Electronics, Lighting, & Gadgets - Cateye V3 vs Garmin 305

Hi,

I am using V3 now, but have some problems with the v3. The lbs is willing to let me test the V3 for 2 weeks, but i must have to decide if I should keep the v3. So far, one of the problem i got is that it doesn't pick up the speed when i am not pedaling. I wondered what are your experience with V3 and/Garmin 305. Also, 305 has a function where you can download riding data into the computer. I wondered how often would you run the analysis in each ride or use the pc function to record your performance? is the gps accurate? What is a better buy? Thanks

Check the alignment and gaps for the sensor and magnets. CatEye uses a single unit sensor, with two wings, one tilting towards the wheel and the other tilting towards the crank. If things aren't aligned properly, you could wind up with the speed sensor picking up the crank magnet by mistake. I suppose it might even be possible that the speed sensor is just barely within range of the correct magnet, and that some physical effect of pedaling - perhaps air pressure or a slight movement of the stay - pushes it into range.

Mounting can be tricky with any bike computer, so I wouldn't hold this against the CatEye. Since Garmin uses a similar single-unit sensor, compare the lengths of the pivot arm, if you can. A longer arm will make positioning easier.

As for downloading the data, that's really up to you. If you have specific goals, or find that the software helps motivating you, you might want to do this for every ride. If you're just interested in history, you may only do it when convenient. It's difficult to tell from the manual how much data the Garmin will hold before you start losing info. It says two years or 1000 laps, but that really depends on how long you make a lap.

Finally, another computer in this class to consider is the Sigma Rox 9.0 - the one that I have. No GPS, and between the two in price. It uses two separate sensors instead of a single unit (an advantage, in my opinion). It has a barometric altimeter, but I've had trouble getting consistent readings. From what I can tell, it can log data at a finer grain than the Garmin - as often as every 5 seconds, if you want, but obviously that means more frequent downloading. On the other hand, it doesn't have a cadence alert nor does it log detailed cadence info.

ive heard strong opinions for and against the 305. im looking for a computer with cadence specifically, but gps, altitude, the ability to download, and maybe even heartrate sound very useful. of course, id want this equiptment to actually work first and foremost! for those with experience,

would you still go with the garmin edge 305 or try something else like the cateye v3 or sigma rox?

Sigma Rox 9 looks pretty sweet - downloadable to your computer and customizable screens. I have a 305 Forerunner with cadence - gps is overated for cycling imho. I still use it for running but I prefer my cateye double-wireless.

Been using my 305 for 18 months with no issues.. The only issue is super long run time, it can get about 10 hours and then it is dead..