Garmin Forerunner 301 ($325):
Any intrepid mountain biker will agree: it's nice to know the little things, like where you are, your distance, your speed—and how to get home. Beyond what your average cyclocomputer can do, the wristwatch-like Forerunner 301 gives mountain bikers the basic numerical data plus GPS capabilities courtesy of Uncle Sam's constellation of positioning satellites. All good stuff. But what really scores extra points is the Forerunner's other smart functions that make it a virtual exercise training partner, letting you continuously monitor speed, distance, pace, elevation, calories burned and—the pièce de resistance—heart rate. Its digital heart-rate monitor and associated software allow you to see current heart rate and maintain preferred heart-rate zones for optimum workout performance. Later, use the Training Center software, a powerful PC application, to download, analyze, and create workouts via a USB interface cable. This sweet software even lets you overlay your course on a map to pinpoint specific areas and evaluate how elevation and other factors affect performance. Did we mention the water-resistant Forerunner also tells time? Contact 800-800-1020, www.garmin.com.
