How to choose your cycling computer?

Cycling is an outdoor sport that allows you to exert yourself and enjoy a wonderful sense of freedom. To support you in your activity, the cycling computer collects useful data such as speed and distance during your ride.

This essential tool for cyclists can prove useful for sport riding as well as commuting or Sunday leisure rides. From the simplest to the most comprehensive, there are three types of computer: the wired computer, the wireless computer and the GPS computer. We will focus on the first two options and guide you in your choice.

How does a cycling computer work?

This small electronic device provides real-time information while riding. It consists of several components such as the screen, the speed sensor and the magnet to collect this data. Generally mounted on the handlebars or the stem, the screen centralises the information gathered by these components fitted to the bike or the cyclist.

It is necessary to enter the wheel circumference when using the device for the first time. Placed on a spoke of the front wheel, a magnet generates a data reading each time it passes a sensor fixed to the fork.

The sensor then transmits this reading to the computer, which calculates speed and distance travelled based on the wheel circumference, and informs the cyclist in real time.

The computer can be powered by a rechargeable battery or by disposable batteries.

TYPES OF COMPUTER

The wired computer

Despite technological advances in this field, wired computers can still be found, requiring connection to your bike's wheel. Slightly more complex to install and less aesthetically pleasing, it is clear that they are now used by a minority of cyclists.

An entry-level computer model, the wired computer offers basic data functions with perfect transmission speed. You can therefore access information such as instantaneous speed, distance covered and total distance, time, and journey time… Less expensive than a wireless computer, this type of computer is perfectly suited to leisure rides and urban use.

The wireless computer

For greater connectivity and better training tracking, opt for a wireless model.

The main advantage of the wireless computer is its ease of installation. A wireless computer is also more convenient for use across multiple bikes, particularly when purchasing an additional mount. Furthermore, it is perfectly suited to MTB use: no risk of the suspension or branches catching the cable.

Some connected computers have compatible applications for Smartphone operating systems (Android or iOS) or PC (Windows or Mac OS). They display your data for more precise analysis.

It is however necessary to check the compatibility of the signals (ANT+, Bluetooth, NFC…) transmitted to wireless computers by the sensors.

COMPUTER FUNCTIONS

A true information hub, the computer allows you to monitor all your performance data in real time. Depending on the model, you can customise the main screen to display your key data: knowing your instantaneous speed, the number of kilometres covered and your activity time helps you to better plan your ride and provides additional motivation by associating your sensations with a precise figure.

The range of functions is extensive and goes well beyond basic data. Indeed, depending on the computer model, you can view your average speed, instantaneous power, maximum speed, altitude, heart rate, pedalling cadence and number of calories burned for an ever more comprehensive training log.

Using a computer is not limited to your ride, but continues at home, at rest, by analysing your various performances. To do this, simply extract all the data relating to your recent sessions. With various comparative tables and graphs, you will have numerous invaluable tools that will help you to progress and, above all, to measure your improvement over time.

All this data is particularly useful for planning your training, managing your fatigue levels and assessing your current form. Furthermore, storing your sessions in a database gives you the ability to consult them later, notably to recall a training plan that worked well or to compare your performance from one year to the next.

Selection criteria

Type of use

The choice of computer depends on the use it will be put to. The more intensive your cycling, the more you will feel the need to know numerous parameters in order to best analyse your activities.

For simple rides or occasional use, an electronic model offering basic measurements, such as speed or mileage, is sufficient to obtain indicative information.

If you wish to improve your performance, heart rate, pedalling cadence or interval functions, which set a precise time period within your training, can prove very worthwhile.

Computer ergonomics

During your ride, the screen is consulted while on the move at speed, so you must ensure your data is easily readable. Backlighting or anti-glare protection in sunlight can be important criteria to enhance your safety on the bike.
Indeed, while you look at your computer, your attention is not focused on the road. Furthermore, your screen should not be cluttered with information but should display only essential data.

Computer battery life

Depending on your ride duration, battery life is obviously important so as not to be interrupted by a low battery and an early shutdown of your computer during your ride.
Today, some computers display the battery level in real time so you can check whether the battery life is sufficient. A small tip to save battery: configure the automatic stop settings so that your computer pauses when you are stationary.

Computer waterproofing

The waterproofing level of the computer can be an important factor, particularly for enthusiasts who are happy to ride in the rain. To assess this, check the IPX rating of the device. With an IPX 6 or 7 rating, you can ride in the rain without fear of damaging the computer. And even if you tend to ride in fine weather, it is preferable to have a waterproof device in case of unexpected changes in the weather.

Ease of use

Finally, ease of use can be a decisive criterion when making your choice. Whether on the bike or off it, it is always more pleasant not to waste time with technology. During exercise, your cycling computer must therefore be very ergonomic and easy to access for quick consultation in complete safety. Also, do not choose a device that is too complicated to configure, as you may tire of the many available settings to programme.