- What information do you need and how will you use it?
- How much are you willing to spend?
- What other features do you need? Ability to connect to a computer? Can be used on multiple bikes?
What kind of cyclist are you?
Regular cyclists want to know distance, speed and time: How far have I travelled? How fast am I going? How long does the trip take?
Enthusiast cyclists, suburbanites and tourists prefer a large number of functions such as trip distance measurement, odometer, average and top speed.
Athletes, as a rule, they want to have all the above features, plus the measurement of pace, heart rate, exercise increase and energy expenditure.
Types of information devices
bike computer: a special device for athletes that is attached to a bicycle. This article is devoted mainly to this device.
pros: Compact, weatherproof, easy to install on the bike, less likely to be damaged in an accident.
Minuses: Cannot be used for other purposes.
Fitness watch: A sports watch with GPS mode can be mounted on the steering wheel with an adapter.
pros: Ability to use one device for several activities, protected from the weather.
Minuses: Less compact, positioned higher, so it is easier to damage in an accident. High probability of losing during the trip.
Smartphone: Use your smartphone to launch the cycling app.
pros: Large screen that is easy to read information. Provides the ability to display maps, collect data and display them on the screen.
Minuses: Requires a special bracket to attach the unit to a bicycle. An additional cover is required for weather protection. Due to the constant maintenance of the GPS connection and the burning screen, the battery power is quickly consumed. High level of installation of the device and big square space occupied increases the risk of injury in the event of a fall.
How does a bike computer work?
Sensor types
Magnetic: It is a magnet mounted on a wheel spoke that rotates past the sensor on the front fork. To measure the pace, the magnet is mounted on the steering wheel, and the sensor is mounted on the rear rack.
pros: Cheaper, more long time battery operation. No need to constantly recharge.
Minuses: No GPS features.
GPS: Uses a satellite receiver to convert GPS signals to travel information.
pros: More possibilities in obtaining information that can be transferred to a computer; adjustable screens. Can be easily installed on another bike.
Minuses: Higher cost, quite heavy, requires constant recharging.
Data transfer methods
Wired: Magnetic sensor with a wire that transmits a signal to the screen.
pros A: Cheaper, easier to use, lighter.
Minuses: Usually not remountable to another bike. The transmission cable can snag and break, which is a greater risk on mountain bikes than road bikes.
Wireless: The magnetic sensor sends a signal to the screen. GPS sensors are predominantly wireless.
pros A: Easy to install, no wires, looks nicer.
Minuses A: Higher price - especially GPS; heavier.
Other features of the bike computer
Backlight: Riding in the park? The light function will make you more visible on the road than the light from a helmet.
Battery life: GPS bike computers use built-in rechargeable batteries that last up to 20 hours; smartphones with GPS function and a cycling app can work 5-8 hours. Magnetic modules use 1 or 2 watch batteries, most commonly CR2032, which can last up to 2 years.
A large number of screens: Data can be displayed on one or more screens, which can be viewed by pressing a button. Screen functions can be set or customized.
Comfortable Reading: Is the data on the screen easy to read? Magnetic modules have a fixed font size. GPS models may have additional function- Change the font size. Small print is easy to read, while regular print can change with vibration as you drive down the road.
Accessories: Available for multifunctional bikes, accessories will help you install the computer on the handlebars. This is very useful for cyclists suffering from farsightedness. They are less distracted from the road or track, just glancing at the screen.
Use on multiple bikes A: Some devices, mainly higher-end GPS models, can be installed on 2 or 3 bikes and store the data for each bike in a separate file.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cycling Computers
Which type of bike computer is more accurate?
A dedicated bike GPS computer is more accurate and reliable than a GPS-enabled smartphone and a bike app. The magnetic cycle computer is close to the accuracy of a GPS device, provided that the tire size code is correctly entered into the setup menu.
I have a magnetic bike computer, but I lost the wheel magnet. Can I buy another one?
Yes, go to your local bike shop and buy another one.
If the battery stops working, will I lose all data?
No, you can recharge or replace the battery without losing information.
My bike computer no longer works. What about him?
- Sensor position: The wheel sensor may have been misaligned. Check the level and distance between the wheel sensor and the magnet on the spoke. (Applies to magnetic models.)
- Battery: Wired magnetic models have a battery in the display unit. Replace it if it is over 2 years old. Wireless models also have a battery in the transmitter mounted on the wheel fork. Replace it at the same time as the battery in the display unit.
- Fastening installation: The display module may not be properly installed in the mount. Disconnect it and put it back in place. (Applies to wired models).
- Wired connection: The wire in the wired model may come loose from the mount or be damaged when it touches the frame. Check wire integrity. If it is damaged, you may need to replace your computer.
How to choose a bike computer?
Bike computer - electronic device, which allows you to get information about the driving parameters when cycling, which is shown on the display. Complete set - a bicycle computer, a mounting platform for a computer, a reed switch and a magnet for knitting needles, various linings, ties.
- Summary of the article:
- Do you need a bike speedometer?
- Basic requirements that a bicycle computer must meet
- Video, installing a sigma bike computer on a bike
- If you need a mid-range and inexpensive bike computer, we advise you to pay attention to the cateye velo 5 bike computer, see more about it here.
Do you need a bike computer?
A bicycle speedometer is needed primarily to measure the speed of a bicycle. However modern computers for a bicycle have an even larger set of functions, which we will discuss below. They will allow you to train more effectively.
By receiving all the raw data from the cycle computer, you can know exactly the changes that occur in your body. Thanks to this, you will be able to systematically increase the load on the muscles and control the growth process more effectively. This will allow you to become the best faster. Therefore, if you strive to become even faster and stronger, then you will have to buy this gadget.
If you just love to ride, if you do not strive to set new speed records for yourself, then I think a computer will be superfluous for you. Many cyclists, purchasing this accessory, eventually completely forget about it. It also happens that its incorrect installation and operation lead to the fact that it quickly fails. There is no desire to change to a new one and the computer hangs like a dead weight on the steering wheel, having no functional load. Therefore, before buying, decide for yourself whether it is really necessary for you.
If you are determined to purchase this bike device, then go ahead, where I will talk about how to install and how to set up your on-board computer on a bike.
Installing a bike computer on a bike and its presetting
Let's take a look at the points on how to install a bike computer on your bike:
The bike computer must be configured before use. To do this, enter into it such data as the diameter of the wheel and its circumference. The wheel circumference is indicated in the instructions for the bike computer.
For greater accuracy, the wheel circumference can also be measured by yourself by one revolution of the front wheel and entered given value to the bike computer. I think it’s not worth explaining how to do this most conveniently, just put the bike on the horns for convenience (wheels up) and make the necessary measurement.
Types of bike computers and different types their bike mounts
Types of bike computer mounts:
Basic parameters of bike computers
Depending on the cost, bike computers can have a different set of functions. The cheapest ones have several main functions - distance, speed, average speed, hours, travel time and more. The more expensive the bike computer, the large quantity he has the functions. Bicycle computers have a fairly wide range of information functions, let's consider them in detail:
- Total mileage is the total distance traveled during the entire time the bike computer has been used,
- Current Speed (SPD) – Measures the speed while cycling,
- Distance (DST) - distance traveled after reset,
- Watch - current time(format 12h/24h),
- Travel time (RT) – travel time after reset (stop time is not taken into account),
- Average speed (AS) - calculated as DS divided by RT,
- Maximum speed (MAX) the maximum speed that was recorded by the bike computer,
- Total Ride Time (TRT) is the time taken to ride over the lifetime of the bike computer,
- Odometer (ODO) - total mileage,
- cadence cadence,
- Heart rate monitor - measure the heart rate while driving,
- Scan mode automatic scanning a display that allows you to alternately show the main indicators alternating after a certain period of time (usually several seconds),
- Speed controller - comparison of current and average speed,
- air temperature thermometer,
- Backlight - relevant at night,
- Comparison of average and current speed,
- Calories burned per trip
- Automatic start/stop reading information,
- Altimeter height above sea level,
- transmission used,
- Battery charge indicator.
Most of the parameters are calculated by the bicycle computer using formulas due to the number of wheel revolutions and the time for which they are completed.
Basic requirements that a bike computer must meet
- Large and readable display
- Good moisture protection, which will make it possible not to fail after rain, snow,
- Resistance to weather conditions(direct sunlight, low temperatures),
- Resistance to vibrations, shocks, since while overcoming difficult sections, the bike computer may be subject to such influences,
- Reliability of fastening of all components.
The world's largest manufacturers of bike computers BBB, Cateye, Sigma Sport, VDO.
In conclusion, I would like to say that a bike computer is an essential accessory for any cyclist, whether he is a professional or a beginner. Allows you to measure various functions when cycling and follow them for a certain period of time.
- If you need a cycle computer with backlight is enough high level and reliable you can take a closer look at the sigma bike computer
Watch a video about installing a sigma bike computer on a bike. Perhaps you will like this model and want to buy it for your bike.
On the this moment there are various add-ons and gadgets that are installed on the bike and make cycling more interesting. For the convenience and tracking of various indicators of cycling, cycling computers were invented.
They have gained wide popularity not only among professional athletes, but also among amateurs.
Why is it needed?
During the trip, you need to know various indicators of speed, distance and time.
For those who suffer from certain diseases, for example, it is important to know their own pulse data.
In addition, many models of bike computers are capable of measuring cadence - the frequency of pedaling. This indicator allows you to calculate the number of calories.
But the bike computer has a number of advantages over the phone that make it more practical. Among them:
- Convenient installation on the steering wheel;
- duration of work;
- Strength;
- Price;
- Dimensions and weight.
The smartphone is much heavier and bulkier, so installing it on the steering wheel can create certain obstacles when driving.
In addition, bike computers are more durable and cheaper, which means that if the computer falls, the costs for the cyclist will be much less.
Another advantage over a smartphone is the battery. With the backlight on continuously, the phone will work no more than 8-10 hours.
Bicycles, scooters, components
All of the above factors allow you to make a choice in favor of a computer.
But how do you choose the right bike computer? To answer this question, it is necessary to understand in more detail the functions of the device, and consider its types.
Functions
Cycling computers measure many indicators that can be divided into general groups:
- Speed indicators;
- distances;
- time;
- Pulse;
- Cadence.
The first group includes the characteristics of the maximum and current speed. The device is also able to measure the average speed, performing a calculation based on changes in indicators over time.
The cyclist can also set the computer to a certain speed to be reached during the ride. The latter feature will be especially useful for athletes.
The characteristics of the distance include the distance traveled for a certain period of time and for the season. You can also set the recommended distance you want to travel at one time, such as .
Heart rate readings include your current, average, and maximum heart rate.
Models with these features include one useful feature- the cyclist can set a heart rate ceiling that cannot be exceeded, and when the specified mark is reached, the bike computer will inform you.
As mentioned above, cadence is the cadence of the pedals. To measure this indicator, a special sensor is attached to the connecting rod, and a meter is attached to the frame.
Whenever you pedal and the sensor on the crank goes through the meter, the reading will freeze.
It is important to remember that not all models that can measure heart rate and cadence have special sensors for determining these indicators.
Sometimes they have to be purchased separately. So keep this in mind when buying.
Some models have an altimeter - a device for measuring altitude above sea level.
It will show how high the cyclist climbed during the distance traveled. Other features include display and button backlighting, screen design selection, temperature and battery consumption indicators, and copying data to a computer.
Types of bike computers
According to the principle of operation, bicycle computers are divided into:
- Wired;
- Wireless.
Wired models have a wired connection between the main console and measurement sensors.
This design has its advantages and disadvantages. The advantages include the low cost of the device and the high resource of the power source. It lasts longer.
The disadvantage of such models is obvious - these are wires. First: they can create visual discomfort and undermine aesthetics. appearance bike.
Many people think that we live in the 21st century, and the bike is still wrapped with wires. And secondly: improper installation of the device can lead to pinching and breakage of wires.
Wireless analogs are deprived of these shortcomings. However, the disadvantages of these models stem from positive aspects wired devices. Among them are the high cost and lower battery life.
But since the power source is still enough for several months, this factor few people pay attention when buying.
According to the method of measuring indicators, the devices are divided into:
- Magnetic;
The first type measures performance using installed sensors. For example, to determine the speed and distance, a meter is attached to the fork, and a magnet is attached to the wheel spoke.
When the magnet intersects with the meter, the wheel revolution is fixed. Analyzing the data over time allows you to accurately determine the speed and distance covered.
GPS computers do not have special sensors. All indicators are measured by satellite. This device is heavier and more expensive.
But its advantage is versatility and mobility. Such a bike computer can be easily transferred to another bike or used as a map.
Important points when choosing a device
To choose the right bike computer, determine what you need it for and what indicators you want to measure on it.
Perhaps your answer will depend on your riding style or health condition.
For fans of cross-country, a budget model with a basic set of functions will be enough - time, speed, distance.
Downhill riders will benefit from height and cadence measurements, while road aficionados may want the full range of features.
Other factors influencing device selection are weight and cost. Therefore, after weighing all the pros and cons, you can choose the best option.
A detailed video on choosing a bike computer:
The bike computer is the main device on the bike, giving you the information you need. Bicycle computers differ quite a lot in their features and price. You can, which is provided only with basic functions - speed, distance and time. If you want to buy a better bike computer, then you should look for a computer that measures cadence, power, heart rate, calories burned, and even indicates the destination. If you want to ride in a deserted area, then you should buy a bike computer with.
Choosing a bike computer should be based on personal preferences and your financial capabilities. Want to buy a wired or wireless bike computer? Again, the choice is endless.
Some bike computers are easier to install, while others are easier to use. In order to find out which computer is best for you, sometimes it will be easiest to visit your local bike shop. If you decide to install the bike computer yourself, then carefully follow.
Our list of the best cycling computers is compiled based on their features, wireless installation and functionality. from this list are suitable for both beginners and experienced cyclists.
Cateye Stealth 50 bike computer.
The Cateye Stealth 50 is the ultimate cycling computer that offers the benefits of wireless technology combined with ease of use and versatility. It is equipped with GPS and ANT. Along with tracking key cycling metrics, it also monitors your power, heart rate, pace, allowing you to reach your workout goals faster. The backlight can be programmed to turn on and off automatically to suit your riding schedule. This is a 100 percent waterproof bike computer. It can be charged from . Since the Cateye Stealth 50 bike computer has no external sensors, it can be easily transferred from one bike to another. Thanks to the possibility of downloading information to a computer, you can see your route and its parameters on the map. The Cateye Stealth 50 is a good bike computer for cyclists who want GPS technology at the price of a bike computer.
Rating: 5 / 5.
If you're looking for a good no-frills wireless bike computer that provides you with the information you need during your ride, this is it. The Cateye Strada is a simple, easy-to-use, wireless cycling computer with eight essential functions. It tracks speed, mileage, average speed, trip time, time, top speed and total distance. A wireless bike computer is always better than a wired one as it keeps the bike looking neat and easier to operate. Depending on your style, the Strada cycling computer is available in three color options.
Rating: 4.75 / 5.
The Sigma Rox 8.1 bike computer is ideal for training. It has features that most other cycling computers don't have. It has five built-in languages, automatic second bike recognition, backlit LCD display and more. It can connect with personal computer. The Rox 8.1 cycling computer is a great choice for those who want to take it up a notch, from simple riding to real-world training.
Rating: 4.5 / 5.
If you are on a tight budget, then this bike computer is not for you. But if price isn't your concern and you're looking to buy one of the best GPS bike computers out there, then take a good look at the Garmin Edge 510 bike computer. social networks and track the weather. It provides you with all the basic information and more. With the tracking function of your movement, your friends and family can follow the movement of your bike in real time. This is the main highlight of this bike computer.
Rating: 4.25 / 5.
Protege 9.0 is a wireless computer with nine functions. It provides all the basic information. It can be swapped between two bikes. it good computer for beginners who want to get their first bike computer, or for those who want to test the waters before buying an expensive bike computer. The backlit display is useful for those who like to drive in the early morning or late evening. Buying a Protege 9.0 cycling computer will not cause great harm your wallet.
A modern cycling computer allows the cyclist to measure various metrics of cycling trips. There are many offers on the market various models and brands, how to choose the right bike computer from them?
The principle of operation of the bike computer
Cycle computers work as follows. The computer is placed on or on a special platform - a "table", the computer, as a rule, is unfastened from the table. A special magnet is placed on the bike - "reed switch", which activates the pulses on the sensor. The sensor is located on and transmits signals with information via a wire or wireless line (radio channel) to the bike computer, then the signal is processed and displayed on the screen in the form of numbers. In some computers, it is possible to measure "cadence" - cadence, in this case, an additional magnet is installed on, and a sensor on the rear.
Speed features
- Current speed- this is the main parameter that all bike computers measure. Provides the cyclist with information about their current speed in kilometers per hour (km/h) or miles per hour (m/h);
- Max Speed (MXS) - an indicator of the maximum speed with which the bicycle moved during the trip. It should be noted that bike computers have the concept of "trip". Some manufacturers invest in this concept a day (24 hours), and some - different travel intervals;
- Average speed ( AVS) - this is distance ratiopassed by the cyclist, travel time. It should be noted that the concept of "journey time" does not include the time of parking, but only the time of movement. Most computers show the ratio of the current speed to the average, this allows cyclists to control the pace of the ride;
- Target speed- in some bike computers it is possible to set the desired speed mode. If you deviate from the set speed, the computer will inform you. In some models, you can set the speed range.
Distance functions
- Total distance (ODO)- shows the total mileage on a bike with this bike computer for all trips;
- Distance per trip (per day)- shows the distance traveled for a certain period of time;
- Distance by segments- indicates the number and length of segments of the path.
Time functions
- Current time (hours)- show time, the function is present in almost all modern bike computers;
- Stopwatch- measures time intervals;
- Countdown;
- Travel time- shows the time that the bike was on the road during a certain trip, the time of stops is not measured.
Cadence functions (cadence)
- cadence- shows the current cadence;
- Average cadence- shows the average cadence during the current trip.
Cardiac Functions
These functions are present in some professional bike computer models.
- Pulse (heart beats)- show the current heart rate;
- Maximum heart rate (heart beats)- shows the maximum heart rate during the trip;
- Average pulse (heart rate)- shows the average heart rate during the trip;
- Target pulse (heart rate)- Possibility to set the desired heart rate range. When the specified indicators are reached, the bike computer will inform you about it.
Climb functions (altimeter)
- Height- shows the current ride height;
- Max Height- shows the maximum altitude per trip or per day;
- Climb- shows the total climb for the trip.
Convenience Features
- Wireless channel or wire amplification- at present, wireless systems have firmly entered our lives, they are practically not afraid of interference and transmit a signal well in any conditions. But when using wireless systems you need to remember to install batteries in the signal transmitter, usually no more than once a year. And in wired systems, reinforced wires may be used to avoid breaks or other annoyances;
- Using the bike computer on two bikes- a handy feature found on most cycling computers that allows you to use the same computer on two different bikes. At the same time, it shows separately all indicators and displays integral results.
- Backlight- allows you to turn on the backlight of the buttons and the display;
- Remote buttons- allows you to place the control buttons separately from the computer, in a more convenient place;
- Sound signals- when certain parameters are reached, it gives sound signals;
- Temperature- shows the current air temperature;
- Synchronization with PC- allows you to upload data from the bike computer to a personal computer;
- Image size- allows you to change the size of the displayed information.
