Road Cycling - Wireless Cadence?

Hey everyone,
I'm in the process of looking for a cyclecomputer for my new ride, and the key functions for me are:
1. Completely Wireless
2. Speed
3. Cadence (My knees aren't great and it would be helpful to have, especially at the beginning to make sure I'm gearing properly)
4. Heart Rate (Ideally. Don't really need it yet but I think I would definitely want it in the future)
(Those are the main ones, all the other important fuctions are on most computers anyways, so I don't need to mention)

So, while looking for a system that has all of this I stumbled upon the V100HR wireless, which seems to be the only product out there that does it all (I think?). Firstly, any opinions from those who've used? And secondly, anything I should consider before buying? i.e. +'s & -'s of wireless, whether I need those functions, etc.

Also: Are these systems 100% waterproof, that's a big consideration as I will likely spend a fair amount of time riding in rain. Thanks!

I have had two versions of VDO wireless computers, and had little success with both. They gave inconsistent readings and weren't dependable on a daily basis.
I would opt for a wired computer, especially in inclement weather.

Here's a great deal : the polar s720i.

I personally own the polar s710i. It is a great model, has all the function you will need. You have HR and speed when you buy it. You will have to buy the cadence sensor separately if you want it. Personally I like the fact that you can review your workout and keep track of your progress in fitness. They are wireless and so far, the polar s710i picks up the wireless transmissions almost flawlessly. I love the accurate information it provides and the ease of use, so long as you get used to it and know how to operate it. I would strongly recommend the polar s720i as this is the product I am using and have no problems with it. The difference between the s710i and the s720i is only the cover, where the s720i has the cooler steel frame.

There are also other brands of cyclocomputers you can check out:
1.V100HR
2.Ciclosport HAC4

They have actually all that you ever want. Go consider.

The HAC4 looks great, it has an unbelievable amount of functions, and on top of that I can use it for running, hiking, and other activites, which is a big advantage for sure.
But, it doesn't have a wireless cadence setup, costs significantly more, (on top of that you have to buy the wireless add-on) and I've read a few terrible reviews on it which make me a little hesistant, especially if I'm shelling out that kind of $!
I may be better off buying a cheap HRM for my other activities, and going for the all in one and cheaper V100HR. Still deciding though... :confused:

I had some issues with the first V100s. They since redesigned the system. I've not been running the "new" design to see if it will survive... The old one fried the transmitters when I got caught in a rain storm.

Today I was in the rain and it survived but I cannot say they are OK yet. Can only say I am happy that there are not wires all over my bike. The V100 does make the setup of the computer look slick. Be careful if you buy one ... Do not over tighten the straps or you will break the tabs that hold the sensors to the fork/chain-stay.

I also encased the transmitters in electrical tape to help protect them from the elements... But I don't know yet... Will let you know if they fail the next time I get caught in a downpour.

I've been using a Polar S510 with the speed and (optional) cadence sensors for a couple of years now. The only complaint I've ever had is with the computer software that came bundled with it. Loading data into the computer was pretty hit or miss with the PC Coach Lite software. I grudgingly purchased the PC Coach Elite software. On the plus side of that purchase, data loads first time every time now. I think Polar has replaced the S510 with the 520.

I was in your position last year. After much thought, I ended up with the Shimano Flightdeck, and a basic Polar HRM. Now, I can remove the HRM (I got a bike mount), and use it on other bikes, or put it on my arm for other sports. I also only had to mount one sensor (front wheel) on my bike because the Flightdeck has virtual cadence which is good enough for me.

Good luck!

I have the polar i720 and love it. I've had no problems with it and no complaints

Originally posted by bac
I was in your position last year. After much thought, I ended up with the Shimano Flightdeck, and a basic Polar HRM. Now, I can remove the HRM (I got a bike mount), and use it on other bikes, or put it on my arm for other sports. I also only had to mount one sensor (front wheel) on my bike because the Flightdeck has virtual cadence which is good enough for me.

Good luck!
Good idea.:beer:

Any specific reason you want to go wireless? With a good mounting job, the wires are obtrusive.

I am using a setup similar to bac. A low end HRM with a bike mount and a seperate cyclecomputer with cadence. It works great for me. And, I can see my speed, cadence, heart rate, and elapsed time without pushing any buttons.

Well I'd love to say my reasons for wanting wireless are more justifiable than aesthetics, but the truth is, they aren't. I really like the slickness of the wireless setup, and I'm willing to pay more for it.
As for the flight deck and cheap HRM suggestion, it's one I've certainly considered, but I'm going with campy components. If I understand correctly, the flightdeck is set up to be wired right into existing shimano component setups, with the buttons right in the shifter mounts, so I didn't think it would work with my parts. Correct me if I'm wrong though because that would certainly be a more cost effective option if this weren't the case.

Check out the new Cateyes. I believe the Model is MSC-3DX.

Don't seem to be able to find the model you're talking about... Do you have a link?

Nevermind.. (duh) I found it, I had the numbers wrong...:eek: Thanks

here's a vote for the Vetta V100HR w/ cadence option. i love mine, and it works great!

Look at the Oktos...don't have the model handy but I paid something like $80. Mine doesn't have cadence but I found that when I had it I hardly used it, has all the other needed features. Are you a spinner or a masher...if a spinner I feel you'll find and know good cadence easily. If a masher just force yourself to spin and will find the zone, perhaps some time on the flats with a fixed gear. This was standard operating proceedure for the old pros at the start of the season to develop "supless" or suppleness.

Interesting... as i mentioned earlier my knees often give me problems, so in the hopes of avoiding future injurty i thought of doing 2 things:
1. going with speedplay x2 pedals (more float, better for knee health supposedly, read lots of positive reviews to re-inforce decision)
2. cadence monitor to make sure i'm spinning at good speeds.

To answer your question more directly, i don't have a very good "spin" at all, as i'm used to riding my mt. bike. i thought this would be a good tool in developing that, but it appears i can intuitively get a feel for it without the cadence you're suggesting? anyone else find this?

I for one don't care about any of the other functions as much as cadence. Sure you can feel when you slow down, and probably set a rythym, but I still find cadence the most desirable function when it comes to my own personal preference. I use it for the same reason you are contemplating. By consitently monitoring cadence I have not had any of the knee problems as I had in the past, even though I am many years older!!