If im trying to put a new cycle computer/camera/gps device on the market, would not being accessible to strava be a deal breaker? what about ant+ connectivity?

I need Strava but the ant is a huge plus, I'd say offer a lower cost option without the ant option.

Strava's fun and all but not necessarily a standard. I do fine syncing with the Garmin App and then it uploads to Strava automatically...Ant+ is a definite need though...

There are several levels of "computers"

• Basic, Speed (plus time, trip info, etc).
• Basic Plus Real Time Cadence / HR, etc.
• Mapping Capabilities (if you are GPS enabled, then logically should include Strava).
• Power, etc.

So if you're doing a basic no-frills computer, then I'd put Strava as optional.

On the other hand, if you're doing a full function cycle computer, I'd include provisions for Strava, Ride With GPS, Map My Ride, Garmin, etc.

No sense in demanding a rider start using some custom ride-share app.

Strava? Don't use it.

I don't think so. All decent bike computers support computer uploads, and once it's on your computer you can forward to Strava, ridewithgps, or whatever newfangled service kids today use.

Other people feel differently.

Yes. No ANT+ support can mean it'd cost $500-$1000+ more than competitors' because customers would need to buy new bluetooth power meters. ANT+ sensors can also be read by multiple devices at the same time, like a camera and bike computer or two head units on a tandem.

I use a smartphone with an installed app as a bike computer--no point in carrying both a computer and a phone on a ride, KWIM? I have a wider choice of cycling apps available to me by using the phone, plus I can make a call in an emergency.

For me, if I were only using a computer, I'd go all out and offer dual connectivity--Bluetooth LE and ANT+, that way the end user can choose whatever sensors they want. As far as automatically uploading to Strava, that's a nice feature but less important, ultimately, than the dual connectivity, IMO. That said, you should definitely provide a way to hook the bike computer to your phone to upload the ride to whatever app you liked to use, Strava being only one of many.

I use an iPhone, and I run the Cyclemeter app (there's no Android version, unfortunately). My heart rate monitor and speed/cadence sensors hook up via Bluetooth LE. I have Cyclemeter set to automatically export my ride to Strava when I'm done riding.

Exactly, and the Garmin 520 has "live Strava" (which is actually "real-time Strava") to allow you to see your performance against your PR (or somebody you follow, or the KOM/QOM). I like this on some rides, and hate it on others.

Or you can get a lower priced Garmin and still enjoy the automatic sync with Strava.

To the non-Strava posters: as a guy in my club said, he doesn't believe in Strava.... it's a religion. Looks like I've been drinking the punch. but I won't force my religion on others

Needs ANT+, does not need Strava. Bluetooth is a bonus.