Originally Posted by
John_V
I was also going to suggest a Sigma watch style for the OP. I had one for many years before I went to a GPS unit. Never had an issue with it and the only reason I went to a GPS unit was because I was getting lost on some of the unfamiliar routes on the many charity rides I do throughout my state.
Sometimes I do not bother with my HRM, sometimes leave my GPS at home. But I have bike computers attached to most bikes. But the computers are basic ones that only show distance, speed, moving time, and some offer cadence.
Went out on an exercise ride yesterday, 64 miles, HRM told me on one hill to get off the bike and walk up the hill to drop the BPM.
I prefer a stand alone GPS instead of a cycling computer with GPS built in, I also do backpacking, canoeing, kayaking, etc. Thus I want a GPS designed for general recreation that uses AA batteries.
I did a thousand mile bike tour last summer in Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick. I can't imagine going back to the map and compass days of trying to stand on the side of a road a dozen times a day trying to figure where you are and how to get on some of those unlabeled back country roads. Maybe the OP has no need for GPS, but it certainly is a huge advantage to those of us that do bike touring and an occasional brevet.