A bike computer is a bicycle-specific electronic device that is mounted to your bike so you can track your speed, distance, and more. For casual riders, you may want one so you can measure the length, distance, or speed of your ride. Here are a few best bike computers that can suit your needs.
Those who ride for the enjoyment of the sport may be interested in their total mileage and specific trip distance, as well as average and maximum speed.
For competitive bicyclers, you may need all of the above plus a bike computer with cadence, elevation, power output, and heart rate monitor.
Regardless of your needs, here are some of the best bicycle computer reviews. Before you make your final decision, be sure to consider exactly what you expect from your bicycle computer.
Know Your Stats – Top Selling 5 Cycle Computer Reviews
- Performance GPS cycling computer with mapping. Compatible with Vector (power meter). Power meter compatible (displays power data from compatible third-party ANT Plus-enabled power meters).Control...
- Dynamic performance monitoring provides insights on your VO2 max, recovery, training balance, heat and altitude acclimation, nutrition, hydration and more when paired with compatible sensors
- Cycling safety features include new bike alarm, group messaging and tracking, assistance and compatibility with Variant rearview radar and lights so you can see and be seen (when device is paired with...
- Includes routable Garmin Cycle Map with popularity routing — which helps you ride like a local — plus off-course recalculation and back to start; mountain biking model has integrated Trail forks...
- Customize with free apps, widgets and data fields from the Connect IQ Store
- ALL YOUR FAVORITE STATS: Displays current, max, and average speed, total distance, trip distance, elapsed time, calorie consumption, pace arrow, and clock.
- SAVE YOUR MILES: With the option to manually set the odometer, you don't have to start over every time you change the battery.
- SECURE AND GO: With our FlexTight Bracket, you can easily mount, adjust, and move your computer by hand. Spend less time setting up your gear and more time on the road.
- DON'T SWEAT THE SMALL STOPS: Caught at a red light? Stopping for coffee? We've got you covered. Your CatEye computer knows when you've stopped and automatically stops counting time and averaging...
- DATA FOR HEALTH: The Urban Wireless also tracks calories burned.
- Advanced GPS cycling computer with button controls combines superior navigation, planning and performance tracking, cycling awareness and smart connectivity
- Battery life: up to 26 hours in demanding use cases; up to 42 hours in battery saver mode
- View daily suggested workouts and training prompts on screen; based on your event, get personalized coaching that adapts to your current training load and recovery when riding with a compatible power...
- Find your way in the most challenging environments with multi-band GNSS technology that provides enhanced positioning accuracy
- See remaining ascent and grade when climbing so you can gauge your effort with the ClimbPro ascent planner, now available on every ride — no course required; view on your Edge device and in the...
- Note: Packaging has been upgraded, please purchase the extension long front mount separately if you need it.
- SMALL BUT POWERFUL: Using BC107 GPS bike computer, we want to equip riders with high-cost performance electronic solutions that make their rides more reliable and efficient. Quite simply, affordable,...
- COMPACT AND LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN: The display size of BC107 wireless cycling computer to 2.4 inches for the compact design, leaving no wasted space whatsoever. Engineered with simplicity and convenience...
- GPS AND BEIDOU POSITIONING: BC107 has 2 modes of global positioning (GPS /GPS&BEIDOU), which can provide accurate GPS data all over the world. After powering on, it will automatically capture GPS and...
- ANT+ SENSOR COMPATIBILITY: Built for both budget and convenience, BC107 maximizes compatibility by working perfectly with ANT+ sensors, such as heart rate monitor, speed and cadence sensor, and power...
- Advanced GPS cycling computer with touchscreen and button control combines superior navigation, planning and performance tracking, cycling awareness and smart connectivity
- Battery life: up to 26 hours in demanding use cases; up to 32 hours in battery saver mode
- View daily suggested workouts and training prompts on screen; based on your event, get personalized coaching that adapts to your current training load and recovery when riding with a compatible power...
- Find your way in the most challenging environments with multi-band GNSS technology that provides enhanced positioning accuracy
- See remaining ascent and grade when climbing so you can gauge your effort with the ClimbPro ascent planner, now available on every ride — no course required; view on your Edge device and in the...
Bike Computer Buyers Guide
So What Is The Best Bike Computers for the Price?
After reviewing all of the bike computer contenders on this list, the best computer for the price is the Multi-Function Wireless Bike Computer by Garmin. While it is not without flaws, it does come with a lot of features for a great price.
As an added benefit, it offers wireless connectivity without the interference of other models.
How To Install A Bike Computer
Now that you’ve decided on which computer to buy for your bike, you should learn how to install it. Luckily it’s just as easy as riding a bike, if you can do that, you can do this!
Bike Computer vs Smartwatch
Cyclists may choose a bike computer over a smartwatch for several reasons:
- Data Specific to Cycling: Bike computers are specifically designed for cycling and provide data and metrics that are tailored to cycling performance such as speed, distance, cadence, and power output.
- Improved Battery Life: Bike computers typically have longer battery life compared to smartwatches, which can be important during long rides.
- Robustness: Bike computers are designed to be durable and weather-resistant, which is important for outdoor cycling activities.
- Mounting Options: Bike computers can be easily mounted on the handlebars, making them easily accessible and visible while riding.
- Increased Visibility: Bike computers often have larger and clearer displays than smartwatches, making them easier to read while riding.
That being said, smartwatches have their own advantages. For example, they offer multi-sport tracking, including cycling, as well as other features like GPS, music, and phone notifications. Some smartwatches also have longer battery life compared to regular fitness trackers. It ultimately comes down to the individual’s needs and preferences.
Wrapping It All Up
Now that you have read the reviews, hopefully, you have an idea of what type will meet your needs. The price often reflects the quality and features that will be included with your computer.
Remember to take this into account while you are shopping. If you are still unsure of your needs, make a list of everything that you expect your bicycle computer to keep track of them. Then, consider whether you want a battery-operated model, one that can be used for multiple bikes, or one with other additional features.
Once you have a thorough list, begin looking for the best bike computers that meet all of your requirements. Happy shopping!
Featured Image by Andreas Kambanis
