So I have narrowed it down to the Polar s720i and the s625x. The 720 is the more cycling model and the 625 is more for running. It's important to me to have the cycling features of cadence, speed, and distance. The pace in the run is not a deal breaker for me. The cycling features are optional in the 625 and standard on the 720. Of course if I got them on the 625 I would then have the pace feature for the run which would be nice I suppose but not completely necessary. What would I be missing by doing that? How difficult is it to pull the meter out of the cycling mount to get ready for the run (for either model)? And finally, is either one alot better for swimming than the other?

There is no local store that carries these and no one I know has one so I turn to my internet family for help before I give some online store my $$

Thanks

Can't speak for the 720, but I do have the 625 and love it.

Did you get the optional cycling features or keep it stock?

Speed sensor only... Was considering the entire power package, but over $300 is just a tad too steep. I've learned that training by heart rate only is extremely beneficial and let's concentrate on what's important; to keep the level of training for a specific day according to plan. I used to set distance and time plans, but now I use the distance and heart rate as goals as I get a better read of my level for that day and physical circumstances. I can train a bit even when feeling under the weather as I know how far I'm pushing myself and because of that I can abort if needed (even if I feel OK when in the moment, you know you will prolong it afterwards which results in lost training time).

A HRM really allows you to be as scientific about your training as you can.

Ah I never looked at how much all the features were. 300 is a bit steep, that might tip the weight towards the 720. Thanks

I use the 610, I got it before the others were available. However, I find that using either the Forerunner GPS system, or the Fitsense footpod system is invaluable to my running. I like the freedom of not sticking to preset runs, and traveling yet still knowing what my mileage is. It is an additional measure of how I am doing - I run by heart rate, but sometimes my pace is way off at that heart rate, even though my perceived exertion is not.

I have 2 systems, because neither is without problems. The GPS drops me sometimes. The footpod - an accelerometer, which is what polar uses, I think, has to be calibrated. Every now and then I'll carry both to calibrate the footpod. I race with the footpod, not the GPS, because my pace matters more to me then.

I've been considering the same options that you have, simply because it would be great to have both pace and heart rate on the same graph. If my pace and heart rate drop, I'm sloughing off. If pace drops, and hr goes up, I'm probably going uphill and its appropriate. I love to analyze stuff, though.

I'd love to have the cycling features. I can't justify the cost at present. I'll probably wait until my current system dies before changing, I'll just keep running around with 2, and sometimes 3 watches on in the meantime.

One difference between the 2 I noticed was that they come with different chest straps. One is more flexible, and presumably more comfortable, but is not as water resistant for the swim. If you get that chest strap, I'd like your opinion on it. Mine will need replacing at some point soon.

hold on there!
that's 300 bucks for the power sensor!! if you got the 720 and wanted the power sensor you would still have to pay 300 extra for the power sensor!
the cadence and speed sensor go for something around 25-30 bucks each...