Cadence discovery - Cateye Astrale 8

Another minor discovery after years of cycling.

Cadence - the speed your legs go round is important.

You always knew this right?

But you were never quite sure whether slow or fast was best?

Well after a winter training session I needed a rear wheel sensor/bike computer to monitor speed and distance as my traditional wireless one didn't do anything when perched on a Bike wheel.

Well I stumbled upon the Cateye Astrale 8 which had both rear wheel sensors for speed/distance as well as separate Cadence sensor measuring RPM.

After cycling into work intially at around 60/70 RPM I decided to read up.

I found out from some reading that most advice points towards spinning faster - up to 100 RPM and beyond.

Apparently Lance Armstrong advocates up 120 RPM but he is an exception rather than the norm.

Why?

• Well it helps you maintain momentum
• Damages the muscles and knees less
• Keeps you from getting worn out quicker

So I've settled on monitoring the gears and progress to attain around 90RPM and it really makes quite a difference. My average speed is up and my climbing is better on the inclines.

Go get a Cateye Astrale 8 and try it out for yourself. I got mine for £30.

Heres the official spec..

The Astrale 8 is the standard for wired speed and cadence, now with a larger display and new design. Speed is picked up from the rear wheel, allowing you to measure your speed even while training indoors. Comes standard with universal handlebar and sensor mounts for quick, easy set-up.

Functions
Cadence Current Speed Maximum Speed Average Speed Trip Distance Odometer Elapsed Time Clock

Features

Rear speed sensor Auto start/stop Auto power-saving mode Universal magnet and sensor Programmable display Universal speed magnet and sensor Universal cadence magnet and sensor Speed display up to 300kph/185mph

Specifications
Handlebar mount size: 22-32mm
Sensor mounts: 11-55mm
Battery: CR2032
Rear wheel mount speed cadence wired sensor
Wired transmission distance up to 55 inches or 140cm