Or if you're serious about fitness and want to quantify your rides more accurately than you can with a HRM or just a speedometer, or if you want to pace yourself better on long rides, or if you're trying to lose weight and want accurate calorie counts, or if...

FWIW, I'm thrilled with my Stages. At half the price of the other options, it gives me all the info I need as a 1st year racer and to better maintain my weight and fitness. As others have pointed out, there are a couple of companies who plan to market similar systems in the $400-500 range next year. If you're not in a huge hurry, those might be an option. I'm certainly interested in another PM for my CX bike, and if one comes out in the $400-500 range, I'll be a customer.