Computer

[NorthernBoy]

Having had my first ride to work n my new bike (not a comfortable experience, but I'm sure it will improve), I'd like to get a computer for the bike. I assumed I should get a Polar, but then it was pointed out that the equivalent at Halfords (pulse meter, wireless, etc), is about £20.

Anyone any idea if these are good enough, or do you get something extra with the much more expensive branded one?

[pastrana72]

i got a trek wireless one for £20, to replace a VDO one that was twice that price and gave me loads of problems, hence i bought the trek as a cheap replacement and it has been faultless and has better features.

your best bet is a mail order trawl, than the halfords one, i had one from there once it was not so good, but it was wired and that was a long time ago.

Goodluck.

[NorthernBoy]

Thanks.

I think I will get a widescreen one from wiggle.co.uk.

They never had cadence sensors last time I had one, does anyone think it is worthwhile?

[JPJ]

Cadence sensors are good for long road rides where it's important to keep the pedal raate up, but they aren't so much use on stop start journeys or on a typical XC mountain bike ride. If you're using the bike for more than just commuting it might be worth the extra expense, and tie it all into a training plan.

[Moose.]

My brother bought me a wireless Halfords one for my birthday last October. I was dubious at first as I'd heard bad things about wireless computers but I've been using it at least three times a week since, in all weathers (including some seriously muddy conditions) and it's never let me down

[Stuart]

NorthernBoy said:

Having had my first ride to work n my new bike (not a comfortable experience, but I'm sure it will improve), I'd like to get a computer for the bike. I assumed I should get a Polar, but then it was pointed out that the equivalent at Halfords (pulse meter, wireless, etc), is about £20.

Anyone any idea if these are good enough, or do you get something extra with the much more expensive branded one?

I use Cateye wireless on all my bikes. About £35, easy to set up, small in the pocket at work/off the bike and will give you all the information you're likely to need.