Best bike computers 2022

Bike computers are very different from each other. The simplest models show only speed, time and distance traveled, while the flagships are equipped with a navigator and are able to assess the complexity of the route. All these gadgets are called bicycle computers, but some cost a few hundred rubles, while others cost about tens of thousands. 

Most bike computers show:

• Time. A watch is needed for the current time, a stopwatch for travel time, a countdown timer for monitoring workouts.
• Speed. Current, average and maximum – for all time or only for the last trip. Some computers compare the current value with an average so that the cyclist can compare his results or estimate the speed of movement in a certain area. 
• Distance. Each cycle computer measures the distance per ride and for the entire time. Mileage helps to maintain the bike and change components on time.

Editor’s Choice

BBB NanoBoard 11 Wireless Cycling Computer

This lightweight and compact bike computer is controlled with just one button. The model is suitable for beginners and cyclists. Functions: current, average and maximum speed, time of day and travel time, distance per ride and mileage, calorie counting, automatic on and off. Autoscan allows you to view different parameters one by one without pressing a button. 

The body is made of TPU, a lightweight, durable and flexible polymer. Even if you drop the computer from your hands, nothing will happen to it. 

The gadget and the speed sensor run on a CR2032 battery, which needs to be changed every few months. The kit includes a speed sensor with a magnet, a battery, a mount, a platform adjustment tool, bike ties and anti-slip rubber pads. 

Main characteristics

Advantages and disadvantages

Wired bike computer STELS BRI-5

A simple model with five functions: current speed, trip distance, total mileage, clock and automatic data scan. It differs from analogues by a high-quality screen, on which you can easily view information at an angle and in sunny time. 

The display has two lines for parameters, and in the upper right corner there is a battery indicator. The bike computer turns on and off automatically – this feature is not available on all wired models.

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IGPSPORT IGS618 Bundle

A GPS bike computer that can withstand any weather conditions and provide all the information you need for your trip. There are three activity modes to choose from: racing, indoor and training mode. There is support for setting sound alerts that are triggered by time, distance and heart rate. 

The device seamlessly connects to sensors, with the help of which the computer analyzes up to 80 trip and training indicators. It has pre-configured modes for displaying the necessary functions on the screen, which you can use for the first time while you are studying the device.

There are only three control buttons, and all of them are located at the bottom, under the screen, there is also a beep confirmation of pressing.

Battery life 22 hours in normal mode.

Main characteristics

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Top 3 best GPS bike computers in 2022 according to KP

1. Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT v2

GPS bike computer with a 2,2″ color screen and a full-fledged navigator. Through the application, you can delete and add cards. Route planning does not work very well, so for some trips you will have to download ready-made tracks.

The bike computer has no extra functions – only a stopwatch, thermometer, clock, mileage, calorie counter, current, average and maximum speed. You can connect ANT sensors to your device.

The parameters on the screen can be swapped, enlarged, painted in different colors and removed. When paired with a smartphone, the computer will show incoming call notifications and SMS text.

The gadget is controlled by six buttons. In the second version of Bolt, they were made higher – now they are easy to press even with gloves. The computer is very tightly held in the mount and is not afraid of shaking off-road.

The battery will last for 15 hours of continuous operation. Also, the second version of the gadget received USB Type-C fast charging with a current of 5 A instead of the previous 1,5 A. 

Main characteristics

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2. CooSpo BC200

The CooSpo BC200 is an all-in-one GPS-enabled cycling computer that comes with all the features you need not only for your daily commute, but also for training. The computer has a waterproof and shockproof housing, which allows you to use it in all weather conditions. The device is equipped with a large, high-contrast and easy-to-read 2,4-inch display with a brightness adjustment function.

The gadget is synchronized with its mobile application Xoss via Bluetooth, so you can quickly download the results and reports of your trips. Also, the bike computer supports wireless sensors from most well-known manufacturers, which allow you to track your performance in real time – heart rate, cadence (cadence sensor), speed and power measurements.

In total, there are four buttons on the case: the power and brightness button is on the left, two buttons on the right are for selecting menu functions, as well as for starting and stopping the route.

The operating time of the gadget without recharging is up to 36 hours.

Main characteristics

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3. Garmin Edge 130 Plus

The Edge 130 plus is a compact cycling computer with GPS and cycling features. Thanks to the built-in sensors, the device can track the dynamics of movement, speed, time, distance and height of jumps. The computer has a waterproof and shockproof case, which allows you to use it in extreme conditions. The device is equipped with a 1,8-inch display with a contrast adjustment function, thanks to which all information is clearly visible both in direct sunlight and in low light conditions.

The device processes signals from various satellite systems – GPS, GLONASS and Galileo, which ensures reliable and accurate reception of coordinates in difficult forest and urban conditions. The bike computer also displays important activity indicators – heart rate and calorie counter.

There are five buttons on the body: the power button is on the left, two buttons on the right are for selecting menu functions, and two more are on the bottom, with which you need to start and end the trip.

The autonomy of the gadget without recharging is 12 hours.

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Top 4 Best Wireless Bike Computers in 2022 According to KP

1. SIGMA BC 1200 WL

Wireless cycling computer with 12 functions, including a thermometer, comparison of the current speed with the average, and memory for two bikes so that when changing transport you do not have to reconfigure the computer. The rest of the functions are basic. 

The strength of this model is a clear and well-read screen, on which all the information is clearly visible even in sunny weather. The display has three lines of parameters, the largest of them shows the current speed.

There are only two buttons: one on the top end, the other under the screen. They are large and protruding from the body, so it is convenient to press them when riding.

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2. STG BC-771 

The STG BC-711 automatically starts and stops running, calculates calories burned during training, and performs 20 more functions for sports and trip statistics. 

The bike computer has a large black and white screen with three lines. The plastic case is not very strong and reliable, so it is better not to drop the gadget. Buttons for control and settings are located on the front, under the screen.

The kit includes a speed sensor with a magnet, a handlebar mount, bike ties and one battery.

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3. KELLY’S Direct WL

An advanced wireless cycling computer with all the important features and a key feature – IPX8 waterproof housing, thanks to which the device can withstand even short-term immersion in water. The computer has 7 main measuring functions, the key ones are: measurement of current, average and maximum speed, distance and travel time. While driving, the numbers increase mode is activated, which allows you to closely monitor the indicators.

To conserve battery power, this model automatically turns off when you’re idle and turns on when you need to start moving again. The bike computer and sensor are powered by two CR2032 batteries. The battery indicator will show you when the battery needs to be replaced.

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4. Garmin Edge 530

Modern bike computer with GPS, which is well suited for both simple pleasure riding and for training professional athletes. It is equipped with a fast responsive processor, providing instantaneous menu navigation and proper navigation performance. 

About 120 rating cycle routes have already been loaded into the computer’s memory, which allows you to choose a more convenient and optimal route for yourself. In this model, there is no way to enter an exact address and route to it. There is also no base of attractions, but there is a complete map of all roads, streets and accessible trails.

The Garmin Edge 530 is controlled using seven side buttons. The device is designed for 20 hours of battery life and up to 48 hours in power saving mode.

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Top 3 best wired bike computers in 2022 according to KP

1. Follow SD-576A

The Sunding SD-576A cycling computer is a great personal assistant with a practical design and a large screen. This device has all the necessary functions for both amateurs and professional athletes. It is able to calculate the speed of movement, show the distance traveled, determine the ambient temperature, and give a signal that it is time for maintenance of the bike.

In total, there are two buttons on the bike computer: one is remote, which displays trip data and turns on the backlight, and the other is touch-sensitive, which is responsible for setting up the device and saving the results.

The device is powered by two CR2032 batteries, which can be easily replaced by yourself.

Main characteristics

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2. SIGMA BC 14.16

A wired computer ideal for daily bike rides and mountain trips. The gadget shows the current and average speed, clock, temperature, total distance and travel time. In addition to the classic functions, advanced altimeter indicators have been added – the device will show the change in altitude in the form of a graph and the percentage of ascents from the total path. 

Thanks to the built-in memory chip, all general values ​​and settings are permanently saved to the device, so that after changing the battery, the statistics will remain the same. The bike computer is waterproof, so nothing will stop you from using it in the rain.

The case is completely made of plastic, so it is advisable to treat it with care and not drop it. Three buttons are used for control: one is located on the top of the case and two at the bottom. The top one allows you to enter the menu, the other two are responsible for selecting and canceling actions.

The device supports NFC technology and the free SIGMA LINK app, the device can communicate with Android smartphones to transfer trip data and download results.

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3. BBB BCP-02

Ergonomic and reliable wired bike computer BBB BCP-02 with 9 functions. The device automatically alternately displays the current speed and distance traveled on the screen. In addition to the necessary functions, this model has additional parameters for advanced cyclists – average and peak speed, as well as travel time.  

The case is shock-resistant, protected from moisture and dust and equipped with a large, easy-to-read display. The computer is controlled by one button, which is located at the bottom of the screen.

The cycle computer is powered by 2 CR2032 batteries, which ensure long-term operation of the device.

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Leaders of the Past

1. Bbb Dashboard 12 Func

The BBB DashBoard wireless computer is a versatile and advanced model with a stylish and ergonomic design. The device supports 12 main measurements: current, average and maximum speed, distance traveled, odometer, clock, automatic start and stop, measures the total driving time and shows the battery indicator, and thanks to the ability to automatically scan the results during the trip, the indicators will be cyclic and sequential. be displayed on the screen.

The bike computer is easy to use and the medium-sized display makes it easy to read in daylight and in the dark as the information is displayed in two rows.  

Convenient control with a single button – it is located at the bottom of the screen. According to users, the battery life that comes with the kit is enough for the whole season.

Main characteristics

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2. CYCPLUS M1 

The Cycplus M1 is for athletes who want to try their first GPS cycling computer. Main advantages: very low price for a GPS model, large 2,9″ auto-illuminated display and 30 hours of battery life. The bike computer supports the connection of heart rate, cadence and power sensors. 

Functions and displayed parameters are standard. The status bar displays the time, track recording icon, GPS connection, Bluetooth, air temperature and battery charge indicator. You can start and stop track recording only with the button.

The body of the cycle computer is glued, not screwed together. The IPX6 rating makes the gadget immune to splashes, but it may not survive driving in the pouring rain or falling into a puddle.

The app for the Cycplus M1 is called Xoss. In it, you can read the instructions for the device, analyze the trip and update the firmware of the bike computer. Xoss syncs with Strava.

It takes 3,5 hours to fully charge the battery. In this model, the micro USB port cannot be used for data transfer, so tracks are sent to the computer only through the mobile application.

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3. SHANREN Miles SR-BC40

Modest budget bike computer with GPS. The gadget shows the current, average and maximum speed, the distance traveled for the race and for the entire time, temperature, altitude, slope and current time. If this data is not enough, you can connect a heart rate, speed, cadence and power sensor via ANT +. 

The application is completely in English, as are the instructions for the gadget. But the settings are simple, so deep knowledge of the language is not required, especially if this is not the first bike computer.

The battery lasts approximately 25 hours of operation. The micro-USB port is used for charging.

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4. Assize AS-8000

One of the cheapest wireless bike computers. The model boasts a SCAN function for sequential viewing of parameters. When the bike stops, the device stops counting the time, and after another two minutes it automatically turns off so as not to waste battery power. 

Two buttons on the underside of the case are used for control. The left one turns on the setting, resets the statistics and confirms the action, and the right one is needed to change the values.

The bike computer runs on standard CR2032 batteries. There are two of them in the set at once: for the sensor and the computer. 

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5. RFR CMPT

Multifunctional wired bike computer from Cube. The device calculates the current and average speed and shows the distance traveled. The built-in clock, stopwatch and timer help you keep track of your travel time. The cycle computer itself starts and ends the work, so you do not have to press the button every time.

The RFR CMPT has a backlit screen, but it only works when the button is pressed, like most computers with a CR2032 battery. The display is large, it is convenient to read information from it during the trip. The device is protected from moisture and dust, so you can take it with you on the road and use it in the rain. 

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6. Stinger X53935

Model with 15 functions and an energy-saving mode that is activated a few minutes after the bike has stopped. The screen displays a battery indicator and two lines of parameters: at the top speed, and at the bottom one of the other characteristics.

For consistent viewing of data, there is a scan. The device starts and stops working automatically. The remaining functions are basic – related to distance, time and speed.

The cycle computer is waterproof and shockproof, so it can withstand riding in the rain and falling from a small height. The gadget is attached to the removal of the steering wheel.

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7. B’twin 100 VAN RYSEL

Lightweight, affordable and simple bike counter from Decathlon. Shows current and average speed, distance traveled last trip, total mileage and time of day. Does not count travel time, turns on and off only by pressing the button.

The B’twin 100 VAN RYSEL is the perfect introduction to cycling computers. The gadget will brighten up a bike ride and raise the motivation of a novice athlete, because it is always more interesting to train with statistics at hand. A bonus for beginners is easy installation, intuitive settings, and a two-line interface without unnecessary indicators and icons.

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8. Cateye Velo 9

Use the Cateye Velo 9 as a bike computer that connects via wires to the sensors on your wheels. It has a large screen and tracks your current, average and maximum speed. It also tracks distance and travel time, has an odometer, as well as a feature that estimates the number of calories you’ve burned. You can scroll through all these features with a single button. This computer runs on batteries.

9. Polar V650

The Polar V650 is extremely affordable for mapping GPS with the included heart rate strap. It’s an easy-to-use GPS bike computer with some handy features, including a large color touch screen and a small white LED on the front for visibility if you’re on the road after dark.

10. Sigma Rox 11.0

The Sigma Rox 11.0 Sport Set GPS is an impressive kit that includes an easy-to-use head unit with a good display, as well as cadence, speed and heart rate monitoring sensors. Maps are built in and you get all the possible connections you might need.

How to choose a bike computer

Assess your level and needs

If you want to get acquainted with bike computers and evaluate their usefulness, a simpler model is suitable: a wired or modest wireless gadget. 

For serious sports, you need a bike computer with ANT+ sensors – an expensive multifunctional device. 

Cyclists will be helped by the built-in GPS-navigator and the route planning function in the mobile application. 

Consider Important Specifications

A bike computer is a narrowly focused gadget, so when choosing, you need to remember the main parameters: 

• Screen size and clarity. The larger and more contrasting the display, the easier it is to see information in motion.
• Number of lines. The simplest models have two of them – one for speed, and the other values ​​u3bu4bare alternately displayed on the other. In advanced bike computers – XNUMX-XNUMX lines with two parameters.
• Moisture protection. In order for the bike computer not to be afraid of rain, it must be protected from moisture according to the IPX7 standard. Here X is the degree of dust protection, so any number can be used instead of a symbol.
• Impact resistance. In order for the computer not to fail after being dropped, it must have an impact-resistant case. Some manufacturers add a rubber or silicone case to the kit, which additionally softens the blow. 
• The number and location of buttons. The easier it is to manage the gadget, the better. The buttons should be conveniently located and protrude from the body so that the cyclist can easily switch between training modes, open the navigator or change the displayed parameter on the go. 

Highlight required features

Each user has different requirements, but some helper functions are equally useful for everyone:

• Automatic start and stop. Makes the gadget many times more convenient – no need to press the button before the trip and at every stop. 
• Screen backlight. Thanks to it, the cycle computer can be used at night. Almost all models on the CR2032 battery do not support constant backlighting – you can turn it on for just a few seconds by holding down the key.

A thermometer could have been included in the list, but in most bike computers it shows an inaccurate temperature. First of all, this applies to budget models. 

Types of bike computers

Bicycle computers work on a magnetic sensor or thanks to a satellite navigation system.

With speed sensor

A sensor is attached to the plug, and a magnet is attached to the spoke opposite it. When the magnet approaches the gauge, it detects one revolution of the wheel and transmits the data to the head unit. The computer counts the distance traveled and calculates the current speed.

In the settings of such bike computers, you need to specify the circumference or diameter of the wheel. If the owner enters inaccurate data, the gadget will make a mistake in the calculations. Tire wear will also lead to inaccuracies over long distances. 

According to the type of connection, such bicycle computers are divided into wired and wireless.

Wired

This is the most budget version of a bike computer – in online stores you can find models from a couple of hundred rubles. Most often they have simple functionality and not the most attractive design. The wire makes it difficult for beginners to install, looks unaesthetic and can break when dropped. Despite this, wired models are the most autonomous – the battery needs to be changed once a year or less. 

Wireless

The sensor transmits data to the head unit via a radio channel. No wires – the device looks aesthetically pleasing and is easy to install. Wireless models are more expensive than wired models and require two batteries: one for the computer and one for the sensor. They will need to be changed about once every six months. 

With GPS module

These bike computers calculate speed and distance using GPS. The time is also determined by synchronization with the satellite. In advanced models, the GPS function is also used for navigation.

Types of bike computers with GPS:

Without navigation

The most affordable option – younger models cost almost like a bike computer with a sensor. Such gadgets use GPS mainly to determine speed, distance and time. 

With simple navigation

Through a mobile application, a ready-made route can be downloaded to the bike computer. It is displayed on a blank background and tells the cyclist the direction of movement.

With navigation and map

The most expensive option is from 14 to 000 rubles. A full-fledged navigator, like in a car: with a map on the background, streets and all objects. Usually, dozens of functions are added to such models: they analyze the distance traveled, display the height gained and synchronize with services for cyclists. 

Almost all models with GPS run on a rechargeable battery, like in a smartphone. They need to be charged after 10-30 hours of operation. Usually, a micro USB or USB Type-C cable is used for this.

What is ANT +

In the description of advanced sports models, you can see the ANT + mark. This means that special sports sensors can be connected wirelessly to the bike computer. 

ANT+ sensors:

• Heart rate monitor. Attached to the athlete’s chest or wrist, it measures the heart rate. Most advanced cycling computers warn of a strong increase in heart rate. 
• Power sensor. Calculates the power applied to the pedals. “Powermeter” helps to evaluate your strength, adjust training and correctly distribute loads over a long distance.
• cadence sensor. Counts pedal revolutions per minute. This information helps improve your riding technique and preserve your ligaments and knee joints.

Some GPS cycling computers with ANT+ can be connected to a speed sensor, the same as in conventional models. It will come in handy in case satellite navigation turns out to be useless.

Popular questions and answers

An expert answers the most frequently asked questions from readers Denis Ivanov, CCM in cycling, athlete with 12 years of experience.