Heart Monitors Item ID: #302Timex Ironman Midsize Race Trainer Heart Rate Monitor with Data Xchanger Watch, Black/Grey, Mid SizeProduct Information:
Item DescriptionThe Race Trainer digital heart rate monitor includes a linked interval timer with training zones that acts like a personal coach. INCLUDES Data Xchanger USB that allows this 10-workout memory HRM to download wirelessly to a Timex on-line training log powered by TrainingPeaks . Made for 2-way wireless communication between your watch and computer to download performance data and watch settings. Look for the ANT+Sport logo on the watch. Item Reviews5 Responses to “Timex Ironman Midsize Race Trainer Heart Rate Monitor with Data Xchanger Watch, Black/Grey, Mid Size”Leave a Reply |
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I was looking for a heart rate monitor that also allowed me to store the acquired data, and discovered this was one of the less expensive watches with this functionality. I was happy that the battery could be replaced, although I’m a bit worried whether the same can be done with the wrist strap (it looks like it is fixed in place, but I’ll see if it is an issue once it breaks). Setup is slightly complicated (you might need to read the manual, and the manual has many lines that say “see page x”) but did not take more than 10 minutes. Performance is excellent, although even if you tell it not to beep it occasionally beeps anyway.
To download the data from the watch, you need a driver installed, which can be downloaded from a particular link in the manual. For me it worked well, but I can see that other people might have more issues with it (the time at which you insert the USB device is important). The driver is made to work together with a website, and uploads the data there. It also stores it locally, but I haven’t looked where. Fortunately the website allows you to download the files again. They are in “.pwx.gz” format, which is a zipped version of XML. It was easy for me to import it into other programs (after unzipping and renaming the file to XML) but it depends on what programs you use. You might need to write a small conversion program.
The website itself is ok… I guess I’m using the device just for the fun of measuring things, and the website might help if you’re actually using it to train. I suggest reading other reviews to see if the training peaks website covers your needs.
I ordered this on the June 7/2010 from Amazon and had my order delayed over and over again. Amazon does NOT have stock on this item even though they list it as in-stock. Below is the shipping estimates I got.
Ship: 8 Arrive: 9-11
Ship: 9 Arrive: 10-14
Ship: 14 Arrive: 15-17
Ship: 16 Arrive: 17-21
Ship: 18 Arrive: 21-23
Ship: 21 Arrive: 22-24
Ship: 21 Arrive: 22-24
Ship: 23 Arrive: 24-28
When I contacted customer service I was told on the 11th that it was in-stock and they were preparing my order to ship. Then I contacted on the 15th and was told the item was actually on backorder and also that their was a error in my order causing it not to ship that was now fixed and they waived my shipping($22.09). Then I contacted on the 19th and was told their was a error in my order and that I needed to cancel and re-order. Then I contacted on the 22nd and was told the item is in-stock but just not at the shipping centre that they will ship to me from.
I ended up cancelling my order and choosing Clever-Training(non fulfilment) since they ship to Canada and are a Authorized Timex Dealer. Unfortunately Amazon wouldn’t waive the shipping or offer any discounts. Hoping to receive my order soon.
This model was for my husband and I bought the womens version for myself. The watches work very well and are pretty attactive for sports type watches. The chest strap is as comfortable as can be expected. The monitor picks up heart rate quickly and seems to be accurate (it matches several pieces of fitness equipment). The ability to save ten workouts is great. The ability to upload to [...] is also really nice. I don’t use it a lot yet but may in the future. Overall we are very happy with this purchase.
Excellent tool. The software is easy to use and compatible with some GPS data, the strap is as good as any I’ve used and stays on better than most. The lap split button is right in the middle which makes it easy to use, overall the watch is laid out nicely.
Setup is a little tedious, both for the watch and the software/website, but once it’s done it’s a breeze to use and very quick. the manual does an adequate job of explaining setup.
This HRM has become a part of my daily training tools, wouldn’t ever work out without it. Generates a ton of useful data.
This Heart Rate Monitor Watch with USB transfer device is advertised as being compatible with Apple Mac…IT’S NOT!!!
Buy this watch and you too can waste week after week chasing Timex or their partner ‘Training Peaks’ for a solution, or even a response?….THEY WON’T!!!
You might think there’s privacy laws to protect you from junk emails, the kind that could prevent you getting over TEN per week….THEY DON’T!!!
Overall? The watch is a very clever piece of kit and will eventually talk to a PC if you keep on trying and trying. However if you have a Mac you’re screwed! It’s a relatively new device that will appeal to the concerting, somewhat intelligent, fitness enthusiast, the typical forward thinking person that would own a Mac. If you get suckered in like I did be prepared fro Timex to flatly deny its compatibility with Mac and for Training Peaks Online to laugh in your face because you’re using the newest Mac Operating System, notwithstanding of course the fact the watch came AFTER the OS!!
I’ll keep the watch because I’m an optimist (hence owning a Mac). I’ll live in the hope that one of the people described on the box, next to the name Mac, will actually get a conscience and fix the problem. For now? I’m uploading the training info via a decrepit PC (Aren’t they all?!!).
If you’re a stuck in the dark ages PC user, buy this watch. If you only have a Mac DON’T!!