Best cycling computers according to redditors
We found 163 Reddit comments discussing the best cycling computers. We ranked the 76 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
We found 163 Reddit comments discussing the best cycling computers. We ranked the 76 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
I've created a short list of everything I have, linked items are the ones that I recommend.
Things for the road
Frame/ Mini pump
Saddle Bag
Patch Kit
Tire Boot (You can make your own for cheap, but these are still good)
Tire levers (See Multi-Tool, Levers Included)
Multi Tool (Super-Recommend)
Bike Lights
Spare Tubes (Optional for the road)
Bottles of choice
Sunglasses of choice
Gloves of choice (Important! For preventing impossible-to-heal palm scrapes)
Cycling compter
U Lock (no cable locks! they're garbage) <<I Have 3 of these, but then again, I live in Oakland.
Things for home
Floor pump
Tools (Pretty much covered by Multi-Tool, but there's things you may need like cassette tool, chain whip, etc)
Wet and Dry chain lube
Clothing (Optional, I only have the shoes and windbreaker)
Hi-Vis Jacket
Clipless shoes, I recommend SPD for easier walking
Jersey
Padded Shorts, or Bib shorts
Windbreaker
Leg Warmers
Most importantly, you need knowledge of cycling. Look up videos on youtube about safe riding on the road, traffic laws, hand signals, how to repair your bike on the road and at home, how to take a fall, and as much theory that you can)
EDIT: Do not let me trick you into thinking that a multi-tool is a replacement for the big-boy tools that are available on the market. Some of those tools are actually worth the investment. However, be that as it may, do your research first, because there's some overpriced crap out there ^^^Park ^^^Tools.
I'm not a 3rd year, but I can share a few things that work well for me which I think are 3rd year compatibile.
Cateye Stealth 50 is $75 on Amazon rn: http://www.amazon.com/Cateye-Stealth-50-Cycling-Computer/dp/B00B2PT3Y6
I have the Stealth 50+, but all that does is add a terribly inaccurate altimeter. This will do GPS, Speed, and connect to ANT+.
Also a great screen for riding in bright daylight.
I used to have Cateye's strada w/cadence which is a pretty good basic cyclocomputer. I eventually replaced it with a garmin 500 because I wanted more data, but it should probably be fine for your purposes (it's also pretty light and inexpensive as far as cyclocomputers go).
I just use a good ol' Cateye Velo on all my bikes. Keeps milage fine if you set the wheel diameter right. Has 7 or 9 functions, depending on if you get the Velo 7 or 9, reasonably enough. Looks like right now Amazon has the 9 for a whole buck more than the 7, and still under $20. http://www.amazon.com/CatEye-Bicycle-Computer-CC-VL820-Black/dp/B007YV1GFQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1462967681&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=cateye+velo
I've had the bike for a few weeks now and use it almost entirely for commuting. Here's what I've added since I got the bike:
The stock brakes weren't doing enough to stop me so I swapped them out for some Tektro CR720s. I dropped the yoke as far as I could to give myself as much leverage as possible. Braking is much better now and more reliable than the original set ever was.
I added a rack and trunk bag that's big enough to hold my food and clothes for the day. The only modification I had to make here was filing away some metal from rack mounting leg. It was colliding with frame near the dropout and not allowing the leg to sit close enough to the braze on.
Some of the original cable housings that came with the bike had some gouges in them so Nashbar sent me a new replacement cable set. I swapped out all the brake/shift cables and replaced the bar tape with some SRAM cork tape. The original cables from Nashbar were also a bit too long and were causing excessive friction.
I added some SKS fenders per the recommendations of users on this sub. They were a little finicky to install but I got them on in the end. This particular frame doesn't have bolt holes in either of the two rear bridges so I had to resort to the classic zip tie approach.
As far as the bike goes, it's been performing flawlessly so far. It weighs close to 30 lbs now so it's not the lightest thing in the world. However, the steel frame and the large tires really help smooth out the road quite a bit. The saddle is still the most uncomfortable part of the bike, but I'm hoping to swap it out sometime in the near future. Shifting is still very smooth and the 4 trim positions on the 105 front derailleur is a great feature.
If you're considering getting a bike from Nashbar, I'd definitely recommend them. Their customer service was fantastic and everything they shipped usually got to me door in 2-3 days (even the bike!).
You don't need to spend a lot of money - For example, this Sigma computer has cadence feature, and is only $32
I have a Sigma bike computer, it's been fantastic, reliable and most of all pretty accurate. They also seem to have great response time and are intuitive.
But I think that's what you're asking about. Cadence tells you how fast your legs are spinning. Try to maintain around 90RPM if you can. Worry about cadence more than overall speed to begin.
Also as far as hills go, if you can you want to attack the hill and get up a lot of speed at the foot of the hill and try to maintain it as much as you can. Momentum from speed really helps a lot. Also, when you are about to crest the hill it starts to get easier. Use that as opportunity to gain some speed back so when you're riding flat you can just maintain.
>Show RPM, Show which gear I'm in, Show the speed (calculated from the previous two)
You cannot calculate road speed from RPM + Gear. You can only get your transmission output speed. You also need your wheel diameter, and you know all your gear ratios (which I'm sure you do, being a project bike) and chain ratio.
This also wouldn't account for your clutch, and there really isn't any way you can do that.
You are overthinking it. You don't want to use the engine RPM and transmission ratios to calculate speed, because that gets all muddled by the clutch.
You want to know every time your wheel spins. That is how most modern accurate speedometers work on cars, because the ABS system has this information.
Calculate speed from wheel turns, wheel diameter. You'll have to adjust for tread depth and PSI over time but this is the most accurate way you can do it. If you want to get even more accurate an accelerometer may be able to assist to detect things like loss of traction.
**
Edit:
>Are their jumper wires that can be semi-permanent? My ones with my sparkfun kit seem a tad loose and the bike might vibrate them a little. Does anyone have advice, examples, suggestions and links that might be helpful? Thanks in advance!
Jumper wires are not intended to be permanent, they are just useful for prototyping. I especially wouldn't trust them on a vibrating motorcycle. Solder wires for this, especially if you want it to last.
I also realize I didn't really give you a good way to do this.
The traditional bicycle setup is called a Cyclocomputer*. Here is a commercial version.
What you are looking to do for a custom, arduino solution, is a [hall effect sensor**](https://www.sparkfun.com/products/8882) and a strong permanent magnet.
I've used a wired Cateye Velo computer for basic ride stats [link] . (wireless? [link])
I've had good luck with it so far! Still haven't changed the battery that came with it. Not a backlit display, but I never noticed it being hard to read... I guess if you're out at night.
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Procrastination is a disease, and I am sick.
$1580 total, not even trying to bargin shop. Cog, lockring,
seatpost(nope, frame comes with), brake and housing and cable, we'll be generous and call it $1700Bargain!
Cateye Strada Cadence nice and cheap, I've put a few thousand miles on mine with no issues. Has not one, not two, but three mileage readings, trip, trip2 and odo (lifetime miles) as well as speed, average speed, cadence and time. Well worth the $35.
If you want a cheapo bike computer, get the $12 one from Amazon with a brand name: Schwinn.
It works fine, and yes, it comes with zip ties to attach it to the fork.
There are those that have GPS capabilities and there are those that don't. I bought the cateye strada double wireless. It's on the high end of non-GPS computers which means it's still cheap at $75. If you don't have that money to spend, I'm guessing you'd be better off upgrading your bicycle or wardrobe instead.
It will tell you your speed and your cadence at the same time. Really, cadence is more important than speed and you'll probably regret it if you don't get a computer with a cadence feature. Pedal at your greatest efficiency and let the speed be whatever it is. The computer has been a great learning tool for which gear I should be in in different situations. Basically, I needed to go to lower gears and spin faster.
A dedicated head unit is the best option. Phone GPS is always inferior.
This Cateye is a very affordable option.Some of the basic Lezyne units might be a good middle road between the Cateye and Wahoo/Garmin.Edit; scratch that, I read the Cateye wrong, its just piggy backs on your phone. Your cheapest option for a head unit is likely the Lezyne product line. You might also have luck buying a used head unit.
I have the 500, friend has a 510. For me, the extra money was not worth it when I had the chance to try out his 510 before getting my computer. I did not like the touchscreen simply because its not the smoothest thing out there. Nowhere near a modern phone or tablet. I also didn't have need for the bluetooth or live tracking. I will say that the 510 is way more accurate and way faster to get signal when you turn it on. The thing is instant and I have to wait 30-60 seconds on my 500. Not a big deal to just remember to turn it on while putting on shoes or something.
As a side note, for a simpler device that still does most everything, the Cateye Stealth 50 is pretty nice and inexpensive. Know someone that was trying it out for their shop and seemed to like it and the fact that it costs less is a plug. Still has GPS and is ANT+ compatible but at $99 its worth looking at.
At that price, you don't get GPS, but you may be able to get wireless. I have a strong preference for Cateye from years of reliable service. Wireless is easier to deal with when installing or doing maintenance on the bike, but the wired computers are silly cheap.
EDIT: Stupid cheap: https://www.amazon.com/CAT-EYE-Computer-Odometer-Speedometer/dp/B007YV1GM4/
Cheap wireless: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DS4AJEG/
Cateye Strada:
http://www.amazon.com/Cateye-CC-RD300W-Wireless-Bicycle-Computer/dp/B000P1RO7Q/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1370953803&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=cateye+wireless+bike+computer
I've had both the Strada and an older model that looked like the Velo, and prefer the Strada because the screen is larger and easier to read in a quick glance. Both work well, especially for the price. They are both super easy to install, but read the instructions!
Oh whoops, I just linked the first one I found. This is the model I have. The battery life is a non-issue, I just replaced it for the first time a week ago. It seems well-built, I'm not really concerned about it breaking.
I use the nite ize handle band. It's EXCELLENT. $16 on Amazon. I have iPhone 5 but it's universal. - http://www.amazon.com/Nite-Ize-HDB-01-R3-HandleBand-Black/dp/B00FU4N4JU
If you're looking to up your riding game, everything listed above will save you from any trouble you have on the road. Cycling computer is always neat to have too!
Cygolite Metro 400 and the Hotshot are brilliant. The lights definitely pack a strong punch. I'll tell you right now, unless the lighting in your town sucks ass or you go off road riding, the metro 400 is a great light and you don't really need to go much higher than that.
I'm guessing this one based on its price/review ratio. It's the one that I am probably going to get.
Cateye CC-RD300W Strada Wireless Bicycle Computer (Black)
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000P1RO7Q/ref=cm_sw_r_an_am_ap_am_us?ie=UTF8
I use this from before my bike had a motor and it seems to work pretty well
I used one like this for a while before I got my Wahoo heartrate monitor and Rflkt to track them more accurately. And with the HRM you can find out your zones to get a really good workout (assuming that's why you want to track calories.)
You'd be pretty set with this one
http://www.amazon.com/CatEye-Wireless-Cadence-Computer-CC-RD400DW/dp/B002HHQNL4
Get one with a cadence function. I have this one and its been great, Cateye Strada Cadence wired.
Suaoki for $19.99 On Amazon works like a charm. Not compatible with ant+ sensors though. Comes with speed and cadence sensors, wireless of course.
If you decide to go the ant+ route, I like the igpsport50, it's their newest model, has all the bells and whistles..... upload your rides to strava etc...
I was going to get a cat eye until I found the Sigma BC16.12 STS CAD. Just watch the installation video, it's what sold me. Does everything you need (including cadence) for dirt cheap. I couldn't be happier (my first computer, btw). It had the correct wheel length already set out of the box, no programming needed. The magnet for the cadence is now much smaller and goes on the backside of the pedal bolt.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00FU4N4JU?pc_redir=1404650259&amp;robot_redir=1
Awesome so far. And it's compatible with most phones and cases.
Cateye Strada is a nice computer and no cables:http://www.amazon.com/Cateye-CC-RD300W-Wireless-Bicycle-Computer/dp/B000P1RO7Q/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1349043280&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=cateye+strada
Also a smart phone app isn't as accurate, but you can get a few more stats from it, and its easier to compile them.
I use this which is not cheap but I like it better than a chest strap and it's more accurate than the wrist-based one on my 735xt.
Look harder at the Cateyes, I had 2 of these before I went to my Edge. Actually still have one laying around but I lost one of the magnets.
Yeah, that's why I picked Sigma in the first place. My wife has an old one, I think it's the BC600, which has been mounted on three of her bikes now. She really wants to know her exact speed, and the speedometers for all of those bikes were about 10% off.
I'm not sure if all of the Sigma models work up to 186 mph (300 km/hr) but IIRC that one did. I recently added the Sigma Sport BC5.12 to one of my KLR650s, and it worked fine up to 85/90 mph. Bad thing was, it did not have all of the nice features that the BC600 did, like max speed, etc. But if all you need is the speed, the Sigma Sport BC5.12 will do the job for under $20.
I've been cycling for nearly 3 years now and the improvements are vast. I now do Triathlons and the cycle part is my best leg of the race. Forget most of the BS you read online about the importance of bike weight, components, etc. Unless you are going pro, most of that is unimportant for beginners. Here is the skinny based on real-world riding:
Most importantly, ride often. Get to know your body and don't be afraid to push beyond your limits. You'd be amazed how quickly you will improve from 11mph to 22mph if you keep it up. Your upgrades will come with time and are more a matter of preference, as you'll want to get lighter, faster and more aerodynamic.
Good luck.
IIRC there are simple/cheap cycling computers. First Amazon result. http://www.amazon.com/CatEye-Cadence-Bicycle-Computer-CC-RD200/dp/B000R6QR2C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1374117174&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=cycling+cadence+computer
One I mentioned, the Strada Cadence would be a good choice if you don't mind wires. There is a wireless version for nearly double the price (which is BS if you ask me, but wireless is damn good to have).
Here is Bontrager's wired w/cadence and wireless (which does not include sensor).
When I got my bike, I looked at the Garmin devices at the bike store (Bike Barn, Houston, TX) and they were pretty expensive.
I ended up with a Cateye Stealth 50 and later got the heart rate monitor and cadence/speed sensors.
Overall I've been pretty happy with it. The display is easy to read while riding, I don't run my phone battery down, uploads to Strava are easy.
Camera
Mount
Computer
Added bonus:
Bell
You could certainly build your own, but considering you can buy one for about $30, I'd just buy one unless you just want to do it to learn about stuff
If you just want cheap, just search ebay for "bike computer" Hundreds of them for under $3. They're all cheaply built, so you might want to buy two in case one breaks. I use one of these on my commuter bike and it's great because it's so cheap that I don't care if it's damaged or stolen. They do ship direct from China, so expect at least 2 weeks for delivery.
I used to use the Planet Bike Protege 9.0 on my road bike. Great basic computer with a lot of features for the price. Only one button, and it displays a ton of data on one screen.
I now use a Sigma bc 2209 MHR. It captures a lot more data and can be connected to a computer by USB to download ride data.
If you want to go really high end, lots of people seem to like the Garmin Edge series computers. They'll do everything your phone does and they won't die four hours in if you ever start doing any touring.
EDIT: You can just stop by your local bike shop and look at computers too. For the most part, the differences between one computer and another come down to what they record and how they display it. They're surprisingly simple machines, so you don't generally see accuracy differences between models. My $3 Chinese computer is just as accurate as my Sigma. Be sure to do a wheel roll out instead of using the values in the manual. You'll get much better accuracy.
If it's a small race, I'm sure they won't mind.
I would honestly invest in a Cateye cycling computer and a cheap GPS running watch.
Should give you the same data (no way to analyze the bike post-race, though), and be much less obtrusive than having a phone on your bike and carrying it on the run.
You're very much welcome. That's of course just my opinion, and you know what they say about opinions and assholes.
Ah, mud. That brings us to tires. From a lot of reading, and a bit of experience, I can confidently say that dual sport tires do poorly both on-road and off-road. If you're talking about a 10 minute ride to the trailhead, do yourself a favor and put some proper offroad tires on. Just be careful on pavement, especially in the rain and especially while leaned over.
I don't remember where I read it (Motorcyclist, perhaps?) but the WR250R (not WR250F) was described as being a trail-ready bike made street legal, rather than a street-legal bike that can go on trails. It's supposedly one of the more trail-oriented dualsports out there.
That being said, for fuck's sake check the maintenance schedule and costs prior to purchase! I refuse to own a modern 4-stroke motocross bike for exactly this reason. On the KDX, for example, annual maintenance is changing the coolant, and throwing a head gasket and jug base gasket at it. Put a new piston/rings in if you're feeling spendy. Total cost: <$200 and a few hours of your time.
Another option, depending on Louisiana law--at least in Michigan it's relatively simple to plate an off-road bike. That way, you could purchase a bike that's more trail-oriented and just put on minimal stuff to get the plate. You may even be able to get away with skipping turn signals, as hand signals are legal in many states. Horn? Try this guy. Speedo? Here you go. Again, check your state and local laws.
> Based on my previous physiotherapy, my glutes are underdeveloped in comparision to my quads - is there a specific technique that helps recruit those muscles, or is it just a case of mindfully trying to engage that whole area?
I think being mindful of proper pedaling technique will go a long way to getting you there. Your quads will remind you when they're working too hard. Think about dropping your heel and generating your power from the hip and split the load.
Some cross-training could help too. Deadlifts, squats, and stair climbing ... concentrate on engaging the rear chain on all of these exercises.
>Is cadence best measured with some kind of cyclocomputer, or again a "get a feel for it"? I've been trying to keep cadence 'high' on my current hybrid, and it feels good, but I don't know what it ACTUALLY is. I just go for 'well, this feels pretty easy on the legs'.
Definitely get some sort of cycle computer. Being an engineer-ey type, you no doubt have a love for numbers and stats. Bicycles are great stats generators :). You could do anything from a cheap computer that handles speed, distance and cadence in the neighborhood of $50 or $60 ... or ... well, the sky's the limit really.
Here's my setup:
My phone is the "brains" of the operation and the periferals connect via Bluetooth, and the RideWithGPS app is the stats collector. The RFLKT is basically a remote low-powered display. Using this allows me to keep my phone safely tucked away, and saves on battery because the screen is off the whole time. The Wahoo Blue SC sends speed and pedaling cadence data, and the TIKR keeps track of my ticker.
All my stats can be viewed online at the RideWithGPS website, and I also sync my data with Strava because I like the community over there and also the slice/dice the data better. However, the RideWithGPS app I find to be a better phone app for a number of reasons.
Of course, Garmin has some great All-in-one solutions and Wahoo just released the ELEMNT which is an all-in-one Garmin competitor.
I haven't used these myself, but they seem to get ok reviews on amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Sigma-Sport-Wireless-Function-Computer/dp/B00EA1AHUS
and look to have a pretty big display.
edit: or you can get a smart-phone mount and a bluetooth speed/cadence sensor and use a variety of apps.
Hy husband and i both use the Cateye Wireless Computer
Its also a bit more accurate than Strava, i feel anyways.
So I was going to get this, CatEye Strada 430, it's wireless and has the peripherals for speed, cadence and HR included for $112 USD, BUT I ended up getting a wired CatEye with only speed and cadence since the consensus I've seen while watching GCN does science and a few posts here is that HR does not matter TOO MUCH, you can't help your heart rate, slowing it down or speeding it up. Anyways, here's what I got, CatEye Strada Cadence, $31USD
http://www.amazon.com/Cateye-Stealth-50-Cycling-Computer/dp/B00B2PT3Y6
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BO4U7VS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
No problem, they have a wireless version!
http://www.cateye.com/en/products/detail/CC-RD400DW/
If you can't find that one in stock (as at Amazon), here's another good choice in the category:
https://www.amazon.com/Sigma-Sport-Wireless-Function-Computer/dp/B00EA1AHUS/
Only $50.
I have been using this mount for some time now. It works very well for me. Its called the "Nite Ize HandleBand"
Amazon Link
I recommend one of these, picked one up today and it kept my phone snug and let me use both of my hands. Cheap, fits all sizes and I guess is also a bottle opener according to Amazon.
I have the baseline 2014 Rockhopper. I've upgraded a bunch of things so far. Here's what I learned.
The factory pedals are terrible. Buy a good pair of flats if you're not on the clipless train. They'll inspire a ton of confidence in your riding style. If you're familiar with clipless, a pair of Crank Brothers Eggbeaters and a decent pair of shoes are hard to beat. The increase in efficiency when using clipless pedals is astounding. Spent $100 + shoes
My bike came with a pogo-stic...err SR Suntour fork. It is terrible. I picked up an open box RockShox TK30 120mm air fork and it's transformed the bike into a completely different machine. Much much better. The Comp comes with an XC28 coil, but is fairly adustable, so I don't think you'll see much of an improvement untill you start spending more than a few hundred bucks on a good fork. Spent $200
The original Tektro brakes worked fine, but were not particularly durable. When I broke the levers off crashing, I installed a set of SLXs. Much better feel. Stopping power seems very close to the Tektros, but it's hard to judge that unless you're doing downhill stuff. Spent $150
I dropped my chain a few times over rough terrain, did a 3x9 to 1x10 conversion, added a $12 bashring in place of the large chainring, and installed an XT clutched derailleur and a RaceFace narrow wide chainring. No more dropped chains and it's almost completely silent. Spent -chain and cassette $67,Derailleur $65, Shifter $38, Bash ring $12, Chainring $60
A decent wireless computer is never a bad idea. $50
When I bought the bike, I picked up an underseat bag for tools/spares. It seems that they're all garbage though, and I gave up on those things.
The bar seemed a bit wide for me. I ride a lot of narrow singletrack, and the trees were seemingly out to get me. A pipe cutter and an hour of my time was all it took to cut it down to 760. It doesn't seem like a lot, but it feels much better to me now. More importantly, it was free.
So, I guess I've spent as much on upgrades as the bike cost, or pretty close to it.. Is it better than a $1500 bike? Maybe. Maybe not. But I do have everything I want and nothing I don't.
Hey thanks for the update, I find that nite ize stuff is hit or miss sometimes, but for $20 if it made it a year on your mtb it should do ok for ocassional road use i figure. Looks like it is just a bit cheaper on amazon too, good ole prime shipping http://www.amazon.com/Nite-Ize-HDB-01-R3-HandleBand-Black/dp/B00FU4N4JU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1413473211&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=handleband
The [CatEye Strada Wireless Bicycle Computer (Black) CC-RD300W] (http://www.amazon.com/Cateye-CC-RD300W-Wireless-Bicycle-Computer/dp/B000P1RO7Q/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1377291145&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=cateye+wireless) is exactly what you are looking for. I would recommend to go for the cadence upgrade personally, but that's up to you. Otherwise, no difference between the models. The CatEye Strada Digital Cadence Wireless Computer has served me well for up to 1000 miles now. The only thing to keep in mind is that you may want to buy extra zip ties as they will break over time. Usually every 500 miles you would want to replace them but it's about 3 bucks for 100 ties. So it's not horrible to do or time consuming.
The cadence upgrade is nice because you can make sure you're not pedaling too slow or too fast and are always at an optimal spin rate.
http://amzn.com/B007YV1GM4
Sigma BC16.12
One of the cheapest ~$30 with a cadence sensor.
This thing has been getting some great reviews and I am thinking of pulling the trigger on it. If anyone here has used it I would love a first hand account.
http://www.amazon.com/Cateye-Stealth-50-Cycling-Computer/dp/B00B2PT3Y6
You don't need wireless, it just becomes a pain in the rear to change the batteries on both, but what are you using it for Road or Mt?
I just bought a wired one with Cadence link, which is really useful for the triathlons and time trials i do, but if your not into that theres cheaper than what your looking for that do basically the same thing, mentioned in the other comments
Yeah. I have this $10 Schwinn device.
I recently bought a [cateye strada cadence] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000R6QR2C/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1) to use while training and on the road and once it's installed it's great. Installation was a bit of a pain though and took me a few hours, although I'm a bit OCD when it comes to routing wires.
Well that's some place to start. If they're into physical outdoor activities think what they might need or don't need but will find useful.
Backpacks when they go hiking? Water bottles for when they ride the bikes? New helmets for cycling? Or something like this for their bikes to monitor how far they've gone or how fast they're going.
Trust me it doesn't have to be a huge gesture. My parents are more impressed when I get a present that reflects them as opposed to how much I paid for it. I'm the same way now that I'm older. When I was a kid I wanted the best of everything and the most expensive. Now I'm moved when my little cousins go in on my birthday and get me a $2 Transformer key chain.
I like the Sigma bike computers and have them on both my bikes. My newest bike has this model:
Sigma Sport BC16.12 16 Function Bicycle Computer
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BO4U7VS
It gives you speed, distance, and cadence. Though I personally find I don't need cadence much.
I then use an old cell phone with Allsport GPS to track where I go and how long it takes.
As a beginner in triathlons, I'm finding it to be a somewhat gear-intensive and expensive hobby. I think the trick is to find where you can skimp and where you need to pay a premium. My feeling is a bike computer can be in that "skimp" category... a little bit of money will get you a good computer.
Good to know - thanks for the tips. I think finding the original RFLKT could be the key.
I was originally considering doing the Apple Watch setup you have (via Bluetooth/iSmoothRun) to log the actual workout and upload to the various apps, and then pairing something like this as the head unit via Ant+, and use it exclusively to see the live data without looking at my watch.
That all is based on the assumption that it will actually work to have the sensors paired via Bluetooth to one device and Ant+ to another at the same time...
Yes they costs like $10-20. Even Target or walmart sell them.
example:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008707FEO
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001FCFK5C
This mount would scare me. I got this one which has a band that goes over the screen. Takes part of the screen away but is more secure in my eyes.
Awesome, thanks a ton!
I couldn't find the BC800, but this one seems like it'll work, too. Do you think this one will be fine?
Is this the one you're talking about https://www.amazon.com/CAT-EYE-Velo-Wireless-Computer/dp/B01D4W5XT8
Wow that is terrible. I got a handleband and it works really well and is way more elegant. http://www.amazon.com/Nite-Ize-HDB-01-R3-HandleBand-Black/dp/B00FU4N4JU
and this
Okay, follow up question. Given the choice between wireless and a cadence sensor, which would you chose?
The choice is not purely academic. Apparently you can get one or the other at the higher end of my price range.
I'm a simple man. I have a bright green backpack, 2 rear niterider lights and 1 front light, and a phone holster for blasting progressive metal and checking the time.
Edit: guess I have fenders too.
SKS-Germany Shockblade Fender, 28"-29", Black https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01LWRA921/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_agchDbTJA40DX
SKS-Germany X-Blade Fender, 28"-29", Black https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01M0C55MK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ZgchDb5JVJNS4
Nite Ize HandleBand Universal Smartphone Bike Handlebar Mount, Black https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00FU4N4JU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_IcchDbMRX24SG
NiteRider Lumina 750 Boost Combo - Performance Exclusive BLACK https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01HEF5P62/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_FechDb0FX9VEV
I use this cycling computer:
http://www.amazon.com/Planet-Bike-9-Function-Computer-Temperature/dp/B000AO9R8C/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1299266806&amp;sr=8-13
I even used it on my motorcycle. Works up to 99mph!
Also a great helmet mirror that was indispensable : http://www.amazon.com/Blackburn-01002-Bike-Helmet-Mirror/dp/B000BNTY58/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&amp;s=sporting-goods&amp;qid=1299266867&amp;sr=8-3
Its like a third eye on the back of your head. I hope this helps.
I'm with you. I got one of these, and it definitely puts my phone right where a bike computer would be for the time being.
I use this computer when I'm on my roller then I just put what I got on there on Strava to keep track of all my mileage and etc.
I just use electrical tape to put the computer on when I'm on the roller and peal it off when I go ride outside since it doesn't record elevation. So far works like a charm.
I've never used this one but it seems to check those boxes minus being rechargable: https://smile.amazon.com/SUAOKI-Transmission-Speedometer-Backlight-Resistant/dp/B01FFADT48/ref=sr_1_1?s=sports-and-fitness&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1539099728&amp;sr=1-1&amp;refinements=p_n_feature_keywords_browse-bin%3A4558466011%2C4558469011
You're the man. Thanks.
>I'm guessing this one based on it's price/review ratio. It's the one that I am probably going to get.
Cateye CC-RD300W Strada Wireless Bicycle Computer (Black)
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000P1RO7Q/ref=cm_sw_r_an_am_ap_am_us?ie=UTF8
I think having a speedometer is fun. It's fun to say "Gee, I'm going past 25 going down that hill". It's fun to say "Gee, I used to be going 10 mph, now I'm going 12 mph."
Popular options are:
Thanks for the recommendation. I don't think that's the right solution for me. I found this Sigma BC16.12 which I think I am going to go with.
I get you. This one doesn't do power, but I've been using it for like.... 5 years or something with no complaints. Works really well. I'm finally going to upgrade to the Wahoo line but yeah, for the money this guy is a trooper.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000R6QR2C seems to fit the bill; anything from Cateye should hold up fine over time. At <$40 you're not going to get much in the way of features or flair, especially if you want cadence. The selection of wired computers is smaller than it used to be, so there just aren't as many options.
I use a Cateye Strada Cadence. It's wired but it's reliable for the price.
Would this be an ok cheap one?
How about this one you guys
https://www.amazon.com/Sigma-Sport-BC5-12-Bicycle-Computer/dp/B009ZN61D8
Planet bike
Cateyes are nice. I wouldn't get one with gps, it costs a bunch and doesn't give you much utility in return. I think it's nice to have a second sensor for cadence, if I were buying a new computer that would be one of my main criteria (I inherited a cateye without cadence, but I can approximate it from my speed since I ride fixed atm). Going wired will save you money and it's not hassle once it's installed. I'd say go for the Strada Cadence.
As a disclaimer, I am not kidding here. If you have a bike where the wheel is reachable one of those things will probably work. They count the rotations and calculate distance/speed.
Honestly, for under $50, I'd go with a smart phone mount and Strava on your phone UNLESS you don't have a waterproof phone and may ride in the rain.
You're going to compromise a lot at that price point. If you just want a dedicated cycling computer for cheap, you can go with something like
https://www.amazon.com/CAT-EYE-Computer-Odometer-Speedometer/dp/B007YV1GM4/ref=sr_1_10
And then save up for a better computer if you find it doesn't meet your needs.
Is there some functionality you're looking for specifically?
I have this computer, and really enjoy it. I find it to be reasonably priced, but if you would like a wireless computer, there is also this option.