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Cycling Computer Review: The Best Devices for Tracking Your Rides
Published: February 19, 2024
Looking for the best cycling computer to track your rides? Read our comprehensive review to find the top devices for accurate ride data.
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Are you a cycling enthusiast looking for the best way to track your rides? Look no further than the Cycling Computer Review: The Best Devices for Tracking Your Rides. In this review, we will take a look at some of the top cycling computers on the market that can help you keep track of your rides, monitor your progress, and improve your overall cycling experience. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned rider, having a reliable cycling computer can make all the difference in your training and enjoyment of the sport.
Overall Score: 9/10
The COOSPO Bike Computer GPS Wireless is a multifunctional ANT+ bicycle computer with a 2.4 LCD screen, accurate GPS positioning, and Bluetooth app connection. It provides a variety of features to enhance your cycling experience, including IP67 waterproof protection, 12 months warranty, and professional technical support.
Key Features
- Accurate GPS Positioning
- Bike Computer ANT+
- Bluetooth App Connection
- Sync Activity to Strava
- 2.4 Inch Screen with Auto Backlight
- IP67 Waterproof
- 12 Months Warranty & Professional Technical Support
Specifications
- Color: Black
Pros
- Accurate GPS positioning
- Bluetooth app connection for easy setup
- Sync activity to Strava
- Automatic backlight for the screen
- IP67 Waterproof
- Professional technical support
Cons
- Screen timeout can be too short
- Small numbers on display
- Slow GPS connection at times
The COOSPO Bike Computer GPS Wireless is a great alternative to more expensive cycling computers. It offers accurate GPS positioning, easy setup with the app, and seamless syncing with Strava. Despite some minor drawbacks, it’s an excellent choice for cyclists looking for a reliable and affordable bike computer.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt V2 GPS Cycling/Bike Computer is a bike computer designed to enhance your cycling experience. It features on-device turn-by-turn navigation, ANT+ radar integration, smart notifications, automatic route downloads & workout uploads, and Strava live segments. The 2.2" diagonal screen, ambient light sensor, and customizable alerts contribute to its user-friendly design. It is also aerodynamic, integrating a front mount and Gorilla Glass lens. In addition, it comes with a global map, is fully integrated with TrainerRoad, TrainingPeaks and Today’s Plan. It also includes various offers when registered in the Companion App. Its black color and dimensions of 3.05Lx1.86Wx0.84H make it sleek and compact. The product is highly rated by customers and boasts excellent visibility, battery life, user interface, and reliability.
Key Features
- On-device turn-by-turn navigation
- ANT+ radar integration
- Smart notifications & live tracking
- Automatic route downloads & workout uploads
- Strava live segments
- Integrates with Trainer Road, Training Peaks, and Today’s Plan
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 3.05Lx1.86Wx0.84H
Pros
- Excellent visibility and battery life
- Sleek and compact design
- Reliable user interface and performance
- Aerodynamic and integrated front mount
Cons
- Boot up time is about a minute
- Out front bar mount seems a bit flimsy
- Screen is small and hard to read
The ELEMNT Bolt V2 GPS Cycling/Bike Computer is a top-notch product offering a plethora of features for cyclists. Its excellent performance, visibility, reliability, and user interface make it a preferred choice for both amateur and professional cyclists. With a sleek design and integration with popular third-party apps, it stands out as a highly versatile and practical tool for all cycling enthusiasts.
Overall Score: 8/10
The CAT EYE Urban Wireless Bike Computer in Black displays various stats such as speed, distance, and calorie consumption. It offers a secure mount, automatically stops tracking when stopped, and tracks calories burned. The odometer can be manually set without resetting when changing the battery. It is easy to set up and provides a large digital screen for easy reading. It also features a clock for added functionality, and the mount is secure. However, instructions can be difficult to understand, and the computer may malfunction when used with certain battery-powered lights. Overall, it's a great biking tool at an affordable price.
Key Features
- Favorite Stats: Displays speed, distance, and calorie consumption
- Save Miles: Manually set odometer without resetting
- Secure Mount: Flex Tight Bracket for easy, secure mounting
- Stop Tracking: Automatically stops tracking when stopped
- Calorie Tracking: Tracks calories burned
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 8.00Lx9.00Wx10.00H
Pros
- Displays all necessary stats
- Secure and easy mount
- Tracks calories burned
- Easy to install and use
- Large, easy-to-read digital screen
Cons
- Difficult-to-understand instructions
- May malfunction when used with certain lights
The CAT EYE Urban Wireless Bike Computer in Black is an excellent choice for cyclists looking for a reliable, affordable, and easy-to-use computer. With its comprehensive stat tracking, secure mount, and additional features like calorie tracking, it offers great value for the price. However, users should be cautious about potential malfunctions when used with specific battery-powered lights and may need to navigate through somewhat challenging instructions for set up. Despite these drawbacks, this bike computer is a fantastic tool for any avid cyclist.
Overall Score: 8/10
The COOSPO Bike Computer Wireless GPS is designed to equip riders with a high-cost performance electronic solution to make their rides more reliable and efficient. Its compact and lightweight design, with 2.4 inch LCD Display, allows for easy and convenient visibility. This GPS bike tracker provides accurate GPS data worldwide, and is compatible with ANT+ sensors. With COOSPORIDE app support, it can easily be set up on your phone and syncs with Strava, making it a game changer for budget-conscious riders.
Key Features
- Compact and lightweight design
- Accurate GPS data worldwide
- Compatible with ANT+ sensors
- COOSPORIDE app support
- Syncs with Strava
Specifications
- N/A
Pros
- Accurate readings
- Good value for the price
- Works well with Garmin HR strap, Cadence & Speed sensors
Cons
- Limited battery life
- Updates to speed via GPS are slow
- Some issues with temperature accuracy
The BC107 GPS Bike Computer from COOSPO offers an affordable, reliable, and accurate solution for cyclists at every level. Its impressive features and compatibility with ANT+ sensors make it an ideal choice for budget-conscious riders. The limited battery life and temperature accuracy issues are minor drawbacks compared to the overall value and performance it provides. With its compact design and easy setup, this bike computer is a game changer for every rider.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Garmin Edge 830 is a performance GPS cycling computer with advanced features to enhance your cycling experience. It provides dynamic performance monitoring, cycling safety features, and routable Garmin Cycle Map with popularity routing. The touchscreen device has a customizable interface and excellent app compatibility. The device is equipped with MTB dynamics, long battery life, and a sleek, compact design. While some users face issues with the heart rate strap, the overall consensus is positive, with users praising its functionality and support. With its advanced metrics and reliable performance, the Garmin Edge 830 promises to take your cycling to the next level.
Key Features
- Performance GPS cycling computer with mapping and touchscreen
- Dynamic performance monitoring with insights on VO2 max, recovery, training load focus, and acclimation
- Cycling safety features and compatibility with Varia radar and lights
- Routable Garmin Cycle Map with popularity routing and off-course recalculation
- Free apps, widgets, and data fields from the Connect IQ Store
- MTB dynamics track jump count, jump distance, hang time, and ride difficulty
Specifications
- Color: Multi
- Dimension: 3.20Lx0.80Wx1.90H
- Size: One Size
Pros
- Dynamic performance monitoring and safety features
- Free apps and widgets from Connect IQ Store
- MTB dynamics for detailed ride analysis
- Long battery life and compact design
Cons
- Issues with heart rate strap connectivity
- Initial setup and navigation may be confusing
- Some users face touchscreen responsiveness issues
The Garmin Edge 830 is a top-tier GPS cycling computer with advanced features and reliable performance. While it may have some minor connectivity and setup issues, the overall experience offers valuable insights and safety features for cyclists. With excellent support from Garmin, the Edge 830 is a great investment for serious cyclists looking to enhance their performance and overall riding experience.
Overall Score: 8/10
The CATEYE Padrone Wireless Bike Computer in black is the perfect cycling accessory for those who want basic data collection in an easy-to-use device. It displays current, max, and average speed, total distance, trip distance, elapsed time, and clock. Its secure and adjustable mount makes it easy to install, and it automatically stops counting time and averaging speed when you make stops. The computer's large screen and reliability make it a great value for money, while its easy setup and use suits the needs of both tech-savvy and non-tech-savvy riders alike.
Key Features
- Favorite Stats: Displays current, max, and average speed, total distance, trip distance, elapsed time, and clock
- Save Miles: Manually set the odometer
- Focus On Ride: One-press toggling through functions
- Secure Mount: Flex Tight Bracket for easy installation and adjustment
- Small Stops: Automatically stops counting time and averaging speed
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 1.69Lx0.57Wx2.64H
Pros
- Reliable and easy to install
- Large screen for easy reading
- Accurate and great value for money
- Simple and easy to use, suits various needs
Cons
- Too many options/lines to scroll through
- No option for manual starting and stopping
- Resetting everything can be tricky
The CATEYE Padrone Wireless Bike Computer in black is a reliable, accurate, and easy-to-use device, making it suitable for both casual and dedicated cyclists. With its simple setup and large display, it offers great value for money while providing essential data for enjoyable rides.
Overall Score: 8/10
The CATEYE Velo 7 Wired Bike Computer is a user-friendly, entry-level computer perfect for beginner cyclists. It displays current, max, and average speed, total distance, trip distance, pace arrow, and clock – making it an ideal choice for those looking to take their riding to the next level. With a battery that lasts up to three years, you can install it and forget about it. It's easy to install, easy to view, and provides a clear and large display. The setup might need some trial and error to get very accurate readings due to tire diameter but overall a great product for the price.
Key Features
- All your favorite stats
- Automatically stops at small stops
- Wired sensor
- Long battery life
- Ideal for beginners
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 1.46Lx0.71Wx2.17H
- Size: 2.17 Inch
Pros
- Easy to install and use
- Long battery life
- Large and clear display
Cons
- Setup might need some trial and error
- Difficulty reading with polarized sunglasses
The CATEYE Velo 7 Wired Bike Computer is a solid choice for those looking for a user-friendly bike computer with essential features. With easy installation, large and clear display, and a long-lasting battery, it’s a great deal for beginner and casual cyclists. However, some adjustments may be needed for accurate readings, and it may be hard to read with polarized sunglasses. Overall, a worthwhile purchase at an affordable price.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The COOSPO Bike Computer Wireless GPS is a top-tier cycling computer equipped with a large LCD display, lightweight and data-rich. It supports easy setup, auto-backlight, and long battery life. It also comes with an ANT+ and Bluetooth BK467 bike cadence or speed sensor to monitor cycling performance. Bundled together with two kinds of Computer Mounting Brackets, it offers compatibility with the CooSporide app to ensure seamless use. The product is waterproof, durable, and responds quickly, making it a popular and value-for-money option. With a high battery life and ample data points, this cycling computer is big, bright, and packed with features for avid cyclists.
Key Features
- 2.6" large LCD display with auto-backlight
- IP67 waterproof and long battery life
- Bluetooth5.0 ANT Bike GPS Computer
- COOSPO BK467 Bike Cadence/Speed Sensor
- Coo Sporide APP support and professional RD team
Specifications
- Color: Black
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to navigate
- Seamless ANT+ and Bluetooth technology
- Large screen with high battery life
- Responsive and data-rich features
Cons
- Dim screen resolution
- Clunky setup for some users
The COOSPO Bike Computer Wireless GPS offers exceptional value for money, making it a popular choice for cyclists looking for a lightweight, durable, and data-rich cycling computer. With an effective support team, reliable sensor, and easy setup, it provides a seamless and user-friendly experience. Despite minor display limitations, its long battery life and versatile features make it a top-tier option for biking enthusiasts.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The iGPSPORT iGS630 Bike Computer is a high-tech GPS unit designed specifically for cycling enthusiasts. It features global offline maps, smart route planning, intelligent climbing plan, route import and sharing, 99% devices compatible, training mode and course availability, and excellent after-sales service. The color screen provides clear and easy-to-read data, while the device is durable with IPX7 waterproof rating. This cycling computer offers an array of features for cyclists to track and analyze their rides effectively, making it a valuable companion for any biking adventure.
Key Features
- Global offline maps
- Smart route planning
- Intelligent climbing plan
- Route import & sharing
- Training mode & course availability
- 99% devices compatible
- After Sales Service
Specifications
- Color: Unit Only
- Dimension: 0.00Lx0.00Wx0.00H
Pros
- Built-in global offline map
- Smart route planning
- Global navigation support
- Intelligent climbing plan
- Large 2.8 inch color screen
- Compatible with 99% of brands
- Training mode & course availability
- Excellent customer service
Cons
- Issues with downloading routes reported
- Screen brightness could be improved
- Manual doesn't fully explain features
- Mounting system could be more secure
- Limited app compatibility
The iGPSPORT iGS630 Bike Computer is a powerful and versatile cycling GPS unit with a wealth of features for navigation, training, and data tracking. While it may have some minor drawbacks, it offers excellent value for its price and is a worthy alternative to pricier cycling computers on the market. Cycling enthusiasts of all levels would benefit from the functionality and reliability of this device.
Overall Score: 6/10
The YS SY Bicycle Speedometer and Odometer Wireless Waterproof Cycle Bike Computer is a small, lightweight, and waterproof device that measures speed, distance, and riding time. It features an easy-to-read LCD display with day and night backlight, and an auto wake-up function that activates upon bicycle vibration. The installation and navigation are simple, making it a convenient tool for serious bicyclists. It's compatible with most common bicycles, excluding some electric-assist models.
Key Features
- Auto Wake-up Function
- Multi-functions
- Day & Night Backlight
- Easy to Install & Use
- Applicable to Common Bicycles
Specifications
- N/A
Pros
- Convenient and durable design
- Easy install and navigation
- Backlight for easy viewing
- Accurate stats tracking
- Compatible with common bicycles
Cons
- Difficult to install for some configurations
- Reliability issues reported by some users
The YS SY Bicycle Speedometer and Odometer Wireless Waterproof Cycle Bike Computer offers convenience, durability, and accurate tracking of speed, distance, and riding time. However, some users have reported difficulty with installation and issues with reliability. Overall, it’s a functional and user-friendly tool for bicycling enthusiasts, with a fair balance of pros and cons.
Buyer's Guide: Cycling Computer
What is a Cycling Computer?
A cycling computer is a device that attaches to your bike to track and display information such as speed, distance, time, and sometimes even heart rate and cadence.
Why You Might Want One
- Tracking your progress: You can monitor your speed, distance, and time to see how you're improving.
- Navigation: Some cycling computers have GPS to help you find your way on new routes.
- Training: They can help you plan and track your workouts.
- Safety: Some models have a built-in light or can connect to your phone for safety features.
Types of Cycling Computers
Basic
- Speed and distance: Measures how fast and far you're cycling.
- Time: Keeps track of how long you've been riding.
Advanced
- Heart Rate Monitor: Tracks your heart rate while you ride.
- Cadence Sensor: Measures how fast you're pedaling.
GPS-enabled
- Navigation: Uses GPS to help you find your way and record your routes.
- Data Analysis: Can give more detailed data about your rides.
Features to Consider
Display
- Size: A larger screen may be easier to read, especially while in motion.
- Backlight: Can make the display easier to see in low light.
Battery Life
- Type of Battery: Some cycling computers use rechargeable batteries, while others use regular batteries.
- Life Span: How long the battery lasts on a single charge or set of batteries.
Connectivity
- Wireless or Wired: Some cycling computers connect to sensors and smartphones wirelessly, while others use wires.
- Compatibility: Check if it works with your smartphone or other devices.
Waterproofing
- IP Rating: Look for a high IP rating to ensure it can withstand wet weather and sweat.
Mounting
- Type: Consider if it can be easily mounted on your bike's handlebars and if it's secure.
Budget Considerations
- Price Range: Cycling computers can range from $20 to over $500, depending on their features.
- Value for Money: Consider what features are essential to you and if you're willing to pay more for them.
Tips for Choosing
- Think about your needs: Consider what data and features will be most helpful for your biking goals.
- Read reviews: Look at what other users say about the cycling computer you're considering.
- Try it out: If possible, test the cycling computer in a store or with a friend before making a purchase.
Final Thoughts
Remember, the best cycling computer for you is the one that meets your specific needs and fits your budget. Make sure to consider what data and features are most important to you and enjoy the added benefits it brings to your cycling experience!
Frequently Asked Questions about Cycling Computer Review: The Best Devices for Tracking Your Rides
A cycling computer uses sensors to measure the speed, distance, and time you spend on your bike. It then uses this data to calculate your average speed and overall distance traveled.
Yes, you can use a cycling computer on any type of bike, whether it’s a road bike, mountain bike, or even a stationary bike. Just make sure the computer is compatible with your bike’s wheel size and has the features you need.
A cycling computer can display various information such as your current speed, distance traveled, time elapsed, temperature, altitude, heart rate, and even GPS maps of your route. It can also track your cadence and power output for more advanced cyclists.
Installing a cycling computer is relatively easy. Most of them come with a mounting bracket and zip ties to attach the sensor to your bike’s fork, and the display unit to your handlebars. You’ll also need to program in the wheel size of your bike for accurate measurements.
Yes, many cycling computers have fitness tracking features that can monitor your performance over time. They can track your speed, distance, and heart rate, and some can even calculate your calorie burn and provide training plans to help you improve your cycling abilities.
