Polar V650 firmware update brings Strava Live Segments and more

Polar has announced a sizable firmware update of its V650 bike computer. This includes the addition of Strava Live Segments, GPS-based gradient, Advanced Power Metrics and improved Power Sensor compatibility. The update will also provide users with a two-month Strava Premium subscription free of charge.

The V650 has proved a popular choice among cyclists. It tracks your ride with integrated GPS and gives you altitude data thanks to a built-in barometric pressure sensor. Polar’s device features a 2.8 inch colour touch screen and is compatible with Bluetooth smart heart rate and cycling sensors to provide you with speed, cadence and heart rate data.

Furthermore, the V650 includes free maps, enabling you to see your location and route on a map during your rides. When it runs out of juice, use its USB port to recharge.

In addition to Strava compatibility, the update will also provide users with better insight into their rides with the introduction of Advanced Power Metrics. Link it up to a power meter and you’ll see NP (Normalised Power), IF (Intensity Factor) and TSS (Training Stress Score), allowing you to calculate your FTP (Functional Threshold Power).

Polar’s V650 is available to purchase on amazon.com. Alternatively, you could go for its cheaper cousin, the M450 (amazon.com), but you will miss out on the route import and guidance of its big brother.

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