Originally Posted by
bikr13
A computer is probably a good idea especially if you are just starting out. I will help you keep track of your progress in a much easier manner and give you a feel of where your fitness is.
With that said; it really all depends what kind of riding you do and what your goals are.
If you are just riding with no concern for training then you could probably do without.
If you are wanting to lose weight it might be a good idea to go with a heart rate monitor and computer to keep track of your calories and intensity of rides.
If you end up getting more serious about your training and start racing; then a power meter can be an extremely valuable tool. If you know how to use it.
I have been a fairly serious commuter for many years, ~100 miles per week, in any weather and any temperatures (this was in Denver). I use to almost always ride by myself. However, I just started grad school on the East Coast and, as such, am racing collegiate now (last Spring was my first road season). I started in the Cs. Every race was the same: I pulled the pelaton around the course and then got destroyed in the finishing sprint. You'd think I'd learn but I didn't; this was the season's trend. My goals this season are to become a better sprinter and to race smarter. I've been running the nearest 12 story building with a stopwatch, doing some hill repeats, and riding with a group as much as possible. This said though, I could barely afford the used CAAD7 I'm racing with let alone some fancy GPS, power meter, or a Strava supporting device. I am mapping my ride and timing for average speed, but what did the hardys do before there were such things as GPS, Strava, and power meters?