The best cycle computers for 2017: a buyer’s guide

The best cycle computers for 2017: a buyer’s guide

It’s rare to see a cyclist riding without a cycle computer on their handlebars these days, they’re almost a part of the cycling landscape. However, all units are not created equal – so which are the best cycle computers?

At bargain basement level, cycle computers start from below £20, but they can cost up to £450. At the higher end of the pricing scale, you get GPS mapping, connectivity with fitness tracking apparatus and clever performance features such as alerts to tell you how you’re performing, and what you need to do to better tailor your training.

What sort of cycling computer is right for you?

If you just want to know how far you cycled and how fast, a basic unit may be appropriate. It will be smaller, lighter and usually have a longer battery life than a pricier option.

Mapping and navigation functionality usually means you will need a larger and more expensive unit, with a much more sophisticated display. And those interested in collecting other data – heart rate, pedalling cadence and power – will need connectivity to peripheral data collection devices. Cadence sensors and heart rate straps can be bought as extras or are often sold bundled with the GPS unit, though power meters are a much more expensive proposition.

 Power meters: everythknowing you need to 

Gone are the days of cables and wires to connect all your sensors to your data collection device. Even for the more modestly priced GPS unit wireless capabilities generally come as standard. The majority of new GPS units – but not all – provide an ANT+ interface.

More and more data collection devices using Bluetooth Smart are becoming available. Not all GPS units support this, as it is more geared towards smartphone users. Likewise most smartphones do not support ANT+, although adapters are available for some phones.

 12 cool things you didn’t know your Garmin could do

If you want to track your activity across other sports too, a wrist-mounted multisports watch may suit you better and there’s always the option to use your smartphone to log activity too, though without a bar mount you won’t be able to see data on the move.

Here’s our pick of the best cycle computers…

Cateye Strada Wireless cycle computer

cateye stradcateye strada wireless computera wireless

Score: 9

Price: £49.99

For a penny under 50 quid, the Cateye Strada ticks all the boxes that you’d expect for a basic cycle computer, and all in a slim, light package.

This is also a good computer if you’re looking to go between road and mountain bikes, as there is the option to have more than one bike with different wheel sizes pre-programmed into the device.