Cateye Quick Computer

The Cat Eye Quick Cycling Computer is a simple 7 function model, with a unique 'lollipop' design and very clear display. Its intuitive to use, easy to read and well-made, despite weighing a feathery 41g. However, despite considerable charm, there's no getting away from the fact that it is pricey, relative to the functions you get and the competition.

Pros: Clear, simple, well-made and easy to use.

Cons: Expensive, relative to the spec.

Specification

OK, so the Quick is a wireless model offering current, maximum, and average speed, total distance, moving time and clock. Then there's auto stop/start and pacer arrows denoting when you're exceeding, maintaining or dipping below your average speed. Most computers have a maximum speed of 99.9mph. The Quick is 62.2mph, which should be adequate for most riders, especially on a commute.

Design

The first thing that struck me was just how sleek it looks. Admittedly, the stalk type 'Out front' mount doesn't look particularly aero. However, it ensures the computers' angle is easily adjusted and lodges snugly against the stem, maximising available bar space.

Staying with the mount, it fits 31.8 bars, but a shim is included for 25-26.0. Narrower sections (such as those found on the latest generation of riser-type drops) may require something thicker but nothing a quick rummage in the bodge box won't remedy. The clamp is held together by a 2.5mm Allen bolt. The head unit is easily removed, say when locking in the street, or changing batteries. Simply press a button in the bracket and pull upward.

Talking of batteries, both the head unit and analogue fork sensor use the coin type CR1616 cells. The head unit is reckoned to last a year (Based on an hour's daily use), the sensor 6,250 miles. Batteries are easily accessed (simply slide 10p coin, or replacement battery into the slot and twist). A precautionary lick of Vaseline on the contacts never hurts, but both units seem genuinely well sealed against the elements.

The sensor tethers to the fork via rubberised 'foot' and cable ties. Messier perhaps, but ensures a universal fit, especially to oversized blades, such as my Univega's. The beefy spoke magnet probably helps, but a consistent, reliable readout isn't dependent on these components running a hairs breadth from each other.

Setup

Instructions are very clear and the unit intuitive to setup. Literally a question of pressing mode, choosing KMH/MPH, Wheel/Tyre size etc, adjusting the numbers, then pressing menu to confirm. Straight from the box, I was ready to ride in 20minutes.

Display

The Champagne digits on a black background are crystal clear and seems unaffected by extremes-bright sunlight, dusk etc. Its also useable at night-without a backlight function. There are two rows of data-speed/distance/clock etc with pacer arrows egging you on. Just press the mode button to cruise through these, as required.

Response/Accuracy

The auto stop/start function is reassuringly sensitive, I've found the unit pickup within the wheel's first revolution and there's been no lag whatsoever. Just a very consistent and accurate readout, with the pacer arrows doing their nagging duty extremely effectively.

Strong magnetic fields, such as those generated by old fashioned Magnox nuclear power stations, and even some hub dynamos, were enough to meddle with older wireless computer sensors. (I Recall a few 89mph readouts, on the flat, while towing my son on his tagalong!).

The Quick never missed a beat, regardless of riding conditions. Controls are easy to use even in full-finger, middleweight gloves. Though the mode button is stealthy, its easily located and cruising through the modes, to check other data was effortless, even when hustling down a 1in7. I've been out on a few late-night rides; mercury sliding to zero-no problems whatsoever.

Weatherproofing/Durability

Most bike computers are well sealed these days. Ours passed my sustained, close range garden hose torture test with flying colours. Plastics and display show no evidence of swirls/scratching despite the head unit holidaying in pockets and my love of mixed terrain riding.

Value

Here's the rub. You can get similar functionality for considerably less. Indeed, you needn't look further than Cat Eye's one range. Notably the Cat Eye Strada Slim and Cat Eye Velo Wireless (£32.68 and £25 respectively). Then of course, we have the BTwin 500.

Direct comparison is a little tricky, since the Quick has two functions more than this but the BTwin is less than half the Quick's rrp. On balance, I'd like a computer with cadence, but I've genuinely used all the Quick's functions, pretty much every ride. Despite its charms, I'd struggle to justify full ticket price for this level of spec.

Conclusion

I have a soft spot for the Quick. It's intuitive to set up, use and may be all some riders require. £28-30, I'd say higher than average, but still fair. However, despite some neat features, I'd struggle to recommend it over something like the Strada Slim, or the Velo 9 wireless.

Verdict

Easy to read and intuitive to use, but expensive, given the specification/functions