I have a wireless Bell computer on my handle bars so I can check my current speed. The odometer function lets me keep track of total miles on the bike. I use Endomondo on my smartphone for total workout distance, calories burned, average pace, etc. It's nice having all my rides in a database on their web site so I can see my statistics from week to week. I just start the application, press the button to turn off and lock the screen, and toss it in my handle bar bag and forget about it. I carry a plastic zip lock bag in case I run into rain.

I have the auto pause feature active so it stops recording when I stop for a break and auto starts when I start moving again. I never have to touch it during my ride. It also announces the total miles and lap time every mile. When I hit stop at the end of the ride, it automatically uploads the data to the server. I can also press a button and have the run posted to my Facebook page. I don't see the point of having a Garmin since I can do the same thing with my smartphone. Granted, the GPS uses more battery power, but I usually don't ride for more than 3 or 4 hours which still leaves me about half a charge on my Samsung. If I ever start riding from sun up to sun down, I will just take my portable charger that uses AA batteries to recharge my phone.