Polar FlowLink
- ShowProduct Information It's easy to transfer data between the training computer and polarpersonaltrainer.com. Simply connec... read more
- Show Reviews & Q&As
- Show Computers Guide
- Show Delivery & Guarantee
Product Description
It's easy to transfer data between the training computer and polarpersonaltrainer.com. Simply connect it to a Mac or PC with its USB connection.Occasionally, without notice, manufacturers change product design and/or specifications.
Computers Guide
Cycle Computers Guide
Cycle computers give you access to your data to help you to get more out of your ride. They show you how far you’ve ridden, how fast you are going, direct you where to go, and even connect to sensors on your bike and body to give you more info about your riding techniques.
There are many different types of cycle computer, from simple speed and distance devices to powerful GPS computers like the Pros use. To help you choose the one that’s right for you we’ll take a look at each type of computer along with the sensors and accessories that go with them.
Conventional Cycle Computers
Wired Computers
Wired cycling computers are the simplest and most affordable type of cycle computer. They have a cable that connects to a sensor on your wheel to give you information on your speed and progress. Typically, a wired computer will give you current, maximum, and average speed as well trip distance, total distance and time.
Speed and distance are worked out through your bikes wheel rotations, so the data won’t be as accurate as a GPS computer.
Wireless Computers
Wireless computers also use a wheel sensor, but this is connected wirelessly to keep the lines on your bike clean. These computers offer the same speed and distance data as a wired computer with similar levels of accuracy.
Higher end wireless computers can connect to cadence and heart rate sensors as well as laptops and smartphones using ANT+ and Bluetooth. This gives you more options to learn more about your performance and fine tune your training plan.
GPS Computers
GPS Cycle Computers
GPS Cycle computers add accuracy to your data as well as offering many other useful features including navigation. Using the GPS and GLONASS global satellite navigation systems these cycle computers can tell you exactly where you are and how quickly you are moving. Offering turn by turn navigation on road and trail GPS computers make getting around much easier.
Like high-end wireless computers GPS units use ANT+ and Bluetooth to connect to cadence sensors, heart rate monitors and power meters. You can sync this data to fitness and navigation apps like Strava and Trail Forks to really unlock their potential.
Typical Cycle Computer Features
While each computer has its own set of functions, and each new model adds new exciting features, the table below shows typical features that you can expect to see in each type of cycle computer.
|
Feature |
Basic |
Intermediate |
Advanced |
|
Estimated Speed |
✔ |
✔ |
NA |
|
Estimated Distance |
✔ |
✔ |
NA |
|
Clock |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
|
Temperature |
|
✔ |
✔ |
|
Easy Swap Between Bikes |
|
✔ |
✔ |
|
ANT+ and/or Bluetooth connectivity |
|
✔ |
✔ |
|
Cadence |
|
✔ |
✔ |
|
Heartrate |
|
✔ |
✔ |
|
Power Output |
|
|
✔ |
|
Accurate Speed |
|
|
✔ |
|
Accurate Distance |
|
|
✔ |
|
Position on Map |
|
|
✔ |
|
Altitude and Elevation Gain |
|
|
✔ |
|
Turn by Turn Navigation |
|
|
✔ |
|
Route Recording |
|
|
✔ |
|
Access 3rd Party Apps |
|
|
✔ |
Activity Monitors
GPS Sports Watches
Sports watches, especially GPS watches, offer a good alternative to traditional cycle computers. GPS watches are essentially a powerful cycle computer that’s worn on your wrist, rather than mounted to your handlebar. Perfect for triathletes and multi-sport athletes you can track all your training without needing to use different devices.
With GPS positioning, these sports watches give you accurate distance data, they can track your pace and monitor altitude. Most GPS watches will sync with heart rate monitors or have built in functionality to track your pulse. They also receive smart notifications and can sync to a wide range of software applications through ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart such as Strava and Zwift.
Heart Rate Monitors
Heart rate sensors are positioned on your chest and held in place with a strap – you often see them on pro cyclists when they undo their jerseys on the climbs. You will be able to view your heart rate on your cycle computer screen. Some smart watches and other wearable tech items feature optical heart rate sensors and are a great alternative to wearing a chest strap.
By monitoring your heart rate in real time, you will be able to adjust the amount of effort you put into your ride. Knowing how your heart rate responds when you cycle will enable you to fine tune your training by riding within certain limits, pushing yourself on intervals and monitoring your recovery.
Connectivity
Wireless and GPS cycle computers use ANT+ or Bluetooth technology to connect to other devices. You will need this if you want to connect to external sensors like power meters and heartrate monitors as well as to your phone, tablet or laptop. Fortunately, most modern devices make this process very easy.
While most computers use both some devices are only ANT+ or Bluetooth compatible. Some cycle computers still require a USB connection to transfer data to a laptop. It’s best to check that your sensors, smartphone and computer, as well as your turbo trainer can all work together nicely by connecting with the cycle computer you intend to buy.
Computer Spares - Sensors & Mounts
Speed and Cadence Sensors
The most notable computer spares are the speed and cadence sensors that attach to your bike and connect to your compatible cycle computer with ANT+, Bluetooth or with wires (on wired cycle computers). Sometimes speed and cadence sensors are combined into one unit that attaches to the chain stay.
Speed sensors monitor the rotation of your front or back wheel which your computer then converts into speed, in much the same way as a speedometer on your car. As well as monitoring your speed in real time a speed sensor will allow you to analyse your average speed and maximum speed post-ride.
Cadence is the rate that your legs turn as you cycle and is measured in revolutions per minute, much like the rev counter on a car. Cadence can have a real effect on your pedalling efficiency and many cyclists find that a high cadence improves their performance. By riding to a specific cadence and then comparing that with your other ride data you will be able to find you optimum cadence and improve your cycling performance.
Computer Mounts
While most cycle computers are supplied with mounts there are a lot of custom mounting options, especially for Garmin computers. A custom mount will allow you to position your computer exactly where you need it on your bike.
Delivery & Guarantee
UK Delivery Information
International Deliveries – Temporarily Suspended 11/11/20
Note: We are still offering deliveries to the Isle of Man, Scottish Highlands, Scottish Islands, Channel Islands, Isle of Wight, Jersey and Guernsey.
Courier Delivery update: Due to the COVID19 situation, we are currently experiencing some delays with deliveries. Our couriers are working around the clock to get your order to you as soon as possible but there is a potential delay of up to 48 hours . Please check your tracking on track your order here.
Please download the TNT Track and Trace App for iOS here and Android here so you can keep an eye on your delivery and any further updates.
Please note on the TNT tracking app it may show your delivery status as ‘Collecting’ (as per image below). This means your delivery has left our warehouse and is currently held at TNT main depot and there could be up to a 48 hour delay.
Please keep checking the TNT tracking for further updates. On behalf of TNT we apologise for any delay and inconvenience this may cause.
We are committed to offering fast and free delivery, whether you're ordering bikes, accessories or clothing. Our standard delivery service is FREE in the UK, regardless of the size and on all orders over £20.
Please note that bulky products and bikes shipped to outlying UK regions are excluded from free shipping.
Please note that Pre-Order dates can sometimes change due to updated stock information.
Click here for more UK and international delivery information.
Returns & Warranty
It's easy to return a product with our 365 day, hassle free returns.
We will give you a full refund on any item that is returned to us unused/unfitted, in a resaleable condition and in its original packaging (where possible).
Please note: For hygiene reasons, we cannot accept returns of facemasks, undershorts or underwear if the item has been removed/unsealed from its original packaging.
If your item develops a fault or arrives damaged, please contact us first so we can resolve the issue for you as quickly as possible.
For more information please visit our Returns & Warranty page.
