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jmk-brooklyn
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Polar CS100 Cycling Computer review

  • Price Paid:$100.00
  • User rating:
    (3.3)
  • Would buy again from this company: Yes
  • Used product for: 2 years 3 months
  • # of logged workouts:

"While I would certainly buy other Polar products again, this is not one I would recommend. It's a good entry-level unit that performs well at a basic level, but many of its features aren't conducive to use by a triathlete (e.g. front wheel mounted speed sensor, difficult to read in aero, complex interface).
I plan to replace this model soon with a Cateye double wireless model. "jmk-brooklyn

(2)

Ease of installation

The wheel sensor attaches to the front fork, and is not designed with an aero fork in mind. It would fit more readily on a standard round/oval fork. I contacted Polar to see if it was possible to mount the sensor on the rear seatstay/chainstay and was told that the signal was not strong enough to reach the computer. The cadence sensor (optional & sold seperately) was easy enough to install, and the computer unit mounts easily on the handlebar or stem.

(3)

Ease of use

I find the buttons, which are close together and identical, to be difficult to push without looking at them. Not ideal for operation while riding. The sequence to cycle through various screens is somewhat complex.

(4)

Quality of Construction

All the parts are durable. The tape used to affix the magnet to the crank (for the cadence sensor) could be a little stickier and more long-lasting).

(4)

Durability

I've used it for several years with no problems or issues in terms of battery life.

(0)

Value

I thnk there are better computers available at this price range, particularly when you add the optional cadence sensor.

(2)

Appearance

The computer unit is fine, however, the fork-mounted speed sensor is quite large. I've never tested it in a wind tunnel, but I have to belieive that it adversely affects aerodynamics. There's really no way to install it and have it be out of the wind, especially on an aero carbon fork.

(4)

Customer Service

Polar answered my question quickly, even though it wasn't the answer I wanted to hear.

(4)

Performance

The information seems accurate.

Strengths

Polar products are well-made, and they offer good customer support. The installation instructions are straightforward and it's easy to re-adjust and remove the sensors and computer once installed.

Weakness

There's no way to import the data into a PC-based system, which is par for the course with an entry-level unit like this. Other weaknesses are the large speed sensor and the fact that it must be mounted on the front wheel, making it useless for indoor training. The screen is difficult to read, especially when it's mounted on the stem and the rider is in an aero position. The features and modes are complicated to cycle through and the interface is not particularly intuitive.

Buyers clubCS100 Cycling Computer
  • 2 people use
  • 0 workouts logged
  • 410.64 miles / 23.69 hours logged