This is a really nice bike computer. It is a basic bike computer with a nice detection wand that works really well. I will start by pointing out that I only use this on my trainer (I use GPS and an iPhone on the road). Since I use this only on the trainer, I do not keep it on the bike (take it off when I take the bike out of the trainer). I got this solely for the trainer, so I could see speed and distance and got this unit since it was cheap (price wise) and is easy to read).
The unit is much smaller than I expected (from the photo), it is on par (size wise) with other bike computers (like the cheap ones with the Schwinn name). Although it is small, it has a very high contrast screen making it super easy to read and the large numbers make this a quick glance item.
Installation is easy, you have the wand that goes on the frame (wherever you can put it for your use [usually the front frame]). You just put the magnet on a spoke where it will pass the sensor. I am installing this on the rear wheel (since I use it for a trainer). The wand can be mounted using zip ties, I did notice that it has a sticky pad on the bottom (I would not stick this to my frame...). However, zip ties are easy and safe on the frame. You than run the cable (keep it away from the drive and feet area) to wherever you have the computer (if you have this on the handlebars you would just run it up the fork and tie it down, but make sure you still have wiggle room [do not taught it up where the frame and fork meet] for turning the handlebars). I have this on my trainer (so I can look down and see the distance/speed), it will not reach from the rear wheel to the handlebars, fine with me; but FYI.
My only complaint with this product is the setup! It is crazy hard (it is not a good sign when the manual is half the size of the packaging) to setup (not install, but actually setup the unit for use). The instructions are lacking and the one manual (with the graphical flow chart) requires you to know information from the other manual... You have to reset the unit using the back button, than the front button is used to increase or go through items, and you have to use the set button on the back (did not realize this at first). When you go through it you will want to put in the basic information (preferences) and read the instructions on how to set the time and input the manual circumference (I would not use the generic choices, use the chart and manually enter your exact size for your wheel; otherwise your speed and distance will not be right). Entering the time and circumference was tough since it no longer used set for moving to the next and introduced holding down the main button). This unit looks great and is easy to use and operate once setup, but the setup of the unit is a design nightmare!
The unit offers numerous information. The speed on the display is the main feature and I just keep the button in Distance mode. The unit has other modes, but most likely distance is the main thing. The Odometer is nice, but I let Strava keep track of that for me (I manually enter the numbers from this unit into Strava after exercising so it keeps track of the milage on bike [I use this for just general info and maintenance intervals]). You can browse through information screens by pressing the center button and you can reset the workout by holding down the center button (this does not reset the ODO).
After 10 minutes of the sensor not detecting the magnet it will go to 'sleep' and just display the time. I do not not see the point of this, since this seems like it would waste the battery, and if I am not moving I am not on the bike and do not need to know the time. It is hard to say how the battery is, since I have not had this that long. However, I just think it would go further without keeping the display on for the time.
In the end this is a great bike computer. It has a large display with easy to read numbers and is easy to install (not so easy to setup, but once you do it, you are good; until the battery dies). The unit detects the magnet with no problem and I have not had any issue. It is very nice looking and works perfectly. I am very happy with this unit and highly recommend it for a bike computer!
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 4.33 x 3.11 x 1.81 inches |
|---|---|
| Package Weight | 0.1 Kilograms |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 1.46 x 0.71 x 2.17 inches |
| Item Weight | 3.2 ounces |
| Brand Name | CATEYE |
| Model Name | Cc-vl520 |
| Color | Black |
| Material | plastic |
| Suggested Users | unisex |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Manufacturer | CATEYE |
| Part Number | CA240VELO7 |
| Model Year | 2016 |
| Style | Velo 7 |
| Included Components | Cycle Computer |
| Size | 2.17 Inch |
| Sport Type | Sports Technology |
