Cycle Trainer 2.0 GPS Bike Computer

Review:

I have used Timex watches for 25 years. I purchased my first Ironman watch in 1987 and still use it today, so it is unfortunate that I have to write a negative review for this product. I purchased the Cycletrainer 2.0 thinking that it would help improve my riding, unfortunately it hasn’t. This product has some serious flaws that I would think Timex would have caught before putting this on the market. First, the instruction manual that comes with the product is woefully inadequate and poorly written. Downloading the full manual online helps, but it is best to watch the videos. Second, and this probably applies to either more experienced riders and/or those who really want to capture every detail of their rides for storage and analysis; a significant flaw exists in the Cycletrainer regarding accuracy. As an example, and this may apply to all GPS devices so take that into consideration, the information recorded by the unit can be rendered inaccurate by passing under trees or other types of similar obstructions. It is somewhat disconcerting to be riding along at say, 20mph, only to have the unit then read something like 5mph because one has gone under some trees. Such wild fluctuations can only serve to impact things like recorded average speed, power output etc. Again these factors may not mean much to some users, but they are significant if one is using the TrainingPeaks program and is striving for accurate data regarding their training. I would suggest riders not remove their simple fork mounted computer as at least those will provide accurate readings in all conditions. Lastly, this unit seems to have difficulty displaying the correct date and time. Even when connected to the computer, during every download of information I have to reset the date and time on the unit. As I began, I have used Timex products for a long time but I cannot endorse this one, I gave it a 1 star because zero wasn’t an option. Cycling is expensive enough without the added issue of spending money on things that essentially don’t work, this makes a great handlebar ornament, you’ll look like the pros on tv, and people will think you’re cool; but I think many riders would rather, if given the choice, spend their money on something that helps their riding rather then just dresses up their bike. I’ll be boxing up my Timex, considering this an expensive lesson learned and looking to purchase a Garmin.