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.
