No buttons are kool.
Weaknesses:
Could be a durability issue, but so far nothing.
Similar Products Used:
None.
Bike Setup:
2003 Santa Cruz Blur, 04 XTR, 5th Element Air, Easton Carbon Cockpit, Thompson Stem, Python Air Lights, Mavic 317's, Eggbeater SS, Stans NoTubes.
Bottom Line:
This is a great cyclocomputer. The temprature gauge is nice to have so you can see how much you are freezing (or cookin). The gauges are easy to read in most light conditions. The no button interface is easy to work with.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Anonymous Gerbil
a Weekend Warrior
from Texas Date Reviewed: October 7, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bike
Strengths:
Simple and innovative design, no buttons to push. Lots of info displayed at any one time
Weaknesses:
Not up to the vigors of MTBing. Probably make a good road computer though. Temp sensor never accurate. Handlebar mount (on which the button mechanism relies on the change function display) is made of very soft and thin plastic - easily damaged.
Bottom Line:
An update to my review -
While this is a good computer for what it advertizes as being, it is not strong enough to withstand rough offroad use.
First, the temp reading was never accurate. But no big deal, as it was only off by 3-4 degrees and was good enough to give you a ball park idea. The problem however is that the temperature sensor leaves the computer exposed to the elements and leaves the sensitive electronics open to dust, dirt and mooisture. Not good for offroad use.
Second, instead of a button to change display modes, you push forward the whole unit and it slides on the handlebar mount, which activates a "button" underneath the computer to change modes. Nice idea, but again not suitable for offrad use. Why? - because if the handlebar mount is damaged in anyway, the sliding mechanism becomes difficutl to use.
This is precisely what has happened in my case. Laying my bike upside down on the ground on its handlebars and saddle to fit the wheels has caused the plastic computer mount to touch the ground. I have not been abusive mind you - I carefully lay the bike on the ground, which happens to be soft dirt, not concrete. But the handlebar mount plastic is very soft and thin, and is damaged very easily. So now out riding on the trail, the computer is very hard to shift, or it stayes stuck in the up position.
Again, I think this would make a great road computer. But do not recommend it for MTBing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike English
a Weekend Warrior
from Iowa City, IA Date Reviewed: September 18, 2003
Favorite Trail:
RAGBRAI
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Nashbar
Strengths:
Easy to read, easy to use, no buttons to push. This is a terrific design. I hope somebody else copies this design who knows how to make one that works.
Weaknesses:
Sometimes I can bike all day and not have any problems. Then other days, it just goes blank for a few minutes or a few hours. When it eventually decides to start working again, all of the settings are scrambled. I liked the design of this thing so well, I bought two of them. One with temperature and one without. They both have the same problem with going blank and then resetting. The temperature readings never were accurate, even when the rest of the computer was working.
Similar Products Used:
Cateye
Bottom Line:
I have finally given up on this thing. Too bad, I really like the design. I may just live without a computer until someone designs one like this that works. I really hate pushing buttons while riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randall Tuttle
a Cross Country Rider
from Conover, NC Date Reviewed: August 5, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Harpers Creek
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Nice display, great info, great "dry conditions" road computer, EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE!!
Weaknesses:
IS NOT WATERPROOF AS ADVERTISED!!, not up to the demands of the trail
Similar Products Used:
Vetta c-20, Cateye Enduro, Polar X-trainer
Bike Setup:
Klein Adept Pro, XTR, Cane Creek wheels
Bottom Line:
THE 9.0 COMPUTER IS NOT WATERPROOF AS ADVERTISED!! I am on my third computer from bike planet due to warranty replacement (great customer service). Each time my "waterproof" 9.0 has failed, it was in the rain or wet conditions. This computer is very sensitive to moisture! I gave the 9.0 three chills because in the dry, it works great. If you are searching for a MTB computer look elsewhere, the 9.0 is not up to the task. Maybe the Cateye Enduro. Keep the 9.0 on the dry road:)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rich
a Weekend Warrior
from Southern Maryland Date Reviewed: August 4, 2003
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$23.00
Purchased At:
Jenson USA
Strengths:
All in one display, Rugged construction, ease of use
Weaknesses:
display affected by extreme heat
Similar Products Used:
N/A
Bike Setup:
Specialized Rockhopper A1 FS 2002. Still riding bone stock
Bottom Line:
This was my first computer purchase. I would like to thank all the reviewers here that helped me make my decision an easy and well educated one. Since I have had my computer (about 3 months) I have put over 200 miles on my bike. I have ridden on the road and on some ROUGH dirt trails and have never had a problem. The installation was straight-forward, and the computer works great. I couldnt be any happier with this product! The display is really easy to read and everything you need is right there without having to constantly switching between modes. The only bad thing I have to say is that when it is above 95 F (rarely) the display gets a little discolored but it still readable. This is a great product and you cannot afford to pass up this one!! I guarantee you wont be disappointed!! Thanks again to everyone who recommended this product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Cedar Rapids, IA Date Reviewed: July 22, 2003
Favorite Trail:
RAGBRAI
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
local bike shop
Strengths:
nice display, temperature readout
Weaknesses:
Poorly constructed
Similar Products Used:
performance bike computer, others
Bike Setup:
touring bike
Bottom Line:
This is a piece of junk! When it works, it works well and I like it alot. Unfortunately, I've purchased 3 of them in the last 1.5 years and they have all died prematurely. Two of them died the first time it rained, and the last one died after it fell from my handlebar when I was taking it off because it was going to rain. This is a good unit, but very poorly constructed. After 3 units, I'm not going to buy another one again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brendan O'Neil
a
from Haverhill, MA, USA Date Reviewed: July 21, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Fort Rock, Exeter NH
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$23.00
Purchased At:
jensonusa
Strengths:
Easy setup. All the information in one glance. Simple, clean and small design. weatherproof.
Weaknesses:
Temp accuracy questionable, but still very cool and entertaining.
Similar Products Used:
Cateye solar WAAAAY back in the 80's.
Bike Setup:
1992 Bridgestone MB4 with 2.5" Motovaders for my low-tech suspension.
Bottom Line:
This is one cool bike computer! Just like I bought my college fridge because it had a light when you opened the door, I bought this because of the temp guage. I also like having all the information on the screen at once for quick reading. The setup/installation was easy and the mount stays put. The temp guage may not be the most accurate thing on earth, but I check it all the time anyway. I pretty much just take an average of it's swings. It's also cool to be able to enter a riding temperature if you keep a riding log. I'd recommend this to anyone especially for $23.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sany
a Weekend Warrior
from Atlanta, Ga, Us Date Reviewed: July 14, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$22.00
Purchased At:
Jenson
Strengths:
Everything Great display, Ease of use (after setup), useful info
Weaknesses:
Set up is confusing, directions help
Similar Products Used:
none
Bottom Line:
An increadible deal on a chic, powerful, and useful product. Many people have apparently had Temp. problems, it has worked great for me. Speed comparer is very useful.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Anonymous Gerbil
a Weekend Warrior
from Texas Date Reviewed: May 25, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$23.00
Purchased At:
PerformanceBike
Strengths:
Simple design - no buttons, easy to use, nice feature set. Can be set up for use on two different bikes
Weaknesses:
Instructions for setup were kinda confusing - for me anyways. Took me a while to figure things out - there are so few buttons (all at the back of the unit) that it is confusing and difficult to set up. But you only have to do it once.
Similar Products Used:
None - fist cyclo-computer
Bottom Line:
Just got back today from my first ride after installing the computer. I am very pleased with its performance. The setup procedure was a little confusing and frustrating waht-with sop few buttons (and the fact that this was my first ever cycleocomputer), but I eventually figure it all out.
The physical installation was very straight-forward and painless in comparision. Everything you would need is included in the box. Zip-ties for the wires, and yes battery is included.
It remains to be seen about longterm durability and hkow it will hold up in the trail, but I really like this design. With no buttons, you have a bigger screen, allowing more function to be displayed at the same time. The way it is designed, the top four line of information (current speed, ride time, ride distance, and odometer) stay the same no matter what mode you are in , but the fifth line (where buttons would typically be) changes the type of info depending on what mode you are in. The only additional function of the Protege 9 over the Protege 8 is temperature gauge. It's a nice little feature that was worth the extra $4 - especially the hot summers here in Texas. You want see hospitals use this sensors anytime soon though - it only gives a ballpark figure - off by 2-3 degrees. Not bad.
It also has a clock function - don't know if other computers have this function, but it is important enough for me that it was a key feature made me buy this computer.
Got this for free with a Performance coupon, so it gets a 5 in value. Will use it over the next few months to see how it holds up to the rigors of MTBing. So for now a 4 in overall rating.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Weekend Warrior
from Jackson, MS, USA Date Reviewed: April 27, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$22.00
Purchased At:
Performancebike.com
Strengths:
Easy to read...neutral color...easy to mount...nice features that everyone can use
Weaknesses:
Needs a wireless option...doesnt work well if becomes loose on handlebar...sensor not easy to attach
Bottom Line:
Very good computer and nice looking as well...easy to use and follow...does need a wirelss option...would recommend it to anybody from road bike rider to hardtrail mnt. biker
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Weekend Warrior
from Michigan Date Reviewed: March 19, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$19.00
Strengths:
No button makes it easy and durable. All in one screen. Great computer.
Weaknesses:
Can't read with polarized sunglasses, but no biggy.
Similar Products Used:
9.0 with the pointless temp gauge.
Bike Setup:
Mongoose, Judy SL
Bottom Line:
Perfect computer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe patrick
a
from London, England Date Reviewed: January 29, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$28.00
Strengths:
This is the best computer on the market by far. It has a very good construction. I have tried them all there is nothing to compare . This computer is built to last. It has all the features you need for a weekend or an advanced daily cyclist. Easy to read big screen offers much more space than any other system on the market. You see all the relevant data in a very clear big digits. The magnet is so powerful that you can have much more clearance than you are used to.
Weaknesses:
You can not find any Weaknesses because there are none. No buttons to break or get wet from the rain and heavy duty construction.
Similar Products Used:
VDO, Cateye, Specialized and many more.
Bottom Line:
The best on the market by far. The best 28$ paid for an accessory. Buy the Protege - 8. It has all the features but the Temperature reading which is a waste of money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joe therider
a Cross Country Rider
from AMERICAN NORTHEAST Date Reviewed: December 4, 2002
Favorite Trail:
dirt ones
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
the gettin place
Strengths:
Well designed, gives all info at a glance, customer service is really good
Weaknesses:
breaks too easily, returned it after 3 mos. just stopped working, no crash no water, no nothing, got it back and three mos later it doesnt work again, tried changing batteries, tried cleaning contacts....i give up...electronics just dont belong on the trail...maybe.
Similar Products Used:
schwinn computer, and another..i cant remember who the maker was
Bike Setup:
mountain style
Bottom Line:
i like the way this computer is designed, its too bad it doesnt work too long, im sure this has something to do with my horrible luck
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Mountain View CA Date Reviewed: November 22, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Henry Coe
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Sturdy construction with heavy duty wire Five function display in a compact size
Weaknesses:
Thermometer does jump a bit
Similar Products Used:
Avocet, Performance
Bike Setup:
Any bike
Bottom Line:
This thing really obsoletes any other cyclometer. For road riding in particular, how can you beat having the option to display speed, distance, average speed, max speed, and time all at once, and all in a relatively compact display, and buttonless to boot. The thermometer does tend to jump a bit, but it's close enough to be useful and entertaining - worth the extra five bucks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bunnie
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Rosa, CA. USA Date Reviewed: November 18, 2002
Favorite Trail:
China Camp
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$34.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Everything's right there
Weaknesses:
Crystal is treated and shows badly with polarized glasses. Battery cap will fall off if dropped, requiring you to reset everything.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized/Cateye
Bottom Line:
A great computer. It's nice to see everything you need without taking your hands off the bars to fumble about with buttons. Price is fair, and it does exactly what they say.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sooyoung lee
a Weekend Warrior
from mn, usa Date Reviewed: October 24, 2002
Favorite Trail:
carver county trails
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$23.00
Purchased At:
jenson usa
Strengths:
i've been looking at the protege 9.0 for a while but the 40 dollar price tag at the local bike shop was getting in the way. i check jensonusa and find an excellent deal. i finally recieved it in the mail and put it on my bike. the installation was a snap. it gives accurate information and it is a lot more fun to ride with it.
Weaknesses:
the tempurature reading is a little delayed
Bike Setup:
jamis durango sx stock
Bottom Line:
i really enjoy this computer, i really do. it was affordable and it had all the features i needed. this is my first computer, and in my opinion, a wonderful first computer for anyone.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a Weekend Warrior
from Hollywood, FL Date Reviewed: October 16, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA
Strengths:
Everything on one screen and no buttons to deal with.
Weaknesses:
temperature guage accuracy is suspect
Similar Products Used:
Cateye
Bike Setup:
Cannondale
Bottom Line:
A must have for the price. Quality seems good, although I have been using it for about a month.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a
from NewYork Date Reviewed: September 21, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
PlanetBike
Strengths:
Everything you need to know on one screen. Easy to read. No buttons. Quality construction
Weaknesses:
Save yourself $10 and get the 8.0. Difference is the 9.0 has temperature. Mine is totally inaccurate. Jumps around 5 degrees at a time. Todays high was 79 yet it read 92 while I was riding. Dropped to 87 5 seconds later. Customer support said try it inside my house and see if its accurate (which it was). If so, nothing they can do. Guess I have to ride my bike in my house
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
03 Trek 7300
Bottom Line:
Most functions are great. Quality product but temperature accuracy is zero. Save your money and get the 8.0
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gary
a Weekend Warrior
from tustin, ca Date Reviewed: September 2, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
well built, easy to use, everything on one screen
Weaknesses:
thermometer of questionable accuracy
Similar Products Used:
cateye mity 2/3
Bike Setup:
diamondback carbon fiber
Bottom Line:
The protege 9.0 is so easy to use and read that no other computer makes sense. Everything is there on one screen, and that's all i want. The only thing that sucks is that they are hard to find.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Coach
a Cross Country Rider
from Jamestown, ND USA Date Reviewed: August 9, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Large display with everything on one screen, heavy duty wiring, easy to understand instructions!!
Weaknesses:
Screen gets beat up pretty easy!
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher Mt Tam
Bottom Line:
This thing rocks, tells you everything you need to know without having to toggle through 5 screens, easy to read and accurate.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dennis
a Weekend Warrior
from Schenectady Date Reviewed: July 30, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
performancebike.com
Strengths:
Durability
Weaknesses:
None that I've found
Similar Products Used:
Diamondback, and many other cheesy computers
Bike Setup:
Giant XTC NRS-1, Giant Rincon
Bottom Line:
Everything about this computer is high-quality. The display is great, very easy to read. Since this computer has no buttons, the functions you'd use most are always displayed in the space normally reserved for the buttons. You can switch between the other functions, which are displayed on the bottom line of the display (time & temp, etc.) by pushing on the actual unit. I have it installed on 2 bikes and can easily swap the unit. It compiles the mileage for each bike independently and also shows you the total mileage for both bikes. The temperature feature has been very accurate too. It's one of those features you don't think you'll care much about, but once you have it, you won't want to do without it. Planet Bike has been great answering questions as well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BRYAN
a
from FAIRFAX,VA,USA Date Reviewed: July 20, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Strengths:
YOU GET IT ALL IN ONE GLANCE. BUILT TOUGH.
Weaknesses:
NONE
Bike Setup:
TREK 6700
Bottom Line:
THIS IS THE BEST VALUE AT ANY PRICE.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bjorndoggie Cruiser
a Weekend Warrior
from Sacramento CA, USofA Date Reviewed: May 1, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Forresthill Divide Loop
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Show everything display, durable and good price.
Weaknesses:
None that I'm aware of.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized.
Bike Setup:
2001 Specialized FSRxc Pro: Mavic 517 rims, XTR hubs, SID, Fox RC, Easton Monkeylite, Thomson stem/seatpost, XT/XTR drivetrain, Time pedals, Avid Mag brakes, Panaracer Trailblaster tires and a really cool computer.
Bottom Line:
I really like this computer. I have a wheelset for street and for offroad. It allows me swap them out no problemo. The display tells me everything I want to know right on it and is still the size of most other computers. My friends have been awed by the fact that I can tell them exactly how hot or cold it is (it shows temp). This is a true gadget freaks dream and is very dependable. Keep up the good work Planet Bike! **Part of your purchase goes to bicycling causes**
$ 34.99
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
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