Garmin 305 Forerunner Watch

[Warlock]

 

 

Does anyone use the Garmin 305 Forerunner Watch unit for

cycling? I can?t decide whether to get the Watch unit or the Garmin 305 Edge

Cycling Unit? I like the idea of being able to use the Watch for different

activities but I am unsure if it will be good enough for cycling.

 

Warlock2009-02-04 05:14:16

[Trubie]

Also , what would be  the better option - The Garmin, or the Polar 725x?

What are the differences in functionalities?

Need some advice please?

[pbp2007]

I use the FR305 mainly for riding and running.

Before that, I used the FR301.

The bike-specific models do have the advantage of being bike-specific (of course). I take it that means a bigger display and the ability to interface with the various bolt-on goodies such as power and cadence sensors.

 

If all you're using your device for is riding, then there's a strong argument for a bike-specific unit.

 

I'm more of a rider than a runner, but I still prefer the superior portability of the Forerunner and the fact that I can wear it on a wrist. I don't like its smaller display (compared with the 301) and almost inaudible beep. Battery life... well, that's a whole 'nuther story.

 

 

 

[Warlock]

Is battery life a problem with the FR305? I would like to use the FR305 for running and paddling but my main concern is riding. I think cadence sensors are compatable with the FR305?

[pbp2007]

Officially the FR305 has a 9-hour runtime. The 301 had 13 hours.

The problem with the 305 and recharging is that you need to use the special docking station, which is yet another gadget to forget to bring along (assuming you need to recharge away from your usual base). At least the 301 had a mini-USB port.

 

 

pbp20072009-02-04 09:34:49

[Warlock]

I have read on a Surf Ski website that the mini-USB port on the 301 gave problems regarding waterproof. I think thats why they brought out the docking station.

Can you plot actual routes with the 305's software and then load it up onto the unit to go and run,hike,ride or paddle?

 

[Frosty]

At least the FR305 has a USB/2-pin combination charger, so you can charge it virtually anywhere, but that means you have to remember the docking station - and remember to dry the unit before placing it on the docking station.

You can upload/download routes you/others have plotted. I used the pre-ride data from the Sabie Experience and that helped (especially knowing when the climbs were nearing the end).

I don't think you can plot the route on the software, and transfer to the unit - I stand to be corrected. But you can cut and paste portions of various route and create your own route.

 

The display may be a bit small, but once you've customised the display(three pages by default) you'll get used to knowing where to look for the specific information, i.e. group the speeds (current, ave, max) together on one page, distance (lap, total, etc.) on another and "other information" (altitude, HR, HR zones, etc) on the last page.

Frosty2009-02-05 09:13:03

[pbp2007]

After recording a track, you can use it to  create a course in Garmin Training Centre. This course can be uploaded to the unit.

 

An alternative if you haven't ridden the actual route and recorded a track is to create a route in Garmin Mapsource. (The software comes free with the device.) Remember to limit  your waypoints/locations because if I remember correctly there is a 100-waypoint restriction. When you follow the route using the unit, it will beep and give a visual indication at each turn or waypoint. Not quite like the big autorouting versions with voice assistance, but it does the job.

 

 

 

[scotty]

Also ' date=' what would be  the better option - The Garmin, or the Polar 725x?

What are the differences in functionalities?

Need some advice please?

[/quote']

Google garmin vs polar, loads of info on pros and cons

[Super_mil]

I have a FR 305 and really like the unit. I bought it in 2007 specifically for running/trail running and have since bought a quick mounting kit which enables me to switch between my handle bars and wrist really quickly, so good if you plan to do any triathalons.

 

 

 

I find the Garmin system works really well.

 

 

 

As mentioned above you can upload/download routes in Mapsource which you can then transfer directly to Google Earth which is quite nifty.

 

 

 

The only glitch I've had is that I've had problems downloading data to Training Centre when you have tracks stored... For some reason the unit/software doesn't like it, I'm not sure why? But you can get round this by deleting the tracks downloading/uploading your info and then putting the necessary tracks back onto your unit.

[Minion]

 

 

Also ' date=' what would be  the better option - The Garmin, or the Polar 725x?

What are the differences in functionalities?

Need some advice please?

[/quote']

Here's one comparison:

https://www.bikehub.co.za/forum_posts.asp?TID=30345&KW=705&PID=490089#490089

 

Otherwise Google it or go and have a read through Polar's and Garmin's webpages.

Edman2009-02-05 23:46:09

[Trubie]

Also ' date=' what would be  the better option - The Garmin, or the Polar 725x?

What are the differences in functionalities?

Need some advice please?

[/quote']
Here's one comparison:
https://www.bikehub.co.za/forum_posts.asp?TID=30345&KW=705&PID=490089#490089

Otherwise Google it or go and have a read through Polar's and Garmin's webpages.

 

This is why I love the hub, you guys have been a great help!

Now can anyone assist with the funds to acquire both please?

[Super_mil]

 

 

 

My track data from the MTN cycle park open day.

 

 

 

Good times!

[Super_mil]

<Hijack>

 

 

 

Edman there can be only one Dr Zoidberg!!!!

[Warlock]

Thanks guys I appreciate all the info.

I bought my unit today so its out to explore this weekend.

[pbp2007]

... and before I forget, go to zonefivesoftware.com and download SportTracks.

 

(No connection to the product other than being one of many satisfied users.)