warren goodwine

I have been considering getting a Polar Computer (maybe the 200 model) and would like some info on the download program. My question is does it cost anything on the web for this service and also how useful is the program. I am asking this since I can buy a Sigma with heartrate for less but it would not have this capability.

Carbonfiberboy 

I like the 725X. The software is free, on your computer, and is excellent. It goes on your wrist for cross training. It has altitude. But this doesn't answer your question.

jwill911

I used the CS200cad for > a year before it hit the ground hard and broke. You can keep track of your rides free with at Polarpersonaltrainer.com. You just register and create a login. All you need to upload your training data is a sound card and microphone on your PC. It uses a sonic protocol sort of like morse code to send the data, which was always very reliable. You just need to hold the CS200 a couple of inches from the mic.

But I bought an used S720i from a co-worker and like it much better and the price was unbeatable. It is a hell of a lot more complicated, but has a infra red interface for transmitting data to you PC, uses the concept of data samples which you configure the interval for 5, 15, or 60 seconds. Then after your ride/exercise you upload the data and viola you have a graph that shows speed, HR, cadence, altitude. And all the other data can can be calculated from the data samples; average speed, % ascent blah... blah.

Maybe over kill for some but I like technical stuff and love the level of detail and I can wear it at spin class or running if I want like carbonfiberboy mentioned.

jw

FatguyRacer

I have a the full boat Polar 725 with Power. the software that comes with it is good, but lacking when it comes to power data analysis. So I bought WKO and subscribe to Training Peaks. Those two give me what i need right now. I could probably even do away for Training Peaks, but I like the ATP wizard and the self coaching aspects of it. WKO an TP work well together.

jwill911

I just ran across this at PezCyclingNew. Has everything you'd ever want to know about the CS200.
https://www.pezcyclingnews.com/?pg=fu...70&status=True

jw

Dubbayoo

I never got the data transfer to work with the CS200. I exchanged it for a CS400, which uses infrared and comes with much better software.

Recess

For what it's worth, I've got the Polar s725x and love it. I can't think of anything else i'd need. Tells me everything I need to know, isn't too bulky, is easy to take on and off the bike. When used with the Polar 5 software and the online 'trainer' too - as well as just knowing how much I need to work - it's perfect.

That said, I'm now looking at WKO and Training Peaks, and considering getting them as they look so useful.

Good luck!

J