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?

Hmmmmmmmmm

HR has been indispensable to me - cadence I've always had, but more recently average cadence.

It really depends on your budget.

I thought this was going to be a pc vs mac thread..... Macs suck!

I have a cheapo wired cateye computer and bought polar hr that mounts on my bike. This setup works great for me (sometimes i wear hr when i jog, spin...) When i ride alone, i depend on hr to keep me accountable... never used cadence.

Sigma Sport 1606L
Has the normal stuff plus cadence.
No HR, Nice Display, reliable, cheap off of amazon

I've gone "computerless" this year! Haven't gotten around to putting one on the new build, and oddly enough, the batteries need replacing on my other 2 rides....so I've been riding the last month or two without any computer....I LIKE IT! Instead of obsessing with my MPH, I'm enjoying the scenery.

https://www.performancebike.com/shop/...tegory_id=4110

Have fun !!!

Sigma 16 somethin' or other, with cadence. Cheap and bulletproof. Mine has 2 wheel settings so you can use it on 2 different bikes too. It tracks total odometers independantly and both bikes can have different sized wheels, e.g. one road bike, one mountain bike, one computer.

A separate HRM is nice to have as well. Sigma makes cheapie HRMs as well that work great AND have user serviceable batteries.

I like my Mavic Wintech. I think the design is cool because the sensor is built into the front skewer. I wish the computer unit was a little smaller, though. It has a cadence option but I didn't get that. I think a cadence feature is good to have if you've never had one before, but once you develop a feel for what's too fast or too slow, I don't know if it's all that important to have a computer to monitor it.

HR monitor is important if you want quantifiable data about your training effort.

Pick what you will. Lots of good product out there. So I'll offer this:
Wireless is nice, but eats more batteries and is a bit fussier.
HR is great, like a tachometer for your body. On my roadie I won't go without.
Cadence is great as well. But once you find yourself looking at the cadence saying 'gosh I was only off by 3rpm' on a regular basis, you don't need it.

So what (data) do you need? Want?
No HR/Cad means a nice, cheap, durable wired model.
Otherwise you're in for a $100 or so for a nicer, more complex wireless job.

Polar and Suunto have some watch based models as well. Suunto T-3 or T-6 catching my eye, but spendy. Better for multi-sport folks.

Take a look at the post I put up regarding wireless computers https://www.bikeforums.net/bicycle-mechanics/280258-wireless-computer-reliability-test-w-cell-phone.html

Why would a post like this be moved?

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.

'Cheesy' Sigma cadence connections have survived 3 bike changes. Easy to use slip on terminals.

Sigma will also sell you <i>parts</i> if you need them. Some other companies make you buy <i>service kits</i> or the like even if you just need a magnet.

I find I rely on the cadence function now more toward the end of my rides. In the beginning, I'm a good judge of RPM, but as I fizzle out I can sometimes find myself either dogging up a hill, or over spinnng on flats. This is not uncommon.

I've had bad experience with Vetta.