If you are a keen biker and want a method to monitor your rides you may consider a bike computer and if they are worth the cost…
Is a bike computer worth it?
Bike computers are a good investment. While you could certainly use various apps on a Smartphone, the chances are good that one day that phone is going to fall right off. With a bike computer, you have a dedicated, securely fastened means of accessing progress, getting GPS data, and more.
You also get a superior battery life and you don’t have to worry about your bike computer freezing – these devices are robust. When you consider as well that you can get models starting at 10$, then it’s hard to argue against them. Bike computers are nice to have!
What are the benefits of a bike computer?
Bike computers are dedicated to measuring all of the factors that you need. You can find things such as GPS information, altitude, distance traveled, and speed. Some models allow you to calculate routes and can even measure heart rate.
Bike computers are also quite securely fastened. While a smartphone may be placed in a ‘holder’, it’s simply not as secure as a bike computer, which is installed directly into the bike.
Add in the extended battery life and the fact that you won’t have to drain phone batteries while riding, and a bike computer is simply the most sensible choice.
Is the Garmin bike computer worth it?
Garmin bike computers are among the best out there. They can calculate useful things, such as elapsed time, trip distance, and speed, and are even aware of the time of day. While a lot of this information is basic, Garmins take it a step further and collate the data into performance metrics that can help you to accurately gauge your progress.
There are even online features, such as live tracking, that Garmin also brings to the table. A lot depends on the model that you choose, however, so you’ll want to take a look at their current offerings – they are definitely worth your consideration.
Can I use my smartphone as a bike computer?
You certainly can and some apps support this, such as Jepster, which will add GPS features to your ride and can even take advantage of Bluetooth heart rate monitoring, speed sensors, and more.
The only caveats are the battery use and the holding assembly, which is fairly secure but not as reliable as a fixed, permanent mounting, such as you would find with bike computers or power meters.
Can I use my Apple Watch as a bike computer?
Yes, provided that you have a series 6, 7, or an SE model Apple watch, then the automatic workout detection option now includes cycling. This will allow you to simply start a ride and shortly after you do, then the device will prompt you to ask you if you wish to record the ride.
While this is not as versatile as a bike computer or many Android functions, the technology is being innovated all of the time, so be sure to check and see what features are available currently.
Apple tends to be ahead of the curve when it comes to innovation, so the recent addition of the cycling function will likely improve fairly quickly.
What should I look for in a bike computer?
Look for features that will gauge your speed, distance, and time elapsed as your first criterium/ You’ll also want to have a clock, accurate current speed, and wireless capability. The least is important, as a model with wireless should be able to transfer your data to a smartphone app.
If so, then this affords you expanded features so that your phone and bike computer can work together, giving you a more comprehensive workout if that’s what you’re after. Just keep in mind that many popular brands, such as Garmin, can already offer such functions without requiring an interface with your phone.
Is a bike computer the same as a power meter?
No. A power meter works independently and is going to be attached to a bike computer to be used. The power meter’s function is simply to determine the actual power that you are outputting during your cycling sessions.
Think of it as an upgrade that provides a more physical means of calculation. Power meters can do actual physical measurements, while apps tend to rely on things such as GPS and timing algorithms based on currently assessed speed.
Can I use Strava as a bike computer?
Yes. The function of Strava is to interface with Android and iPhone devices, as well as an assortment of supported GPS items such as helmet additions and sports watches, to create a cycling computer with quite a few functions.
It creates a sophisticated bike computer out of the pairing of your Strava and preferred smart device.
What bike computers do the pros use?
The Edge 520 plus is a popular model with many pros, as it comes with impressive battery life to go with numerous features and current models even employ solar charging options, so that one may charge the device without adding to the energy footprint.
Other popular pro-level models include the Sigma Rox 11.1 EVO for its tiny size and for minimalists who just wish to use their phone, Karoo 2 is a final preferred choice of pros.
Which bike computer has the longest battery life?
The Garmin Edge 1040 may well be the best model when it comes to battery life. These models come with a 3.5-inch touchscreen which is color, responsive, and packed with features, and also incorporates solar charging.
The result is that riders have reported a battery life of up to 45 hours, due to the device charging itself on long-distance rides. This makes Garmin ideal for cyclists who like to spend a lot of time on their bikes.
That said, it may not be a good fit for those who only cycle only once or twice a week, so you’ll want to make sure that your activity level warrants this kind of investment. For the battery life, it is hard to beat and probably the best option on the market currently.