garmin handheld gps reviews

September 9, 2010

Garmin 010-00679-05 Forerunner 50 Sports Watch with Heart Rate Monitor and USB ANT Stick

Filed under: Garmin — Tags: , , , , — admin @ 8:30 pm

Garmin Forerunner 50


My wife loves it! she has used it so much for her runs that the battery went out in 6 months! We went to a watch store to change it. It had no power unless we adjusted it, then it would lose power again…uggg. My wife loved it so much we just got a new one. I hope the battery last longer, if not, looks like she’ll have another one for her birthday (easy gift). The set up is a bit of a pain, but if you call Garmin, they can help and it’s only a one time deal. Other than the set up & battery, it’s great. Tracks speed, distance thru-out the run (i.e. when you slow down it shows you on the computer via graph and text when and how long during the run you slowed down and what speed you going). Pretty cool. Just make sure you get the foot pod also.

A great watch, while it lasts – Mark S. – Ann Arbor, MI USA
I got this watch about 9 months ago, and was fairly happy with it until it stopped working. It went through the first battery in about 5 months and after having it changed it never seemed the same. I tripped during a race this Fall and while I didn’t hit it on the pavement, it reset from the shock. Poof, mile 4 of a half marathon and my watch reads 00:00. Since then it’s repeatedly reset at the slightest bump or jostle and now the battery’s dead again. Now I have no watch and am not sure I want to give Garmin any more of my money.

Lame. works only some times. – Brian Decker –
Hate it. (hate a pretty strong word for this review). I’d like it if it worked. It works only some times. Most the time it resets itself, or doesn’t pick up the heart rate or cadence pod for the bike. just getting it started is a long combination of button pushing memory madness. It is not a simple heart rate monitor. Buy a better modle. This one is bad. I’ve even sent it back to have it repaired and it came back noted as, “in working condition”. Since the “repair” it’s even worse. i’m not even going to try and resale it. I’d feel that I’m selling something broken.

get a different model from a different company – F. J. De Rosa –
I have owned this worthless item for a while now. To this date, this item has not helped me to improve anything at all. I spend most of my time just getting the thing to work. So far all it has done consistently is dump my information, suck battery life, and take my free time. I am constantly pairing the item, constantly trying to get it to sync correctly with my computer, and so far, I’ve lost several running sessions because it blanks out on me and dumps my information. I have to unscrew the back to “re-adjust” the battery so it starts to work, and it has 4 of the smallest screws and the battery is fixed in so tight, you have to peel back some fitted plastic piece just to get it out. There’s no gps unit in it to tell you how far you have run. You have to buy three other accessories just to get the one benefit of tracking your distance and time, whether you’re riding a bicycle, or running on the street. For that amount of money, you might as well just buy a hand held gps and a regular heart rate monitor, because this item is just going to waste all of your time.

Good for HR monitoring, kind of annoying as a watch – Ken Zemach – Redwood City, CA
Been using this sucker with HR strap and footpod for about 6 months now, running a LOT.

Pros:
*I had never used a HR monitor before. Fantastic training method. Can’t compare it to any other HR monitors (e.g. Polar), but compared to NOT using a HR monitor for training, it gets five stars.

*Small, lightweight, waterproof.

*Got the entire set (watch, HR monitor, and foot pod) for 0.

Cons:
*Having used many other regular watches, from Casio to Timex’s Ironman, as a basic watch, or even a workout watch, it’s crappy. First of all, the light from the light button does NOT stay on long enough. Some of us actually exercise at night, you know? Ironman watch: much better.

*Effectively non-standard start/stop/save button functionality. That face button for lap is just plain annoying. The buttons in general I don’t find that good. And, if I’m trying to time many short events (sprint times of other people) it’s a total pain and slow to be able to start, stop, clear, and restart. I realize that’s not what it’s necessarily made for, but it’s annoying.

*Battery life is marginal. My footpod battery was dead out of the box when new. That was annoying. Had the system 6 months, and changed the watch battery twice now and the footpod once (total of four batteries in six months if you count the DOA footpod). Glad I’m comfortable doing so myself, as paying someone to do it would be annoying. That said, I do like replaceable better than a rechargeable watch itself as sometimes you’re just not near power. Best would be if I felt comfortable enough to try out the RCR-2032 batteries (rechargeable versions; they’re out there) but am worried that the higher voltage will kill it.

Overall, if you’ve never used a HR monitor system, I think it’s just dandy. But, I wish the watch were as functional and high quality as the Ironman series, the light stayed on longer, the buttons were better, and DEFINITELY wish that it took a velcro sports watch band.


Garmin 010-00679-05 Forerunner 50 Sports Watch with Heart Rate Monitor and USB ANT Stick

  • The Affordable Forerunner 50 Provides You With Instant Workout Data Including Training Time, Pace, etc.
  • Records Both Lap And Detailed Data
  • Forerunner 50 Comes Bundled With Different Accessories To Help You Track Your Progress
  • The Included Digital Heart Rate Monitor Continuously Tracks Heart Beats Per Minute
  • Even Train In A Certain Heart Rate Zone To Improve Your Fitness Level

Jump-start your training with the Garmin Forerunner 50. This sleek sports watch is ideal for running, cycling, and other fitness activities, and it includes a wireless heart rate monitor. Plus, it automatically transmits workouts to your computer so you can analyze, store, and share data using Garmin’s online community, Garmin Connect. Add Garmin’s Foot Pod (not included) to track your speed, distance, and calories burned while running, or add a Speed/Cadence bike sensor (not included) for tracking your cycling workouts.

Jump-start your training with the Forerunner 50. Click to enlarge.

With ANT+ wireless technology, your workout data is automatically transferred to your PC when your device is within range–no cables, no hookups. Click to enlarge.

Continuously track your heart beats per minute and wirelessly transmit the data to the Forerunner 50. Click to enlarge.

Add the Garmin wireless Foot Pod (not included) to track your running speed, distance, and calories burned while on the treadmill or pavement. Click to enlarge.

Get the Data You Need
Train inside or outdoors. The Forerunner 50 provides you with instant workout data, including training time, pace, distance, lap pace, lap time, lap distance, average and best pace, calories, and maximum and average heart rate. It also records both lap and detailed data. Available in three different versions, the Forerunner 50 comes bundled with different accessories (also available separately) to help you track your progress for whatever moves you.

Listen to Your Heart
Forerunner 50 with wireless heart rate effectively tracks and records your heart rate while you work out, providing instant feedback about how hard your heart is working. The included digital heart rate monitor continuously tracks heart beats per minute, which is wirelessly transmitted to the Forerunner 50. Even train in a certain heart rate zone to improve your fitness level. And well after your workout is done, Forerunner 50 is still working, wirelessly transmitting your training data to your PC.

Measure Speed and Distance
Garmin’s wireless Foot Pod (sold separately) lets you track your running speed, distance, and calories burned while on the treadmill or pavement. Just snap the Foot Pod into a clip on your shoelaces, and it’s ready to send data to Forerunner 50 as soon as you start moving. After your workout, Forerunner 50 automatically transfers the data to your computer when within range.

Track Your Ride
When paired with an optional speed/cadence sensor (sold separately), Forerunner 50 tracks the speed and distance of your cycling workouts. The wireless speed/cadence sensor attaches securely to your bike and measures your pedaling cadence and wheel speed as you ride. You can even use it to train indoors because the sensor attaches to your rear wheel.

Run, Sync, Store, and Share
You’ve logged the miles, and now you want to store them. With Garmin’s innovative ANT+ wireless technology, your workouts are automatically transferred to your computer when your device is within range. No cables, no hookups. The data’s just there, ready for you to analyze, categorize, and share through Garmin’s online community, Garmin Connect, or the Garmin Training Center software.

What’s in the Box
Forerunner 50 watch, USB ANT Stick, Heart rate monitor, Owner’s Manual

Shop Garmin 010-00679-05 Forerunner 50 Sports Watch with Heart Rate Monitor and USB ANT Stick Online, Shop Garmin Forerunner 50 Online

August 16, 2010

Garmin Edge 605 Bicycle Monitor with GPS

Filed under: Garmin — Tags: , , — admin @ 7:30 am

Garmin 010-00555-00


We bought the Edge 605 with the North America SD card for local bicycle safe roads. Without this card, you are directed to highways. My husband wanted a GPS so he could take random roads to find new routes and then be able to find his way home. His average ride is 50 – 70 miles. Being able to meander through country roads and then push “go home” and actually be dropped at your front door is great. He’s not computer literate, so it’s been a learning curve for him, but he loves it. He ignored a turn and wound up in a busy strip mall with a lot of traffic. He decided to trust the GPS unit, still thinking it would throw him on a highway. He was pleasantly surprised when it directed him across the hwy to local roads.

The only negative comment I have is needing the SD card to be routed to SAFE roads for cyclists. It should be part of the package.

Out of Date Technology – J. Lawler –
As you can probably tell from my title, I’m a bit dissapointed with the Garmin Edge 605. First I realized that NO maps come with the edge. You must buy them for around 0 each. (I don’t really call the included freeway maps relevant to a bike computer.) Anyway, you must find the “Trainer” application on their web site. When you run it, it has all the sophistication of software written for PCs in the early 90s. It also crashes often just like the 90s software. (To be fair, it says you can install Google earth to see your tracks on top of Google maps.)

Last week I purchased a Droid Motorola phone. I found a free app under the “Market”, in Lifestyles category called “My Tracks”. This app tracked my route as well as the Garmin, and it has better maps, I just tap a menu item to send it to my google account. If you are thinking of buying a Garmin or any handheld GPS you should really consider instead just buying a Droid. Don’t fool around with multiple devices especially while biking.

Now here’s a “however”: I have no mount for the Droid for my bike. It just goes where I always keep my cell phone. So this could be the clincher for sticking with the separate Garmin GPS. But I’ll bet dollars to donuts that bike mounts for the Droid will be showing up soon.

After using the Droid and My Tracks, Garmin has some major catching up to do.

Edge 605 good map but NOT detailed enough – m. fung – new york, ny usa
I purchased the Garmin Edge 605 solely to use on city street navigation via bike/walk. I even purchased the optional City Navigator North America NT CD to map out a route and follow it. BUT the detailing of the streets on the Edge 605 does not include all the streets. For example on my own neighborhood, it only shows street names and actual street routes that are 2 way and multi-lane streets. Their were several streets not shown that are one way streets. If I am riding my bike in some vacation area, how am I suppose to know where to go if it only gives my 40-50% of the street names that I can visually follow on the Edge 605 screen. This is very disappointing. I also own the Garmin nuvi 350 for my car and love it. It shows me all the street names and street routes on the screen. Why can’t the Garmin Edge 605 be the same.

Are you kidding? – Penny –
Reviews are spot on for this product.
Need to spend another for a map that shows more than interstates.
Backlight annoying.
Setting routes, etc a pain.

All in all, I’m sorry I didn’t read the reviews first. Shame on me.

Very nice – needs extra maps to be great – Alex – NJ
The base map is weak but there are plenty of good quality free maps online for where you live or plan to visit. Did not use it yet on a bike but reception indoors beats any GPS unit I ever tested, so it should be fine even in the deepest forest.


Garmin Edge 605 Bicycle Monitor with GPS

  • GPS-Enabled Cycle Computer
  • Sunlight-Readable Color Display
  • Features A High-Sensitivity Receiver That Holds A Signal Under Trees & Near Tall Buildings
  • Virtual Partner(R) Lets User Race A Virtual Competitor Over A Specified Distance & Speed
  • Courses Allow User To Race Against Previously Recorded Workouts

Garmin has really upped the ante on the entire cycling computercategory with it’s two new gps-enabled navigator/computers, the 705 and its younger sibling, the 605. These are true navigational aids with full-color maps and turn-by-turn directions in addition to advanced route-planning and saving capabilities. On top of that, the 705 adds heart rate and cadence monitors, a barometric altimeter, and wireless capability that lets you share routes and workout data with other riders instantly. Sleek and waterproof, with a 2.2-inch color screen that lets you customize what data you see and how you see it, these two devices help make the most of every ride.

The Power Of Location-Based Data
Anyone who has used Garmin’s original Edge 205 or 305 already understands the power that attaching location data to traditional measurements like distance, speed, time, calories burned, and heart rate can provide. Knowing exactly where you worked hardest, rode fastest (or most slowly) lets you tailor your workouts to improve to improve your riding skills for specific distances, conditions, and types of terrain. It gives a complete picture of how you interact with every portion of your ride.

Altitude is recorded using a barometric altimeter for the Edge 705. This accurate altitude data makes it much easier for cyclists to match their altitude profile with their speed, cadence, and heart rate during post-ride analysis. The Edge 605 gives a somewhat less precise altitude measurement via the GPS positioning system itself.

A First-Rate Bike Computer
The Edge 605 automatically measures your speed, distance, time, calories burned and altitude. The 705 also track your heart rate, cadence, power (from optional ANT + Sport-enabled third-party power meters), climb and descent. Other nifty features include the following.

  • Virtual Partner lets you race a virtual competitor over a specified distance and speed.
  • Courses let you race against a previously recorded workout, so you can compare your current and past performances over the same ride.
  • Auto Pause pauses the timer when you slow down or stop and resumes when you speed up again, so you can focus on your ride.
  • Auto Lap automatically starts a new lap each time you pass a specified location or travel a preset distance
  • Click stick helps users navigate through the various options.

Full-Featured Navigation

The Edge 305 Screen (actual size)
Edge 305 Screen Shot

The larger color screen (actual size) on the Edge 605 and 705 shows you your surroundings more clearly and supports real turn-by-turn navigation.
Edge 705 screen shot

No more scratch paper paper-clipped to your handlebars. In addition to their cycling computer functions, The Edge 705 and 605 provide the same robust navigation as Garmin’s vehicle navigators, with turn-by-turn spoken directions (turn left in 500 yards) and a 2.2-inch (diagonal) color display that shows maps in great detail.

Both devices come pre-loaded with a built-in basemap, and a MicroSD card slot you can use to load new maps or store workout, course and ride data. Garmin has lots of street and topographic maps available for purchase and you can download courses and rides from Garmin or other riders at the Garmin Connect website.

Both feature a high-sensitivity receiver that holds a signal under trees and near tall buildings and have a click stick for easy screen navigation.

Connectivity and “ANT + Sport”
One of Garmin’s most ambitious decisions has been to approach fitness devices as a total platform with their “ANT + Sport” connectivity system. All of Garmin’s new fitness devices, including the Edge 605 and 705, the Forerunner 50 heart rate monitor watches, will interface wirelessly with any devices that are compatible wiht the “ANT + Sport” protocol, including devices from other manufacturers. Currently, Garmin the devices will pair with power meter from SRM or Quarq to measure power – torque and cadence for each leg at the pedals – which is often cited as a true indicator of an efficient ride. It’s unclear what other manufacturers will buy into the ANT + Sport platform, but this kind of open connectivity with products from other companies offers a great deal of potential flexibility.

The wireless function also makes it easy to connect one Edge unit to another to share rides, courses and workout data.

    Heart Rate and Cadence Monitors
    The Edge 705 heart rate monitor uses a robust wireless technology that eliminates cross-talk and interference and delivers real-time heart rate data exclusively to the user’s device. This data is stored with each track point for post-workout analysis. The Edge 705 with speed/cadence sensor incorporates a self-calibrating, wireless speed/cadence sensor that mounts to the rear chain stay of the bicycle.

    Be Part of A Community
    In 2007, Garmin acquired Motion-based, the largest shared repository of customer-generated gps-based routes, courses and maps. This was a significant move for Garmin to support the gps user community and bring a wealth of route options to gps users. With a simple connection to your computer, you can join a worldwide network of cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts through Garmin Connect our new, one-stop site for data analysis an sharing.

    You can also upload to optional Garmin Training Center software for further analysis. Garmin Training Center stores large quanities of workout and ride data. Some of the things you can do are

    • Review your workout data, including pace/speed, distance, time, calories burned; and if available, heart rate, cadence and detailed elevation.
    • View a detailed graph of your workout data, plotted over time or distance.
    • View a map of your workout that shows the exact path you traveled.
    • Categorize your workout history according to type of activity.
    • Review previous workouts, which are saved by day and week.
    • Create customized workouts with specific goals and rest intervals. Then send them to your fitness device.*
    • Schedule workouts for a specific day with calendar.
    • Get custom workout templates designed by the experts at TrainingPeaks.com

    What’s In The Box
    Edge 605 GPS-enabled cycling computer, bike mounts, AC charger, USB cable, owner’s manual on CD-ROM, quick reference guide

    Shop Garmin Edge 605 Bicycle Monitor with GPS Online, Shop Garmin 010-00555-00 Online

    August 14, 2010

    Garmin Forerunner 405CX GPS Sport Watch with Heart Rate Monitor (Blue)

    Filed under: Garmin — Tags: , , , — admin @ 6:45 pm

    Garmin 010-00658-30


    Let me start by saying that I’ve been a fan of Garmin and the Forerunner since the early days. That being said, I am reviewing this product not independently, but in comparison to other Garmin models. Here’s what I like:

    -The design is greatly improved. It fits like a watch, albeit a very large watch. This is a dramatic improvement from previous models.

    -The GPS connection is nearly automatic. I used to set my old units outside, get a cup of coffee, and return to hope that the signal had been found. With the 405, it’s connected as soon as I’m outside my door. In new places, it takes a bit longer to lock on, but once it’s done it’s strong.

    -Accuracy. I don’t have quite as many inconsistencies in pace/distance as I did with previous models.

    Other than that, everything else works just as well or the same as other Forerunners I’ve owned.

    Now, the not so good:

    -The battery life is awful. If you travel with this device, forget leaving the charger at home. I used to charge my 305 to 100% and run for a week. With the 405, it’s always ON, apparently, and the battery will drain to nothing within a couple of days, even if you aren’t using it.

    The touch bezel. I don’t like it. It isn’t “intuitive”, it is over-sensitive and “buggy”when it gets wet (anyone else sweat when they run?), which can be a major annoyance. It took me about a month to finally get the feel of it, and I still don’t always get what I expect when I use it.

    -The menus. Again, not intuitive. Things just don’t seem to be located where they should be. I had to go to the owner’s manual to find out how to pull up run history. I am a gadget geek, not a technophobe, and I usually figure things out easily. Not the case with this device.

    -The software. Others have done a good job telling what a nightmare the Garmin Training Center software is. I personally don’t use it because I don’t always run with my Forerunner (treadmill, etc.) and I want my training log to reflect all my runs. That’s why I use paper. If Garmin ever figures out how to let runners manually enter training, I will use the Training Center.

    All in all, it’s a very good device, and I’m sure it’s the best in the market. However, I can not give it a 5 star rating because I see all the things that Garmin can do better.

    fantastic – Itumed –
    Fantastic, beautifull, usefull. i little dificult to startig use, because it has lots of functions. we can have lots of parameters to enhace our trannnig.

    For what I need this is 5 stars! – NickinAZ –
    I am still learning how to use this watch to it’s utmost! On an almost daily basis I use the GPS, heartrate monitor and timer/pace settings. I love the online tracking service through Garmin. This is a great watch. Each week I go online and watch another video on how to use the watch. There is always something new I hadn’t thought of yet. I can’t wait to try the course upload so I can follow the predetermined coordinates using my watch as my guide. Just what I need to keep me interested in my daily runs.

    I am a bigger guy and my only complaint is the watch band is almost too small. I have to use it on the second to last hole on the band so the end keeper is useless. The velcro band is not a better option. I know, that doesn’t really have anything to do with the function of the watch. Just thought I would mention it.

    Logged about 150 miles so far… – Clint Parsons –
    I have logged about 150 miles so far with the device and I must say I really like it. I have not used others, so I have not basis for comparison. I find the GPS works extremely well. I like all of the features and the ease of uploading my results to my computer and/or the Garmin Connect website. It is not the easiest to use, primarily because it can do so many things and there are a ton of options. I have not devoted the time to customizing it for my personal taste, though I plan to do so soon. All in all, I am very happy with my purchase.


    Garmin Forerunner 405CX GPS Sport Watch with Heart Rate Monitor (Blue)

    • Loaded with serious training features, Forerunner 405CX continuously records your time, distance, pace, calories burned and heart rate.
    • And advanced training features will challenge you to step up your pace race against Forerunner’s Virtual Partner
    • Forerunner 405CX comes with a flexible, wireless heart rate monitor to help you make the most out of your training.
    • With Forerunner 405CX, you can share your locations, advanced workouts and courses wirelessly with other Forerunner 405 users.
    • Once you’ve logged the miles, innovative ANT+ wireless technology automatically transfers data to your computer when Forerunner is in range.

    The Forerunner 405CX is the evolution of GPS-enabled training. This sleek sport watch tracks your distance, pace and heart rate, then wirelessly sends the data to your PC for later analysis. The 405CX features heart rate-based calorie computation and comes with a second wrist band option suitable for smaller wrists.

    The evolution of GPS-enabled training.

    Continuously records your time, distance, pace, calories burned and heart rate. Click to enlarge.

    Transfer data to your computer when Forerunner is in range–no cables, no hookups. Click to enlarge.

    Watch Results
    Loaded with serious training features, Forerunner 405CX continuously records your time, distance, pace, calories burned and heart rate. Each workout is stored in memory so you can review and analyze the data to see how you’ve improved. And advanced training features will challenge you to step up your pace–race against Forerunner’s Virtual Partner to improve your times, or set up interval workouts without having to circle the track. You can even download recorded courses to compete against previous workouts. To use the watch, simply tap the touch bezel to change screens without fumbling for a button.

    Track Heart Rate
    Forerunner 405CX comes with a flexible, wireless heart rate monitor to help you make the most out of your training. The digital heart rate monitor continuously tracks heart beats per minute and uses your heart rate for advanced calorie computation, so you know how many calories you’re burning. Train in a certain heart rate zone to improve your fitness level or compare your pace and heart rate to past performance on the same run.

    Share Workouts Wirelessly
    With Forerunner 405CX, you can share your locations, advanced workouts and courses wirelessly with other Forerunner 405 users. Send your favorite workout to your friends to try, or compete against someone else’s recorded course. Sharing data is easy: just select “transfer” to send your information to a nearby device.

    Run, Sync, Store and Share
    Once you’ve logged the miles, innovative ANT+ wireless technology automatically transfers data to your computer when Forerunner is in range. No cables, no hookups. The data’s just there, ready for you to analyze, categorize and share through our online community, Garmin Connect or our optional Garmin Training Center software. You can even plan workouts on your computer and then send them to your Forerunner.

    Train Year Round
    Take your training inside with the versatile Forerunner 405CX and optional wireless accessories. Pair it with an optional foot pod to track your speed, distance and running cadence indoors when GPS signals are unavailable. The wireless foot pod clips onto your laces for easy removal and automatically turns on when you start moving. Or pair your Forerunner with an optional speed/cadence bike sensor to track the speed and distance of your cycling workouts.

    What’s in the Box
    Forerunner 405CX, USB ANT stick, Heart rate monitor, Two additional wrist straps, AC charger, Charging clip, Owner’s manual on disk, Quick reference guide

    Shop Garmin Forerunner 405CX GPS Sport Watch with Heart Rate Monitor (Blue) Online, Shop Garmin 010-00658-30 Online

    August 8, 2010

    Edge 705 w/ Heartrate Monitor

    Filed under: Garmin — Tags: , — admin @ 3:30 am

    Garmin 010-00555-20




    Edge 705 w/ Heartrate Monitor

    • SKU# 010-00555-20

    Edge® 705

    Trainer. Navigator. Edge 705 pushes you to do your best, then shows you the way back. This GPS-enabled cycle computer knows no limits. Get heart rate, cadence, turn-by-turn directions, power data (from ANT + Sport™-enabled third-party power meters) the works. Even share your data with other Edge 705 buddies after your ride. All wireless with a color display, this is no ordinary cycle computer.

    Navigate Your Ride
    Lose yourself in the ride without losing your way. Edge 705 comes with a built-in basemap, plus it has a microSD card slot for adding map detail and storing workout data (excludes history). Just plug in detailed MapSource® City Navigator® street maps on a preloaded data card and get turn-by-turn directions on a sunlight-readable, color display as you pedal. Add optional topo mapping for your off-road adventures. Edge snaps easily into the included bike mount to guide you to your destination.

    See Your Power
    Edge 705 works with third-party ANT + Sport-enabled power meters (check back soon to view list of compatible devices) to display your power output in watts as you ride. This valuable data shows you how hard you’re working, regardless of conditions affecting your ride, so you can train smarter. Get a competitive advantage by viewing power output along with Edge data all on the same display and storing this information to analyze your workout.

    Measure Heart Rate and Cadence
    Garmins innovative ANT + Sport wireless technology means you get heart rate data with no strings attached. All versions of Edge 705 include a wireless heart rate monitor to measure your heart rate and track your heart rate zone.

    Swap Rides Wirelessly
    With Edge 705 you can share your courses, workouts and saved rides wirelessly with other Edge 705 users. Now you can prove that 20-mile uphill climb with a 2000-foot elevation gain. Better yet, send it to your buddy to ride. Sharing dat

    Shop Edge 705 w/ Heartrate Monitor Online, Shop Garmin 010-00555-20 Online

    July 23, 2010

    Garmin Forerunner 310XT GPS Enabled Sports Watch with Heart Rate Monitor

    Filed under: Garmin — Tags: , , , , — admin @ 7:00 am

    Garmin 010-00741-01


    I purchased the Garmin 310xt after the Garmin Forerunner 305 I had died after about about 4 years. Apparently the 305 is water resistent and not waterproof. It died when I swam with it. The Garmin 310XT is a much better product. I love the USB antenna stick. I automatically downloads workouts into Garmin online and/or the Garmin Training center. The HR Monitor device is much better too. You can remove it from the strap so the strap can be cleaned. Much nicer. I can’t think of anything bad to say about this product.

    Now the bad. When I purchased this, I thought I would save a few dollars and get the super saver shipping option. They advertise 5-9 days shipping. But those days don’t start until the first business day after you order. I ordered it Friday which meant it was Monday before Amazon even started working on it. On Saturday, I noticed that the shipping would take 2 weeks so I tried to changed it. Unfortunately, they had already locked the transaction so I couldn’t change it. I call Amazon to ask if I could change it and nothing could be done ( Amazon customer service was not a lot of help). I eventually received the Garmin Forerunner 310XT but it took a while. So the moral of the story is, DON’T use the super saver shipping if you’d like to get the product in a reasonable time period. IMO, the supersaver shipping is useless.

    Swimming Only – Vincent Wood –
    I use this the 310xt for swimming only, since I don’t run or bike due to a back injury. The GPS route appears on the Garmin Connect site fine, if I put the unit in my swim cap. I took off the wrist straps for ease of fit in the cap. I down loaded the swim update, but the 310xt does not work when under water. Also I find the velocity graph is errratic

    Vince

    garmin 310xt – rls –
    I ordered the Garmin 310xt, and it arrived in 1 1/2 days! VERY pleased. Happy with the product, takes a lot of figuring out but does a lot. It is also very neat to be able to view your progress, route, stats online. My wrists are very small, and despite the watch’s size it doesn’t feel cumbersome. I don’t know how I trained without it.

    Forerunner 310 – Claudio – Washington, DC, US
    I changed my Forerunner 305 with this one mostly due to the extended time of use. The 305 has not enough battery to support a long exercise such as an Ironman. Furthermore this watch has more displays awailable. What I don’t like is that I cann’t download the exercise directly to my computer as before.


    Garmin Forerunner 310XT GPS Enabled Sports Watch with Heart Rate Monitor

    • Waterproof to a depth of 50 meters, so you can wear it in the pool or the lake to time your swim
    • Tracks bike and run data and sends it wirelessly to your computer
    • Track your position, distance, pace, heart rate (with bundled monitor), add accessories to measure power data and more
    • 20 hours of battery life
    • One-year limited warranty

    Finally, a GPS-enabled training device that isn’t afraid of the water. The rugged Forerunner 310XT is the triathlete’s indispensable training tool — a GPS-enabled, swim-proof trainer that tracks bike and run data and sends it wirelessly to your computer. This multi-sport device has up to 20 hours of battery life, tracks distance, pace and heart rate, and goes from wrist to bike in seconds.
    Finally, a GPS-enabled training device that isn’t afraid of the water. The rugged Forerunner 310XT is the triathlete’s indispensable training tool–a GPS-enabled, swim-proof trainer that tracks bike and run data and sends it wirelessly to your computer. This multi-sport device has up to 20 hours of battery life, tracks distance, pace and heart rate (optional), and goes from wrist to bike in seconds.

    A GPS-enabled training device that isn’t afraid of the water.

    Track bike and run data and send it wirelessly to your computer. Click to enlarge.

    Tracks distance, pace and heart rate. Click to enlarge.

    Time Your Swim
    The swim-proof Forerunner 310XT is waterproof to a depth of 50 meters, so you can wear it in the pool or the lake to time your swim. And its slim design and flexible wristband mean Forerunner is easy to wear in any conditions.

    Transition Effortlessly
    When you’re ready to jump out of the water and onto the bike, Forerunner 310XT moves easily from wrist to bike with the optional quick release and bike mounts, making the transition between sports effortless. Forerunner 310XT categorizes multisport activities in one workout and can also log transition time in the process, so you can analyze your performance from start to finish.

    Collect Workout Data
    Forerunner 310XT tracks your position precisely with GPS satellite data and records distance, pace, heart rate (optional), power data (from ANT+-enabled third-party power meters) and more. High-sensitivity GPS and HotFix satellite prediction mean Forerunner acquires satellites quickly and tracks your movement even near tall buildings or under tree cover. And using innovative ANT+ wireless technology, Forerunner 310XT connects seamlessly to an optional heart rate monitor, foot pod and cadence sensor.

    Heart Rate Monitor Bundle
    This bundle includes the optional wireless heart rate monitor. Forerunner 310XT continuously tracks beats per minute and uses heart rate data in advanced calorie computation. Train in a certain heart rate zone to improve fitness and monitor your level of exertion.

    Run, Sync, Store and Share
    Once you’ve logged the miles, innovative ANT+ wireless technology automatically transfers data to your computer when Forerunner is in range. No cables, no hookups. The data’s just there, ready for you to analyze, categorize and share through our online community, Garmin Connect or our optional Garmin Training Center software. You can even plan workouts on your computer and then send them to your Forerunner.

    What’s in the Box
    Forerunner 310XT, USB ANT stick, AC charger, Charging clip, Owner’s manual on disk, Quick start guide, Heart Rate Monitor

    Shop Garmin Forerunner 310XT GPS Enabled Sports Watch with Heart Rate Monitor Online, Shop Garmin 010-00741-01 Online

    July 11, 2010

    Garmin Edge 705 GPS-Enabled Cycling Computer (Includes Heart Rate Monitor and Speed/Cadence Sensor)

    Filed under: Garmin — Tags: , , , , , , , — admin @ 1:00 pm

    Garmin Edge 705 Speed/ Cade


    An odd mix of positives and negatives:
    Pros:
    Incomparable data graphs of numerous measured parameters during your ride, permitting quantification of training beyond anything even dreamed of a couple of decades ago.
    All the other well-known advantages of GPS to display current location and to be able to plan routes and courses (as well, of course, as showing details of ridden courses).
    The variety, choice, and arrangement of displayed measurements (the `fields’) are just amazing. Essentially, you can put on the screen virtually whatever you want and wherever you want it, and the screen is high resolution (as is required, to be sure, for detailed maps).
    Heart-rate and cadence are reliably detected. Heart-rate is intelligently smoothed (but will detect tachycardia).
    Tech support is US based and, therefore, native English speaking (unfortunately, it is needed far too often).
    Battery life is good enough for a very long ride – I suspect easily over 10 hours (if back-lighting is not over-used).
    Cons:
    No temperature sensor
    Barometer does not permit user calibration, thereby insuring that it can only be accurate in the accident of exactly the right weather (as atmospheric pressure, which it is actually measuring, varies with the weather). Why the maker would have done this is incomprehensible. Since the weather changes constantly, the indicated `elevation’ changes, even though you have not moved. Moreover, because there is no temperature sensor, the barometer transducer cannot be temperature compensated, inducing the inevitability of yet another error in that measurement. Consequently, I was able to watch the elevation drift from plus 150 feet to minus (!!) 200 feet in the space of a few minutes (the actual elevation was 245 feet). Finally, it is quite possible to have the device show a difference in altitude for the beginning and end of the ride of over 50 feet, even when you start and finish at the same place (with no perceptible change in weather)! At the very least, the user should be able to calibrate the instrument at the start of a ride (provided, of course, that he knows the elevation at that starting point). This would help ensure that `elevation’ (altitude) measurements at any point on the ride will be reasonably accurate.
    The user manual is woefully inadequate. Example: you are told that, at a rate of 1 second intervals for route recordings, the device will begin to overwrite previous data after about 4.5 hours (without warning!). You are encouraged to `reset’ the device after 4 hours. What you are not told is what happens to your data in this circumstance (it turns out that, fortunately, it is saved!). Example: There is virtually no explanation of how `calories’ are calculated. If you are not using a power sensor, this number has to be interpolated from some algorithm. There is no information about this whatsoever in the manual and, you can obtain virtually nothing on this subject from Garmin tech support even over the phone! (I personally believe – admittedly, without quantitative proof – their calculation for calories burned to be grossly inaccurate, perhaps by as much as a factor of 2 too high.) Example: the `save location’ feature has 3 choices: “Avg”, “Max” and “OK”, none of which is explained in the manual. And I could go on with many other issues.
    Copy/piracy protection for their maps is so obsessive that even their own staff cannot easily circumvent it in the (inevitable) case where copying is necessary. In my own case, I had to replace my 705 with another, but since I had already downloaded my (purchased) North American DVD of maps, I was unable to unlock the map without 3 hours (!) of telephone assistance from technical support. ! This is supposed to be called customer service?? There just has to be a better way…
    The “Training Center” software, available as a free download from their web address, does not permit any user designation of units to be used in the graph, just how coarse or fine, for example, one can plot any particular variable (such as slope, or what Garmin calls `grade’) – it just arbitrarily chooses the ordinate, and cannot be changed. ? Surely Garmin can do better than this.

    In sum: I have not tried other competitive models (or even know that they exist). As a cycling computer, this thing is amazing, blowing away the pre-GPS varieties, yet at the same time it is disappointing. With a bit more effort, especially with software and documentation, Garmin could have had something truly awesome. As it stands, it is a major achievement, but the user is made to feel uncomfortably dependent on tech support due to the poor documentation.

    not as advertised – Jdsalin –
    There is no reason to buy the 705 unless you plan to then spend another 0 on maps. The “navigational” features on this GPS would maybe be impressive if it was 1492. But if you already know what continent you are on, then the satellite/basemap is useless. So you can either get the 305, and save several hundred dollars, or be prepared to send Garmin more money before the device will perform any of the functions that the 305 cannot perform. Then, the 705 seems pretty cool. Wherever you are, you can press a couple buttons, and the Garmin will give turn by turn directions back home. As for the performance monitoring, it is also nice. I don’t have a basis of comparison. I suppose other cheaper models do the same thing, but the 705 lets you race against a virtual partner. Then you can download your results to your pc. You can also download your maps everyday so you can keep track of your daily routes, distance, cadence, speed, climb, heart rate. Overall, Garmin is just pushing their margins too hard. The maps should be free. They are no better than google maps, which I can access for free. You buy a navigational device, but it doesn’t navigate. Then, if you follow the directions to install the Garmin on the bike, it instructs you to orient the Garmin towards the sky to get a good feed from the satellite. I did that, went for a ride, and realized it was impossible to then see the Garmin when it was installed at that angle. But Garmin only includes enough zip ties in the box for one installation. So if you get it wrong the first time, then you’re out of luck. The ties probably cost Garmin 10 cents. But I called them to ask for more. I suggested they put them in the box with the maps that I ordered. They wanted me to pay 13 dollars for replacement ties. You also have to use the ties to install the cadence and speed magnets, which have to be placed PERFECTLY in order to function properly. So if you get that wrong, then I suppose they want you to pay them 13 dollars to try again. If you beg them, they might send 2 backup ties for free. But they should just include them in the first place. Again, they cost maybe 10 cents. They also skimp on the instructions that would lead you to faulty instillations. In order to get an actual user’s manual, which has full installation instructions and instructions for using the device, you have to install a disk on your pc, that directs you to a website, where you can download a user’s manual.

    One of best purchases in past few years… – –
    It’s difficult for me to find the words to describe how much I love this thing. I use it to track all my workouts, I navigate long and complicated routes effortlessly, I explore new areas – it’s opened up a world of cycling in unfamiliar terrain.

    I initially hesitated at the cost – but after using the 305 for almost a year and having logged > 3000 miles on it – I did not hesitate to upgrade and spend twice as much to get the 705 for the additional features it provides.

    Hats off to the Garmin folks for creating such a great unit.

    I highly recommend this GPS.

    About me: I’m a casual rider. I ride about 600 miles per month and use the Garmin to track my rides (I visually load my rides onto MapMyRide and into Google Earth), track my progress and data associated with my rides.

    I also have been using the unit to help me navigate long, unfamiliar rides. In this case, I load a GPX file on the unit from any number of mapping utilities ([...], [...], etc).

    Some of PROS:

    - Weather-proof – you wouldn’t swim with it, but I’ve ridden in downpours with it quite a bit
    - Sturdy, solid construction – It’s survived many drops
    - Navigation – Turn-by-turn alerts based on a saved route works well
    - Screen – Legible, precise, looks great – beautiful full color maps
    - Backlight / Crip display – Very good illumination
    - Battery – After over a year of solid use, I still get 12+ hours continuous (without backlight).
    - Accurate GPS – works well in almost all parts of Manhattan, for example
    - Customizable screens – chose the data points you’d to show across 2 customizable screens
    - Heart rate sensor – has worked flawlessly for me (unlike the Polar sensors, which I’d had issues with)
    - Barometric altimeter – accurate – love knowing how much I’ve climbed (even as an estimate) and the % grade is neat
    - Support for workouts – intervals, etc and riding against your previous performance

    Some of the CONS (the PROS greatly outweigh any of these cons):

    - Maps are expensive (I believe I dropped 0 on maps for my cycling trip in France).
    - Map feature display priorities – The map name prioritization doesn’t make sense to me… I wish the map displayed town names over park names, for example.
    - Calorie count is completely wrong (based on distance – does not take into account climbs or heart rate) – but then again, I didn’t buy this unit to count calories.
    - Packaged Software – It’s not great, it’s not bad – it does the trick.

    Enjoy!

    Excellent Multi-usw GPS – Bruce Hornecker – Millburn, NJ
    The Garmin Edge 705 is one of the best GPS units I have ever owned. The unit was easy to mount ( I have mounted it on both of my bikes), and can also be used in a car. It’s easy to set up, has multiple display settings to customize how you see your workout or current location. There are many choices on what is viewed in the screen from 1 to 8 screens. Garmin has a free downloadable program to upload your data and maps. The price I had paid at Amazon was one of the lowest prices I have seen. I would highly recommend this unit for anyone who spends time outdoors.


    Garmin Edge 705 GPS-Enabled Cycling Computer (Includes Heart Rate Monitor and Speed/Cadence Sensor)

    • GPS-Enabled Cycle Computer
    • Sunlight-Readable Color Display
    • Features A High-Sensitivity Receiver That Holds A Signal Under Trees & Near Tall Buildings
    • Automatically Measures Speed, Distance, Time, Calories Burned, Altitude, Climb & Descent
    • Microsd Card(Tm) Slot For Adding Map Detail & Storing Workouts, Courses & Saved Rides

    GARMIN Edge 705 Speed/ Cade Outdoor Fitness GPS. Wherever you go, you can bring it on with the Garmin Edge 705 navigating trainer. Edge 705 pushes you to do your best, then shows you the way back. This GPS enabled cycle computer knows no limits. Get heart rate, cadence, turn by turn directions, power data /from ANT plus Sport enabled third party power meters/ the works. Even share your data with other Edge 705 buddies after your ride. All wireless with a color display, this is no ordinary cycle computer.

    Shop Garmin Edge 705 GPS-Enabled Cycling Computer (Includes Heart Rate Monitor and Speed/Cadence Sensor) Online, Shop Garmin Edge 705 Speed/ Cade Online

    June 4, 2010

    Garmin Edge 305 Bicycle GPS Navigator with Heart Rate Monitor and Speed/Cadence Sensor

    Filed under: Garmin — Tags: , , , , , — admin @ 5:15 pm

    Garmin 010-00447-30


    This is such a great product as I’m now able to view multiple data about my bike rides.

    took me a bit longer to setup the cadence sensor and I needed to figure out the distance from the crank to the rear, once that was solved works like charm.

    I only wish that the accesories that came to install on my bike were removable as I’m sure when I end up upgrading my bike I’ll have to buy new accesories to fit the cadence sensors and bike mount. oh well.

    Be warned – do not touch this product – John Kolm – Chevy Chase, MD USA
    You have been warned – by all means buy a Garmin 305 today, but don’t complain later.

    This is a worthless, unreliable piece of junk at a top-line price. The web is full of complaints about them crashing, hanging, not turning back on, not taking a charge, failing repeatedly and unexpectedly during rides and generally making a good skipping stone for the river, if you happen to be riding near one. Some people are on their fourth and fifth unit with the same problem. Garmin is not helping or even acknowledging this problem on their website. Google “Garmin 305 problem” and see for yourself.

    Unfortunately this piece of trash was a Christmas present (new and unopened) and so I will have to deal through the person who gave it to me – very unpleasant. It also meant I couldn’t do my research. You, though, have been warned – do not under any circumstances waste your money on this. Garmin products have become unreliable.

    And when you are on the road with any kind of outdoor product – slick features are nice, but reliability is EVERYTHING. This product is not only bad but dangerous. Try stopping suddenly on a ride if you doubt that.

    A Piece of Junk – Klu – Wisconsin
    The screen went totally blue after less than 3 months of use. I had to pay to ship it back to get a refurbished item with less than the original warranty and they wouldn’t ship the new one until they received the old one. The refurbished one won’t have the warranty that the original unit had. I have one other Garmin, which I have discovered by using other devices, is cumbersome to use. I would highly recommend avoiding this product in particular, and Garmin in general.

    very disappointing product – MSY – Seattle
    I’ve found this bike computer disappointing and frustrating to use ever since I bought it a year and a half ago, and I’ve finally tossed it – no need to try to fix it since it never operated satisfactorily out of the box, and I don’t want to foist it on someone else via the 2nd hand market. If it only did what it says it does, I’d be happy – but at best it provides only approximate data readouts that jump around from one moment to the next, and at worst it just quits. It functions well only at constant speeds on level ground, but once you start climbing, the speed and angle of climb readouts constantly jump around and are almost useless. And the heart rate monitor is finicky – works most of the time but can also jump around to 3/2 or double your actual rate. Recently it has been turning itself off in the middle of rides – quite exasperating since I time myself over a regular challenging route. Needless to say, it’s a poor value for the high cost. This is my 3rd Garmin GPS, and it is definitely my last.

    Recommended gadget! – Felipe Reis Antunes – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
    Very nice equipment to take with you on bycicle rides. It makes the training much more fun!


    Garmin Edge 305 Bicycle GPS Navigator with Heart Rate Monitor and Speed/Cadence Sensor

    • High-sensitivity GPS receiver
    • Heart rate monitor and speed/cadence sensor
    • Automatically records up to 1000 laps. Download to your PC
    • Look up and navigate to stored locations
    • Virtual Partner lets you “race” a virtual competitor, making training fun

    Rugged, lightweight Edge attaches easily to the stem or handlebars of your bike with the included bike mount. Just turn it on, acquire GPS satellites and go. Edge 305 automatically measures your speed, distance, time, calories burned, altitude, climb and descent, and records this data for your review. For extra-precise climb and descent data, Edge 305 also incorporates a barometric altimeter to pinpoint changes in elevation

    Shop Garmin Edge 305 Bicycle GPS Navigator with Heart Rate Monitor and Speed/Cadence Sensor Online, Shop Garmin 010-00447-30 Online

    May 11, 2010

    Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS Receiver With Heart Rate Monitor

    Filed under: Garmin — Tags: , , , — admin @ 4:15 pm

    Garmin 010-00467-00


    All in all, I’ve seen my share of fitness gadgets and tools come and go and I’ve come to appreciate a few as my very favorites and the forerunner 305 definitely in my top three. Now is the Forerunner 305 a completely necessary tool, no, not at all, if you really wanted to you could just googlemap out your run and figure out your pace with a watch, and you could definitely get a much cheaper heart rate monitor for that purpose. That being said, the Forerunner 305 is a fantastic tool and does everything that it can do nearly perfectly.

    Having this tool to track and keep a history of my runs has really inspired me to run much more often. And looking at the watch while running definitely inspires me to run faster to keep pace or go faster than my last run. So from those perspectives the Forerunner 305 actually does get you into better shape.

    For tracking runs the Forerunner 305 can’t be beat, it’s incredibly accurate in it’s gps positioning and keeps detailed history of your runs (or bikes for that matter). I used to use the Nike + run system and this watch keeps much more accurate records on distance. The only small issue that I’ve run into with the watch with respect to its gps function is that the watch can sometimes take a bit longer to locate satellites when it’s turned on if it’s overcast outside. It also gives a great deal of display options and can show you pretty much exactly what you want to focus on in whichever display position you desire.

    The workouts option provide good options to train with including the expected distances, 5k, 10k, marathon and anything custom inbetween.

    The heart rate monitor is quite accurate and the watch even enables you to set alerts to go off if your heart rate is too low or too high. The only other issue that I have with the watch is that the calorie counts aren’t necessarily the most accurate. The calorie counts are calculated based on weight and distance traveled. This is a basic method to calculate calories burned, and can vary in it’s effectiveness based on the overall fitness of the person. A more accurate method to determine calories burned would be based on heart rate, which this watch should use, but does not, and I’ve heard that some of the cheaper polar heart rate monitors will do (because they have to since they don’t know the distance traveled).

    Overall though, this watch has been an invaluable part of my fitness arsenal and has enabled me to stay in great shape without a gym membership.

    My other two favorite fitness tools are PowerBlock Elite 90 Adjustable 5 to 90-Pounds per Dumbbell Set and Bowflex SelectTech Adjustable Bench Series 3.1.

    Use it all the time! – Mary A. Dieter – Stillwater, MN
    I love that the Garmin 305 tells me how far i have runned, my pace and time. It does have a heart monitor which I have used but the numbers are soooo small even with reading glasses (which I do not wear while running) I have a hard time reading.
    It is larger in size but the features make up for it. Easy to charge, still finding out all the other features. It’s doing everything I need it to do for now!
    Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS Receiver With Heart Rate Monitor

    Mary, Stillwater, MN

    A good decision – Thomas H. Shuff –
    At the age of 63 I started runing in organized runs and realized I needed to monitor my progress without spending a lot and this Garmin 305 has proven to be a good investment. Thanks.

    The perfect fitness device for me! – Martin Sawyer – Decatur, GA United States
    I have/had a Timex Ironman and have never been so aggravated with a sports watch/device as it. One slight bump of the buttons and the display would change to something that wasn’t easy/quickly to get out of… and many times that attempt would screw-up my the time/stats of my current run. Even if it didn’t, who likes to be distracted during there run, so… I decided to get this Forerunner. I’m not going to repeat what others have said nor list its features. I’ll just say that it is one simple operating sports watch with comprehensive abilities that provides the ability to do long term performance studies with the included software. If I did have something negative to say, it’d be about the cradle. The watch, especially with the second (long) watch band, is not easy to place on a flat surface without the watch popping out of the cradle. The cradle is used to charge and replicated data to and from the watch–no big deal.


    Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS Receiver With Heart Rate Monitor

    • High-Sensitivity, Watch-Like GPS Receiver That Provides Exceptional Signal Reception
    • 1 Piece Training Assistant That Provides Athletes With Precise Speed, Distance & Pace Data
    • Includes Training Center Software, Which Allows Users To Download Workout Data For A Detailed Analysis
    • Used For Multiple Sports Such As Cycling, Cross- Country Skiing & Windsurfing
    • Data Acquired May Also Be Analyzed With Motionbased, Which Provides Online Mapping & Route Sharing

    Package Includes: Forerunner 305, Heart rate monitor, docking cradle, expander strap, AC charger, PC/USB interface cable, Quick start guide, Garmin Training Center CD & owner’s manual

    The Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS System combines form and function. This combination running partner and personal trainer is designed for athletes of all levels. It features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, new courses feature, and robust ANT wireless heart rate monitor for optimal performance. The super-sensitive GPS tracks your every move, even working on tree-covered trails and near tall buildings. The heart device monitors your heart rate, speed, distance, pace and calories burned so you can train smarter, more effectively. These taskmasters will continually push you to do your personal best. Courses feature lets you download recorded courses and compete against previous workouts Auto Pause pauses and resumes training timer GPS features – GPS with high-Sensitivity SiRFstarIII architecture Wireless communication between system devices via ANT protocol Display Size(WxH) – 1.3 x 0.8 (33 x 20.3 mm) Lap Memory – 1,000 laps Rechargeable internal lithium ion battery – lasts 10 hours (typical use) Waterproof – Submersible in one meter of water for up to 30 mins. Alerts – Time, distance, pace and heart rate Physical Size(WxHxD) – 2.1 x. 7 x 2.7 (53.3 x 17.8 x 68.6 mm) Weight – 2.72 oz. (77 g)

    Heart rate monitor features – Transmission Range – approximately 3m (9.8ft) 3V CR2032 battery – lasts 3 years (1 hour per day) Physical size(WxHxD) – 13.7 x 1.4 x 0.5 (348 x 35.6 x 12.7 mm) Weight -. 74 oz (21 grams)
    Amazon.com Review Just when you thought Garmin had cornered the market on powerful, affordable, and effective wrist-mounted GPS devices, here comes the Forerunner 305. The release of this device is a major achievement from a design and technology perspective. This isn’t just marketing-speak; the Forerunner 305 is the most accurate, most reliable wrist-mounted performance and GPS tracking tool we’ve ever tested. Yes, it’s that good. While no device this compact can do everything (yet), the 305 pushes the boundaries of what is possible from something strapped around your wrist. The 305 model includes wireless heartrate monitoring and it can also be connected to Garmin’s wireless bicycle speed and cadence sensor. If you don’t need these features, consider the lower-priced Forerunner 205.

    View Garmin’s Forerunner demonstration video.

    Choose from 12 data fields to display on the 305’s screen. View larger.

    The design cleverly integrates the GPS antenna and aims it towards the sky when you’re running or walking. View larger.

    The Virtual Partner function makes your workouts more competitive. View larger.

    Choose from three workout modes that help you target your training goals. View larger.

    The 305 features rudimentary mapping and location marking functions. View larger.

    Design
    The 305’s design is a radical departure from Garmin’s previous generation of wrist mounted GPS devices, which reached a pinnacle with the Garmin Forerunner 301. While the 301 delivered accurate heart rate monitoring, good performance tracking, and decent GPS reception, it didn’t quite deliver in the design department. The form factor was bulky and wearing it wasn’t much different than duct taping a full-sized GPS device to your wrist.

    Not so with the 305. Garmin’s engineers obviously burned the midnight oil and have come up with a waterproof design that, while certainly not as small as a sports watch, feels just as comfortable. The curved casing allows the unit’s antenna to face the sky when you’re running, while the widescreen display is perfectly positioned for viewing when you need it. And the display certainly deserves a few kudos. While it’s smaller than the display found on previous Forerunners, its resolution is far higher, offering incredible clarity and crispness.

    Garmin has smartly given the 305 a simple button layout and the buttons have a nice tactile feel with good pressure response. The right side houses the menu selection and enter buttons, while the left houses a power/backlight button and a mode button. This simple and elegant solution is a big improvement over the sometimes confusing button functionality of previous Forerunners. View button layout.

    The underside of the 305 is pretty nondescript, except for a row of contacts that interface with the included charging and data cradle. The cradle is small and unobtrusive and its single mini-USB port connects to either an included AC adapter, or a USB cable that connects to your PC. In addition to data transfer with the USB cable, you can also charge the 305’s embedded lithium-ion battery via a powered USB connection from your computer.

    GPS Performance
    The big news about the Forerunner 305 is that it features an integrated, high-sensitivity SiRFstar III GPS receiver. What does this mean? It means that the 305’s ability to both track, and maintain a lock on, your position is better than anything before it. After an intial battery charge, the tester had the 305 on his wrist and was tracking speed and distance with GPS satellites within 3 minutes. The next time we used the 305, satellite acquisition was nearly instantaneous. A run through dense trees didn’t faze the unit either; tracking remained true and steady. Performance on a bike was equally impressive. Whatever witchcraft has been cooked up by the designers of the SiRF technology, we like it!

    The simple docking cradle makes charging and data connectivity a snap.

    While the Forerunner 305 isn’t billed as a GPS navigation device, it does have some rudimentary mapping, waypoint marking, and routing capabilities. In addition to marking locations along your journey, you can zoom in or out of a simple map that displays your current direction and path. There’s also a “go to location” feature that routes you back to your starting location, or to any location you have defined. Once you have defined several locations, you can save this information as a route, allowing you to travel the same path in the future. As you’ll see below, the 305’s new “Courses” feature gives you new levels of control over how you define your favorite runs and rides.

    Training Functions
    The 305 is first and foremost a training tool, and its ability to organize a ton of data types into a user experience that is intuitive and simple is no small feat. Whiz-bang technology aside, if you can’t use it and make it a natural part of your exercise routine, it’s worthless. When it comes to these factors — and here’s the take home message on the 305 — this device is successful where many other devices fail.

    The heart and soul of the 305 can be found on the data screens, which give you real-time information about all aspects of your workout. In fact, the 305 can display a dizzying array of data, such as calories burned, distance, elevation, grade, and heading, as well as multiple lap and pace modes. The 305 adds the ability to track heartrate, lap heartrate, average heartrate, and heartrate zones via the included coded heartrate chest strap. With the purchase of a separate wireless cadence and speed meter, you can also track bike performance data.

    Thankfully, the device makes it easy to define how much or how little data you want to view during a workout. You can arrange the data that’s most important to you and then make that data appear front and center on the device. Indeed, within a few minutes of skimming the manual and fiddling with the device setup, you’ll have your most important data displaying just the way you like it. The ability to display heartrate is a big plus, too, as it’s a fairly good indicator of excercise output, fatigue, and fitness level. The 305 has all the heartrate functions you’d expect from a full-function monitor, including the ability to set target zones and alerts to maximize the effectiveness of your workouts.

    Garmin’s Virtual Partner function was cool feature of previous Forerunners and they’ve decided to keep a good thing going with the 305. If you’re the type that performs best when you’ve got a competitor egging you on, you’ll love this function, as it allows you to set up virtual running or biking companions that compete against you.

    If you’re looking for an complicated workout with a variety of intervals and intensity levels, or just a quick three-mile jog against your best time last week, the 305 has you covered. Navigating to the Workouts menu on the device yields three options: Quick Workouts, Interval, and Advanced Workout. A quick workout is just that; set the distance and time, distance and pace, or time and pace of your planned workout and off you go. Interval workouts are just the same, but they allow you to add repetitions and rest between them. When you really want to get fancy with your exercise, you can step up to advanced workouts, which include goals for each workout step, as well as varied distances, times, and rest periods. You can use the Garmin Training Center software to set up these workouts and then upload them to the device.

    Computer Connectivity and Software
    Garmin has been outfitting their devices with USB connectivity for some time now — a welcome move for those who struggled with serial port connections in the days of yore. Thanks to USB, the 305 integrates seamlessly with the Training Center software and we quickly had workout history uploaded and stored on the computer. Not only does Training Center–which is compatible with both PC and Mac–make it easy to track your performance, you can graph data such as heartrate alongside your speed and distance. Over time, this is a great way to view your fitness levels increase, and it also helps you see what types of workouts are necessary to strengthen your weaknesses. For instance, if you see your heartrate begin to spike after a certain distance, you know you need to increase your endurance workouts to train that area of fitness.

    In a first for the Forerunner series, the Training Center software also lets you define courses on your computer that you can upload to the device. When course information is combined with uploaded workout information, the Forerunner becomes a complete guide, telling you where to go, when to make a turn, and what kind of workout to do when you’re on the road or path. Back on the computer, the software’s ability to overlay workout data on maps of the course makes it easy to see where the course offers up the tough hills and the easy recovery spots. Plus, the ability to track historical performance on a given course is a great way to measure your improvement.

    The 305 is also fully compatible with Garmin’s MotionBased service, which takes your training to another level by connecting your data with the Internet. While we weren’t able to use the service, the promise of sharing courses, maps, workouts, and performance data with other users is intriguing. And if you’re a serious endurance athlete, you’ll be glad to know that the 305 is also compatible with TrainingPeaks.com, an easy-to-use web based training system designed to help athletes train for any event.

    Pros

    • Radically new design is better in every way
    • Amazing accuracy and fast satellite acquisition time
    • So simple to set up and use, you will actually use it

    Cons

    • Okay, it’s bigger than a sport’s watch — but so much more powerful

      What’s in the Box
      Forerunner 305, Garmin Training Center CD-ROM, heart rate monitor, docking cradle, expander strap, A/C charger, USB cable, owner’s manual, quick start guide.

      Shop Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS Receiver With Heart Rate Monitor Online, Shop Garmin 010-00467-00 Online

      April 21, 2010

      Garmin Edge 305 Bicycle GPS Navigator with Heart Rate Monitor and Speed/Cadence Sensor (Factory Refurbished)

      Filed under: Garmin — Tags: , , , , , , , — admin @ 5:45 am

      Garmin 010-N04470-30


      This is an absolutely great cycling computer. HR and cadence work flawlessly so far. It is extremely helpful for training to be able to track (literally) every second of your ride. You can see HR, CAD, altitude, speed, etc for your entire ride and see how they interact. Previously, I’ve used Polar and was very displeased with the HR and CAD often dropping out during the ride. The Garmin sensors are much better, they have replaceable batteries (unlike Polar# and the speed/CAD is a single sensor on the rear wheel. I might also add that the unit finds satellites and is ready to go in only a few seconds.

      Minor down sides include: it has the same issues as most GPSs, namely coverage under trees isn’t too great and since it is using this to calculate speed the speed reading can jump around as you go into and out of trees and GPSs aren’t very good at altitude. It has a barometric sensor to determine altitude gains as you’re riding but total gain and loss is often off a bit #since I usually ride loops the numbers should be the same). I’m not sure why Garmin doesn’t use the wheel sensor to determine speed, but … These are really minor compared with the value the unit gives.

      I might also add that maps, as in the 705, would be really cool but they can be had for a price. At this point I am 100% satisfied.

      Great training tool – Sterling R. Waite – Florida
      I’m very happy with the edge 305. I’m still trying to figure out a way to plan out a route online and put it on the unit, but following other peoples routes from [...] or similar is fairly straightforward.

      In my opinion, the most impressive feature is completely unrelated to the unit’s GPS abilities: zone based heart rate training workouts. Once you have definied your hear rate zones, you can create workouts based on these zones. For instance, you could create a workout in which you do a 10 min interval in your lactate threshold zone followed by a 10 min recovery in your endurance zone, and the unit will tell you to raise or lower your hear rate accordingly.

      I have also been using the edge for running. I bought a cell phone arm strap and wear the edge on my forearm, where I can view the display. Its a little bulky for this, but not too bad.

      Overall, this is a great product.

      Great Techno-Bike Geek Device!! – RockyClimber – Monument, CO
      I must admit that I had high expectations for this product even with some of the less than stellar reviews that I had seen on this site and others. I am very pleased to say that my expectations were met and greatly exceeded. I had been using a Specialized wired bike computer and had long wished for an integrated heart rate monitor and altimeter since I live in the Rockies and do a lot of climbing. The first couple of rides I found that the heart rate monitor numbers were all over the place and very innacurate. After a little research I found the suggestion to utilize a litte gel on the band instead of saliva or water and that has made all the difference. I purchased Spectra Electrode Gel from [...] and haven’t had a problem since. As to the many complaints about battery life, I did a 4 hour ride today with ‘every second’ data recording turned on and the battery meter did not move from the full position. One little complaint that I do have is the lack of a persistent odometer on the device, but as others have pointed out, this information is available in the Garmin Training Center Software.

      Fantastic! – E. Knight – Denver, CO
      This GPS gives you tons of information at your fingertip on the device itself, but it’s stored information and the software that comes with it provide you with everything you could ask for about your ride(s)! Just a fantastic piece of equipment for the cyclist!


      Garmin Edge 305 Bicycle GPS Navigator with Heart Rate Monitor and Speed/Cadence Sensor (Factory Refurbished)

      • Refurbished
      • High-sensitivity, watch-like GPS receiver that provides exceptional signal receipt
      • 1-piece training assistant that provides athletes with precise speed, distance, etc.
      • Includes training center software which allows the user to download workout data
      • Used for multiple sports such as cycling, cross-country skiing, and windsurfing

      Refurbished Garmin Edge 305

      Shop Garmin Edge 305 Bicycle GPS Navigator with Heart Rate Monitor and Speed/Cadence Sensor (Factory Refurbished) Online, Shop Garmin 010-N04470-30 Online

      March 31, 2010

      Garmin 010-00555-00 Edge 605 Bicycle Monitor with GPS

      Filed under: Garmin — Tags: , , , — admin @ 6:45 pm

      Garmin 010-00555-00


      An odd mix of positives and negatives:
      Pros:
      Incomparable data graphs of numerous measured parameters during your ride, permitting quantification of training beyond anything even dreamed of a couple of decades ago.
      All the other well-known advantages of GPS to display current location and to be able to plan routes and courses (as well, of course, as showing details of ridden courses).
      The variety, choice, and arrangement of displayed measurements (the `fields’) are just amazing. Essentially, you can put on the screen virtually whatever you want and wherever you want it, and the screen is high resolution (as is required, to be sure, for detailed maps).
      Heart-rate and cadence are reliably detected. Heart-rate is intelligently smoothed (but will detect tachycardia).
      Tech support is US based and, therefore, native English speaking (unfortunately, it is needed far too often).
      Battery life is good enough for a very long ride – I suspect easily over 10 hours (if back-lighting is not over-used).
      Cons:
      No temperature sensor
      Barometer does not permit user calibration, thereby insuring that it can only be accurate in the accident of exactly the right weather (as atmospheric pressure, which it is actually measuring, varies with the weather). Why the maker would have done this is incomprehensible. Since the weather changes constantly, the indicated `elevation’ changes, even though you have not moved. Moreover, because there is no temperature sensor, the barometer transducer cannot be temperature compensated, inducing the inevitability of yet another error in that measurement. Consequently, I was able to watch the elevation drift from plus 150 feet to minus (!!) 200 feet in the space of a few minutes (the actual elevation was 245 feet). Finally, it is quite possible to have the device show a difference in altitude for the beginning and end of the ride of over 50 feet, even when you start and finish at the same place (with no perceptible change in weather)! At the very least, the user should be able to calibrate the instrument at the start of a ride (provided, of course, that he knows the elevation at that starting point). This would help ensure that `elevation’ (altitude) measurements at any point on the ride will be reasonably accurate.
      The user manual is woefully inadequate. Example: you are told that, at a rate of 1 second intervals for route recordings, the device will begin to overwrite previous data after about 4.5 hours (without warning!). You are encouraged to `reset’ the device after 4 hours. What you are not told is what happens to your data in this circumstance (it turns out that, fortunately, it is saved!). Example: There is virtually no explanation of how `calories’ are calculated. If you are not using a power sensor, this number has to be interpolated from some algorithm. There is no information about this whatsoever in the manual and, you can obtain virtually nothing on this subject from Garmin tech support even over the phone! (I personally believe – admittedly, without quantitative proof – their calculation for calories burned to be grossly inaccurate, perhaps by as much as a factor of 2 too high.) Example: the `save location’ feature has 3 choices: “Avg”, “Max” and “OK”, none of which is explained in the manual. And I could go on with many other issues.
      Copy/piracy protection for their maps is so obsessive that even their own staff cannot easily circumvent it in the (inevitable) case where copying is necessary. In my own case, I had to replace my 705 with another, but since I had already downloaded my (purchased) North American DVD of maps, I was unable to unlock the map without 3 hours (!) of telephone assistance from technical support. ! This is supposed to be called customer service?? There just has to be a better way…
      The “Training Center” software, available as a free download from their web address, does not permit any user designation of units to be used in the graph, just how coarse or fine, for example, one can plot any particular variable (such as slope, or what Garmin calls `grade’) – it just arbitrarily chooses the ordinate, and cannot be changed. ? Surely Garmin can do better than this.

      In sum: I have not tried other competitive models (or even know that they exist). As a cycling computer, this thing is amazing, blowing away the pre-GPS varieties, yet at the same time it is disappointing. With a bit more effort, especially with software and documentation, Garmin could have had something truly awesome. As it stands, it is a major achievement, but the user is made to feel uncomfortably dependent on tech support due to the poor documentation.

      Great gadget – Avid Rider – NY, USA
      This is a great exercise computer/GPS. I had a bicycle shop install it but in watching the process installing on your own does not seem difficult. It is easy to use with plenty of video clips available on Garmin’s site and Youtube to help out. Use any number of websites to plot a course and easily download to the unit. Only gripe: the unit does not exactly follow the course you map out and has you making turns where you did not indicate because it is looking to take the fastest route. Be sure to check out Edge’s minsite on Garmin: [...].

      Out of Date Technology – J. Lawler –
      As you can probably tell from my title, I’m a bit dissapointed with the Garmin Edge 605. First I realized that NO maps come with the edge. You must buy them for around 0 each. (I don’t really call the included freeway maps relevant to a bike computer.) Anyway, you must find the “Trainer” application on their web site. When you run it, it has all the sophistication of software written for PCs in the early 90s. It also crashes often just like the 90s software. (To be fair, it says you can install Google earth to see your tracks on top of Google maps.)

      Last week I purchased a Droid Motorola phone. I found a free app under the “Market”, in Lifestyles category called “My Tracks”. This app tracked my route as well as the Garmin, and it has better maps, I just tap a menu item to send it to my google account. If you are thinking of buying a Garmin or any handheld GPS you should really consider instead just buying a Droid. Don’t fool around with multiple devices especially while biking.

      Now here’s a “however”: I have no mount for the Droid for my bike. It just goes where I always keep my cell phone. So this could be the clincher for sticking with the separate Garmin GPS. But I’ll bet dollars to donuts that bike mounts for the Droid will be showing up soon.

      After using the Droid and My Tracks, Garmin has some major catching up to do.

      Garmin Edge 705 – C. Timonen – Annapolis
      I absolutely love this purchase! Very easy to install and use. I particularly like the integration with Training Center. Routes and performance can be uploaded to a computer and compared to other rides. Very cool. The map on Training Center leaves much to be desired, but the ability to overlay over Google Earth is nice.


      Garmin 010-00555-00 Edge 605 Bicycle Monitor with GPS

      • GPS-Enabled Cycle Computer
      • Sunlight-Readable Color Display
      • Features A High-Sensitivity Receiver That Holds A Signal Under Trees & Near Tall Buildings
      • Virtual Partner(R) Lets User Race A Virtual Competitor Over A Specified Distance & Speed
      • Courses Allow User To Race Against Previously Recorded Workouts

      Garmin has really upped the ante on the entire cycling computercategory with it’s two new gps-enabled navigator/computers, the 705 and its younger sibling, the 605. These are true navigational aids with full-color maps and turn-by-turn directions in addition to advanced route-planning and saving capabilities. On top of that, the 705 adds heart rate and cadence monitors, a barometric altimeter, and wireless capability that lets you share routes and workout data with other riders instantly. Sleek and waterproof, with a 2.2-inch color screen that lets you customize what data you see and how you see it, these two devices help make the most of every ride.

      The Power Of Location-Based Data
      Anyone who has used Garmin’s original Edge 205 or 305 already understands the power that attaching location data to traditional measurements like distance, speed, time, calories burned, and heart rate can provide. Knowing exactly where you worked hardest, rode fastest (or most slowly) lets you tailor your workouts to improve to improve your riding skills for specific distances, conditions, and types of terrain. It gives a complete picture of how you interact with every portion of your ride.

      Altitude is recorded using a barometric altimeter for the Edge 705. This accurate altitude data makes it much easier for cyclists to match their altitude profile with their speed, cadence, and heart rate during post-ride analysis. The Edge 605 gives a somewhat less precise altitude measurement via the GPS positioning system itself.

      A First-Rate Bike Computer
      The Edge 605 automatically measures your speed, distance, time, calories burned and altitude. The 705 also track your heart rate, cadence, power (from optional ANT + Sport-enabled third-party power meters), climb and descent. Other nifty features include the following.

      • Virtual Partner lets you race a virtual competitor over a specified distance and speed.
      • Courses let you race against a previously recorded workout, so you can compare your current and past performances over the same ride.
      • Auto Pause pauses the timer when you slow down or stop and resumes when you speed up again, so you can focus on your ride.
      • Auto Lap automatically starts a new lap each time you pass a specified location or travel a preset distance
      • Click stick helps users navigate through the various options.

      Full-Featured Navigation

      The Edge 305 Screen (actual size)
      Edge 305 Screen Shot

      The larger color screen (actual size) on the Edge 605 and 705 shows you your surroundings more clearly and supports real turn-by-turn navigation.
      Edge 705 screen shot

      No more scratch paper paper-clipped to your handlebars. In addition to their cycling computer functions, The Edge 705 and 605 provide the same robust navigation as Garmin’s vehicle navigators, with turn-by-turn spoken directions (turn left in 500 yards) and a 2.2-inch (diagonal) color display that shows maps in great detail.

      Both devices come pre-loaded with a built-in basemap, and a MicroSD card slot you can use to load new maps or store workout, course and ride data. Garmin has lots of street and topographic maps available for purchase and you can download courses and rides from Garmin or other riders at the Garmin Connect website.

      Both feature a high-sensitivity receiver that holds a signal under trees and near tall buildings and have a click stick for easy screen navigation.

      Connectivity and “ANT + Sport”
      One of Garmin’s most ambitious decisions has been to approach fitness devices as a total platform with their “ANT + Sport” connectivity system. All of Garmin’s new fitness devices, including the Edge 605 and 705, the Forerunner 50 heart rate monitor watches, will interface wirelessly with any devices that are compatible wiht the “ANT + Sport” protocol, including devices from other manufacturers. Currently, Garmin the devices will pair with power meter from SRM or Quarq to measure power – torque and cadence for each leg at the pedals – which is often cited as a true indicator of an efficient ride. It’s unclear what other manufacturers will buy into the ANT + Sport platform, but this kind of open connectivity with products from other companies offers a great deal of potential flexibility.

      The wireless function also makes it easy to connect one Edge unit to another to share rides, courses and workout data.

        Heart Rate and Cadence Monitors
        The Edge 705 heart rate monitor uses a robust wireless technology that eliminates cross-talk and interference and delivers real-time heart rate data exclusively to the user’s device. This data is stored with each track point for post-workout analysis. The Edge 705 with speed/cadence sensor incorporates a self-calibrating, wireless speed/cadence sensor that mounts to the rear chain stay of the bicycle.

        Be Part of A Community
        In 2007, Garmin acquired Motion-based, the largest shared repository of customer-generated gps-based routes, courses and maps. This was a significant move for Garmin to support the gps user community and bring a wealth of route options to gps users. With a simple connection to your computer, you can join a worldwide network of cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts through Garmin Connect our new, one-stop site for data analysis an sharing.

        You can also upload to optional Garmin Training Center software for further analysis. Garmin Training Center stores large quanities of workout and ride data. Some of the things you can do are

        • Review your workout data, including pace/speed, distance, time, calories burned; and if available, heart rate, cadence and detailed elevation.
        • View a detailed graph of your workout data, plotted over time or distance.
        • View a map of your workout that shows the exact path you traveled.
        • Categorize your workout history according to type of activity.
        • Review previous workouts, which are saved by day and week.
        • Create customized workouts with specific goals and rest intervals. Then send them to your fitness device.*
        • Schedule workouts for a specific day with calendar.
        • Get custom workout templates designed by the experts at TrainingPeaks.com

        What’s In The Box
        Edge 605 GPS-enabled cycling computer, bike mounts, AC charger, USB cable, owner’s manual on CD-ROM, quick reference guide

        Shop Garmin 010-00555-00 Edge 605 Bicycle Monitor with GPS Online, Shop Garmin 010-00555-00 Online

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