What do you think about the new Garmin Dual HRM? (Heart Rate Meter)

Equipment
21

I have a Garmin Dual that has worked great for a few years, but this year on the couple rides I’ve been able to do outside it records at least double what my actual heart rate is. Back inside it works fine. I’m guessing this is from my jersey flapping. I didn’t have this problem last year and wondering if it’s because the strap is getting old. Would ordering a new strap solve the problem, or do I need everything new? Is there a better HRM out there now that won’t have this problem?
Thanks!

1 Like
22

In my experience, a few years on a single HRM is awesome. I’ve found that when my Dual feels like it’s dying, replacing the strap brings it back to new. Before you do that though, have you replaced the battery?

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23

A poor skin connection causes high heart rate readings. Usually either dry skin, or worn out strap.

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24

The battery is above 80% according to TR and it works perfectly fine indoors. Just outside was causing problems. Last time out it said my heart rate was 210 when it was actually probably about 85. After a few minutes I took it off and put it in my back jersey pocket where it was still reporting 170 for at least 5 minutes before I disconnected it from my 530.

25

Some HRMs are sensitive to the clothing material. I used to have issues with my HRM when wearing one particular cycling jersey, with other jerseys there were no issues.

26

Anyone else HATE wearing a HRM? I just can’t do it. My watch is close enough and any inaccuracy worth the price to pay for wearing that. And as long as it is consistent (even consistently bad) that’s good enough for me. :upside_down_face:

27

I’m going outdoors in bibs that emphasize my junk and praying no one throws anything at me or scares the shit out of me in any way. My HRM strap is the least of my concerns. :rofl:

Also, my watch hr isn’t even close to reality a lot of the time.

2 Likes
28

Same. I now wear a Polar Verity Sense - Optical Heart Rate Monitor Armband. I checked it against my TICKR and it matches. During intense bouts it may lag a second or two behind, but the averages are always the same. It’s so much better than a chest strap.

29

Try a new strap. The elastic will wear over time. Sometimes the sensors in the strap are a problem. I usually replace my strap about every year. I’m in Texas and I sweat. I rinse it after every ride. I notice the sensor pads start to separate from the strap over time.
I have only had one problem with the unit. When replacing the battery i undid the screws, pieces of the threaded part were broken off. They probably were over tightened at the factory. They sent me a new replacement for free.

1 Like
30

Thanks! I’ll give that a try.

31

to summarize a few ideas above and a few I didn’t see:

  • replace battery
  • use electrode gel, this can solve issues with kits and also dry skin
  • straps will degrade over time due to accumulation of salts (?) from sweating, even if you rinse after every use and wash with kits every 8-10 uses

I’ve had to replace both Wahoo and Garmin straps. My Garmin Dual HRM straps are good for 2-4 years. Your lifespan will depend on how good you are with cleaning the strap, and your sweat.