Garmin Forerunner 201 Wrist-Mounted GPS Fitness Computer

I run a number of different routes, and it is nice to be able to alter them on the fly to keep my distances fairly consistent. I've used it for walking, running and on my bike to check speeds and distances, and it's easy to delete workouts if you don't want bike or walk data polluting your running logs. If you're running in the dark you can press the power button briefly to turn on the (very nice golden) back light for about 15 seconds at a time.

The only problem that I've had is after changing my weight settings the calorie counter seems to be a bit whacked out - 216 calories to run 6.27 miles in under an hour at 175 lbs. doesn't seem quite correct. Hopefully new firmware or a reset will correct it, but I'll wait until after the PC log software is released before trying to correct it.

It's easy to strap onto a bike that has a thick cyclometer or light mount on the handlebar, so I can't imagine buying the bike adapter at this point.

Great product. Haven't been so happy on the bleeding edge since getting my first generation iPod.


Above average, but not great.   January 25, 2004
 2 out of 10 found this review helpful

Please note that 1) getting and keeping the signal in town around buildings and trees is sometimes spotty. 2) You can't see it in the dark. 3) The charger is a brick. It will be the largest of all those you pack for a trip. 4) Only 14 hours of battery life so you can't take a trip without the charger.
5) Be sure your PC has a serial port. Many new ones don't.


Does what it claims-so far   January 25, 2004
 5 out of 7 found this review helpful

I have had the Foreruner for several weeks and I am satisfied with its performance and accuracy. I have never lost contact with the satellite once initial contact has been made. It has agreed with all of my previously measured distances that I know to be accurate. This gives you the confidence to run or walk anywhere and know you are getting good data on speed and distance.

The history keeping log is a great item. Forget to run, it will remember. The one item that has not been reviewed is the ability to connect with the PC. The software has not been released as yet and there is no description out there on just what it includes. I have a cable that is supposed to connect the forerunner to the computer. One end of the cable has a connection for the serial port on a computer, but there is no place on the forerunner itself for a connection that I can see. I would still rate the unit five stars if the software never came out however. Anyone out there have any info on the software?


Great Training Device   January 20, 2004
 8 out of 9 found this review helpful

What a great device! Most of the pros and cons have been covered adequately--and accurately--by other reviewers. My personal experience has been terrific. It holds a GPS signal very well, the interface is intuitive, and the range of data is just what every runner wants--speed, pace, avarage speed, distance, etc.

What I really like about the Forerunner is that it helps me push myself into a faster pace. Prior to the Forerunner, I really had no idea of my actual training pace. I was simply guessing. Now, I can track my speed and keep my pace up where I want it. And I can be sure that I've covered the distance I want. (I don't run pre-measured courses. I'm one of those people who likes to vary my route almost every time out.)

I only have one complaint--Before the Forerunner I thought I was running faster and farther than I really was. I was surprised to see just how slow I really am. What a disappointment to discover the truth! (I always thought I was pretty speedy.) However, in just the month during whichI've been using the Forerunnner, I have really improved.

I only gave this device 4 stars because it still needs a little work. For example, a USB connection would be nice. And software to interface with computers is still on the way. And finally--a built in HRT would make this device almost ideal.


Nice training aid and cool toy; suprisingly inexpensive   January 17, 2004
 6 out of 6 found this review helpful

If you like gadgets (like me) and if you like running (like me) then this is a fun little pickup at the relatively inexpensive price...Mine has been quite accurate calculating distance and average pace, but I find that real-time pacing leaves something to be desired. Maybe I just haven't figured out the pace-averaging function yet (the manual doesn't explain it in the depth I would like, and I haven't had time to consult with a Garmin support tech). I like the autolap function, but wish that the little dialog box that pops up would go away quicker. I also like the superbly legible display, and the unit is comfortable on my wrist. I wear a Polar S720i HRM on the other wrist, so I have all kinds of data to keep my mind off of my pain on the long runs!

I have not had any difficulty attaining GPS signal, and battery life on my unit has been excellent. I am training for a marathon at present, and probably am going to pick up the Fitsense-1 unit...as well which uses a foot-pod to measure stride and calculate pace and distance. I am thinking it will be more accurate on a real-time basis for pacing. I would rate the forerunner 5 stars if I judged the real-time pacer to be consistently reliable, but I still think it is fun and relatively inexpensive.