[2silent]

I am a total newb when it comes to cycle computers. I've always been more worried about how I feel than how far I was going etc. etc.

However, my usage has started to change and I"m more interested in keeping track of my performance.

I have two very different bikes/usages in mind (and would love recmmendations for both/either)

1. my full suspension cross country bike (this is my primary ride and I get out 3+ times a week on it). With this bike I'd really just like to know how far I've gone, have lap times and have a clock. If possible I wouldn't mind having a lot more.

2. my road bike- use on trainer in winter 3-4 times a week and 1-3 times a week in summer. I'd like to have the above plus cadence at the very least. I would really love to have a GPS map as well so I know where I"m going... just like in my truck. I very often just take off in random directions and ride as far as I can in 2 hrs then return.

I know these are really vague questions etc. and I'm asking for a lot. However, I don't know anything other than what the LBS guys have told me (and they basically are out to sell what they happen to have, you know?)

 

[Resist]

Depends on what you want the computer to do. I like the Garmin Edge 705 but it isn't cheap. I like having a color screen GPS. The elevation graphic display is nice and so is the virtual partner. It is very adjustable in what screen data you want displayed and uses numerous screens.

What I don't like about it besides the cost, is that the Garmin instructions suck and the base map is worthless.

 

[2silent]

yeah, that's awesome!

However, that is too much $ for my current needs- although that will likely go on the list of things for the future.

what about something more like this?

http://cgi.ebay.com/SIGMA-BC-1606L-...286.c0.m14&_trkparms=66:2|65:16|39:1|240:1318

what brand/unit would be good along those lines?

 

[Resist]

Many use Cateye computers as well.

 

[mfshop]

I like my forerunner. The 305 has a separate cadence sensor you can buy. It doesn't have any maps to help you when you're lost, but you can download the route after you get home to see where you went.

 

[2silent]

so really why shouldn't I run a cheap wired cateye cadence computer (fills my needs for bike info and gets me what I need right now- so that I can make the most of my trainer rides).

then just carry a cheap hand-held GPS of some kind (custom mounted?) for long road rides where i want map level. I know it will be large/cumbersome but for the training ride use I would want it for- why not?

 

[frederikn]

I have a VDO C3 and it is fine for my needs.

 

[Resist]

2silent you can get whatever you want. I prefer to buy quality gear from the beginning but if the cheaper stuff works for you then go for it.

 

[texas]

reconditioned garmin edge can be had for $120.

sign up for live.com and pay through paypal for 8% back which brings your price to around $120. I just got one of these and am very happy so far.

http://cgi.ebay.com/GARMIN-EDGE-205-CYCLING-PERSONAL-TRAINER-GPS_W0QQitemZ270312983018QQcmdZViewItemQQptZGPS_Devices?hash=item270312983018&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1234|66%3A2|65%3A12|39%3A1|240%3A1308|301%3A1|293%3A1|294%3A50