Re: Cycle Computers: Bikefanclub.com

Thanks guys, the Garmin review was something that's been brewing in my mind the last few weeks that I had meant to post here, but hadn't had the motivation to write it down. Your post was the perfect opportunity.

About the APC UPB10; I haven't used it with the 305 yet as I just haven't had the need. I know I will, especially on rides which span multiple days with camping in between where there isn't access to plugs to charge the 305 up. The external battery works well for any usb charged device (my cell phone can be charged this way too) so it's great for multiple uses. My thought was exactly like yours about using it with my bento box. It should be a Med. - Large bento box in order for it to fit if you don't want it sticking out the top.

The 305 will run perfectly fine while the power cable is connected so it's a pretty solid solution should extra power be needed. I have a long usb cable hooked up to my 305 while I ride the trainer. It functions perfectly while in use and charging.

Also on the power topic, the Garmin website is advertising the typical power consumption at around 12 hours. If my 305 only last 5-6 hours on a charge I would call Garmin and see what they could do. My hunch is if I had followed all their suggestions and still couldn't get a longer session with it, they would replace the unit, though I don't know that for a fact. 50% of the advertised battery life kinda sounds like a battery problem, this is where a great customer service dept. could really make your day.

My bigger concern for longer rides is the data recording capacity rather than power. Garmin says the Smart Recording extends the device's ability to store large amount of data but because of the way it records its difficult to say how long it will record before filling up. I haven't filled mine up, but I would hate for it to konk out on me in the last hour of a 2 day ride. LOL That would suck.

If you end up getting the 305, be sure to let me know how it works for you.

Post Extras