CATEYE V3 Bicycle Computer

About the Manuals

This manual is structured to guide you through the installation, operation, and maintenance of your CATEYE V3 computer.

Basic Installation and Operation

Covers installation on the bicycle, use of the heart rate measurement function, computer preparation, and basic operation.

• How to install the unit on your bicycle: See pages 6-8
• Heart rate sensor: See page 9
• Preparing the computer: See pages 10-15
• Basic operation of the computer: See pages 16-17

Measurement Screen

Details on operating the computer's functions.

• Measurement screen: See pages 18-22

Ride Data Review

How to check and manage recorded data.

• File view: See pages 24-27

Changing Computer Configuration

Guide to changing and checking various menu items.

• Changing the computer configuration: See pages 23-34

Advanced Use

• Recording lap and split time data: See page 20 "Lap function"
• Training with target heart rate zones: See page 37 "Use of the target zone"

Proper Use of the CatEye V3

Observe the following instructions for safe usage.

The Meaning of Icons in this Manual

• ⚠️ Warning!!!: Sections marked with these icons are critical for safe use of the device. Be sure to follow these instructions.
• ? Caution: Important cautionary notes on the use and operation of the V3.
• Asterisks (*) highlight helpful tips.

⚠️ Warning!!!

• Pace maker users should never use this device.
• Do not concentrate on the data while riding; always ride safely.
• Keep batteries out of reach of children and dispose of them correctly. If a battery is swallowed, consult a doctor immediately.

? Caution

• Regularly check sensor and magnet positions for secure mounting. Tighten firmly if loose.
• Avoid leaving the main unit/wireless sensor in direct sunlight for extended periods.
• Do not disassemble the computer, heart rate sensor, or speed sensor.
• Do not subject components to strong impact or drops.
• Do not use paint thinner or rubbing alcohol for cleaning.
• Stop use if skin irritation occurs with the HR strap or electrode pad.
• Do not twist or pull the heart rate sensor strongly.
• The heart rate sensor may deteriorate with long-term use; replace if frequent measurement errors occur.
• Polarized sunglasses may block the visibility of liquid crystal displays.

2.4GHz Digital Wireless System

The 2.4GHz-frequency digital wireless technology, similar to wireless LAN, is used for speed/cadence and heart rate sensors. This technology minimizes interference from external noise and cross-talk, enabling reliable data storage. However, strong electromagnetic waves or interference from specific environments (e.g., TVs, PCs, radios, motors, railroad crossings, TV transmitting stations, radar bases, other wireless computers) may occasionally cause incorrect measurements.

Description of Computer and its Parts

Computer

Front:

• Back-light button (LT)
• Mode-1 button (M1/+)
• Start/stop/enter button (SSE)

Back:

• All clear button (AC)
• Mode-2 button (M2/-)
• Lap button (LAP)
• Battery cover
• Menu button (MENU)

Accessories

• Bracket / Bracket band
• Speed sensor (SPEED/CADENCE)
• Heart rate sensor / HR strap
• Bracket rubber pad
• Wheel magnet
• Cadence magnet
• Nylon ties (x5)

Screen Display

Display Icons:

• Speed sensor signal: Indicates speed sensor signal status.
• Alarm: Lights up when the HR alarm sound feature is on.
• Wheel selection: Displays the currently selected wheel.
• Heart rate sensor signal: Indicates heart rate sensor signal status.
• Target zone: Lights up when the target zone is active; flashes when out of zone.

Pace Arrows:

• Speed pace arrow: Indicates if current speed is faster (⬆️) or slower (⬇️) than average speed.
• Heart rate pace arrow: Indicates if current heart rate is faster (⬆️) or slower (⬇️) than average heart rate.

Units and Modes:

• km/h, mph: Speed unit. Flashes during speed measurement.
• Low battery indicator: Lights up when computer battery is low.
• AV (Average display): Indicates average values for speed, heart rate, and cadence.
• MX (Maximum value display): Indicates maximum values for speed, heart rate, and cadence.
• bpm: Heart rate unit.
• AT (Auto-mode): Lights up when auto-mode function is on.
• LAP: Lap icon. Lights up when lap data is displayed.
• Cadence sensor signal: Indicates cadence sensor signal status.

Dot Display: Mainly displays mode descriptions for the values shown below.

Selected data icon/unit: Displays with the data in the lower display.

Button Navigation: Buttons flash during setup or menu navigation. SSE button operative: Lights up or flashes. M1/+ operative: Lights up. M2/- operative: Lights up.

How to Install the Unit on Your Bicycle

1. Attach the Bracket to the Stem or Handlebar

The Flex Tight™ bracket attaches to the stem or handlebar. ? Caution: Tighten the dial by hand only; over-tightening can damage threads.

Attaching to the Stem: Attach with the open end facing right.

Attaching to the Handlebar: Attach with the open end facing right. Cut excess band length and round off edges to prevent injury.

2. Mount the Speed Sensor and Magnet

2-1. Temporarily Secure the Speed Sensor: Locate the speed sensor on the left chain stay and loosely secure with nylon ties. Do not fully tighten ties yet.

2-2. Mount the Magnet:

1. Loosen setscrews on the SPEED and CADENCE sides of the speed sensor and angle it as shown.
2. Temporarily secure the wheel magnet to a spoke, facing the sensor zone on the SPEED side.
3. Temporarily secure the cadence magnet inside the crank with nylon ties, facing the sensor zone on the CADENCE side.
4. Adjust the speed sensor position to ensure magnets align with their respective sensor zones.
5. Once aligned, firmly tighten the nylon ties.

2-3. Adjust the Distance to the Magnet:

• Adjust wheel magnet distance to the SPEED side of the sensor to approximately 3 mm. Tighten the SPEED side setscrew.
• Adjust cadence magnet distance to the CADENCE side of the sensor to approximately 3 mm. Tighten the CADENCE side setscrew.

2-4. Securing Various Parts: Firmly tighten speed sensor, setscrews, and magnets. Check for looseness. For steel axle pedals, the cadence magnet can be installed on the pedal axle end face (remove double-sided tape first).

3. Remove/Install the Computer

? Caution: Hold the unit to prevent it from falling when removing.

• Install: Slide the computer from the right.
• Remove: Push outward.

Heart Rate Sensor

Heart rate is measured when the sensor is worn on the chest.

Before Wearing the Heart Rate Sensor

⚠️ Warning!!!

• This product must NOT be used by pacemaker users.
• To avoid measurement errors, moisten electrode pads with water.
• For sensitive skin, moisten pads and wear on a thin undershirt.
• Chest hair may interfere with measurement.

Wearing the Heart Rate Sensor

1. Insert the HR strap hook into a hole on the heart rate sensor until it clicks.
2. Wear the sensor with the HR strap, adjusting length for a snug fit (under bust). Avoid overtightening.
3. Insert the HR strap hook into another hole and click.
4. To remove, hold near the hole and hook, and twist off.

Ensure the electrode pad's rubber part is in direct contact with the body. Dry skin or wearing over an undershirt may cause errors; moisten the electrode pad.

Preparing the Computer

Basic setup is required before use.

Removing the Insulation Sheet

For first-time use, open the battery cover and remove the insulation sheet. Replace the battery cover.

Flow of Set-up

Two set-up operations exist:

• Formatting Operation: For initial purchase or resetting all to default. All data is reset.
• Restarting Operation: For battery replacement or error recovery. Retains most settings and saved file data.

Formatting Operation Steps:

1. Press MENU + AC buttons simultaneously while pressing MENU. Release MENU when test pattern appears.
2. Follow date/clock setting.

Restarting Operation Steps:

1. Press AC button. All screen items light up briefly, then date/clock setting appears.
2. Follow date/clock setting.

Note: If setup errors occur (e.g., "ID-ERROR"), perform the full initial setup and correct via menu screens.

1. Formatting/Restarting Operation

Formatting Operation: Resets all data. Press MENU and AC buttons simultaneously. Release MENU when test pattern displays. Proceed to date/clock setting.

Restarting Operation: Press AC button. Screen items light up, then date/clock setting appears. Proceed to date/clock setting.

2. Date/Clock Setting

Set current date and time.

1. Select date display format (YY/MM/DD, MM/DD/YY, DD/MM/YY) using M1/+ and M2/-, confirm with SSE.
2. Enter Year, Month, Day using M1/+ and M2/-, confirm with SSE. Enter last 2 digits of the year.
3. Select clock display format (24h or 12h) using M1/+ and M2/-, confirm with SSE.
4. Enter Hour and Minute using M1/+ and M2/-, confirm with SSE.
5. Press MENU to proceed to the next setup item (Tire Circumference for formatting, or Measurement Screen for restarting).

3. Tire Circumference Input

Enter the tire circumference in millimeters.

1. Enter the last 2 digits of circumference using M1/+ and M2/-, move digits with SSE. Enter the first 2 digits similarly.
2. Press MENU to proceed to "Set the sensor ID".

Tire Circumference Measurement: For accurate measurement, perform a wheel roll-out. Mark the valve stem position at the bottom, roll the wheel one full revolution until the valve returns to the bottom, and measure the distance.

A chart of common tire sizes and their circumferences is provided.

4. Set the Sensor ID

Synchronize the computer with the heart rate and speed/cadence sensors.

• Sensors require synchronized IDs to transmit data.
• Ensure HR sensor is worn properly and bicycle with speed/cadence sensor is nearby (within 5m).
• Avoid other similar sensors during synchronization.

1. Wear the heart rate sensor.
2. Press SSE to start searching for HR sensor ID. "ID-OK" indicates completion.
3. Verify speed/cadence sensor mounting.
4. Press SSE to start searching for speed sensor ID. Spin the wheel/crank. "ID-OK" indicates completion.
5. Press MENU to proceed to "Selecting speed unit".

Note: If "ID-SKIP" or "ID-ERROR" occurs, re-check sensor ID and mounting. SP2 is for use with a second bicycle.

5. Selecting Speed Unit

Select speed unit (km or mile).

1. Select unit using M1/+ or M2/-.
2. Press MENU. Measurement screen appears; setup is complete.

6. Operation Test

Test speed and cadence sensor functions.

• If sensor icons are off, press M1/+ or M2/- to turn them on.
• Speed Sensor: Raise rear wheel, spin it. If icon flashes and speed displays, it's working.
• Cadence Sensor: Turn crank. If icon flashes and cadence displays, it's working.

If icons do not flash, check sensor/magnet alignment (page 7).

Important: If other sensor IDs were picked up during ID Synch (e.g., at events), check computer's ID Synch setup (page 23) and ensure no similar devices are nearby.

Sensor Signal Status

If no signal is received for 5 minutes, transmission stops. Pressing M1/+ or M2/- resumes standby. Signal status icons: (flashing) Receiving signal, (constant) Stand-by, (off) Transmission off.

Basic Operation of the Computer

Functions on the Measurement Screen

The measurement screen displays 4 data types, switched by M1/+ and M2/- buttons.

• Upper display data: Speed-related data.
• Middle display data: Heart rate and cadence-related data.
• Lower display data: Other data (elapsed time, trip distance, etc.).

Switching Display: Use M1/+ for Upper/Middle data, M2/- for Lower display data.

Starting/Stopping the Measurement

The unit starts/stops automatically with bicycle motion (auto-mode, AT icon lit). If auto-mode is off (AT icon off), use the SSE button.

Note: If sensor signals are off, the main timer may not start.

Backlight

Press LT button to illuminate display for 3 seconds. Pressing any button extends illumination.

Resetting the Measurement Data

Simultaneously press SSE + M1/+ or SSE + M2/- in the measurement screen to reset data (TM, DST, Lap Time, etc.) and lap data. Data is saved to a file. The screen freezes briefly, but measurement continues.

Power-Saving Function

If no data is received for 5 minutes, the computer enters power-saving mode (displays date/clock). Press any button (except AC) to resume measurement screen. A button press is required before measuring data.

Measurement Screen Details

Upper and Middle Display Data

1. Current speed: Displays current speed, updated every second.
2. Heart rate: Displays real-time heart rate, updated every second.
3. Cadence: Displays pedal rotations per minute, updated every second.
4. Average speed: Average speed since measurement start.
5. Average heart rate: Average heart rate since measurement start (only when HR sensor is attached).
6. Average cadence: Average cadence since measurement start (excludes time stopped pedaling).
7. Maximum speed: Maximum speed since measurement start.
8. Maximum heart rate: Maximum heart rate since measurement start.
9. Maximum cadence: Maximum cadence since measurement start.

Notes:

• *1: If trip distance exceeds 10,000 km/mile or elapsed time exceeds 100 hours, "E" appears. Clear data by resetting.
• *2: Average heart rate calculation resumes when HR sensor is reattached.
• *3: Average cadence calculation excludes pedaling-stopped time.

Lower Display Data

• Elapsed time: Time from measurement start (to 1/10 sec). Exceeding 99:59'59" resets to 00'00"0. 1/10 sec not shown after 1 hour.
• Trip distance: Distance from measurement start.
• Countdown distance: Displays countdown to target distance.
• Lap number: Current lap number (up to 99).
• Average lap speed: Average speed of the current lap.
• Lap timer: Elapsed time of the current lap.
• Trip lap distance: Trip distance of the current lap.
• Date: Day, month, year (last 2 digits). Format depends on settings.
• Clock: Current time (24h or 12h format).
• Calorie Consumption: Estimated calorie consumption based on heart rate.
• Total time: Accumulated time since purchase (reset only by formatting).
• Total distance: Accumulated distance (updated independently).

Pace Function

Two types of pace arrow icons (⬆️ for above average, ⬇️ for below average) indicate current speed/heart rate relative to the average. No arrows mean equal to average or zero.

Lap Function

Pressing the LAP button during measurement records data (lap speed, heart rate, time, distance) up to 99 points. Lap data displays sequentially, then returns to the measurement screen.

• Average lap speed/heart rate: From previous point or start of measurement.
• Lap number: Records current lap number.
• Trip lap distance: Trip distance from previous point or start.
• Lap time: Elapsed time from last LAP press.
• Maximum lap speed/heart rate: From previous point or start.
• Split time: Total elapsed time from measurement start.

Lap data is saved when resetting and can be reviewed in "File view". If 99 laps are reached, "--" appears.

Advance Use of Real Time Lap Data

Real-time lap data syncs with main time but resets with each LAP press. Useful for intervals or sectional trials.

Countdown Distance

Displays countdown to a target trip distance. Notifies upon reaching zero by flashing and alarm. The unit switches measurement data to countdown data.

Example Uses:

• Race Event Distance: Enter race distance to strategize pace.
• Destination Sign Distance: Enter sign distance for touring to pace accordingly.
• Periodical Target Distance: Set weekly/monthly targets for progress tracking.

Target distance is set via "Setting the countdown distance" menu.

Target Heart Rate Zone

During measurement, the screen indicates target heart rate status: (constant) zone active (1-4), (flashing) out of zone, (off) zone disabled. Target zones are set via "Setting the target heart rate zone" menu.

Changing the Computer Configuration

Pressing the MENU button from the measurement screen accesses the menu for file management and configuration changes. Use M1/+ and M2/- to navigate; confirm with SSE. Changes are saved upon returning to the measurement screen. Leaving the menu for 2 minutes without action discards changes.

Menu Navigation:

• Measurement Screen ➡️ MENU ➡️ Menu Top Screen
• Menu Top Screen Options: FILE VIEW, CLOCK.DATE, WHEEL, SENSOR-ID, UNIT, ODO INPUT, AUTO MODE, C.D. DST, SOUND, HR.ZONE.
• Each option leads to specific settings screens with navigation instructions (e.g., SSE to confirm, M1/M2 to change).

File View

Lap and measurement data are saved automatically after each ride reset into files (F-01 to F-14). The oldest file is deleted when 14 files are saved. The latest file is always F-01.

Measurement Data Saved: Trip distance, elapsed time, average/maximum values (speed, HR, cadence), file creation date/time, number of laps, calorie consumption, time in/above/below target zone, lap data (speed, HR, time, distance).

Viewing Measurement Data:

1. From Measurement Screen, press MENU to Menu Top, then SSE on FILE VIEW.
2. Select file number (F-01 to F-14) using M1/+ or M2/-, confirm with SSE.
3. Scroll through data using SSE button. Data includes average/maximum values, calorie consumption, zone information, etc.
4. Press MENU to return to Menu Top, then again to Measurement Screen.

Viewing Lap Data:

• From File View, press LAP to view lap data for the selected file. Press LAP again to exit.
• Average and maximum values display alternately. Switch laps using M1/+ or M2/-.

Deleting Files:

1. From File View, press SSE + M1/+ or SSE + M2/- simultaneously to enter delete mode.
2. Select file number or "aLL" (all files) using M1/+ or M2/-, confirm with SSE.
3. Press SSE to delete.
4. Press MENU to return to Menu Top, then again to Measurement Screen.

Note: Files F-00 cannot be deleted. Deleted files and their lap data are unrecoverable.

Setting the Clock/Date

Configure clock display format, hour, minute, date format, year, month, and day.

1. Navigate to CLOCK.DATE screen via MENU.
2. Select clock display format (24h/12h).
3. Enter Hour and Minute.
4. Select date display format (YY/MM/DD, MM/DD/YY, DD/MM/YY).
5. Enter Year, Month, Day.
6. Confirm settings via MENU.

Wheel Selection and Tire Circumference

Set Wheel Size (A/B) and Tire Size (circumference).

1. Navigate to WHEEL screen via MENU.
2. Select Wheel Size A or B.
3. Enter the last 2 digits of tire circumference, then the first 2 digits.
4. Press MENU to confirm.

Note: Tire circumference chart provided for reference.

Searching the Sensor ID

Synchronize the computer with sensors when moving between bikes or using a new HR strap.

• Ensure HR sensor is worn and bike with speed/cadence sensor is nearby.
• Navigate to SENSOR-ID screen via MENU.
• Select sensor (Hr, SP1, SP2).
• Press SSE to search. "ID-OK" confirms synchronization.
• Check sensor mounting and signal status.

Note: "ID-SKIP" or "ID-ERROR" indicates failed synchronization. SP2 is for use with a second bicycle.

Setting the Measurement Unit

Change units between km and mile. Stop measurement and reset before changing units, otherwise "DATA RESET" will appear.

1. Navigate to UNIT screen via MENU.
2. Select speed unit (km/mile).
3. Press MENU to confirm. Past total distance is automatically converted.

Total Distance Manual Entry

Input total distance manually, e.g., after formatting or for a new computer.

1. Navigate to ODO INPUT screen via MENU.
2. Enter total distance using M1/+ and M2/-, move digits with SSE.
3. Press MENU to confirm.

Setting the Auto-mode

Switch auto-mode on/off. Auto-mode starts/stops measurement with bicycle motion (AT icon lit). If off, use SSE button.

1. Navigate to AUTO MODE screen via MENU.
2. Select On or OFF.
3. Press MENU to confirm.

Setting the Countdown Distance

Enter a target trip distance for countdown. The unit notifies upon reaching zero with flashing display and alarm.

1. Navigate to C.D. DST screen via MENU.
2. Enter target distance using M1/+ and M2/-, move digits with SSE.
3. Press MENU to confirm.

Setting Sound

Configure target zone alarm and button operation sounds.

1. Navigate to SOUND screen via MENU.
2. Switch between HR alarm and button sound using SSE.
3. Select On or OFF for each using M1/+ and M2/-.
4. Press MENU to confirm.

Setting the Target Heart Rate Zone

Select target heart rate zone (OFF, 1-4) and set upper/lower limits. Reset operation is required before changing zone settings.

1. Navigate to HR.ZONE screen via MENU.
2. Select zone (OFF or 1-4).
3. Enter lower limit, then upper limit using M1/+ and M2/-, confirm with SSE. (Upper limit adjusts to lower limit + 1 if exceeded, and vice versa).
4. Press MENU to confirm.

Note: Upper limit display may be small if it exceeds 199.

Heart Rate Training

This section provides an overview of training with heart rate data. Consult specialists for in-depth information.

1. Improving General Fitness

Bicycling improves general fitness. Set target heart rate zones (30%-70% of max HR) for consistent exercise (20-30 mins, 3+ times/week). The correlation between heart rate and training level is illustrated in a graph. Gradually increase intensity as fitness improves. Training above 70% HR max focuses on anaerobic exercise; weight loss occurs with longer rides at lower HR levels.

2. Training for Competition

Measure resting and maximum heart rates to set target zones based on goals:

• Recovery, Endurance, Weight Loss: 60%-70% (aerobic)
• Quality Endurance, Tempo: 70%-80% (aerobic)
• TT, Race Ability, VO2 Max: 85%+ (anaerobic)
• Anaerobic Capacity, Sprinting: 92.5%+ (anaerobic)

Formulas:

• Training Level (%) = [(Target HR) - (Resting HR)] / [(Max HR) - (Resting HR)] x 100
• Target HR = [(Max HR) - (Resting HR)] x (Training Level %) / 100 + Resting HR

Resting Heart Rate: Lowest rate upon waking.

Maximum Heart Rate: Generally calculated as (220 - age) or (204 - 0.69 x age). Consult a specialist for precision.

3. Use of the Target Zone

When heart rate is outside the selected zone during measurement, the computer alarms and flashes. Zones are predefined (1-4). For a target HR of 140-160 bpm, select HR.ZONE:3. The computer alarms if HR falls below 139 bpm or rises above 161 bpm. Time in/above/below zone is recorded and viewable in File View.

Note: You can set any upper/lower limit for each zone. Alarm sound on/off is set in "Setting sound".

Troubleshooting

Trouble on Display

Trouble on Operation

Replacing Battery

The product has factory-installed batteries. Replace them as follows.

⚠️ Warning!!! Safely dispose of old batteries and keep them away from children. Consult a doctor if a battery is swallowed.

It is recommended to replace all batteries (computer, HR sensor, speed sensor) simultaneously when one is depleted.

Battery life varies by usage. Battery cover sealing is critical for waterproofing; clean seals before closing.

Computer

Battery Life: Approx. 1 year (1 hr/day use). Low battery indicated by light.

1. Remove battery cover on back using a coin.
2. Insert new CR2032 battery (+) side up. Close cover firmly.
3. Perform restarting operation (page 11) and set date/time.

Heart Rate Sensor

Battery Life: Approx. 1 year (1 hr/day use).

1. Remove battery cover on back using a coin.
2. Insert new CR2032 battery (+) side up. Close cover firmly.

Remove HR sensor when not in use, as it consumes power.

Speed Sensor

Battery Life: Approx. 1 year (1 hr/day use).

1. Remove battery cover using a coin.
2. Insert new CR2032 battery (+) side up. Close cover firmly.
3. Press the RESET button on the speed sensor. Check magnet and sensor alignment and security.

Maintenance

Perform daily care as follows:

• Regularly check and ensure magnets and sensors are securely mounted.
• Clean dirty components with water or a soft cloth dampened with diluted neutral detergent, then wipe dry. Avoid solvents like benzine or rubbing alcohol.
• Wash the heart rate strap with neutral detergent as it absorbs sweat easily.

Spare Accessories

Standard accessories and optional parts are listed with part numbers:

• Parts kit (#160-2380)
• Speed sensor kit (#160-2385)
• Heart rate sensor kit (#160-2390)
• HR Strap (#160-2395)
• Bracket band (#160-0280)
• Bracket (#160-2193)
• Wheel magnet (#169-9691)
• Cadence magnet (#169-9766)
• Lithium battery (CR2032) (#166-5150)

Specifications

Note: "E" appears for elapsed time over 100 hours or trip distance over 9999.99 km/h. Designs are subject to change without notice.

Registration

Register your V3 product at CATEYE Web Site (http://www.cateye.com) for warranty service, technical support, and new product information. Registration can be done online or by mail using the provided card, requiring the 7-digit serial number from the computer's battery cover.

Limited Warranty

CatEye products (computer, heart rate sensor, speed sensor, excluding batteries) are warranted for two years from purchase against defects in materials and workmanship. CatEye will repair or replace defective products free of charge under normal use. Service must be performed by CatEye or an authorized retailer. Return products carefully packed with proof of purchase. Shipping charges are the customer's responsibility. For UK and Republic of Ireland consumers, return to the place of purchase. This warranty does not affect statutory rights.