Category Archives for Bike Computers

Planet Bike Protege 9.0 Bike Computer Review

Planet Bike has made some top quality bike computers, and the Protege 9 looks like it is one of their most promising. Getting a bike computer, headlight, and taillight all at once seems like a good deal, but is it worth it? We knew how easy it is for products to make all kinds of claims, so we took a closer look at the Protege 9.

Features

• Provides information about critical data including average speed, total time, and distance covered.
• The bright LED display makes it easy to read the numbers.
• The unit is easy enough for first time user to set up.
• The taillight and headlight are very bright and are good for up to 100 hours. The lights have blinking and steady modes so you can customize their use.
• The computer, headlight, and taillight are all built for long term use. They can withstand more than a few tumbles on your bike.

Pros

• Comes with all the essential hardware
• Easy to read data
• LED bulb lasts a long time
• Provides useful, accurate data

Cons

• Programming may be a bit confusing for first timers
• Wire connector is long

Performance and Usage

The Protege 9 does well in the performance department. It covers all the bases as far as important data is concerned. The results are accurate and the LCD display allows you to read the results without difficulty. It does not have a GPS or other fancy features, but if you just want a computer that keeps you updated on times and speed, the Protege 9 will do.

Mounting the unit and sensor is a straightforward process, and the manual provides good information for installation. As long as the settings are accurate and specific to your bike, the results will be accurate.

We also have like its consistency. The results are similar to what you would get with more expensive units. Once you have mounted this on your bike, you will notice that it is secure. Even if your bike takes a few tumbles, the casing will hold up and not suffer damage.

The Protege 9 should suit the needs of casual riders. It is easy to use while providing a lot of useful information. Advanced users will like its multiple functions and capabilities.  There are 9 functions, but 5 can be seen at the same time. You want to keep your eyes on the road as you ride, which is why the display is large enough to see the data in a single glance.

The headlight and taillight complement the bike computer. They’re as bright as advertised and won’t leave you stuck in the dark. They are as easy to install as the computer, and with a lifespan of 100 hours, you won’t need a replacement anytime soon.

The taillight, headlight, and bike computer are durably built. Anyone who has rode on a mountain bike or gone off-road knows tumbles and crashes are inevitable. Fortunately, the Protege 9 is solidly constructed.

We also want to point out the computer doesn’t suffer from any distortions. Even if you ride your bike in different locations, you’re going to receive the same precise results. Both headlight and taillight are also clean and clear and without any glare.

Should You Buy it?

The Protege 9 makes for a good buy for several reasons. One is that you get good value for your money. You get a bike computer, a headlight, and a taillight, and they’re all full featured. Even if your bike already has a taillight and headlight, it’s nice to have a couple in reserve, and these are of good quality, too.

Second, the unit is easy to install. If you have ever used a bike computer before, you know exactly what to do. If not, the instructions will help. Programming could have been easier, but that’s what the manual is there for.

We also like the accuracy of the 0-function computer. It has more functions than the usual bike gadget, but it’s still convenient to use. For a lot of users, that is the one thing they want: ease of use. Install the gadget, ride, and look down every now and then to see the data. That’s what the Protege 9 gives you.

While the bike computer is the main attraction here, the headlight and taillight are also high quality. The difference between these lights and the typical ones used on bikes is significant, and it is going to make a huge difference if you’re riding at night in dimly lit locations.

Verdict

The Protege 9 is more than just a typical bike computer. The headlight and taillight are both fully functional and weren’t just thrown in. All the important features are included, and the design makes the display easy to read. Overall, we give the Protege 9 high marks for performance.

CatEye Strada Wireless Cycle Computer Review

Have you been looking for a durable, accurate bike computer? There are many products like this, and one that’s generating a lot of buzz is the CatEye Strada. Is the Strada as good as advertised? We were intrigued by the claims so we decided to check it out, and this is what we learned.

Features

• The Strada uses the ClickTec button interface, which makes it easy to use even for beginners.
• The Strada has near universal compatibility, so it fits on different types of bike stems and handlebars.
• The Strada comes with a Flex-Tight mounting bracket so you can use it on just about any bike.
• Its magnet and speed sensor also offer universal compatibility.
• The unit can display information in miles or kilometers.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Provides reliable data
• Compatible with all bike wheels
• All mounting equipment included

Cons

• Data needs to be reset after changing batteries
• The Strada sticks off your bike’s fork

Performance and Usage

The CatEye Strada offers solid, consistent results. Installation is easy and is done the same way on almost all bikes. We also have to add that the Strada can take a lot of hits, and you can use it to record thousands of miles on assorted roads and surfaces.

The solid housing means it can take more than few bike crashes without damage. One of the problems with typical bike computers is that they don’t last, so it’s nice to see the Strada built for heavy duty use.

The Strada is also one of the most accurate in its class. Once set up, the Strada is comparable to more expensive and GPS-enabled devices. For you to get accurate results, you have to make sure the Strada gets your bike’s size correct. Get the wheel size right and you’ll get precise numbers.

The Strada is not only accurate, but also low maintenance. The battery is good for up to a year or several months depending on how you use it. Replacing the battery is easy too, though you’ll have to reset. It’s a minor inconvenience, but it is not a deal breaker. Once you have changed the head unit battery, you can start adjusting the settings again. This only takes a few minutes so it’s hardly a bother.

The Strada is light so it is not going to add a lot of weight to your bike. It is also wireless so you’ll be able to use it without any hassle. You’ll be able to use the Strada without any wires getting tangled.

The display is large so it’s easy to read the numbers. Even if you’re on the bike, you can take a quick glance and know what the figure says. It’s also easy to use and that’s another plus. If you want to reset the time and trip distance, just press and hold the button.

Should You Buy it?

Whether you’re new to bike computers or have been using them for a long time, purchasing the Strada is a good idea. Its biggest selling points are accuracy and universal compatibility.

We have gone over its efficiency in the performance section, but it’s not just that which makes the Strada a good buy. Its ease of use is another plus. The interface is easy to follow, and being able to read the results in kilometers or miles is a plus.

We also like its universal compatibility. This is found in the mounting bracket, magnet and speed sensor. That takes out a lot of frustration in installing. If you’re having difficulty with other bike computers, you’ll find the Strada useful.

The Strada bike computer is also good for those who require durability. You can crash your bike several times and the Strada will remain in place. You don’t want to risk damaging the unit, but it’s built to withstand heat exposure, water spray, mud, and so on. The Strada doesn’t get damaged by rugged use.

The Strada does not have the advanced features other bike computers have, but if you just want one that has basic information, then the Strada will do nicely.

It is also good for those who want an easy-to-install bike computer. It is easier to set up than other bike computers so it is ideal for beginners who don’t want to deal with a messy installation. You just need to install the sensor with the cover so it doesn’t face the spoke.

That’s all there is to the installation, and once setup is complete, you can use the Strada without any need for special adjustments.

Verdict

The CatEye Strada is a heavy duty bike computer and doesn’t disappoint when it comes to performance.  If you’re looking for a no-nonsense solution for your biking data, then you should consider the CatEye Strada.