Originally Posted by pdlamb

Why mess with batteries when you don't have to? One battery in the late, lamented Cateye Strada would measure speed, distance, and cadence for $50, and that one battery would last a year or two. ANT+ Patrone with cadence has a battery in the speed/cadence sensor and one in the head unit -- twice the batteries to run down, for the low price of $180. At least they'll last the same year or two. GPS starts around $250, another battery in the cadence sensor, and you have to remember to charge the GPS every week or so.

OK, so you can arrange routines to minimize the hassle. But unless you need something only the GPS can give you (like a power meter with yet another battery), why not take the easy and low cost route?