"having used the hac4 (which has great data transfer features [comes with usb data transfer cradle/cable] and works with thirdparty/opensource applications on mac/pc - but has an absolutely horrible interface), and switched recently to the polar cs200cad (polar's interface simply makes sense, very intuitive - but lacks ability to download data to mac and only downloads to pc via sonic link [audio - need a mic on computer]), i'm looking at garmin...anyone have an opinion on the edge 305?
http://www.garmin.com/products/edge305/"
garmin forerunner 305 (feedback?)
Wed, 02/15/2006 - 10:09am
Wed, 02/15/2006 - 10:21am
#1
and as ron pointed out...mac osx (tiger) support available now
Wed, 02/15/2006 - 12:36pm
#2
pics
Hey Don:
How do you get those pics on message board? If I may ask..
Thanx
Wed, 02/15/2006 - 1:19pm
#3
use the img tag (nm)
Wed, 02/15/2006 - 10:40am
#4
edge 305
"I've been looking at this like a mental patient. I emailed Garmin and they weren't sure when the mac software would release - not available yet anyway. There's a ""podcast"" at http://thefredcast.com -- he reviewed the previous version (in episode 2, 3, or 4??) that was supposed to go on your wrist but had a handlebar mount. Good review overall, but fell short on calories burned (can't remember other shortcomings)."
Wed, 02/15/2006 - 10:59am
#5
i think you're talking about the forerunner 305...
"...that doesn't have cycle computer functions?
http://www.garmin.com/products/forerunner305/
don"
Wed, 02/15/2006 - 12:32pm
#6
GPS as a cyclocomputer
Using a GPS as a cyclocomputer is not without its drawbacks. It can be tough to get reading on a cloudy day or if you pass under tree branches, for example.
I'd recommend trying one, if possible, before buying one.
I have a Garmin Etrex Vista that I like to use when I go on summer vacations in distant lands (like Vermont). Helps keep me from getting lost.
Not reliable enough for day to day training in the New York area. Too many clouds, tree branches, and buildings for consistent readings on a daily basis.
You're welcome to borrow mine for a ride or two to see if you like it. Email me off board if you're interested.
Ben
Wed, 02/15/2006 - 1:18pm
#7
garmin for gps functions...
...but the bike functions are traditional (not like the gps part of the unit tries to calculate speed, cadence, etc). i haven't tried any of these gadgets yet but i'm very interested in getting graphs and other info throughout the season...and the edge 305 comes with a usb interface (and garmin soon will release the osx drivers)...and combines hrm, cycle computer, gps, etc., into one unit. very cool...
don
Wed, 02/15/2006 - 1:41pm
#8
Polar compatible software for the Mac
http://www.ismarttrain.com/
You can download it for a trial then pay $40 for it. It works fine. You will need to purchase a serial (not USB) IR device from Polar, another $40. And you will need to by a keyspan serial/USB connector, another $40 or so.
A nice thing about this software is that it defaults to whatever altitude you have recorded you exercise at, unlike Polar where you have to manually adjust each time you download.
Thu, 02/16/2006 - 3:10pm
#9
good stuff...
...just not a lot of support....even though you can email the developer and there's a solid following. would be best if vendor who makes hardware could make/support software as well. long live opensource! :)
don
Wed, 02/15/2006 - 7:59pm
#10
i have garmin 201
I have the Garmin 201. I get reception riding all over the NYC and NY areas with the exception of some E-W streets (and spots along 3rd ave). This is because the buildings are too close. It works fine in the parks. On longer NYCC rides when i've compared my GPS mileage with people who have onboard computers, my mileage has been about the same as everybody elses.
The new one supposedly gets reception inside Best Buy... which is a tremendous improvement over the 201.
I never had problems due to cloudy weather. When i run, i occasionally lose signal in Central Park, but that's because the speed is much slower and its' harder for the GPS to track. Oh yeah... i lose signal crossing some of the brideges from Manhattan to Brooklyn whether i ride or run.
The new one looks awesome. I'd consider the wrist one though, even if you use it primarily on your bike. Here's why: The wrist one is smaller and you can wear it on your wrist. It still works with the cadence unit and heartrate strap. The only difference is that it doesn't have the built in barometric altimeter so your grades and elevations will likely be off. GPS is terribly inaccurate when it comes to elevations. With the small one you can mount it to your handlebars with a piece of foam pipe insulation.
Thu, 02/16/2006 - 11:17am
#11
See: ibikesports.com. A highly engineered, brand new unit. nm
