What type of computer should I use?
| Wired Computer |
Wireless Computer |
GPS Computer |
- Most affordable
- Manually connects to your speed / cadence sensors
- No issue of interference impacting data
- Basic performance features
|
- Mid-range
- No wires (improves aesthetics)
- Easy swap between bikes
- Basic & advanced features
- Smartphone connectivity (ANT+ / Bluetooth Smart)
|
- Mid-range / Premium
- No wires
- Easy swap between bikes
- Basic & advanced features
- Smartphone connectivity
- (ANT+ / Bluetooth Smart)
- Accurate distance & altitude data
|
Common Computer Features
| Basic Features |
Advanced Features |
- Speed
- Average Speed
- Max Speed
- Cadence
- Max Cadence
- Ride Duration
- Distance
- Odometer
|
- Heart rate monitor connectivity
- Max heart rate
- Altitude
- Total ascent
- Total descent
- Temperature
- Maps / GPS Route Plan
- ETA at destination
- ANT+ / Bluetooth Connectivity
- Wi-Fi
|
Can I pair my cycle computer with a smartphone, power meter and other devices?
You will need a wireless computer to sync with other devices. Most wireless computers sync using 2 wireless technologies – ANT+ & Bluetooth Smart.
ANT+
ANT+ enabled devices to talk to each other and present the information on a compatible device.
Bluetooth Smart
Bluetooth Smart is a low energy wireless technology designed for smart sport and fitness. The long battery life in sensors makes it ideal for regular use in cycling.
Always check your smartphone’s OS and 3rd party devices are compatible.
Would a Watch / Fitness band be better for me?
If you’re looking for something more versatile then cycle watches are a great alternative. You can still gather data from cycling sensors, but you can also gather data for different sports too. They are great for triathletes and those that do multiple sports.
You can easily transfer data from a road bike to a mountain bike, from running to swimming. There aren’t many outdoor exercises you can’t track.
What software & Apps should I use?
Strava
Strava is perhaps the most well-known cycling App / software around. All you need is to record your cycling with a compatible GPS device, upload it to Strava and then you can analyse your data. You can compare your performance to previous efforts, your mates and even pro riders - all of this, for free.
Garmin Connect
All Garmin computers and devices will work with Garmin Connect. This is an online service that allows you to analyse your performance data, and share it with your friends. Reports show you how you’re progressing and you can use the calendar feature to plan your training sessions over time.
