Showing posts with label cadence. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cadence. Show all posts

6/15/2012

VDO Z3 PC Link Altimeter, Heart Rate Monitor and Cycle Computer with PC Syncing Cable and Training Analysis Software Review

VDO Z3 PC Link Altimeter, Heart Rate Monitor and Cycle Computer with PC Syncing Cable and Training Analysis Software
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Like others, my unit has a sticky button, especially under 12°C. Other negative points: The user interface is poor - it takes 4 separate operations to start recording a ride from scratch, which is ridiculous. While it has an altimeter it does not display the rate of vertical climbing, which is a great function to have. The wattage function is poor and average wattage is missing.
Ergonomically, the design is poor. The buttons are placed on the sides and require a strong push, best administered against an opposing thumb or finger. This is awkward to do while riding, because you have to bring your elbow into your gut to get your hand in the right place. If the buttons were top and bottom it would be much easier.
Worst of all, every so often it stops recording: on a recent ride of 380 km only 233 were recorded in detail, which is utterly unforgiveable.
The only positive thing about it is that my B&M headlight doesn't interfere with it: otherwise I would have stayed with my HAC4, which is a 2007 product but infinitely superior in handling.
The software has so many features that it is hard to work with, the graphic portrayal of performance is poor, and I am not convinced that it works as it should. I haven't yet found out how to extract my total km and metres climbed from it. The best thing about it is that you can export the data in Excel format and do your own evaluations - but this is rather laborious, because you have to do it for every little chunk that the idiot counter has chopped your ride into.
Abyssmal value for money.
PS: my unit gave up the ghost today. Despite all blandishments, the screen remains blank. What a crock!

Click Here to see more reviews about: VDO Z3 PC Link Altimeter, Heart Rate Monitor and Cycle Computer with PC Syncing Cable and Training Analysis Software

Elegantly designed, the wrist-style VDO Z3PC cycle computer keeps track of your training run times as well as includes integrated heart rate monitoring and an altimeter. The Z3PC offers data storage and the ability to download it to your PC for analysis with the included software. It also offers power measurement (WATT), calorie consumption, and fully digital wireless transmission for speed, heart rate, and cadence (with optional accessory). And it features ANT+Sport wireless signal coding that transmits to your computer without interference from other training computers nearby. It's backed by a five-year warranty.
PC Download Features
100 hours storage capacity (maximum 100 individual trips of 1 hour each)
Download of all cycling, cadence, heart rate data to PC
Lap data individually flagged for easy identification and analysis
Graph or spread sheet-display of trip (either on time axis or on distance axis)
Training-Analyzer-Software (by week, by month, by year)
Docking-Station with USB connection, compatible to Windows XP and Vista

Altimeter Features
Current altitude and gradient in % (permanently displayed)
Current temperature (Celsius or Fahrenheit)
Altitude gain uphill on current trip
Distance uphill on current trip
Maximum altitude on current trip
Maximum/average uphill gradient of current trip in %
Fast re-calibration of actual air pressure to home altitude

Timing and Heart Rate Monitoring Features
Current speed and distance; average speed
Real time comparison of actual and average speed, indication by arrows showing speed difference of +/- 1 km/h
Second, individually programmable distance counter; either forward or backward counting possible
Cadence Data (optional, with cadence sender equipment installed)
Two presettable wheel circumferences (wheel sizes)
Six selectable timers
Current trip timer (up to 24 hours)
Current heart rate (permanently displayed), ECG-precise measurement
Average/maximum heart rate
Current heart rate in % of personal maximum heart rate
Time in % of total training time:
within the preset heart rate limits (Limit Zone)
below the preset heart rate limits (Limit Zone)
above the preset heart rate limits (Limit Zone)

Calorie-consumption on current trip
Recovery time or recovery heart rate measurement (adjustable time or heart rate)
Lap-timer for 50 laps with data for lap time, average speed and average heart rate
Audible signal if current heart rate is above or below limit settings.
Personal data presettable (age, weight, sex, personal maximum heart rate)
Automatic calculation or manual setting of upper/lower limits for each of the three training zones
Current time, selectable 12- or 24- hour display
Alarm function



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6/11/2012

VDO Z2 Heart Rate Monitor and Cycle Computer Review

VDO Z2 Heart Rate Monitor and Cycle Computer
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
This is not an inexpensive computer; and if a good definition of quality is to meet expectations, then I have been let down.
It works well enough but the bugs it has are quite annoying. Maximum speed and maximum heart rate are important metrics, yet sometimes when I push hard I see a speed or heart rate on the display and then I find that the maximum recorded is a couple of units below it. That's simply not good. If the computer captures a top rate well enough to display it, it should not be a problem to record it as the maximum. It's the easiest thing to do in software.

Also, ergonomics could be better. To start the next lap, for instance, you have to press two buttons at the same time. It is error prone and in the heat of the ride it is easy to fail to do it, so you do it a few times and then find that it skipped two laps. It's quite annoying.
I have emailed customer support about this complaints and I got no answer, so there you go. So much for German engineering...


Click Here to see more reviews about: VDO Z2 Heart Rate Monitor and Cycle Computer

Elegantly designed, the wrist-style VDO Z2 cycle computer will keep track of your training with integrated heart rate monitoring as well as calorie consumption and fully digital wireless transmission for speed, heart rate, and cadence (with optional accessory). It also features ANT+Sport wireless signal coding that transmits to your computer without interference from other training computers nearby. It's backed by a five-year warranty.
Features
Current speed and distance; average speed
Real time comparison of actual and average speed, indication by arrows showing speed difference of +/- 1 km/h
Second, individually programmable distance counter; either forward or backward counting possible
Cadence Data (optional, with cadence sender equipment installed)
Two presettable wheel circumferences (wheel sizes)
Six selectable timers
Current trip timer (up to 24 hours)
Current heart rate (permanently displayed), ECG-precise measurement
Average/maximum heart rate
Current heart rate in % of personal maximum heart rate
Time in % of total training time:
within the preset heart rate limits (Limit Zone)
below the preset heart rate limits (Limit Zone)
above the preset heart rate limits (Limit Zone)

Calorie-consumption on current trip
Recovery time or recovery heart rate measurement (adjustable time or heart rate)
Lap-timer for 50 laps with data for lap time, average speed and average heart rate
Audible signal if current heart rate is above or below limit settings.
Personal data presettable (age, weight, sex, personal maximum heart rate)
Automatic calculation or manual setting of upper/lower limits for each of the three training zones
Current time, selectable 12- or 24- hour display
Alarm function



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6/09/2012

Cateye CC-TR300TW Triple Wireless Cadence and Heart Rate Bicycle Computer Review

Cateye CC-TR300TW Triple Wireless Cadence and Heart Rate Bicycle Computer
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I purchased this primarily to keep track of the mileage I put into my bicycling workouts. Installation was rather straight forward but I would suggest dry mounting the magnet on the pedal first - perhaps using a short strip of electrician's tape. Once you're sure it's positioned correctly, then apply as suggested in the manual, or glue it in place with an epoxy product. The little mounting straps get nudged by your shoes when pedaling and throw the tempo readings out of whack.
The best feature of this is the included heart rate monitor. I paid more for a bottom tier Polar Pacer heart rate monitor with wrist band display than I paid for this unit. With the integrated heart rate monitor the bicycle computer calculates your calories burned - a great motivator!
Sínce I'm on the other side of 40, I certainly would appreciate a larger display, a better written owner's manual and larger control buttons. The larger numbers on some of the display screens are adequate, but the time for example is displayed in a smaller font and not easy to read if you need reading glasses. I'm a computer geek and normally never even bother with a manual, but this programming this unit is not intuitive. The manual requires careful reading to figure out how to step through the programming menu. You have to negotiate buttons on the front and back of this unit to program it. Once learned, you should be okay - just don't lose the manual.
I don't need or want all the lap functions, since I mostly ride on bicycle trails and not on a track, but if you want to keep track of distance, speed, heart rate, calories burned and total miles of your bike rides, then this is the unit for you.
One last word... You will need to set the wheel circumference on a course with mile markers. Using the default settings in the manual get you close, but to nail it, you may need to add or subtract a few mm at a time.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cateye CC-TR300TW Triple Wireless Cadence and Heart Rate Bicycle Computer

Featuring Cateye's exclusive ID-coded double wireless system, this bicycle computer provides three windows displaying four readouts. In addition to displaying the rider's heart rate, functions offered are the following: current cadence; average cadence; maximum cadence; total pedal revolution; resettable total distance; resettable distance unit; lap number; lap timer; lap distance; lap average cadence; lap average speed; current speed; average speed;second average speed; maximum speed; split timer; elapsed time; second elapsed time; total time; clock time; trip distance; total distance; second trip distance. The single user-friendly transmitter mounts on the left chainstay.Like all Cateye bicycle computers, this one is ultrasonically welded and water-resistant.
About Cateye Founded in 1946 in Osaka, Japan, CatEye is the leading manufacturer of cycle computers, lights, and reflectors to cyclists in the world. In 1964, CatEye was the first in the industry to create a flashing lamp for bicycles, followed by their first battery headlamp in 1982, and the very first bicycle head lamp using white LEDs in 2001. The company's Opticube lens and reflectors make the brightest and most efficient LED headlights. while their LD500 remains the only rear safety light that can meet the rigorous CPSC standards for reflectivity.


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3/18/2012

Garmin Replacement Parts for Speed Cadence Sensor Review

Garmin Replacement Parts for Speed Cadence Sensor
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I bought the cadence sensor to replace the previous sensor on my bike. I lost the magnet on one of my commutes home. The part was ordered and delivered on time. I have mounted the magnet and will be able to record my cadence during rides again.

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11/13/2011

Timex Bike Speed & Cadence Sensor Review

Timex Bike Speed and Cadence Sensor
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Take time to install and the cadence sensor is difficult to set. The cadence is not function after 2 weeks. It seem the sensor is broken.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Timex Bike Speed & Cadence Sensor



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11/08/2011

Garmin Edge 705 GPS-Enabled Cycling Computer (Includes Heart Rate Monitor, Speed/Cadence Sensor, and SD Card with Street Maps) Review

Garmin Edge 705 GPS-Enabled Cycling Computer (Includes Heart Rate Monitor, Speed/Cadence Sensor, and SD Card with Street Maps)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I've had my 705 for about 3 weeks and have used it on over 400 miles of bike training. It's a great bike computer - very easy to setup, lots of data available, but only the data you decide to have on each screen. The GPS and in-unit maps are great. Installation is also easy since the sensor is wireless.
The Garmin Training Center software (Windows version in my case) is okay, but appears to have only basic integration with the 705 so far. GTC is a separate, but free, download from the Garmin site. Hopefully future versions will provide more/better 705 integration.
Something to watch out for as it isn't mentioned in the 705 docs or on the Garmin site, if you buy the 705 with the map card, those detailed maps will only be available in the 705, not in GTC. If you want detailed maps in GTC, you have to buy a PC/Mac version of the very same maps you have on the 705. That's another $100-130 on top of the $600-700 you just spent on the 705. Why? Ask Garmin.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Garmin Edge 705 GPS-Enabled Cycling Computer (Includes Heart Rate Monitor, Speed/Cadence Sensor, and SD Card with Street Maps)



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10/17/2011

Garmin Edge 305 Bicycle GPS Navigator with Heart Rate Monitor and Speed/Cadence Sensor (Factory Refurbished) Review

Garmin Edge 305 Bicycle GPS Navigator with Heart Rate Monitor and Speed/Cadence Sensor (Factory Refurbished)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
If you are into keeping track of your cycling workouts, the Garmin Edge 305 is great. Just turn it on and start the timer. It keeps track of everything, including altitude and feet ascended and descended, percent of grade and calories. When you are done just plug it into a USB port on your pc and download all your stats. It even shows your route in Google Earth. The only two minor issues I have are the display isn't as crisp and clear as some newer lcd displays. It's ok but could be better. The other thing is the software doesn't let you export data into a spreadsheet. I got a factory refurb with heart rate and cadence for a great price. Could not tell from brand new.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Garmin Edge 305 Bicycle GPS Navigator with Heart Rate Monitor and Speed/Cadence Sensor (Factory Refurbished)



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10/13/2011

Garmin Edge 305 Bicycle GPS Navigator with Heart Rate Monitor and Speed/Cadence Sensor Review

Garmin Edge 305 Bicycle GPS Navigator with Heart Rate Monitor and Speed/Cadence Sensor
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
The 305 is a neat item, and very clean to install. Satellite reception is excellent, even in dense forrests and far superior to my Garmin GPSMAP 60CS. The stem mount is very clean with rubberized mountings, with a supplied wedge for proper viewing angles.
The cadence and speed pickups are neatly packaged in one sensor on the rear tire, and the cadence magnet is unobtrunsive. Installation documentation is very clear and accurate.
The software for downloading rides is very good, although it lacks some functionality that is available in Garmin's other products (waypoint and route management), and you cannot erase the unit from your PC. No big deal there. Seeing your actual ride or hike track on a map is pretty cool.
It has multiple (3) bike profiles, so more than one bike use is possible. If using this only on one bike, then bike 2 can be used as a secondary information screen for trip data, like average speed, average cadence, average heart rate, etc., things that you won't want on your primary biking screen.
The one item that is missing, and I was surprised about is that the 305 does not have a persistant odometer. It does have a ride trip meter, and there is no separate data field that keeps track of your total mileage. You can do this in the PC based software though. I prefer a built in odometer function for routine maintenance on my bike, when I hit 500, 1000, 2000, 3000 mile cycles per year. I'm working with Garmin tech-support and they admit they sort of, kind of, missed it. That's the primary reason why I gave this item four stars.
Battery life is another concern, especially when the unit is searching to pair up with the heart rate and cadence sensors. If you turn off those features, it consumes less power. For most one day rides, the unit is fine. It would be great if Garmin put a solar cell on the front of the unit where all the black is.
If you really like GPS and capturing as much data as possible about your ride, heart rate, cadence, timings, grades, maps ... this is the unit for you! Enjoy!
Update:
Battery life is a serious issue with the Edge 305! I am getting no more than five hours out of an overnight charge and that is with just the cadence sensor. I have asked Garmin Tech Support about this three times, and the answers are disappointing. If you ride long, I cannot recommend that you go with the Edge 305 until they correct the battery life issue. I'll update you with Garmin's responses!

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10/08/2011

Garmin Forerunner 50 Water Resistant Running GPS With Heart Rate Monitor and Foot Pod Review

Garmin Forerunner 50 Water Resistant Running GPS With Heart Rate Monitor and Foot Pod
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I did a lot of research before purchasing and was down to the 305, 405, and 50. I really wanted a GPS watch, but the price of the Forerunner 50 with footpod and HR monitor couldn't be beat. I also liked the smaller watch and the fact that it didn't need to be charged.
After owning it a week:
I really like the watch. I don't typically wear them, but it is very comfortable. It is only slightly larger than a typical watch and has a fine adjustment on the band. I'm wearing it all the time.
The hardware is impressive. The foot pod and HR monitor worked very well right out of the box, and were comfortable to wear. They "paired" right away and were ready to go when I was ready to run. The ANT installation went as advertised on windows vista, and the upload works automatically for Garmin Training Center, but not Garmin Connect.
Possible improvements:
For the watch itself, the number of "views" while in training mode can be confusing. I'm sure I'll get the hang of it with use or reading manual, but it is clearly more than I'm used to.
Installation: The process seemed to drive you toward choosing either Garmin Training Center (software on your computer) or Garmin Connect (web sofware), but not both. I didn't know the pro/con of either, so I wanted to try both. It was awkward when it wanted me to install ANT drivers again for the installation of the second one. I canceled the installation at that point - but found that Training Center was installed.
Software: It is really not clear to me if Garmin Training Center is still being developed. They seem to be improving Garmin Connect (web) regularly, but at its current state, it doesn't have any benefit over Training Center. (remember - I'm not seeing the GPS/maps, so maybe there is distinction there). So after a week, I still find myself bouncing back and forth. There are a few bugs in Garmin Connect and a few notable features that I would really like to see (that is available in other web training software).
Results:
I'm very happy with the HR monitor and cadence results. They seem spot on and reliable. I'm still working on the distance and pace. I did a test 3 mile run on a measured course and found that it recorded 3.1 miles. I messed up a calibration run by hitting the wrong button, so I'll be trying that again (a subsequent 8 mile run was recorded as a 9 mile run... argghh). I've found that the instantaneous pace is not accurate, but hope it will improve with calibration. Garmin Connect is also doing something weird with the average pace calculation... but I think that is a bug that will be fixed.
Overall I'm very happy with the purchase, but hope they continue to improve the software. Currently, that is the weakest link. If they don't, there may be other sites that accept forerunner uploaded data to fill the gap.

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10/04/2011

Audiovox ECCO Personal Pocket GPS Locator Review

Audiovox ECCO Personal Pocket GPS Locator
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I'm familiar with personal GPS locators that are designed to take you back to a point. This unit appears to work and allows me to set three points and then tells me how far I am from that point. It does that even indoors (most of the time). Sometimes satellite lock is flakey and takes a lot longer but usually lock is is about 30 seconds.
My problem is, we are instructed to "calibrate" the unit (thus the 3 stars). The laminated 'reference guide' says, hold the unit face up. So I assume that means face pointing to the sky, then, press and hold location 1 button until you get a message saying to "hold flat and press the lock button". You do that and it says to slowly (doesn't define slowly) around keeping the face up 360 degrees (ending up back where you started - 360 degrees is a full circle). No problem so far. then press the Hold button again. You are told to slowly turn the unit another 360 degree FACE DOWN and end with the FACE UP and press the lock button when 'face up and you should be 'calibrated'. I do all of that but it says calibration "incomplete" and the card say says, repeat the steps until completed... WELL, I've tried that dozens of times indoors and outdoors and it's always incomplete!
I searched the web and apparently an older model had you rotate only a half circle or 180 degrees to calibrate so I tried that also no luck.
The GPS portion seems to work fine but the electronic compass just won't calibrate.
I love the idea it fits on my key ring and I'm not sure how important "calibration" is. So I'll wait and watch here at Amazon Comments and the web for others that achieve 'calibration'...
It even displays a Satellite map much like my car GPS unit showing satellite sky location, strength and number of acquired satellites. If only I could 'calibrate'...
Model IDC-80001-001 (Audiovox)
IDC Design Corp (made in China of course)
UPDATE: I finally got the unit to calibrate. First, I charged the unit (fully), then when it came time to turn over or move in a circle I did it at ARMS LENGTH and mad a 2 foot circle, it worked and calibrated!

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The ECCO from Audiovox is a handy little keychain GPS that easily helps you find your way back to your car or other spots. Store up to three locked locations and you'll be guided by a simple interface to where you need to be.

Easy to Use ECCO, the Personal GPS Locator is simple to use. Push the "lock" button to store your location and be on your way. When you are ready to return, push the "return" button and ECCO will guide you back to your saved location from as far away as 9,999 miles.

Brilliant Blue LCD Display The blue LCD features an ultra-intuitive user interface, displaying an arrow and direction along with count down distance to your saved location.

LED Feedback Colored LEDs provide additional visual feedback, with green indicating an active GPS signal and red indicating movement in a wrong direction. The red LED also indicates if you've lost sattelite connections due to tall obstructions.

Store Three Locations ECCO can store up to three separate locations at the press of a button. Your stored locations remain in memory until replaced with a new locked position.

Speedy GPS Reception The sensitive GPS receiver provides faster acquisition times and improved tracking capabilities, and is able to track up to 32 satellites within 60 seconds. Provides a tracking distance up to 9,999 miles.

Long Battery Life The ECCO provides about 10 hours of typical use during active tracking, with 16 full days of power on standby. Charging the battery takes about 1.5 hours.

What's in the Box ECCO Personal Navigation Device, User's Manual, AC Charging Adapter, USB Cable


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10/02/2011

Garmin Edge 500 Cycling GPS Review

Garmin Edge 500 Cycling GPS
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
This is a great bike computer with tons of amazing features. My only complaint about the unit itself is that the screen quality could be improved. It is not clear and easy to read - especially when you just want to glance down and see information. You really need to take your eyes off of the road for a moment or two to figure out what fields you are viewing and what they say.
I have not had any problems at all with the function of the unit. It easily found satelites and is pretty obvious how to configure. I really like the ability to connect this to my computer after rides and keep a detailed log of my rides. I gave the software three stars because it is very buggy and still quite rough around the edges.
I purchased the Garmin Heart Rate Monitorseparately. I do not have the Garmin GSC 10 Speed/Cadence Bike Sensor- it seems unnecessary for me. I don't really have a need to monitor my cadence and the speed measurements from the gps are very accurate - even on trails under pretty heavy foliage. I don't use this on a trainer.
I would strongy suggest that anyone who is considering this purchase make sure they visit the Garmin Edge 500 Forum on the Garmin website. You will learn more there than you ever wanted to know about the device. The DC Rainmaker blog also has an excellent detailed write-up.
As far as size, it is roughly the same size as my old Planet Bike Protege 9.0 9-Function Bike Computer with 4-Line Display and Temperature. The mount couldn't be easier. It uses two rubber bands to attach the base to the handlebars or stem. The unit locks into the base with a 90 degree twist - very easy and secure. It comes with tons of extra bands and I threw an extra set in my seat bag - just in case.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Garmin Edge 500 Cycling GPS


Sharpen your cycling performance with Edge 500, a lightweight GPS-based cycling computer for performance-driven cyclists. Loaded with data, Edge 500 tracks your distance, speed, location and elevation with high sensitivity GPS. Add an ANT+ compatible heart rate monitor, speed/cadence sensor or compatible power meter for a finely-tuned analysis of your ride.

Jumpstart Your Training The Edge 500 attaches easily to the stem or handlebars of your bike with its low-profile bike mount. The Edge attaches easily to the mount with a simple quarter-turn. When you're ready to ride, just power on your Edge, acquire GPS satellites and go. Edge 500 features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver with HotFix satellite prediction to calculate your position faster.

Get the Data You Need During your ride, Edge 500 measures your speed, distance, time, calories burned, altitude, climb and descent, and records this data for your review. For extra-precise climb and descent data, Edge 500 also incorporates a barometric altimeter to pinpoint changes in elevation.

All Edge 500 versions work with third-party ANT+-enabled power meters to display your power output in watts as you ride. This valuable data shows you how hard you're working, regardless of conditions affecting your ride, so you can train smarter. Some versions also ship with a digital heart rate monitor and speed/cadence sensor.

Other helpful training features include a Courses feature, which helps you compare successive rides over the same route, as well as Auto Pause, Auto Lap and temperature readings. Edge also alerts you if you're moving, but the timer is not running.

Track Your Heart Rate When paired with a Garmin heart rate monitor, Edge 500 tracks heart beats per minute and uses your heart rate for advanced calorie computation, so you know how many calories you're burning. Train in a certain heart-rate zone to improve your fitness level or compare your pace and heart rate to past performance over the same ride.

Analyze Your Ride Once your ride's done, connect Edge 500 to your computer with the included USB cable to analyze your performance. With a simple click, you can join a worldwide network of cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts through Garmin Connect, a one-stop site for data analysis and sharing.

What's in the Box Edge 500, Bike Mount, AC Charger, USB Cable, Owner's Manual on Disk, Quick Start Manual


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9/29/2011

Garmin Foot Pod for Forerunner 305, 405, and 50 Review

Garmin Foot Pod for Forerunner 305, 405, and 50
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I have my Foot Pod paired with my Garmin Forerunner 305 and am very satisfied. The Foot Pod has a plastic bracket that fits under my shoe string, while the Foot Pod fits over my shoe string. It can be a little difficult to get the two pieces to click together, but when they do they form a secure arrangement. I followed the instructions in the Forerunner manual and paired the Foot Pod with the Forerunner on the first try. Once this is done it does not have to be repeated since the Forerunner automatically detects the Foot Pod from then on.
The Foot Pod measures my pace in strides per minute and also measures my distance traveled. I am a little disappointed that the Forerunner allows the distance measured by the Foot Pod to over ride the distance measured by the GPS in the Forerunner. I suspect the distance measured by the GPS is more accurate, but I can not find an option to force the GPS distance to be used while the Foot Pod is in use. Walking the same course results is a measured distance of 3.26 miles using the GPS and 3.30 miles using the Foot Pod, which I feel is good agreement. I did not have to follow the calibration instructions to achieve these results.
Overall I have found the Foot Pod a great addition to my exercise equipment, especially when I am inside and out of range of the GPS satelittes.

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9/05/2011

Garmin GSC 10 Speed/Cadence Bike Sensor Review

Garmin GSC 10 Speed/Cadence Bike Sensor
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Another handy piece of equipment from Garmin!
This kit comes in three basic parts; a sensor unit, which is about the size of a matchbox, and two magnets about the size of your pinky nail. Several zip-ties are included for mounting purposes; the entire kit weighs at most a couple of ounces.
Installation is pretty straightforward, but do follow the directions carefully and don't snug down the zip-ties until you're sure you've got all three components just where you want them and have tested the system!
The sensor mounts to the left chain stay with a pair of zip-ties. Garmin thoughtfully added a piece of rubber padding to the bottom of the sensor unit, so it won't rough up your fancy carbon frame or your paint job :)
A single zip-tie attaches the crank magnet to the crank, although I had to use a large (3/4") shim on my FSA crank (which has a curved profile and a hollow back) to place the crank magnet in the proper position for the sensor to "see" it. The spoke magnet clamp has both a round hole and a square hole; make sure you use the right hole for your spoke profile! I mounted mine on a spoke directly opposite the tire valve, just to help keep the wheel in balance.
The sensor unit must be positioned along the chain stay such that it can "see" both the crank magnet as it passes by the cadence sensor (the round part on the side of the sensor unit), and the spoke magnet as it passes the speed sensor (the part that looks like a lever in the picture).
Testing is accomplished by pressing a small button on the sensor unit, which prompts it to flash a red LED, then a green one to indicate that testing is started. As pointed out by another reviewer, the LEDs are hard to see in bright ambient light; I'd recommend testing in a garage if possible. Hi-intensity LEDs would have solved this problem, although I suspect these LEDs were chosen for their low power consumption, so maybe it's a smart design decision after all.
Once the test button is pressed, the next 60 revolutions of the crank should cause the red LED to flash when the crank magnet passes the sensor, while the spoke magnet passing the sensor should generate a green LED flash. If you saw the red/green flash when the button was pressed, but don't see a flash as each magnet passes the sensor, chances are one or both magnets are not properly aligned with the sensor (there are alignment lines on the sensor and both magnets), or the magnets are passing too far from the sensor (this is the problem I encountered and solved with a shim).
When you're sure everything is in the right places, snug the zip-ties and cut them flush. Then set up a screen (typically the Biking screen) on your 305 to display Cadence in one of the data fields, and go ride!


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A good companion for Garmin's Edge 305 and 305CAD cycle computers and the Garmin Forerunner 305 personal trainer, the GSC 10 monitors your cycling rhythm for up-to-the-minute results and later analysis. The self-calibrating, wireless unit measures both speed (in pedaling strokes per minute) and cadence , then provides feedback to the user for optimal performance. You can later feed the results to Garmin's Training Center software, which helps you tailor your workouts to meet specific goals and objectives.
Like the Garmin heart rate monitor, the GSC 10 attaches easily to your bike, where its sensors detect signals from your wheels and send the information wirelessly to your personal trainer/cycle computer. It's also backed by a one-year warranty.

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8/27/2011

Garmin Foot Pod Review

Garmin Foot Pod
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Edit: Amazon swiched products. This review is for the Garmin 010-11092-00 Foot Pod Personal GPS Tracker. For some reason they switched this product page to the old Garmin foot pod. I reviewed the new model.
I bought the foot pod so I could use my 405CX on an indoor track and have been pleased with the results.
Calibration was easy. On the Garmin 010-00658-30 Forerunner 405CX GPS Sport Watch with Heart Rate Monitor (Blue) you can calibrate it using the GPS or a 400m track. I chose to use the GPS and it had me run .66 of a mile. Was easy and seems to be pretty accurate. The only issue is that you need to calibrate it at the pace you usually run at. For instance I usually run at a 10 minute/mile pace but since I was only running .66 miles while calibrating it I ran at a much faster pace throwing it off a bit.
Running on a .10 mile indoor track after 3.5 miles it was off by about 50' more by the end of the run. Not perfect by any means but I could probably calibrate it more (or you can adjust it manually) to key it in.
I don't use it running while outside, but if you don't like the pace setting of the GPS you can have the watch display pace according to the foot pod instead.
Installation and removal is easy. The instructions say it will fit in an insole pocket if your shoe has one, but mine does not. To attach it to the laces you slide the mounting bracket under two X's where your shoe laces cross then snap the pod over the top. To remove you have to press a tab that unhooks it. It's very secure and takes a lot of pressure to remove it. I have no fear that it will come off while running.
I am very happy with the pod, it works very well, and is easy to use. If you want to use your GPS watch on a treadmill or indoor track during the winter months, it's a must have.

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8/21/2011

Garmin Forerunner Bicycle Mount Kit Review

Garmin Forerunner Bicycle Mount Kit
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
There are a few reviews on here that mention using this product with the Forerunner 305, but I wanted to make sure I posted a review to state specifically that yes - the Forerunner 305 fits on this perfectly (even though the description says Forerunner 405 and Forerunner 50).
I initially looked at the Forerunner 305 Quick-Release kit, but the horror stories of the device popping out of the wristband or bike mount quickly scared me away. With this mount, you can keep your 305 on its original wrist-strap, and feel more secure on your bike as the strap is wrapped around the mount. Garmin should abandon that Quick-Release kit and just use this as their mount for all their Forerunners.
One note - you do have to rotate the mount downward to see the 305 screen in an optimal position, but this hasn't affected the GPS reception at all.

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8/20/2011

Garmin Foot Pod Review

Garmin Foot Pod
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I bought the foot pod so I could use my 405CX on an indoor track and have been pleased with the results.
Calibration was easy. On the Garmin 010-00658-30 Forerunner 405CX GPS Sport Watch with Heart Rate Monitor (Blue) you can calibrate it using the GPS or a 400m track. I chose to use the GPS and it had me run .66 of a mile. Was easy and seems to be pretty accurate. The only issue is that you need to calibrate it at the pace you usually run at. For instance I usually run at a 10 minute/mile pace but since I was only running .66 miles while calibrating it I ran at a much faster pace throwing it off a bit.
Running on a .10 mile indoor track after 3.5 miles it was off by about 50' more by the end of the run. Not perfect by any means but I could probably calibrate it more (or you can adjust it manually) to key it in.
I don't use it running while outside, but if you don't like the pace setting of the GPS you can have the watch display pace according to the foot pod instead.
Installation and removal is easy. The instructions say it will fit in an insole pocket if your shoe has one, but mine does not. To attach it to the laces you slide the mounting bracket under two X's where your shoe laces cross then snap the pod over the top. To remove you have to press a tab that unhooks it. It's very secure and takes a lot of pressure to remove it. I have no fear that it will come off while running.
I am very happy with the pod, it works very well, and is easy to use. If you want to use your GPS watch on a treadmill or indoor track during the winter months, it's a must have.

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8/12/2011

Garmin FR60 Lilac Fitness Watch (Includes Heart Rate Monitor and USB ANT Stick) Review

Garmin FR60 Lilac Fitness Watch (Includes Heart Rate Monitor and USB ANT Stick)
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I just purchased the FR60 in lilac for myself (and the men's version for my husband). Currently we are using them for high intensity interval training. The set-up was a breeze. After researching several watches I chose these based on features, price, and brand. A must for us was to be able to upload the data to our computer and graph our heart rates for the intervals. Once we set up this feature using the ANT stick (which was a three step process completely outlined on the garmin website), we were able to do this. It's awesome. After a workout I just walk into our office and within 30 seconds a box pops up on my computer asking if i'd like to see the data online.
We chose these Garmin watches over similarly functioning and priced Polar watches due to the wireless capability. For the polar watches you have to buy an additional module that you physically have to place the watch on to upload the data. I know it sounds lazy, but I prefer to just leave my sweaty watch on my wrist!
Lastly, I was concerned if the watch would fit me correctly since i have rather petite wrists. No problems there. Yes, it's bigger than my normal day-to-day watch, but i like having the larger screen to glance on while I workout.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Garmin FR60 Lilac Fitness Watch (Includes Heart Rate Monitor and USB ANT Stick)

Log every mile and every minute with FR60, a sleek fitness watch plus workout tool that tracks your time, heart rate and calories burned. When bundled with the wireless foot pod (not included), FR60 also tracks speed and distance, indoors or out. Use FR60's training tools to get the most out of your workout. Then, FR60 wirelessly sends your workout data to your computer for later analysis.

Garmin FR60 Fitness Watch (Women's Lilac)

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