Today, amateur cyclists can use a single device to collect and monitor almost as much data as professional cyclists. For example, tracking the route, monitoring heart rate, elevation gain, speed, power, cadence, and even wind resistance. In this article, we will thoroughly discuss bike GPS computers and speedometers, along with the most popular manufacturers, so you can choose the most suitable device for yourself without hassle.
Bicycle electronics: the complete guide to GPS computers and speedometers
2024-12-06
Vytautas Kaupas
Vytautas Kaupas
What Are Bike Computers?
Bike computers are primarily your travel companions, simplifying navigation and providing all the necessary information about your ride. Instead of analyzing your training data once you return, if you were tracking it via your phone, bike computers allow you to monitor speed, distance, time, elevation changes, heart rate, cadence in real time, and adjust your effort accordingly. A modern GPS bike computer can even act as a coach, providing real-time advice based on your goals and reminding you when to eat, drink, and more.
If you ask why it's worth buying a bike computer, we'd say that investing in one is particularly valuable in several cases: if you're aiming for performance results and if you love embarking on cycling adventures. However, even those who don't train seriously benefit from a GPS bike computer – for instance, clear data visibility and synchronization with other devices allow you to save your rides without draining your phone's battery.
Popular Bike Computer Brands
GPS bike computers are produced by sports electronics companies developing products with highly accurate navigation. This is crucial because cycling enthusiasts don't just travel on roads but also on forest trails or off-road, where advanced navigation systems are especially useful.
Garmin
Garmin is one of the leading companies in the field of cycling GPS computers and other smart sports devices. Their bike computers like the Edge 530, Edge 1050, and others are highly accurate, durable, and have all the functions a cyclist might need.
Wahoo
Popular Wahoo GPS computers include Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt and Wahoo Roam, which are loved for their ease of use, i.e., user-friendly design and settings. In December 2024, Wahoo released a new model – the Wahoo ELEMNT Ace computer with an exceptionally bright touchscreen, wind sensor, and a battery lasting up to 30 hours.
Hammerhead
Hammerhead is part of the SRAM group, so the Hammerhead Karoo GPS computer can be purchased individually or as part of the entire SRAM RED bike group. The Hammerhead Karoo 3 has a bright touchscreen and is extremely easy to operate.
Sigma
Sigma bike computers are a reliable and budget-friendly solution. They offer just enough features, allowing you to choose from the simplest models with a black-and-white screen, such as the Sigma SPORT ROX 2, or more advanced ones like the ROX 11.1.
Synchronizing Bike Computers with Smartphones and Apps
Bike computers support Bluetooth or ANT+ connections, allowing them to connect to smartphones. Through a phone app, you can manage GPS computer settings, upload routes, and update computer software. All GPS computers can also sync with popular apps like Strava, Komoot, etc., so you can share your ride with friends right after finishing.
Bike Computer Accessories
The bike computer can independently track data such as speed, elevation, and distance traveled. However, if you want to monitor more information, you will need to sync the GPS computer with its accessories:
- Heart Rate Monitor: A heart rate (HR) strap allows you to monitor your cycling effort, adjust your load accordingly, calorie intake, and more.
- Cadence Sensor: Mounted on the crank arm, a cadence sensor shows how many revolutions per minute you maintain while cycling. Cadence training is useful for improving performance – the habit of pedaling at a higher cadence teaches efficient gear shifting, reduces muscle strain, and enhances endurance.
- Power Meter: If you train with precision and want to monitor your power output based not only on heart rate but also on actual power, you can choose cranks or pedals with a power meter, which will display power in real time on your GPS computer.
- Bike Computer Mounts: Since handlebars vary, many GPS computers are sold without a mount. For convenient attachment of the computer to your bike's handlebar, you can choose from mounts and adapters that allow the computer to be attached even to aero handlebars, or combine it with a front light on the same mount.
What Are Bike Speedometers?
Bike speedometers are simpler devices than bike computers, used to measure speed and distance. Usually, a bike speedometer does not have GPS or advanced features but is suitable for those seeking an economical and simple solution for tracking mileage. A standard bike speedometer allows monitoring data such as cycling time, distance, total distance ridden, ride duration, speed, and also averages of these values along with ambient temperature. Some speedometers can even estimate calories burned.
Popular Bike Speedometer Brands
Bike speedometer manufacturers are companies producing small electronics for sports. Their products feature simple and durable designs, ensuring that purchased devices last long and in all weather conditions.
Sigma
Reliable and affordable German-made Sigma speedometers are among the most popular on the market. We recommend choosing from the Sigma Sport BC speedometer line.
Cat Eye
The Cat Eye Velo speedometer series is popular for its ease of use and long battery life. Those looking for an especially stylish speedometer will like the Cat Eye Padrone bike computer-speedometer.
Have questions about choosing a bike computer or speedometer? Visit our store at J. Baltrušaičio g. 1, Vilnius, or contact us via email at info@velonova.lt
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