There is a wide variety of Cycle Computers (bike computers, cyclecomputers, bike electronics) available today with a large selection of features and functions. Here's a summary of some of the most common Cycle Computer functions and some comparisons of the price ranges for the various features and functions, to give you an overview of what is available and help when you are browsing (online or offline).
Since your ride stats can be such an important part of your ride, you want to find a bike computer with the features that are best suited for your own specific needs. Even if you are looking for a very simple and inexpensive bicycle speedometer, odometer, trip meter, etc. you are still going to have a huge selection to chose from and it could take a little time to sort it all out.
If you are interested in some of the more advanced or novel features and functions, it is going to take you even longer to sort it all out and make your decision (I know this because I just went through this exercise, in the process of upgrading my own
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OK, let's start with the basic features that most cycle computers will have. I am using the term "Standard" here for the common features and functions although there is really no set standard for all manufacturers, of course. These devices range in price from about $15.00 to $50.00 (wired models)
Some manufactures will also include these features with their standard (mid range) models.
Most of the higher end cycle computers these days are wireless, but it really doesn't cost that much more for a wireless model. The wireless models usually start at about $50.00.
Some of the advantages of wireless are obvious. I have repaired the wires on regular "wired" cycle computers numerous times (on my kids bikes mostly). A wireless model becomes more of a necessity if you are going to use it mountain biking. Sticks, bushes and broken branches are just a few of the things that can get caught on, and damage the wires.
One of the disadvantages of wireless models is that the transmitters (required for wireless) also require a battery (in addition to the battery in the main unit). This is not a big deal, but it is something that you do not have to deal with when using a wired model.
Advanced features and functions
Many of the higher end cycle computers will include one or a combination of the options below and are usually wireless. These units usually start at around $150.Cadence:
Your cadence is your pedaling "RPM". It is the speed at which the pedals turn, measured in Revolutions Per Minute. When you get the a cycle computer with a cadence option, you will have another unit (to monitor your cadence) that will need to be installed on the crank arm (this is not difficult). With the cadence option, you get:Altitude:
Heart Rate Monitors:
Bike Computers with integrated GPS: (See Bicycle GPS for more information)
Downloadable Options: This is the ultimate!
Some of the high end cycle computers (usually starting around $200) include options to download the recorded data (usually via USB) to your PC for the following options.Recommended
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Ready to Buy or Browse Online?
See the selection of bicycle electronics from our recommended merchants at Cycle Computers or Bicycle GPS. These pages will give you a selection of online merchant links for a huge selection of bicycle electronics all in one convenient location.The Ride is the Destination