Cateye Double Wireless

Reviewed by Coach Matt Russ

I have a box full of cycle computers. Granted I may not be the easiest on my equipment, but I also am willing to make the investment if I see a new technology I like. The Cateye Double Wireless has a host of features and is one of the more well thought out cycle computer designs I have come across. For starters it has a single sensor for both speed and cadence that is mounted unobtrusively on the rear chain stay. If you have struggled with duel wireless sensors, as I have, this in itself is a major improvement. No more cadence sensors to get knocked around or bulky speed sensors zip tied to the front fork. It makes you wonder why this design was not implemented years ago.

The computer unit has three screens and four lines of data. Resetting the computer can be a real pain until you get the hang of it; you must push three buttons simultaneously. You can program two bikes into the computer which is nice since the Cateye costs substantially more than most cycle computers. The computer can be disconnected from the cradle easy enough, but you would have to purchase another sensor unit for easy, two bike use. It mounts relatively painlessly and has functioned in all weather conditions (so far). I have not had any problems with interference or weak signals, but I understand the battery life is not that long. Cateye should include a variety of spoke magnets though, especially for bladed spokes.

If you use a heart rate monitor to train, this represents another piece of training equipment you must mount or wear. Cateye does make a cycle computer / heart rate monitor, but it does not have a cadence sensor. I am sure it is forthcoming, but a reliable cycle computer that combines speed, cadence, heart rate data in one unit, and is uploadable to popular coaching software, will the one I fully endorse.

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Matt Russ has coached and trained elite athletes from around the country and internationally for over ten years. He currently holds expert licenses from USA Triathlon, USA Cycling (Elite), and is a licensed USA Track and Field Coach. Matt is head coach and owner of The Sport Factory, and works with athletes of all levels full time. He is a free lance author and his articles are regularly featured in a variety of magazines such as Inside Triathlon, and Triathlete. Visit www.thesportfactory.com for more information or email him at coachmatt@thesportfactory.com