So I'm 300 miles new to Road Riding and trying to drop about 25 pounds. I hear alot about HRM's and have found 2 that I like (mainly because the work as a watch, too).

They are:

1. Polar cs300
or
2. Garmin Forerunner 50

does anyone have any suggestions or experiences with either of the above?

Thanks,
Mike

I do not have experience with these two heart rate monitors. But, I have two HRMs: one with a chest strap that reads on my cyclometer and one that is a wrist watch HRM with no chest strap.

I talked to a guy who had lost 44 pounds and said HRMs really work. I got all excited and bought one. Then I read a study by some Germans that said a cyclist will naturally ride in the so-called weight loss zone. From checking my own riding, that seems to be true.

I have not found an HRM that helpful for weight loss. If you are a numbers guy who likes to quantify, record, and compare; get an HRM. If you are looking for a device to increase your weight loss, I do not think an HRM is it.

An HRM can be useful to check recovery rates after hard exertion, or an increasing heart rate on a hot day can mean you are becoming dehydrated. You can also use an HRM to monitor cycles of exertion and recovery for increased training.

I just use my Timex Ironman watch and chest strap. I agree that an HRM does not specifically help with weight loss but, "if you are not monitoring you are not managing". I find keeping an eye on my HR is useful for motivation and also seeing how variable it is takes some of the internal pressure off -- it isn't just about my level of commitment every day.

Thanks for the input. I should have explained myself a little better. I meant, weight loss as a result general health/activity monitoring.