The CatEye Strada Cadence Bicycle Computer CC-RD200 presents with promising features for the biker who wants accurate speed and distance readings. Although there is speculation about the safety of using lithium batteries, the lithium battery included with the product gives the customer a solid 2 years of life with easy replacement. This means they can ride longer without having to worry about their cell phone battery running dry while they’re running GPS, back-lighting and a speed/distance app.
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Durable Touch Screen Bike Computer
The CC-RD200 is also less fragile under the elements as opposed to smartphones. The specs basically give the biker the feeling that “the sky is the limit”, with very generous mileage and speed that would attract Olympic athletes to consider. The screen is a liquid crystal display that consumes less electrical power than other screens, and therefore emits less heat and lasts for a longer period of time without needing a replacement battery. On the other hand, the limited viewing angle causes variations in color, saturation, and contrast and brightness when the rider changes his riding posture.
Bikers may have an issue using the touch screen capability if they’re wearing gloves given that capacitive touch screens read the electrical impulse from our fingers, as our skin is conductive, whereas material in gloves are not. The biggest positive of the screen on the CC-RD200 is the larger symbols on display (check latest prices at amazon.com).
Simple Design, Easy-to-read Display
Small and light-weight, the CC-RD200 is simple in its design. The CC-RD200 shows only the most important numbers on display at all times for easy reference, allowing the biker the ability to concentrate more on the road and less on a screen. This is not only convenient, but it’s safer, as a biker is less likely to have accidents from trying to study a screen with small symbols and numbers. There were common complaints of the symbols of previous models of other brands being too small and hard to read.
The parts for the bike appear to be on the lower end of quality, for example only being tethered to the bike with plastic zip ties, albeit this making it very easy to use and assemble the CC-RD200. The instructions and manual are excellent, a far cry from the organizational mess like most manuals written for these devices. The pictures make sense, and the instructions are written in a logical order with visually pleasing lettering.
The only other concern a biker might have is the device suddenly being set off by what appears to be random wiring when stored (at home). It appears that the device will respond to similar frequencies, as it does not contain its own unique code. The orientation of magnet may throw off the speed readings, but this is usually an issue if one does not read the instructions on how to set it up thoroughly and accurately. Otherwise the margin of error should not exceed 2-3%, and the device should give accurate velocity readings with no problems.
Can Be Used Indoor and Out
Diversity is another key feature of the device. It’s meant for outdoor bikes, but it can be used for indoor cycling as well. This is ideal for bikers who want to switch it up or would prefer riding indoors due to inclement weather- this means that they don’t have to take the day off because of Mother Nature.
Overall, the CC-RD200 is a very classy piece of technology made by a company that revolutionized accurate bike performance monitoring. Although it is easy to set up, install, and use, it’s an advanced device that will enable bike riders to carefully monitor their performance with a hands-free experience, coupled with long battery life that a smartphone app cannot offer them. The CC-RD200 earns 3/5 stars.
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