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Which Bike Computer Should I Buy?
A bike computer provides data and feedback as you ride. There are different types available for the casual rider, the competitive rider, and the enthusiast. These should not be confused with fitness monitors, though some bike computers now incorporate similar features.
Primary Features to Look For
- Casual Rider: the device features should include the distance you have traveled, time, and speed. It should also include the total time you spent on the bike and how far you’ve ridden.
- Enthusiast Rider: the most important details are top speed, average speed, odometer statistics, and trip distance.
- Competitive: you’ll want all the features mentioned above as well as power output, elevation, heart rate, and cadence.
Types of Bike Computer Sensors
There are two major types you’re going to come across, GPS and magnetic.
- Magnetic sensors are comprised of a magnet connected to the wheel spoke. The spoke turns along a sensor hooked on the front fork. Magnetic bike computers have a long battery life. However, they don’t have GPS and cannot be recharged.
- GPS devices have more features and data. They are more customizable and can be used on various bikes. However, they are heavier and cost more.
Bike Computer Data Transmission
There are two options, wired and wireless.
- Wired magnetic sensors are affordable and lighter, and they’re easier to setup. However, swapping among bikes is not easy. Wires can also get tangled, which is a risk if you’re on a mountain bike.
- Wireless types are more expensive than wired models, but they’re easier to configure and less of a hassle. Wireless GPS units are heavier than regular magnetic sensors.
Other Features to Look For
You may also want to look for these features:
- Backlight: Do you like to ride at night? You’re going to need a backlight to read the data.
- Battery Life: The longer the battery life, the better, of course. Magnetic sensors frequently use a CR2032 which is good for a couple of years depending on usage. GPS units can be recharged, and a single charge is usually good for 20 hours.
- Screen: Bike computers may have one or multiple screens. The screen may be fixed or there may be options available.
- Transferring Data: Do you want to put the data on your computer or online for record keeping and/or analysis? Then you’ll want a data transfer feature.
- Compatibility: Do you plan to use the device on other bikes? Look for a bike computer that has universal compatibility or at least works with both your bikes.
- Ease of Use: All those extra features are nice, but what’s the use if the device is difficult to operate?
- A mount is necessary if you want to put the computer on your bike. Usually it is included with the package, but there are aftermarket mounts if you want to customize its placement on your bike.
- Easy to Read: The numbers and data must be easy to read. You don’t want to have to stop when you’re riding, so large numbers are a must.
Bike Computer FAQ
Q: How accurate are bike computers?
A: GPS units are often thought to be more accurate than magnetic models, but if you can provide your tire’s size, you will get accurate results with magnetic sensors.
Q: What happens to my data when I replace or recharge the battery?
A: Your data won’t be lost, but you may need to reset the settings.
Q: Which brand is the best?
A: It depends on what you’re looking for. Rather go with a specific brand, it is better to go with one that has the features you’re looking for.
Q: Are all bike computers water resistant?
A: No, but most won’t get damaged with a bit of water splash every now and then.
Other Considerations
Apart from what we already mentioned, you also have to consider the following before buying a bike computer.
- What type of rider are you? Are you new to cycling? Do you ride causally? Do you ride for competition? Are you serious about fitness? The type of rider you are is going to determine what kind of bike computer you’re going to use.
- Long term consideration: Do you often upgrade your equipment? Do you see yourself content with a basic computer? Think also of your future plans when buying a bike computer.
- Durability: Even the best riders aren’t immune to crashes, so look for a computer that can take hits.
- Waterproof: Do you like to ride in the rain or muddy, wet terrain? If so, you’ll want a waterproof unit.
- Warranty: A long, comprehensive warranty is always preferable.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are a lot of features and factors you need to look into. It’s important that you delve into it, though, because it’s going to make a big difference when you use the device. The amount of time you put in the research is going to ensure that you get the right one for your bike.
