Price Paid:
$149.00
at Bicycle Gallery, Lak Favorite Ride: Seattle to Portland (STP) Bike Setup: Scattante R-560 upgraded with Shimano Ultegra components and other misc. carbon parts Summary: Right off the bat, this computer gets a five out of five from me due to its handy features and accuracy. Though Trek’s installation instructions are pretty poor, I don’t believe in knocking the rating down just for that. I was able to work through the lousy instructions. This review is based on my perception of the quality and function of the computer itself. I have used Cateye computers for over ten years and never thought I would switch till I came across this Trek computer. The main thing I was looking for was a computer that could have a wireless speed and cadence sensor attached to the rear chain stay. When I was on the trainer I wanted to be able to monitor my cadence and speed etc. I looked into some 2009 Cateye computer models that had rear mounted speed and cadence sensors, and I didn’t find very many good reviews. I was still willing to give the Cateyes a shot, but none of my local bike shops had them in stock. Finally, while visiting Portland, OR, I ran across the Trek Alpine Incite DW at the Bicycle Gallery. Upon learning that the speed sensor could be mounted on the rear chain stay and seeing the other features of the computer, I decided I’d try it. I liked the altimeter, compass, and thermometer features, and I liked that I could add on the cadence and heart rate sensors. This computer also allowed me to measure the “roll out” distance of my wheel and enter the exact millimeters instead of a general wheel size. If you don’t want to be that exact you can just enter the code for your wheel size. So far I have had zero problems with the computer. I have compared its speed readout while riding next to my buddies and it reads the same as their computers. The trip meter also appears to be very accurate. Trek’s instructions about how to “re-start” the computer when it goes into sleep mode are confusing but I have had no issues getting the computer to re-connect of “pair” with the sensor. I just spin my wheel and press the button when the screen reads, “Pair?” I have had no “cross-talk” problems, a problem I did experience with my old Cateye. I am in the process of getting the cadence sensor and I’ll write a follow-up review when I get it installed. Overall, I really like the Alpine’s features and I am especially glad to finally have a wireless rear chain stay mounted speed sensor. Strengths: Once it's set up, it provides useful information and is very accurate. Weaknesses: Trek's instructions are a bit difficult to read/understand. Similar Products Used: Cateye computers... many different models
|