The RT 88 was a severe disappointment; I returned it one day after its purchase. The main draw in acquiring this unit was its cordless operation, which obviates a wire going from the head unit to the wheel sensor. The absence of a wire allows a cleaner look than corded models and reduces a chance of a snag, all for just a $10-$15 premium. Unfortunately, the rudimentary wireless connectivity is highly susceptible to interference other electronic and electrical devices.

Vetta (Acumen Inc.) acknowledges this interference is a known issue. Hence, I can't recommend this cyclocomputer to anyone who might be near electrical devices (cell phones, CD players, utility transformers, power lines) while using the RT 88.

The first red flag appeared immediate after I programmed the final setting and switched to the main operational mode. The speed was fluctuating between 37 and 48 miles per hour. At first, I thought the device was simply malfunctioning. After some experimentation, I realized that it was sensitive to interference generated from my laptop anywhere within a three (3) foot radius (sans wireless connectivity enabled). While I don't ride with a laptop, I do have a cell phone mounted on my handlebars. Call transmission makes the RT 88 go haywire, showing excessive speeds.

After several phone calls and emails to Vetta tech support, I was finally contacted by a Vetta staff member. The tech support person (marginally technical) acknowledged that interference is a known issue with the RT 88. Even CD players cause this problem, he said. Here in Manhattan, bicycle store employees suggested that underground electrical equipment also has the same effect. However, I never bothered to install the unit on my bike.

When I indicated to the Vetta representative that such interference problems never occurred with my [$300] Polar S710 (current successor is the S-725), his reply was "that it why it costs $300". It dawned on me that Polar boasts their sensors are coded. Presumably this means that the heart sensor (and wheel sensor) was paired with the head unit. However, it isn't clear what type of wireless connectivity is used.

Even though it is fairly obvious when the speed is erroneous, the erratic jumps cause a permanent problem by dramatically affecting the trip distance and odometer.

In summary, the RT 88 *may* work for your particular usage pattern. However, no one should have to be concerned about the accuracy of such an instrument.


1 star

I can't comment on the unit's longevity because I've only used it a week, but I haven't had any problem with interference. I don't ride with a CD player, Blackberry, or laptop, and my cell phone doesn't bother it. (Even if it did, I tend to turn the phone off during rides since I'm on the bike to get away from the world--I figure I can be untethered for 1% of my life.)

Installation is a snap. It uses wire ties to install which isn't the best looking set up but, hey, this is an entry level cyclocomputer. I bought it for my "change of pace" MTB and it provides all the basic information I need for a dirt cheap price ($23). I have a more expensive cyclocomputer on my road bike which I ride 85% of the time.

The only annoyances are the bit of hassle turning it on as I start a ride and some glare from screen when wearing polarized sunglasses. This latter factor doesn't prevent reading the information, but makes it harder. 4 stars

This thing is (WAS) a piece of junk. I regretted buying it from day one. Buttons are incedibly difficult to use. Thankfully, the thing stopped working after only ONE MONTH! (It started flashing MPHs and counting up miles on the odo while my bike was PARKED in my garage!!) I trash canned this piece of garbage and bought a different brand and have had no problems since. You have been warned. Avoid this junk. The only reason I gave it one star is because I can't give it a zero. 1 star

I run the RT88 on 3 of my bikes, and have done for several years. I like the simplicity and low price. I have had no problems with reliability. Battery life is good. I've ridden centuries and large group rides in many locations in northern California and haven't had any problems with interference. This unit has everything I need, nothing I don't, it's cheap, reliable and easy to use.

I use more sophisticated units such as Cateye double and Polar on the indoor trainer when I want lots of data, but for road use, I found the Vetta is ideal. 4 stars

after 15 miles it has malfunctioned. Even with battery changes, realignment, it fails to record any speed or distance. Poor equipment. 1 star