Having had a look at Polar and Garmin sites I am non the wiser as to a product that will do what I want it to which is:

1. GPS enabled to log my ride/run
2. Display current speed/distance
3. Be able to wear it for running and then quickly change it between different bikes without having to move sensors from one bike to another.
4. Works with a HRM strap so I can judge when my heart will explode. 🙂

So ideally I am after a watch that covers all of the above

Hopefully someone here will have got exactly what I am after and will be able to point me in the right direction.

Forerunner 305.

or Garmin 310xt.

I use a Forerunner 305. My only complaint with it is it can sometimes take a few minutes to grab a signal when it’s turned on but once its got it’s ok.

How does real life battery life on a “watch” type GPS compare?

Will it reliably last a full day or more?

The 305 has a rechargeable battery just leave it plugged in to you computer when downloading information or mains.

Another vote for Forerunner 305. 310XT not worth the extra unless you plan to swim with it or need more than 8 hours battery life.

I use a Forerunner 305. My only complaint with it is it can sometimes take a few minutes to grab a signal when it’s turned on but once its got it’s ok.

I find if I stand still it finds position within about 30 seconds, if I start moving though it can take up to ten minutes.

You will also want the garmnin quick release kit to allow mounting on bike and to easily swap between runing and the bike.

Brilliant. Thanks you all for the replies,

Just to confirm, the 305 displays current speed?. If so its shopping time 😀

Yes, current speed, lap speed, average speed, and lots of other things

Can I just add ………. 305 🙂

Thanks mossimus, now off to find a bargain!!

Another vote for Forerunner 305. 310XT not worth the extra unless you plan to swim with it or need more than 8 hours battery life.

That’s the bit that worries me. 8 hours is marginal for a day out on a bike. Just enough. Do they deteriorate over time?

My 305 lasts 10 hours quite easily

can’t say I’ve noticed any deterioration in battery life over the last couple of years

Can you download and follow a gpx on these or is that the sole preserve of bike mounted units?

Ah, just noticed the other topical thread

305 purchased and it works really well with the bike mount. Easy to set up and use.
It is quite big but fine for running and cycling with.

If you are after one that is smaller and use as a watch then go for the 210 instead