Outdoor enthusiasts had not yet had time to dream about installing a speedometer on their bike, as the rapid development of engineering once again decided to surprise them with their new invention. However, if we take into account that our time is called the age of information and mobility, then it ceases to seem something outlandish and unusual. The iron horse as a means of transportation and a tool for practicing the most useful sport is increasingly appearing on the streets of the city, and the data that the cyclometer reports (this is another name for such a device) can be useful to both a beginner and a professional athlete.
How a bike computer works
The vast majority of modern models use a magnetic counter, the main parts of which are two small magnets, to obtain information about the movement. One of them is attached to the front wheel of the bike, and the second - directly to the fork. Thanks to him, the bicycle computer receives information about the number of complete revolutions of the wheel. In order for the device to correctly determine the distance and other indicators, the user pre-sets the rim diameter in the settings.
How to make the right choice
If you read what they write about this topic on bicycle forums, you can easily get confused. Some cyclists recommend explaining this by the fact that it can be easily removed if you have to leave your vehicle on the street. Others focus on durability and recommend purchasing proven models. In particular, a lot positive feedback left by those who use the Sigma bike computer. At the same time, I want the device to be as functional as possible. Experts advise choosing a model individually, based on the method of riding and the tasks of the future owner. For example, those who prefer mountain biking are advised to buy a basic rugged bike computer that can determine the average and current speed, as well as the distance traveled.
In addition, there are devices specifically designed for this type of bike that can read data at low speed. Professional athletes who are training for triathlon or road racing should choose a more advanced model with a built-in stopwatch, calorie counter, altimeter. Those who love long cycling trips will surely like devices with a GPS navigator, and those who care about their health will like a heart rate sensor. In addition, there are models with a coding function that allow you to ride in a group and not be afraid that your own bike computer will read the data of a fellow traveler. Installation of such a device usually does not cause any difficulties, since most of them come with a very detailed instructions, and the rim size is easy to figure out by looking at the chamber markings under the tire. In order to determine the size of the wheel itself, you need to add the thickness to it.
A dedicated fitness device will help you control your heart rate, but it's not built into the bike's memory. Whether you're a healthy street salesman or a hearty bike lover, tracking your two-wheeled workout is a bike computer you'll definitely need.
It is specially designed to provide you with notes and comments after a long journey. Climb angle, speed, ride tracking and body condition, cycling computers feed us data so you can tell if you've set a new world record or are just breaking your own. best time. When choosing a bike computer, you must first decide what kind of rider you are, or what you want to become. If you're just a regular cyclist enjoying sunny days on your bike, then you can get by with a basic computer.
It can tell you how far you have driven, what speed you have developed and how long you have been driving. Serious competitors are going to demand more data and will therefore have to spend more on additional features as well as extended lifespan. For any spectrum, final and all intermediate, for all of the 5 best bike computers have the information you need.
Garmin Edge 810 - a single complex
Pros: Screen works well even with gloves
Cons: Bluetooth tends to drain phone battery power
You'll likely be shocked by the price, but once you plug it in, you can see that the Garmin Edge 810 is packed full of features. Social fans will notice that it automatically connects to Garmin Connect to track your rides and let you know where you stand among other cyclists. The LiveTrack feature allows people to see your location through simple satellite sync for safer rides downtown or off the beaten track. Tracking cadence with an ANT+ sensor along with distance, elevation, speed and everything else, the computer will load you with statistics. Tiny touch screen but easy to use on the fly.
Price: 20449 rubles.
Mudder - the basics of a cyclist
Pros: lightweight and easy to use
Cons: Extremely limited options
The requirement to have 22 features is a bit of a misnomer given that some of them are counting and counting down. Although the computer is not loaded with metrics and measurements, it is still a good bike computer. entry level which won't cost much. Distance, speed, trip time, average and top speed and fat burning, all processed without error. You won't get more accurate information like cadence, but it will give you the exact number of calories burned. If you don't want more information because you're on your commuter bike and don't need a lot of hype, spend £970. and go.
Price: 970 rubles.
Planet Bike Protege 9.0 - frills
Pros: Easy to use and amazingly durable
Cons: No audio/picture sync or online toolkit
Do you want some best computer than the cheapest absolute, but still don't want to spend a lot of working memory tracking wheel revs, overall bike mood, or other weird measurements that mean nothing to you. Using a four-line LCD monitor that allows you to get Additional information, it has dual odometer, trip time calculation, speed, clock, trip distance, and even speed comparator. You'll have to record and track your own data manually, but with a friendly, helpful, weather-protected one, it's easy to do.
Price: 1699 rubles.
Garmin 910XT - hand rocket
Pros: Seamless modification between cycling, driving and swimming
Cons: Will be partially useless for anyone who is not a triathlete
Not only technically a bike computer, the 910XT is a sports watch/fitness tracker/heart rate monitor/bike computer/swim teacher/triathlon coach. ANT+ wireless system grips that check speed and cadence, just like on your road bike, give you elevation, ride distance and track your path. When you're in the pool, it starts testing your knees, your swimming efficiency, and then uploads it all to Garmin Connect to show off with comments or helpful tips. You can change controls from cycling to swimming at the touch of a button and easily move the computer from your wrist to your bike while riding fast without stopping.
Price: 22494 rubles.
Timex Cycle Trainer 2.0 - a lot for the money
Pros: Lithium-ion battery lasts for 18 hours
Cons: Complicated software navigation
Five-fold screens with clear demarcations provide information that is ready to go and can be processed fairly quickly. The computer can be easily configured to get just the information you need, exactly when you need it, without sideways glances or hesitation. Heart rate, strength, speed and cadence are counted via ANT+ sensors for accuracy. The GPS is fantastically accurate for the price and has a good ability to track your progress through Timex Training Peaks, although the community is a bit dull. There is no on-board barometer, so the altitude reading is just lip service.
Price: 5112 rubles.
Volchenko TatianaAre you a fan of cycling and want to know everything about your rides? Then you need this bike speedometer: it will not only show the current, maximum and average speed, but also calculate the cadence - the number of pedal revolutions per minute. This decision is very important for driving on rough terrain with numerous descents and ascents. As a result, you will be able to monitor your own load and in no case slow down the pace throughout the workout.
The large and rather informative three-line screen is equipped with LED backlighting, and the numbers are displayed in a rather large font, so you do not have to peer at the screen for a long time and be distracted from the traffic situation. And that's not all: for those people who want to get rid of excess weight with the help of cycling, the function of counting calories burned will be useful. Purchase this model, and you'll get a personal assistant to help you know all about your rides and get the most out of your workouts.
If you have more than one bike
Some athletes have two or more bikes in their arsenal, designed for different riding conditions. However, they want to keep statistics of their races and store it in one device. And it became real to do it - just buy a bike computer from XQJ. It measures the distance traveled on two bikes and adds up these values so you can know the total distance.
The installation process of all elements
A distinctive characteristic of this set is the ease and simplicity of its installation: the wireless sensor is designed in such a way as to simultaneously determine the speed of your ride and count the pedal revolutions. You need to mount the sensor itself on the rear triangle, and two magnetic sensors on the inside of the pedals and wheel spokes. The kit also includes mounting clamps, so they simplify the task as much as possible.
Think about your own safety
If you travel on roads for enough high speed, then a bicycle helmet should be an integral part of the equipment. It is made from incredibly durable materials to protect your head from serious injury and even save your life in the event of a fall. In addition, a high-quality helmet is able to provide good ventilation, which protects against overheating even in the summer heat.
Compact and functional
Speaking about this bike computer, we want to immediately note its amazingly small dimensions - only 4.2 x 4.8 centimeters, so there will definitely be a place for it on the handlebar next to the rest of the devices. The screen boasts a pleasant soft backlight, which provides excellent readability of numbers in the dark. The upper part is for displaying the speed, and on the lower part you can read the description of the function and its meaning.
The built-in auto-scan function allows you to follow all the data without pressing buttons: for example, the average speed, maximum speed, distance traveled and travel time will be displayed at a certain interval. Incredibly convenient, right? Well, that's not all the advantages: the ability to maintain statistics for two bicycles at the same time is a plus for athletes who own several two-wheeled vehicles.
Nice addition
Another nice and useful feature here is a built-in thermometer: it will tell you the current air temperature. And although many athletes do not pay enough attention to this value, nevertheless, it directly affects sweating and general well-being, and also helps to avoid dehydration. It can take measurements in Celsius or Fahrenheit, which is also an important detail.
Analyze your own statistics
The key to high achievements in any business is the analysis of your own data, and cycling is no exception. And here it is important that the statistics be kept for a long time, because it makes it possible to correctly draw up a training plan. And, unlike most other models on the market, the Sigma cycling computer has built-in memory that remembers all your progress, even if the battery in the device is completely dead. And this device is compatible with docking stations for easy synchronization with personal computer. With help special program you can copy all the data to your PC and moreover view it as graphs and charts for better visualization.
Protect your vehicle from theft
If you use a bike as a daily transport, you are probably familiar with the situation when you need to go away on business and leave the bike in the parking lot. However, bike theft is a fairly common problem, especially in major cities. However, this unfortunate incident can be avoided - you just need to purchase a high-quality bicycle lock.
Stylish cyclist companion
Definitely, this model can be called one of the most stylish today: the strict outlines of the case allow the bike computer to successfully fit into the design of a mountain, road or even road bike. There are several colors to choose from, so you have the opportunity to match the shade to the color of the frame. Among the amenities, it is necessary to note a high-precision thermometer that helps to monitor the temperature, as well as a low charge indicator that will remind you of the need to replace the batteries.
Please note that when shaking the device, you can hear a certain sound, but do not panic - this is a special active mechanism responsible for waking the bike computer from sleep mode. Due to the fact that this model is wireless, installation will not take much time and effort, and the presence of fixing ties will eliminate the need to purchase them additionally.
Large four-line display
A feature of this model is a large informative LCD display with good contrast, which allows you to comfortably read the race data even in bright sunlight. It is also four-line, so the maximum information is displayed on the screen. At the same time, the font is quite large and noticeable even from afar. The presence of a backlight helps to navigate in the dark, but at the same time it does not blind the cyclist, which can also be safely attributed to the merits. The power source here is immediately 3 CR2032 batteries (2 for the device and 1 for the sensor), but they last for a fairly long period.
Remote mechanical button
The device has buttons for setting up and controlling the bike computer, and the Mode key flaunts on the front to change modes and view various information about your race. In addition, the manufacturer has provided for the presence of a special remote button: it is fixed not far from the steering wheel handle (grips) and thus allows you to comfortably press it without removing your hand from the steering wheel. In addition, we note that the button is mechanical, so it does not require batteries to function.
Solution for night rides
Are you planning trips in the evening or at night? Then you definitely need to mark yourself on the road in order to be visible to other road users. Get a reliable bike light so you can see the road ahead clearly and avoid potholes or obstacles. After all, the safety of the cyclist is paramount!
INBIKE 26.59
Over 20 features put together
In the modern era of high technology, a bicycle speedometer is no longer a delight, unlike, for example, counting calories burned or maintaining other important statistics when riding a bicycle. Therefore, many manufacturers strive to equip their products with many useful features.
With surprisingly small dimensions (only 4.5 x 4.5 cm), the Inbike bike computer boasts the ability to keep track of more than 20 indicators. It takes into account and displays indicators such as speed, total distance and distance covered during a particular trip, time, countdown timer, calories burned while riding and converted to lost weight, and much more.
Also thanks to the speed comparison function, you can see if you are moving ahead of the average speed, or vice versa, behind. This decision very important in training and during competitions, as it will help to correct the pace of movement if necessary.
Smart backlight
The implementation of the backlight deserves special attention here: in order to extend the life of the CR2032 battery as long as possible, it turns on only between 18:00 and 6:00. It is activated by pressing any key and lights up for 4 seconds. But if, while the backlight is on, press and hold the two buttons for 3 seconds, it will work continuously until you turn it off yourself.
Where is the best place to mount a bike computer?
Due to the fact that this bike computer is wired, in addition to fixing the device itself and the sensor, it is very important to properly route the cable to avoid tangling. The head unit mount can be placed either on the handlebar or on the handlebar stem, both of which are shown graphically in the manual. If we talk about the sensor, then there are no particular difficulties either, the main thing is that the distance between the sensor and the magnet does not exceed 1.5 mm. To fix the cable, use plastic ties: they do not spoil the appearance of your bike and at the same time are incredibly reliable.
Delivery of the bike to the competition site
What to do in cases when you want to ride your favorite bike in picturesque places, but they are very far away? The answer is simple - get there by car, fixing two-wheeled vehicles with a special mount. It allows you to safely transport one or more bikes for riding or racing. Today there are models compatible with various types bodies: from sedans and hatchbacks to SUVs and minivans. Tip: during transportation, remove the cycle computer from the mount or completely turn it off, otherwise, with any shaking, it may wake up from sleep mode and thereby quickly drain the battery.
If the presence of cardio training is the meaning of life, then you can not deny yourself classes on an exercise bike. However, you can get the same benefits on the street from a regular bike. The only condition for these workouts to be effective is the presence of a bike computer. It will allow, similarly to classes in the gym, to monitor the performance and plan the course of the workout.
What to look for when choosing
Unlike an ordinary computer, the bicycle version has a very limited set of functions. But they are strictly directed. This is a simple computing device that allows you to determine the efficiency of the use of the vehicle and record data on the distance traveled. So, for example, the simplest option shows:
- Current time;
- Distance traveled;
- current speed;
- Average speed per workout
- Minimum and maximum speed.
This is enough to monitor the data of the average cyclist.
For those who want to know more about themselves and the trip, the device with advanced features in addition to the above gives:
- cadence (cadence);
- Pace (the ratio of the current speed to the average for the trip);
- pulse rate;
- Stopwatch;
- Change in carbon dioxide content;
- air temperature;
- Altitude relative to sea level.
The greater the number of monitored characteristics, the more expensive the device, but not only this affects its cost. Much depends on the brand that produces the product. There are brands specializing in the production of high-precision equipment, for example, Casio, famous for the release wrist watch and calculators. In particular, Casio Sport produces a specialized line of devices (mainly watches with additional functions). But there are those who deal exclusively with sports accessories. These are companies that produce equipment for professional athletes, focused on the detailed processing of data indicators collected during training on fresh air, including rough terrain.
Types, alternatives and their features
Occupational models based on indicators give detailed description training or competition stage with detailed statistics by period - the beginning, end or a specific section of the path. They are equipped with a memory that is not erased when the battery is replaced, but only reset manually.
An alternative to them can be a smartphone with a set of sensors and special applications However, it should be noted that such experiments often turn out to be deplorable. An unsuccessfully fixed device will fall on the first bump and as a result there will be no training or gadget. Therefore, it is worth giving preference to bicycle computers that will not waste electricity and withstand the load placed on them.
Of the additional amenities, manufacturers often offer a backlight for a monochrome display and a waterproof case. Some even manage to release devices without buttons and with color displays, but they have the same disadvantage as phones - the charge quickly decreases. It will not be enough for a long trip, for example, in the mountains. By the way, for advanced models, the charge level is displayed on the screen. Most often, the data on it is reflected in 2-3 lines. Therefore, the larger it is, the larger and more noticeable the numbers, which is especially important on a road with active traffic, such as a city highway.
According to the configuration of devices, the following types can be distinguished:
- Stationary and removable (including wrist);
- Wired and wireless.
Stationary models are the least popular, because. can be stolen, with or without transport. Removable bike computers in this regard are much more convenient, but there is one subtlety. In order for the device to serve for a long time, you need to choose a model with a convenient, but reliable mount. If problems occur during installation / dismantling / use, then the accessory is of poor quality.
Also, problems can arise with wired models. Since the wires connect the parts of the device located simultaneously on the moving and fixed parts of the bicycle, they are the first to become unusable. This is one of the reasons why they are cheaper. In contrast to them, there are wireless models. They have to change batteries much more often to keep the signal received from the sensors consistently strong.
What is suitable from what is offered on the market
Among all the models encountered, it is worth highlighting a few. For example, from the Garmin brand. This is not cheap, but very high quality option. Devices 810, 510, 500 deserve the highest praise. They have received recognition from foreign audiences, where their use has become more common than in our country. Even though they have a different set additional features all of them are reliably protected from mechanical damage and moisture penetration.
Brand No. 2 - Cateye has occupied the niche of budget, but high-quality bike computers. It produces a whole line of devices, the leader of which is the Strada model in Slim and Velo 7 versions. Strada Double allows you to use it on 2 vehicles at once, saving the data of each. This wireless option captures cadence and heart rate when using the right sensors.
Of the inexpensive models with GPS navigation, the Timex Cycle Trainer 2.0 stands out. Its price is half that of the same Garmin model, but the quality is not worse. It has 4 buttons and a display with clearly defined data even on the go. The set of functions, in addition to the most necessary ones, includes tracking by GPS coordinates downloaded from PC. You can also transfer data from it to the network.
The cheapest, but practically unkillable, is Sigma BC 5.12. Him monochrome display and just a few features. However, for a beginner who just wants to lose weight, they are suitable and this is the best option. Its price is justified, because. it is wired, miniature and waterproof. But they are easy to use and easy to set up.
Useful information and additions
Those who like different kinds of new things often have problems like those that owners of Strida bikes have. On non-standard wheels, especially with plastic spokes, it is difficult to install a sensor, but a similar problem can be solved. This is done simply. Instead of one coupler (zip lock) 2 mutually twisted are used. This allows you to stabilize the location of the sensor and eliminates its loss.
It should be noted that not all programmed functions are available in the basic configuration of the devices. Most often this concerns the cadence accounting function. It is only available if the kit includes an appropriate sensor, which is purchased separately from the main unit. The same applies to models that replace the usual pedestrian version. GPS navigator. GPS maps loaded into memory have to be purchased from the relevant Internet services.
More expensive devices transmit an encrypted signal. This is necessary to exclude the influence of extraneous electromagnetic devices on the readings of the sensors, since their work is based on closing the signal circuit with a magnet. This feature is very necessary if the trip is planned in the company of riders who have such devices.
On the video below detailed information about how such devices look and how they are used. Recommendations are also given for choosing a bicycle gadget depending on the goals of the owner and others. helpful tips.
Note that which bike computer is best decided only by its owner. Personal opinion is formed comprehensively, taking into account all related factors, including what computing functions the device will perform
In contact with
What is a bike computer? it small device, which is installed on the steering wheel in order to measure the speed, mileage of the bike, as well as display the parameters of the current time, pressure, etc. In terms of its functions, this device resembles a car panel.
Story
The first speedometer for a bicycle was created back in 1895 by the inventor this device became Curtis Hussein Weder. In those days, the device was a very primitive mechanical speedometer, which was attached to the wheel with a special foot. This made it possible to give information about the number of rotations and miles, which was reflected on the analog odometer using a cable.
The bicycle speedometer has become very popular. Subsequently, this model has been significantly improved.
Device selection
What is the best bike computer to buy? To do this, you need to decide on the functions that, in your opinion, this device should be equipped with. Also, the choice of a bike computer depends on the amount of money that you are willing to spend on this purchase.
Wired or wireless device? What's better?
In the event that you are faced with the question of how to choose a bike computer, you should decide which device you need: wired or wireless. The differences in these models lie in the presence or absence of a wire that is located between the bike computer itself and the sensor on the wheel. In the second option, information from the sensor is transmitted using a radio signal.
How to choose a bike computer? Which of the options to give preference? To do this, you need to weigh all the pros and cons, having studied the pros and cons of each of the devices.
It should be borne in mind that the price of a wired bike computer is lower than a device that provides information using a radio signal. At the same time, it does not have a battery on the sensor. One of the reasons for the breakdown of such a product may be mechanical damage to the wire.
As for the second option, wireless computer can always be hidden in a bag or pocket. At the same time, it will continue to give information about the movement. positive moment is the lack of a wire between the wheel and the sensor. However, the cost of such a device is somewhat higher than the first option, and besides, its operation becomes incorrect in case of strong radio interference. In addition, the sensor requires a power supply.
Thus, it will become the best choice in case you have to travel difficult conditions. The device will be in the pocket, and the measurements, however, will continue. This eliminates the risk of damaging the wire. In addition, some buyers care about appearance your bike. They think the wire is ruining it. But this is a matter of personal taste.
Possible functions
How to choose a bike computer so that it meets all the necessary requirements? First of all, you need to familiarize yourself with its functions.
The simplest models of bike computers display the maximum and average speed, the frequency with which the wheel rotates, the total mileage, current time, the distance of the trip, as well as the time during which the cyclist is on the road. There are also more advanced options. They are equipped with an altimeter, an inclinometer, a GPS navigator, a stopwatch and a reverse timer. Some models on the display screen reflect the cyclist's pulse and kilocalorie consumption, air humidity and temperature, altitude, etc.
However, it is worth remembering that the main function of the bike computer is to measure performance while driving. Everything else is considered secondary.
When deciding how to choose a bike computer, you should pay attention to the clarity of the display of the model you are interested in. At good quality It will be possible to follow the readings of the device without taking your attention off the road for a long time. The big display is a plus.
Cost parameters
The price of a bike computer is directly dependent on the functions that the device is endowed with. That is why it is worth deciding on the need for each information issued by the device. For most cyclists, the standard features are enough. Consider whether it's worth paying extra for non-essential apps.
Practice shows that of all models, consumers prefer those that display the information received as accurately as possible, are easy to install and manage. It is also important to have a shock-resistant and moisture-proof case, as well as backlight for the dark time of the day.
Instrument setup
The device you choose must be attached to the bike. After that, the bike computer is configured. Not every buyer is aware of this.
What steps need to be taken to set up the bike computer? The instructions for its operation will simply and clearly tell which button you need to press.
First of all, you need to enter the circumference of the wheel into the computer. In some models, this function is simplified. It is performed according to the conditional diameter. However, this method is inaccurate. In the instructions of any decent model, you can find a table that contains not only the diameter, but also the width, as well as the height of the tires. However, this issue has its own nuances. Tire width at different manufacturers considered differently. This fact may affect the accuracy of the speedometer readings.
Thus, setting up a bicycle computer involves fixing the inch (circumference) of a bicycle wheel and choosing an indicator for measuring the distance traveled.
VDO cycling computers
Back in the forties of the last century, many leaders of the German car industry sought to equip their cars with only the best speedometers. At the same time, they gave preference to VDO brand devices. These devices guaranteed measurement accuracy, ergonomics and reliability.
The VDO bike computer was developed in the nineties of the last century. This device is a miniature model with a VDO bike computer that displays not only the speed parameters of the bike, but also the time spent on the road. The functions of this device allow you to fix real time and take into account the distance travelled.
VDO has released a whole series. Their list includes models that have five, eight, ten and fifteen different functions. At the same time, all devices reflected the wishes of numerous cyclists.
VDO cycling computers have a large display on which bright numbers are well read. At the same time, they are equipped with a convenient table made of heavy-duty plastic, a reliable connecting wire or sensitive wireless sensors. The cases of these devices are waterproof. They are conveniently located on them. A distinctive feature of the computers of this company is a reflector on the case. It was he who became the key to successful competition with other manufacturers of similar products.
Bike computers SigmaSport
Many cyclists tend to keep statistics of their achievements and successes. This allows them to constantly improve their training. The SigmaSport cycling computer has been helping with this for over twenty years. The German company creates perfect devices, constantly adding new features to them. Currently, these cycle computers are convenient and compact multifunctional devices. At the same time, different models have not only basic functions. There are devices with advanced features.
Each buyer can choose the best bike computer for himself. Sigma models are easy to use and have an affordable price.
Beginning athletes, as a rule, purchase devices with ten to twelve functions. They are extremely easy to manage and have low price. Professionals prefer more sophisticated devices.
BRJ bike computers
Devices that provide information about the parameters of movement are installed on their bikes not only by professionals. Such devices serve as reliable assistants and novice athletes.
BRJ cycle computers are popular with consumers. Many models are equipped with a large display that displays special reminder icons about the need for maintenance or lubrication of the vehicle. In addition, there are functions of real time, current and maximum speed, etc.
Assize cycling computers
This multifunctional device will be a worthy choice for your bike. Its purchase is a choice in favor of practicality and comfort. Assize cycling computers have a great mount to keep the sensor from coming off while riding. Many models are small, but at the same time convenient sizes. You can always pick up devices with additional features.
Cateye bike computers
A good choice for any cyclist is a device that combines versatility and ease of use. One of the models of the Cateye bike computer can become such a device. Together with indications of movement, it will allow you to track your heart rate, power and pace. This will allow you to quickly adjust the focus of your workout.
The backlight that the device is equipped with can be programmed to automatic switch on and shutdown depending on the driving schedule. The body of the bike computer is waterproof. Models that do not have external sensors can be easily transferred from bike to bike.