Factors to Consider when Choosing a GPS Cycling Computer
Data Tracking Features
When selecting a GPS cycling computer, consider the data tracking features it offers. Look for features such as GPS route mapping, speed tracking, distance covered, elevation gain, heart rate monitoring, and cadence tracking. These features allow you to analyze and improve your cycling performance.
Battery Life
The battery life of a GPS cycling computer is crucial, especially for long rides or multi-day trips. Look for a device that offers a long battery life, ideally lasting for several hours or even days, depending on your cycling needs.
Display and Ease of Use
Consider the display size and clarity of the GPS cycling computer. It should have a clear and easy-to-read screen, even in various lighting conditions. Additionally, a user-friendly interface with intuitive menus and buttons will make it easier to navigate and access the features while on the go.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Check if the GPS cycling computer offers connectivity options such as Bluetooth or ANT+ to connect with other devices like heart rate monitors, power meters, or smartphones. Also, ensure that it is compatible with popular cycling apps and platforms, allowing you to sync and analyze your data effortlessly.
Durability and Water Resistance
Since cycling often involves exposure to various weather conditions, it is essential to choose a GPS cycling computer that is durable and water-resistant. Look for devices with a rugged construction and an IPX rating that ensures protection against water and dust, allowing you to ride with confidence in any weather.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are GPS bike computers worth it?
If you cycle frequently, a GPS bike computer is worth it. It offers benefits such as protecting your phone, avoiding wearing a watch, and utilizing GPS functionality. However, if you only ride occasionally, a bike computer may be unnecessary.
2. How accurate is a cycle computer compared to a GPS?
In general, a GPS bike computer may read shorter distances than a cycle computer, especially on winding trails where the GPS distance can be off by 50% or more. On the road or straight line, the two will be quite close in accuracy.
3. Can I use my iPhone as a cycling GPS?
Yes, you can use your iPhone as a cycling GPS by using the Cyclemeter app. It is a comprehensive fitness application that provides maps, graphs, splits, intervals, laps, announcements, zones, training plans, and more. It allows you to turn your iPhone into a powerful fitness computer.
4. Can I use my smartphone as a bike computer?
Yes, you can use your smartphone as a bike computer by using apps like Jepster for Android. Jepster utilizes GPS to track your ride and supports various accessories such as heart rate monitors, speed/cadence sensors, and power meters. It provides customizable displays for data like maps, power data, and heart rate.
5. Do I need a speed sensor with a GPS bike computer?
If you engage in mountain biking or gravel riding, a speed sensor can be beneficial. It helps maintain accuracy in distance and average speed, especially when the GPS signal is lost and the bike computer pauses. Without a speed sensor, you may experience a slight decrease in distance recorded.
6. Is there a bike computer that connects to your phone?
Yes, Jepster is an Android app that transforms your mobile phone into a bike computer. It utilizes GPS to track your ride and supports connectivity with ANT+ and Bluetooth heart rate monitors, speed/cadence sensors, and power meters. It offers customizable displays to show data like maps, power data, and heart rate.
Editor's Notes
During our gps cycling computer research, we found 24 gps cycling computer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 14,952 customer reviews through our big data system to write the gps cycling computers list. We found that most customers choose gps cycling computers with an average price of $71.92.
The gps cycling computers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of gps cycling computers, including ROCKBROS, Wahoo Fitness, CooSpo, Bryton, GEOID. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 631 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.
Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.