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This article helps you decide whether to invest in a bike computer. When I started cycling, I didn’t use one because I couldn’t afford one. Over time, I discovered its advantages (and disadvantages), which I will share with you below.
KEY TAKEAWAY
You don’t need a bike computer if you are a casual cyclist who just wants to enjoy the ride without knowing their ride data. However, bike computers are essential for anyone looking to improve their performance. They can record advanced metrics and are compatible with additional sensors, such as power meters and HR monitors. However, keep in mind that these sensors require additional investments. Bike computers also last longer than smartphones and are less prone to mechanical damage.
Continue reading to find more ways to benefit from a bike computer and why you should get one.
Benefits of Bike Computers and Why to Get One
The main benefits of bike computers are the following:
- They track your ride data and advanced metrics.
- They help you train more effectively.
- They can navigate you through places you don’t know.
- They are easier to read and access.
- They are more suitable for cycling than your smartphone.
Let’s go through them in detail now.
1. They Track Your Ride Data and Advanced Metrics
Bike computers record multiple metrics that provide you with insights into your performance.
Besides the basic metrics* like your speed, distance, time, and cadence (the number of rotations per minute of your crank arm), bike computers can also record more advanced data such as heart rate and power.
*NOTE: Cycling speedometers can also measure basic metrics. However, they are incompatible with additional sensors and, therefore, can’t record advanced metrics. This is the main difference between speedometers and bike computers.
Remember, you will need to pair additional sensors, such as a power meter or HR monitor, with a bike computer. Otherwise, it won’t have a data source and display the data. Then, you will learn, for example, your average power, watts per kg, average HR, maximum HR, and more.
Additionally, bike computers can automatically sync your rides to popular cycling apps like Strava. This synchronization is convenient, and you will get a helpful overview of your rides based on the app.
2. They Help You Train More Effectively
A bike computer can help you push yourself to the next level. Pairing it with a power meter and HR monitor will provide the data necessary for effective training. Once you know yourself and your training zones, you’ll know when to go hard and when to relax.
Most bike computers can also guide you through structured training. They will display the intervals (e.g., power zones, heart rate zones, etc.), so your training won’t be just guesswork anymore.
Subsequent data analysis will reveal your strengths and weaknesses, helping you focus on your training on each ride (with the help of a personal trainer).
3. They Can Navigate You Through Places You Don’t Know
Most bike computers come with pre-loaded maps. They are most helpful when you want to ride in unfamiliar areas. For example, you can create a route using Komoot and then export it to the bike computer. The computer will then provide you with turn-by-turn directions.
I use this feature when traveling abroad because it saves me a lot of time. Instead of taking my phone out of my pocket, I can just follow the directions on the bike computer.
Remember that not every bike computer can recalculate the route if you go off-course. This is especially true for old or low-end models. You can learn more in my How to Choose a Bike Computer guide, where I explain navigation and mapping.
Some bike computers (mainly the Garmin Edge lineup) can help you find new trails and routes to ride, for example, by using trail recommendations from other riders and via 3rd party apps like TrailForks.
4. They Are Easy to Read and Access
Bike computers are designed for cycling. They have easy-to-read screens in direct sunlight and are easy to access.
You also don’t need anything else to use a cycling computer* besides a bike computer mount. But it’s often included in the packing.
*Some bike computers may require a smartphone connection to access advanced navigation features.
5. They Are More Suitable for Cycling Than Your Smartphone
As we all know, smartphones are like Swiss Army knives; they can do many things, including navigating and recording your ride. We can also use them to pay for coffee (newer Garmin Edge models have Garmin Pay, so they can do the same!). But they are not well-suited for cycling, especially in bad weather or on terrain where there is a risk of damaging them.
Bike computers have longer battery life and are more durable because they are designed to withstand a range of weather conditions, including cold temperatures (e.g., –4°F to 122°F [–20°C to 50°C]). Their screens are also not as glossy, providing better readability even in direct sunlight.
Yes, you can use a smartphone as a bike computer alternative, but if you can, invest in a dedicated bike computer. My comparison of bike computers vs. smartphones explains why.
Disadvantages of Bike Computers
The most significant disadvantage of bike computers is their price. They require an initial investment. As I explained above, basic speedometers start at a few dozen dollars but can’t measure advanced metrics.
Budget bike computers start at around $200 but can exceed $600 (e.g., the Garmin Edge 1050 was $699.99 when launched). You can check out the Garmin bike computers lineup, where I explain the differences between individual head units and their prices.
You’ll also have another device to recharge. However, apart from these issues, there aren’t many reasons not to use a dedicated cycling computer.
Conclusion
Buy a bike computer if you are serious about cycling, tracking your rides, or having a device to navigate you in places you don’t know.
You don’t have to buy it when you are just starting. Instead, you can buy a cheap speedometer and replace it with a bike computer once you save enough money.
If you’re considering buying it now, check out my selection of the best bike computers. It includes budget, mid-range, and premium ones.
