How to choose your GPS computer?

The usefulness of a GPS computer for cycling, road or MTB, is obvious! Reassuring thanks to its GPS function, this type of computer integrates many features that lead to higher-quality training and more enjoyable rides.

GPS computers for cycling

Whether you have a performance goal or the soul of a trail blazer, always searching for new tracks, a GPS computer will prove ideal.

From the basic computer delivering essential data to the true onboard computer packed with features, many models are available on the market. To help you make your choice, here are a few points to consider.

UNDERSTANDING GPS COMPUTERS

The GPS computer distinguishes itself from the classic cycling computer by adding an essential GPS function, which allows you to record the trace of a ride and gather more complete and precise data, particularly regarding distance and speed. It also has the advantage of being easier to set up than a standard computer, as there is no need to configure wheel and tyre size, for example.

Indeed, it works using the GPS (Global Positioning System) geolocation system, made up of around thirty satellites, from which it receives and cross-references information in real time. It is easy to understand that the speed of acquisition and the accuracy of the geolocation signal are major issues for a cycling GPS, which is why most models today offer dual GPS and Glonass compatibility — the Russian equivalent of the American GPS system — in order to gather more information. Some models are also equipped to receive data emitted by the European Galileo positioning system, even though this network is not yet 100% operational.

Among the essential data provided in real time on the computer screen, speed, distance covered and altitude are found on all models. It should be noted that high-end computers prefer a barometric sensor — more reliable — over GPS data, to provide information relating to altimetry (altitude, elevation gain, gradient percentage...).

TYPES OF GPS COMPUTERS

The range of GPS computers encompasses a great variety of models, from the simplest to the most sophisticated, from the most compact measuring less than 5 cm long by 3 cm wide to the largest comparable in size to some smartphones.

Some are sold alone, others with one or more sensors useful for training (heart rate belt, speed sensor, power meter).

We also distinguish between GPS computers equipped with a preloaded map background and those that are not:

- GPS computers with mapping have everything to appeal to hikers and mountain bikers who enjoy exploring new terrain, discovering the surroundings of their holiday destination for example, without the risk of getting lost. They offer better readability, with a generously sized screen, and more or less advanced navigation options, which partly determine the range level and explain the large price differences.

- Computers without mapping are more compact and lightweight. They offer more limited navigation options, which cyclists seeking pure performance can do without, as they are more interested in the performance data they can gather during and after their training.

It is obviously possible to use a smartphone as a cycling GPS, with a dedicated application. But reliability, battery life, robustness, lightness and readability are some of the criteria that argue in favour of a dedicated GPS computer.

THE FEATURES

More practical and equipped with a larger and sometimes touchscreen display, the GPS computer has clear advantages over the GPS watch for exclusive cycling use.

It is obviously not a question of detailing here all the features that GPS computers can integrate, as some models are true mines of information! It is rather a matter of exploring those that make the product so interesting, that help the cyclist track their performance and make cycling rides more enjoyable!

Basic information

Without considering the basic information (time, calendar...) offered by all GPS computers, each model provides speed, distance and altitude data gathered via the GPS signal. Most of them also offer very useful data for cycling, such as positive elevation gain, gradient percentage, temperature, calories burned...

Some models allow you to customise the display of this data, with pages containing more or less information. Cyclists with vision problems may find it worth exploring this option of changing the display when making their choice.

ANT+ or Bluetooth compatibility

A GPS computer can connect with third-party accessories, such as a heart rate belt, a cadence sensor, a power meter, via Bluetooth and/or ANT+, to gather additional information useful for performance monitoring.

Some models support both communication protocols (Bluetooth and ANT+), while others only support one. It is important to check this compatibility when choosing your GPS computer, so that you can use it with the sensor you already own.

Data transfer and connectivity

Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or USB cable connectivity also allows you to transfer data recorded by your GPS computer directly to a smartphone or computer, to use on popular training platforms (Strava, Training Peaks...), or on brand applications (Garmin Connect, Polar Flow...), which can analyse them and give you advice on how to progress.

The higher up the range you go, the more complete the connected features of the GPS computer become. They can notably give the cyclist the ability to communicate with other riders, and allow their loved ones to follow their route in real time. Many models allow you to receive smartphone notifications directly on the screen (calls, SMS, emails).

Navigation, route tracking and guidance

The primary purpose of a GPS computer is to allow you to locate yourself and navigate easily and confidently on roads or trails that you do not know! But in terms of navigation, not all computers offer the same possibilities and, naturally, the most advanced features are reserved for top-of-the-range computers, which can, beyond simple route tracking, allow you to search for a specific address and be guided to that precise point, in the manner of a car GPS.

With a cycling GPS, the cyclist can record their route, which they can follow on a future ride. They can retrieve routes recorded by other cyclists, or even plan an itinerary in advance on their favourite training application. And even without integrated mapping, the cyclist can be guided by following only a pre-recorded trace, with direction changes indicated on the computer screen. On most of them, a return-to-start function is also available, useful if the trace is lost!

The higher up the range you go, and especially if you use a GPS computer with mapping, the richer the navigation features become. The most complete models can even inform you about points of interest along your route (cafés, campsites…)!

Mapping

Equipped with a larger screen, GPS computers with integrated mapping are designed to make navigation easier for the cyclist. Not all preloaded maps have the same level of detail. Brands offer very comprehensive topographic maps, useful for hikers and mountain bikers, but these are paid-for. If you are interested, check the memory capacity of your GPS computer beforehand to make sure it can support it!

Which GPS computer should I choose for my cycling?

The GPS computer is no exception to the range of cycling equipment: everyone's choice should be made according to their riding style and budget!

For MTB tourers and cycle tourists, a model with mapping is recommended, incorporating useful navigation features.

A more compact GPS computer, without mapping, is better suited to cyclists seeking performance, who can pair it with heart rate belts and cadence or power sensors.

In all cases, it is important to check the computer's compatibility in terms of communication protocol (Bluetooth, ANT+, NFC, …), for use with these third-party accessories, if they are not included.

Generally speaking, battery life and memory capacity will be key variables to consider.

For easier use, choose a model with a large touchscreen in colour. If you often need to ride in low-light conditions, also check that it has good backlighting.