This morning the Google search returned this page on Polar.fi that shows more details about the planned models of the RS800CX. Just in case Polar will take down the page here is a copy of it:
According to the text there will be four versions of the RS800CX - basic watch just like RS800, model for cyclists, model for runners and model for multisport athletes. Although the details about sensors are missing for the most part I venture to guess that the cycling model will come with speed and cadence CS sensors, running model with S3 sensor and multisport model with the G3 GPS sensor. I wish the multisport version came with the S3, G3 and cycling sensors, but I guess that would be too expensive package. Interesting is the note next to the base model that indicateS compatibility with all W.I.N.D. sensors - I hope that includes Power. This would make the RS800CX the most complete training system on the market for sure.
In any case these are the options listed on the Polar site:
- RS800CX - At the heart of your training lies the RS800CX wrist unit. With the ability to record a wide range of performance details, the unit works with the WearLink®+ transmitter W.I.N.D. to provide you with the most accurate measurement of your heart rate. This kit at the most basic level is compatible with all W.I.N.D. sensors, so you can create and build on your training system to keep up with all your training challenges - now and in the future.
- RS800CX BIKE - Get the most out of your performance with the RS800CX. With its professional training software you can effectively plan and analyze every detail of your ride. See your route profile and total meters climbed with the altitude, ascent and descent features, as well as uphill or downhill steepness in percentages and grades to help you to track your efficiency effort while training.
- RS800CX MULTI - No matter the terrain, whatever the sport, the RS800CX is the most accurate way to measure your speed and distance as well as plan, monitor and analyze your body's response to your training sessions. You can also see your route on a map after the training session. Ideal for cross-terrain sports like running, cycling, Nordic skiing, in-line skating, and kayaking, this is an essential addition to your training.
- RS800CX RUN - For those who are seriously into their running, the RS800CX helps to plan, monitor and analyze every part of your training. Its range of personal training zones means you can train at the right intensity, and with advanced features, that come along with the s3 stride sensorTM W.I.N.D., you'll be able to track your progress with running index as well as stride length and running cadence.
I hope more news will follow as Polar seems to be readying to announce the product soon.
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5 comments:
My hope and dream is that one day Polar or Garmin will make a watch that lets me use both the stride sensor and the GPS unit, at the same time. Use the stride sensor to give me pace and distance, and record the GPS data to draw pretty maps later.
I've had far too many bad experiences with GPS to put it in charge of speed and distance.
Probably closest to your requirements is the Garmin 405 that allows calibration of the foot pod via the GPS and seems to work quite well. I tested it few weeks ago (before I sold the 405) and it worked very well. But it is not exactly what you are looking for I guess.
It all depends how much error you can tolerate. Some people insist on 1% or less which is not easy to achieve with current consumer technology. And in my opinion is just too much to expect. I settled on the foot pod for most of my training and that works just fine for my needs. It does not really ma
to continue: matter to have perfect stats. I sometimes feel that the strive for perfection overshadows the training. But that is only my opinion.
I'm not so much concerned with perfect stats (though that'd be fun too) as I am with the sort of gross GPS error I've seen in the past. My last GPS-enabled device was a Forerunner 301, and I live and run in a GPS-hostile environment (namely NYC). Running around the Central Park Reservoir, the Forerunner would frequently conclude that I'd apparently swum part of my run, as it'd cut corners by sending me through the Reservoir. Similar things would happen along the tree-shrouded park drive. It would often zag several blocks off course and back.
I don't mind GPS quirks throwing off a map -- no big deal. But I do mind when it decides that I've run an extra quarter or half a mile in the blink of an eye, thus throwing everything else off.
I also understand that GPS devices have gotten better since the 301, but I've no desire to completely rely on GPS until I'm confident that I can rely on it. Hence my desire for a watch that can use both, at the same time.
Yeah the new GPS sensors are definitely more accurate than the Garmin 301. I had the 201 few years ago and did not like it very much. The time I spent training with Garmin 405 and Polar G3 confirmed the limitations of the GPS technology for instantaneous pacing feedback, but over a reasonably long lap the information is actually quite accurate. Case in point is the use of Garmin in the Lehigh Valley Half Marathon where I had the watch set to beep every mile marker and it beeped just as I passed the mile markers set by the race organizers (+/- few meters in most cases). It actually helped keep me on pace to finish as planned. If you can borrow one and test it out in few runs. I do not know if it works well in NYC - my area does not sport any tall buildings, more of a tree cover in my case ;-).
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