gkk2001

I just took the plung and ordered this new unit. Anyone have one yet and what are your initial impressions?

I needed the features this computer has and did not need GPS, thus I passed on the Garmins.

I will let you know how it works for me.

Cjzoller

Hey - Chris from Polar here.. Awesome choice! Let me know if you have any questions or anything..

Aylwin

Hey gkk2001, how do you like your Polar CS500? I've had it for a few days now and am thinking about going back to the 400. Also, Chris I sent you a Visitor message regarding my concerns hopefully you can help me?

bikepro

I've had the CS500 for a couple of weeks and like it lot. I wanted something with speed, cadence and HRM. You can view these at one time on a screen that you can actually ready.

The instuctions says to mount the speed sensor on the front wheel, but it works fine on the rear wheel. This is better if you use the bike on a training stand.

You will probably notice a vibration on rough roads. You can remedy this by removing the head unit from the handlebar mount and putting some tape on each side of the mount -- where the left and right buttons contact the mount.

Clint

urbanknight

I'm done with Polar. My older unit from 1994 was great. When the chest transmitter gave out after 5 years of use (plus 9 years of storage!) my $30 replacement transmitter lasted 8 months. For $15 more, I got a different brand that lets you replace the battery in the transmitter.

gkk2001

Hey all, thanks much for the comments. So far so good with the CS500 for me. I am probably using half of its features but it works well for me and certainly easy to read as you stated above. Have not noticed any vibration either.

Alywin, I have not seen any message from you. Not sure why. Send me a personal email if you wish at:
gkk2001@windstream.net

merlinextraligh

The Polar is more expensive than a Garmin 500, doesn't have GPS, doesn't have a really usable power option, and isn't ANT+

To my knowledge, the display also is not customizeable, like the Garmin is.

The Polar is however 4 grams lighter.

I just don't see any reason to buy the Polar.

Aylwin

I used the Polar CS400 before the 500, gkk2001....and after using this for a week or so, this is what frustrates me about the new unit because these features were REMOVED by Polar in the 'upgrade':

1.) Altitude graphs during training
2.) Speed graphs during training
3.) Zone indicators
4.) Weekly 'report' graphs when reviewing files
5.) Daily report graphs when reviewing files
6.) CUSTOMIZABLE DISPLAY SETTINGS!!

Also, there have been many users who have been asking for a 'lap' display view, and again Polar seemed to have failed to deliver even after so many iterations.