The 2R has a shorter battery life than the 2 or the 2S, but still claims 8hrs at the most precise GPS tracking level (recording once per second), up to 25 hrs at the least precise (recording once per minute.) For many runners, cyclists and swimmers, 8 hours is plenty long enough! If it isn’t, and you want precise data, you may want to consider the 2S or the 2. I haven’t tested the actual life on mine, but Suunto is generally accurate on their claims.
Suunto uses their own Movescount application for uploading and storage of user data, and has recently been better integrated into the popular Strava platform. Both of these offer social connectivity with other users, and Strava allows you to connect with friends and athletes regardless of the type of GPS they are using.
The whole Suunto Ambit lineup is great, and if you want a solid watch but don’t need all the features of the 2 or 2S, you can save some cash with the 2R and have a great GPS heart rate monitor.
By Ontario Ambassador Kent Keeler – runbikerace.com