Polar CS500 Cycle Computer with Cadence Sensor

One of the most advanced bicycle computer designs on the market, both in terms of function and design, the Polar CS500 looks quite daunting fresh out of the box.

Designed for “ambitious cyclists seeking improved cycling performance”, the CS500 features a full catalogue of functions to enable its user to measure almost every aspect of their performance on the bike. Featuring traditional functions such as speed (current, average and maximum), distance (trip, lap and total), cadence (optional), power (optional) and time functions – it is also equipped with an altimeter to give you altitude, rate of ascent / descent and gradient information, as well as a thermometer and, given it is made by Polar, the expected ECG accurate heart-rate monitor. All this displayed on an easy to read, oversize display.

The first thing you notice about the unit is the Polar “Dual Lock” bike mount, and the lack of visible buttons. Designed to fit onto either the handlebars or the stem, the mount secures the unit via a pin running the length of the computer that enables it to tilt left and right in position. The major functions are then all accessed by pressing the left and right sides of the unit, which presses a pair of buttons on the rear against the mount. Polar says this makes it easier to access the functions on the move, as you do not need to reach for small controls while pedalling. A little gimmicky possibly, but I would tend to agree, and it certainly keeps the front slightly more free of clutter. The start / stop and lap functions are accessed by a single red button on the front of the device, though there is also an auto-start/stop feature for the lazy or forgetful.

Our unit came with the optional cadence sensor and optional data-transmitter, using Polar’s proprietary W.I.N.D. datalink. There is also the option of a further power sensor to measure pedalling effort which provides additional training value as well. All of the accessories work on Polar’s proprietary W.I.N.D datalink standard, which, much like a Bluetooth handset for a mobile phone, allows an accessory to be “paired” with the computer for interference free operation. Pairing is easy, and I even managed it without reading the manual. W.I.N.D. does not appear to be an "open" standard however, forcing you to buy any accessories (such as the power meter mentioned above) from Polar. While for many this may not be a handicap, it does limit choices somewhat compared to alternative datalink schemes, such as the ANT + standard that has now been adopted by Garmin (who liked it so much they bought the company), Nike, Suunto and Tacx. More importantly, power meter manufacturers such as SRM, CycleOps (who make the PowerTap range of devices) and Quarq all offer ANT + units offering plenty of choice.

While all of the information provided by the computer is interesting, with huge potential in the training functions on the device, you really only unlock its true value when you start working with Polar’s training software.

This comes as a free web based package called polarpersonaltrainer.com. One obvious advantage of this web based tool is that unlike Polar's installed package Polar Trainer 5 it is platform independent, meaning it will work on a Mac or Linux based computers as well as a PC.

Polarpersonaltrainer.com provides typical analysis functions, enabling you to save and view each of your cycling sessions either in table format, or as graphs with key parameters such as heart rate, speed, altitude, cadence or temperature plotted against training time. It also provides access to trend monitoring tools to enable you to view your training progress over time, and possibly more interestingly, access to tailored training programmes which you can download to help you achieve your goals. Unfortunately, these training programmes cannot be loaded to the CS500, and have to be followed manually.

In general, while the CS500 is an undeniably capable bicycle computer, providing access to a huge amount of data about your ride, and is, dependent upon your taste, strikingly styled – at over £300 it is also hugely expensive, okay it can be found online for around £40 less with the sensor, but it's still expensive.

For a smaller sum you could get one of several GPS enabled bicycle computers with heart rate monitors that also plot your ride on a map in software included in the price – or in one of a wide variety of free packages available for download. Of course I am thinking specifically here of Garmin's very successful range of Edge bicycle computers. A further advantage of the Edge range is that they will also store training routines, and guide you through them on the ride, enabling complex programmes such as distance, or time based interval sessions to be followed with a minimum of effort. If monitoring your performance for the sake if interest, or planning training routines is what you are looking for, I am not sure the CS500 is for you.

However, Polar’s reputation as a brand for serious athletes is not undeserved. If you are seeking a highly accurate heart rate monitor in your bike computer, coupled with capable analysis and training software, then maybe this one if for you. It is not for the faint-hearted however.

Whichever way you feel – sitting on your handlebars this computer will certainly draw attention.

Verdict

A highly featured and capable cycling computer with striking looks. This computer is probably one for the more serious athletes who want to achieve their peak training value from every ride.