Originally Posted by smittymac
Help a brotha out. I want the basics like current and average speed, odometer & tripometer. My question is, how important is HR & cadence when choosing a computer?
You're trying to compare three distinctly different price ranges.
Most folks just want to know how far and how fast. The basic models do this fine and they are so similar in operation that they are almost a commodity. My personal favorite is the Cateye Enduro because it's a bit more durable than the others. $15.00 to $25.00 should do you. If you're up to paying a little more you can eliminate the wire between the fork sensor and the computer head.
Cadence adds a level of sophistication and expense. The Sigma Sports have an inexpensive cadence add-on, but the connections are pretty cheesy. Cateye Astrale has been a favorite in this class for several years. Plan to pay around 150% of the basic models.
Recently several companies have produced bike computers with integrated heart rate monitors and features that tell stuff like when you're at sea level. The tri-geeks, who live to train, LOVE them. Bring lots of money with you.