Most cyclists will tell you that biking has an addictive power. You might start out slow, but that won’t last for long. You’ll soon find yourself pushing yourself to the limits of distance and speed, exploring roads or mountains you’ve never seen, and enjoying every minute of it.
When that becomes the case, a bike computer becomes pretty essential. Bicycle computers can help you keep track of your distance, speed, elevation, heart rate, exertion, route, and more. They come with a variety of functions within a wide range of prices. Here are a few details to consider while deciding what computer you’d like as a companion.
Setup
Mounting devices to your bike can be cumbersome. For that reason, we’ve only included bike computers that can be attached without using extra wires.
That being said, pay attention to the type of mount accompanying the device. Is it sleek? Is it easy to move? Will it fit on more than one bike, making for an easy road-to-mountain transfer?
Pairing
These days everyone is attached to their cell phones. Because of that, it’s incredibly convenient to have a bike computer that can sync with your phone without having to be hooked up. Many bike computers sync to popular apps. If you like to keep track of your rides, monitor your progress, and compete with friends, choose a bike computer that pairs with devices.
Functions
Like most technology, bike computers add more and more functions every year. It’s important, though, to consider your needs. Don’t pay for functions you won’t use, but know what’s available.
Simple bike computers allow you to track speed, distance, and time. The most advanced monitor heart rate, provide GPS, and act like sophisticated smartphones. You may not need all of the functions technology has to offer, but you might find yourself wanting them.
The Best Bike Computers On Amazon
Raniaco Bike Computer
The Raniaco Bike Computer is the cheapest and smallest of the bunch, but it packs a punch. Mount the device on your handlebars and attach the magnetic sensor to a wheel spoke.
The device will track your current speed, average speed, mileage, and overall riding time. It has a clear interface that will tell you the time. It’s also backlit and waterproof.
CatEye Strada Wireless Bike Computer
The CatEye is another quality computer. It costs a fraction more. It, too, will display your current, maximum, average speed, and total distance.
In addition, it can keep track of two separate trip distances and automatically pause your ride when you’re stopped at a red light or need a quick drink.
The buttons won’t distract you from the road, and the computer is easy to take in and out of the mount.
Lezyne Enhanced Super GPS Cycling Computer
The price jumps up for this Lezyne, but you get an invaluable feature…GPS! The Lezyne can do everything that the two previously mentioned computers can, but it can also sync to your phone, allowing you to load pre-programmed routes or ones you just decided to do on a whim.
This GPS system will give you turn-by-turn directions with zoom in and out features on the screen. No more stress and much more focus on the ride in front of you!
Garmin Edge 520 Bike GPS
Garmin is a well-known name in the biking world for a reason. The Edge 520 has one of the clearest designs with expansive capabilities. Again, this device can do everything all of the previously mentioned computers can do.
However, the Garmin includes information on ascent and grade, automatic uploads, live tracking, smart notifications, send/receive courses, social media sharing, and weather. It has an aesthetic bonus as well—it’s in color!
Garmin offers less expensive versions, too, but we think this is their best offering.
Wahoo ELEMNT GPS Bike Computer
The Wahoo ELEMNT GPS Bike Computer is a strong competitor of the Garmin. It may not look as flashy, but it’s just as handy.
It can sync with indoor trainers, comes with sensors to track your heart rate and cadence, and is compatible with a wide array of apps, such as Strava, Zwift, Training Peaks, and so much more. The Wahoo bike computer is a companion you never have to worry about.