How To Choose an Electronics for Cycling
Cycling electronics can measure your mileage, speed, and some models can even navigate. The category includes cycling computers, fitness trackers and cycling navigation. The individual types differ from each other in terms of their functionality, the size and type of display or the technology connecting a cycling computer with a sensor. What is the difference between them all and what should you focus on when making your choice?
What to look for when choosing cycling electronics
Choose the type of cycling electronics you need
Decide between a wired or a wireless model
Take a look at the functions of various cycling electronics and choose the ones you like best
How to choose cycling electronics?
Wired versus wireless technology
Wired technology
Cheaper compared to wireless models. They also only require one battery to be replaced from time to time, which is located in the device. They do not interfere with signal due to an electromagnetic switch.
Wireless technology
Wireless cycling electronics are easier to install because there is no need to pull the wiring from the sensor to the handlebar mount. In addition, a wire-free bike looks more aesthetically pleasing. Although they are usually more expensive and the two or three batteries have to be replaced more frequently. These are located not only in the cycling computer, but also in the sensor on the fork and/ or the frequency sensor (wired cycling computers have a battery only in the device itself). However, the battery normally lasts only one or two seasons.
Cycling electronics display
Fitness trackers
As fitness trackers are usually worn on the wrist, their display is adapted for this purpose. It is about the same size as a classic watch and usually has a touchscreen. The display on the screen usually shows the current speed or the distance travelled. More expensive models allow you to choose which information will appear on the display.
Cycling computers
This type of cycling electronic is not worn on hand, so they can have larger (up to 2.7-inch) display that can show more information. The displays are also mostly monochrome and are operated by buttons on the sides.
Cycling navigation
They have the largest displays. The diagonal reaches up to 3.5 inches, and they are often in color and touch due to the display of cycling maps. However, this does not apply in all cases, so we can find even more expensive models, over 8000CZK crowns, with button control.
Functions of cycling electronics
More expensive models may include more useful features. Note: The list of features in the categories is only a guide and may vary from model to model.
Basic models
Current speed and mileage for the day and overall travel time.
Intermediate models
Along with the information that basic models provide, these also show speed measurement, multi-wheel measurement, instantaneous or continuous speed pedaling, stopping, backlit display and its settings/ support for two average wheels (possible road and MTB).
Top end models
In addition to the functions of the intermediate models, these add an altimeter, temperature measurement, heart rate and other detailed data analysis.
Frequently asked questions when choosing cycling electronics
What is best for cycling; fitness trackers, a cycling computer, or cycling navigation?
Fitness trackers
Fitness trackers are essentially sport watches, which means that in addition to cycling, they also support other sports, such as running, skiing, etc. So if you do other sports in addition to cycling, fitness teackers are a suitable choice for you. The disadvantage is that they are more expensive. You can buy the cheapest fitness tracker with cycling functions for around 2,500 CZK.
Cycling computers
If, on the other hand, you focus only on cycling and at the same time the price is a deciding factor for you, choose one of the cycling computers. You can buy them for a few hundred crowns and their functions are usually sufficient for most users. They are attached to the bike and, unlike fitness trackers, which use GPS, they use sensors mounted on the front wheel.
Cycling navigation
Cycling navigation is designed for experienced cyclists who go on long rides, whether in the country or abroad. They display not only data such as speed or distance on the large display, but also a map.
Is it better to choose more expensive cycling electronics from a well-known manufacturer, or to save money and choose a cheap model from an unknown brand?
We definitely recommend well known/ proven manufacturers despite the possible higher price. Their products do not suffer from structural defects, faulty software, defective displays or bad handlebar clamping mechanisms. In addition to objectively better processing, it is not a problem to buy spare parts or accessories for branded cycling computers, such as sensors, chest straps, etc. They also provide better warranty and post-warranty services and technical support, which may not be the rule for lesser known manufacturers. Their lower purchase price may ultimately result in a very short lifespan or less comfortable use.
