Not to sound crazy but i am a long distance runner for a long time and my heart rate is never a problem for me. Were i live there is no hills and for the most part i ride solo have yet to get my heart rate that high. but i notice my cadence slowing over a long ride and just thought that it could keep me more at a steady pace. Now know i am a new rider and i am sure it will come soon enough that i will be gasping.