Training & Nutrition - Heart Rate Monitor decision help

Want to invest in a HRM to assist in training for tris. I don't need something downloadable or with bike functions or that I can't get for under $150. I think I've narrowed it down to the Polar S210, Sports Instrument Pro 9, and the Sigma Sport PC15. Anyone have any experience with these models or have recommendations? I will definitely use it for cycling, spinning, and running and possibly swimming. I've done my thread search but did not come up with much on these models. Thanks.

I have used a Polar S210 for the last 3 years. I don't know anything about the other brands you mentioned. Is there something specific you want to know?

It works great. The wireless signal is coded. The battery has not died. The chest strap died after a couple of years. A new strap is 10 US dollars.

one thing to consider is that if you have a computer on your bike, you won't necessarily need a HRM with cycling features (speed, average speed, max speed, etc.)

I got a Timex marathon compact for $40 and I'm happy.

What are the features of the marathon? I've been eyeing it, but can't find much about it.

Has anyone tried a Suunto t6 yet? Just curious about what $450 gets you.

I bought a Polar F11 last week and I've been happy with it ($149). It does have the downloadable features that your not looking for. I don't use them either, but all in all it is a nice unit.

http://www.heartratemonitor.co.uk/polar_f11_blk_heart_monitor.jpg

that's pretty smooth looking...

I bought a Polar F11 last week and I've been happy with it ($149). It does have the downloadable features that your not looking for. I don't use them either, but all in all it is a nice unit.

http://www.heartratemonitor.co.uk/polar_f11_blk_heart_monitor.jpg

Will the F11 allow you to set a manual Max Heart Rate?

Will the F11 allow you to set a manual Max Heart Rate?

Yup. :)

You should check out the polar cs100/200's $100 at most bikeshops, with download capability, tracks cadence speed heartrate etc.

Only thing is it's bike specific so you can't wear it on your wrist.
http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?memberId=12500226&productId=39180863

Thanks. Since I haven't used on before, I don't have specific questions other than from what I have been reading. Seems like the s210 will do everything I would think I need - HR zones, tracking time in each zone per workout. Some other brands/models track 5 zones and allow manual setting of HR zones, but I don't know if that is something I'll need. One thing with the 210, the users manual is like war and peace! Is it easy to figure out and use?

Looks like a nice unit! May I ask what other brands/models you considered and why you chose this one? Any features you have found you wish you had in the brief time you have been using it? Thanks.

Check out acumens. They're not sold over the counter. My wife has a Basix and she's real happy with hers.

www.acumeninc.com

They have this new hydration monitor too, probably as accurate as those fat monitoring electrodes.