Best Bike Computer Reviews 2018

The cost of a bike computer will depend on its type and design features. For example, a wired bicycle computer that measures cycling speed, distance, and trip time can cost about $20. On the other hand, the price of an advanced wireless bike computer with customizable training course and up to 180 hours of recording time is in the range of about $300. Therefore, the more advanced the device is, the more money you spend on it.

This doesn’t mean that there aren’t cheap bike computers on the market. The only challenge with such devices is that they are likely to be made of cheap materials that fail within a short time of use. Fortunately, we haven’t featured such products in our review; therefore, you don’t have to worry.

As you shop for a computer to track your cycling data, your focus should be on functions that help you meet your specific needs. This calls for a serious scrutiny of the features of the devices available on the market.

Here are the important features to look for in a bike computer:

• Type – Is it wired or wireless
• Range – Its speed range
• Power – Its power source
• Size – Dimensions and weight of the device
• Extras – Additional features such as backlit, waterproof, etc.

These features help you to determine suitability of a device for your unique needs and budget.

Wired models of computers for biking use magnetic sensors that are fixed on the bicycle’s front wheel to measure the speed and distance covered by the cyclist. The calculation is based on the circumference of the wheel and number of spokes. Their wireless counterparts use the same concept but sensors are connected to the computer using ANT+ or Bluetooth technologies. In addition to these motion sensors, high-end computers incorporate heart rate and cadence meters that enhance further analysis of a cyclist’s performance.

The designs of most biking computers incorporate a display screen through which users can see the data recorded by the device. Basic computers use scroll buttons to reveal additional data while advanced models have auto scroll functionalities or touch screens. It’s worth mentioning that some of these devices are fitted with GPS trackers and barometric altimeters for added data collection options.

Another important aspect of the design of a bike computer is how it’s powered. Some of the common powering options available on the market today include disposable cells and rechargeable batteries. The power from these batteries allows the device to run and record a biker’s data. In fact, if you remove the batteries from some bike computers, you’ll lose the recorded data and any calibrations done. It’s therefore important to ensure you have a data backup plan. This can be achieved by getting models that incorporate integration of smart technology or periodic data transfer using a USB cable.

The performance of a cyclometer is highly dependent on its design features. For example, a compact and lightweight bike computer with a waterproof design will offer resilient performance in both wet and dry weather conditions. Also, a smart cyclometer that’s fitted with GPS tracker and high precision barometric altimeter will give an accurate track of your riding route including adulation and allow you to share it with friends.

This flexibility takes biking to another level as you can track personal data and benchmark your performance against that of other cyclists. Moreover, computers that come with rechargeable batteries save you the hassle of changing the cells and re-calibrating the devices over and over. It also helps you save on recurrent costs associated with buying disposable batteries.

Before purchasing a bike computer, you should check to make sure it has a warranty to help protect against any manufacturing issues.