Wahoo has introduced a new heart rate monitor and strap, the Trackr Heart Rate, which Wahoo says has improved processing technology to obtain accurate HRM data. Instead of the usual coin cell batteries, the Wahoo Trackr Heart Rate has a rechargeable battery, which Wahoo says allows for over 100 hours of heart rate recording for most users.

Wahoo has made other changes to the design of the Trackr Heart Rate, including a new chest strap with side closures for greater comfort. It is also IPX7 rated, so it is safe in the rain.

Like almost all HRMs, Trackr Heart Rate supports both BLE and ANT+ broadcast protocols. The same is true of most recording devices, including the best cycle computers, the best heart rate monitors, and cycling watches, so there should be no compatibility issues.

Wahoo's older TickrX has save and forward functionality and can be used without a recording device, for example when running, but Trackr Heart Rate requires a data collection device to be connected.

Ditching the coin cell batteries and switching to rechargeable batteries is an advantage. The coin cell batteries are expected to last about a year of use before they run out, but the idea is to keep them in stock. Coin-operated batteries degrade over time, so having spares available may cause them to reach the end of their useful life before they can be used.

Replacing batteries is labor intensive, and the usual open/close mechanism that uses the end of a coin can, over time, create burrs on the edge of the battery hatch and the seal can begin to leak.

Coin batteries are a choking hazard for young children, and while they can be recycled, they also generate waste.

As for weight, according to Wahoo, the Trackr heart rate data collector weighs 11 g, with a hand-washable strap adding another 40 g.

The Trackr heart rate data collector is also available in a variety of sizes. It accommodates chest girths up to 127 cm.

According to Wahoo, the Trackr Heart Rate is the first in a new series of Trackr sensors to be released in 2024-2025. It will be priced at £79.99/$89.99/€89.99/$149.95 AUD.