VDO M3 Wireless Cycle Computer

The VDO M3 Wireless cycle computer occupies minimal handlebar space, yet is one of the easiest to read and simplest to use computers. But when you come to set it up, head straight for VDO's video tutorials: these are much clearer than the paper instructions supplied.

Though the head unit only measures 3.5 x 4.5 x 1.6cm, the display is uncluttered because the switches are underneath the body.

There are seven modes: current, average, and maximum speed; speed comparison; ride time; ride and total distance. Its lower bar courses through the functions, while pressing both simultaneously stops/resets ride time, trip distance etc. These behave in the same fashion as everyone else's, so mistakes should be infrequent.

Other features include a choice of seven languages, data storage for two machines (preventing loss during battery changes), low battery indicator, auto start/stop and a sleep mode that kicks in after five minutes of inactivity. There's also a thermometer, which could be handy in some contexts.

Carefully contoured brackets and selection of cable ties ensure everything breezes aboard the bike in around five minutes and spare kits are available for split second swaps between machines.

Most computers are extremely accurate these days and there's a pre-calculated chart for plug n' play simplicity but I calibrated wheel circumferences manually.

So long as you've observed the 3mm sensor/magnet rule, the M3 seems particularly responsive, springing from sleep mode and registering data within two revolutions, despite the host bike being unused for several days.

Pacer arrows indicate at any given moment whether you're on track,exceeding or falling behind average speed, although they're not the nagging, flashing sort, which worked for me but might not motivate everyone.

Another nice feature is the ability to assess your speed through specific sections and a road book function, which can count backwards. These enable easy analysis of climbing prowess, or keeping one on track when say, riding a TT course.

Head and sensors are fuelled by the usual CR2032 cells reckoned to last for twelve months, or approximately 6,000 miles but an intelligent charge system will nag once reserves begin dwindling, confirmed by using an old cell in ours for a week.

The thermometer is useful, especially in very hot/cold conditions but for the most part, we know whether it's chilly or not and a really, really long descent at 35+mph can induce a slightly misreading figure. Frankly, despite the display's clarity, I'd sooner have a backlight.

Everything seems pretty well sealed from the elements judging by recent heavy rain and liberal soakings from my garden hose. That said, a precautionary lick of silicone grease on the sensor's battery contacts never goes amiss.

Continuing this theme, it's never missed a beat beside heart rate monitors, or through sections of high magnetic interference such as pylons, or electricity substations. Even a certain nuclear power station couldn't cause suspicious or erratic readings.

Verdict

Very nicely executed computer for general riding and training