The 8 best bike computers

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

The modern cyclist rarely goes on a trip without a device that would show the speed, distance covered, and other information. You can use a smartphone as such a device. But what if the trip takes a long time and you don't have a portable battery with you? This will leave you disconnected. That is why cycling computers are still in great demand. This is a small gadget that attaches to the handlebars of a bicycle. In this article, we will look at those bike computers that are worth the money spent on them. We will talk about both budget models and real monsters with a GPS chip and the ability to exchange data with other cycling computers.

Rating of the best bike computers

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
Rating of the best bike computers	1	Garmin EDGE 1000	RUB 30,500
	2	Polar V650	RUB 18 490
	3	Sigma ROX GPS 7.0	RUB 11,391
	4	VDO M7 GPS	RUB 6,813
	5	Sigma BC 16.16 STS	RUB 4,038
	6	TOPEAK Panoram V10	RUB 3,460
	7	Echowell Ui20	RUB 1,150
	8	VENTURA IV	850 RUB

Garmin EDGE 1000

Rating: 4.9

One of the most expensive cycling computers in existence at the moment. For this representative of our rating they ask about 44 thousand rubles. And another problem may arise with its purchase – in Russia, Garmin products are almost not in demand, so an order from abroad may be required.

What is the reason for such a high cost? Firstly, Garmin sports and travel devices are highly reliable, so they have a serious mark-up. Secondly, in terms of functionality, the Garmin EDGE 1000 can only surpass any more advanced cycling computer from Garmin, it has no competitors. Thirdly, the product has a fairly large touchscreen display, which is color. Large, but not record large – the screen diagonal is 3 inches. Of course, the backlight has not been forgotten either – it allows you not to feel discomfort even in the dark.

As usual, proprietary firmware is used here. It has rich settings and many functions. For example, a competition with a virtual opponent is available here. All automatic functions have not been forgotten – for example, the beginning of a new circle when passing a certain distance or overcoming the starting point. Also, a topographic map has already been preloaded here, thanks to the stern, the bike computer can be used in the manner of a GPS navigator. It is interesting that you can also download raster images from satellites here.

The device includes wireless modules Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. They are needed not only to transfer data to your smartphone, but also to sync with other Garmin bike computers that have this feature. So competition with other cyclists becomes more interesting.

Of course, the bike computer received a waterproof case. This allows you to ride in all weather conditions. By the way, the product is capable of measuring the ambient temperature. And there is also a barometer, thanks to which the saved data will surely reveal information about what heights you climbed and from what heights you descended.

As you might have guessed, the device determines the speed thanks to GPS navigation. It understands not only American, but also Russian satellites. Along the way, the device is able to display the pedaling speed. But only if you have the appropriate sensor. And the gadget can also be synchronized with a heart rate monitor. Garmin EDGE 1000 is able to please with a sound alarm – it will sound at those moments when you have covered a certain distance or move for a specific time.

Surprisingly, even such an expensive cycling computer can be found fault with. For example, not everyone will be satisfied with the display resolution of 240×400 pixels. If you are planning a long bike ride, then the battery may fail – it provides 15 hours of battery life. However, if the trip does not mean spending the night in a tent, then a full charge should still be enough.

This cycling computer has a certain amount of built-in memory. But it is recommended to immediately stock up on a microSD card – it is better to throw all cards on it.

Note, there are now more recent Garmin cycle computers from this series. This model can be considered obsolete. The trouble is, new devices are even more expensive.

Advantages

• Implemented support for GPS and GLONASS;
• Preloaded detailed topographic maps;
• You can upload photos from satellites;
• Rich functionality related to time measurement;
• Touch-sensitive color display;
• Built-in thermometer and barometer;
• Long battery life;
• Wireless standards Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are supported;
• The case is waterproof;
• There is a complete set with a cadence sensor.

disadvantages

• Little permanent memory;
• The firmware works quite slowly;
• Low display resolution.

Polar V650

Rating: 4.8

Garmin's competitors understand that they shouldn't be selling their bike computers for the same high price. However, some of their devices are also not cheap. For example, one of the most functional representatives of our rating is Polar V650, in Russian stores they ask about 16 thousand rubles for this gadget. What can such a bike computer do?

To begin with, one cannot fail to note the complete set. Together with the device, you will receive a heart rate monitor, the data from which is displayed on the screen of the cycle computer. What is important, this accessory is a chest accessory, the poet cannot find fault with the accuracy of measurements. However, there is a version without this sensor, priced slightly cheaper. But most of all the manufacturer saved on cards. While Garmin is developing its topographic service, the Polar V650 only offers maps from OpenStreetMap. However, they are by no means bad. It's just that somewhere these maps turn out to be as accurate as possible, and in some places the service displays paths that no longer exist.

Of course, this bike computer displays not only the maps themselves, but also the routes. They can be easily imported from any other services – the product supports files in GPX and TCX formats. Of course, the bike computer can display other data as well. Interestingly, the user can customize the profiles. As a result, exactly the information that you need can be displayed on the screen. For example, it could be your heart rate, the amount of climb you have already climbed, travel time, or some useful graph.

The built-in display here is color and touch, its diagonal is 2.8 inches. And this is the case when the bike computer itself does not seem large, so such a screen is quite justified here. The menu is made in Russian, which is good news. The speed and distance traveled are determined by GPS. Unfortunately, GLONASS is not supported, so it will take some time to identify satellites. And there is also a sensor that determines the height above sea level. It is partly thanks to him that all the ascents and descents are recorded.

This device includes Bluetooth – module. It is mainly used to transfer data to a smartphone or laptop. This allows you to later get acquainted with the results of your workouts on the big screen, using a special application or the website of the bicycle computer manufacturer. The product also supports auxiliary sensors. We have already mentioned the heart rate monitor. Another equally useful sensor is the one that records the cadence.

It remains to add that the body of the device is protected from drops and splashes. This means the cycling computer is completely safe from rain. The problem will arise only if the bike and the gadget fall into the river – Polar V650 is completely unprotected from diving.

Advantages

• It is possible to purchase a version with a chest heart rate monitor;
• Built-in altimeter;
• Good work of the GPS chip;
• Russian-language interface;
• Maps from OSM are supported;
• Nice touchscreen display that is color;
• Import of routes is possible;
• Convenient setting of profiles for displaying various information;
• Synchronization with smartphones is possible;
• There is some moisture protection;
• Approximately 16 hours of battery life.

disadvantages

• High price;
• The display resolution is only 240×320 pixels.

Sigma ROX GPS 7.0

Rating: 4.7

If a cyclist is looking for a cheap bike computer, he usually pays attention to products under the Sigma brand. Most often, such devices do not have rich functionality and the ability to work with GPS satellites. But there are also exceptions to the rule. However, they can no longer be bought at any low price. For example, for Sigma ROX GPS 7.0 they ask 11-12 thousand rubles. The manufacturer claims that athletes will definitely like his creation. Despite its unpretentious appearance, the device offers 68 functions. You can also use it to follow a given route.

Alas, this model has only a monochrome display. This means that you should not rely on displaying a full-fledged map. If you have previously uploaded a route in GPX format here, it will be displayed only schematically. This means that the device will prompt when and where to turn, as well as display the remaining distance. But you will not see the map, which imposes certain restrictions on free travel, when there is a possibility of deviating from the route. For example, you can drive outside the city and see a path. It is possible that she will help to close the distance. But it is possible that somewhere half a kilometer from this place, it ends, turning into a field – you will not be able to find out this with a bicycle computer, you will have to get your smartphone. But this is the trouble with all inexpensive bike computers equipped with a GPS chip.

With such a gadget, you can enjoy every workout. The device can record the maximum and average speed, write the approximate calorie consumption, calculate the time of arrival, and also display a lot of all kinds of data regarding the current lap and navigation. Most importantly, there is a digital compass, which makes it easier to understand the route. There is also an altimeter under the body of the bike computer. This is important, because without it, the device would not detect climbs that force you to spend more calories.

However, we must admit that the calorie counter does not display the most correct numbers. This is because it does not take into account either the pedaling speed or the rider's heart rate. Alas, such sensors are simply not supported by the device. This is due to the absence of a Bluetooth – chip. Because of this, synchronization with a smartphone is also impossible. If you still want to view the results on a mobile device, then after each ride you will have to connect the Sigma ROX GPS 7.0 to your computer via a USB cable. The data will be transferred to the DATA CENTER and then sent to the developer server. Further, it will not be difficult to familiarize yourself with them in the corresponding application.

Advantages

• A large number of functions;
• Nice working GPS chip;
• Synchronization with a PC using a USB cable is possible;
• The height above sea level is correctly determined;
• A digital compass is used;
• Possible movement along the route;
• Declared water resistance to IPX7;
• Built-in thermometer.

disadvantages

• Even a bike computer like this can seem expensive;
• No wireless modules;
• The display is monochrome.

VDO M7 GPS

Rating: 4.6

Another bike computer with a GPS chip. For this representative of our rating they ask about 6-7 thousand rubles. It is clear that for that kind of money you shouldn't rely on a color display. It is monochrome here. Moreover, this screen is segmented! This means that at certain angles you will not see the most beautiful picture. It also imposes a serious limitation on the display of information. You will see the speed, the remaining or covered distance, the direction of travel along the route, the level of signal reception from the GPS chip, the battery level and some other information. But nothing more! You will not be able to switch to another profile for displaying certain data – with such a screen, this is simply impossible.

In a word, this cycling computer resembles budget creations that are sold for 2-3 thousand rubles. The main difference is the presence of a GPS chip, thanks to which there is no need to mount a special sensor on the wheel. It also allows you to download routes to the device – the product will warn you about turns in time. No card, of course, will be provided.

In fact, VDO M7 GPS is a very functional thing. The manufacturer endowed his creation with a thermometer – readings about the temperature can be useful, especially in our country, where it is very often too cold for long cycling trips. With a certain skill, you can also find out the bike mileage – both current and absolute. To the left of the speed reading, you can see an arrow that can point up or down. It indicates whether your current speed is above or below average, respectively.

Despite the modest screen, the total number of functions is twenty-two. The device is powered by a built-in battery. A USB cable is used to recharge it. With its help, data transfer to a PC is carried out. This should be done regularly, since the built-in memory is only enough for the last 100 hours of travel. However, this value may seem low only to those cyclists who prefer to spend almost the whole day on a ride. It remains to add that the body of the device has some moisture protection, and the display is backlit.

Unfortunately, this device did not receive wireless modules. In this regard, you will not be able to send information to your smartphone without any problems. But it is understandable, the manufacturer needed to save money.

Advantages

• Built-in temperature sensor;
• Determines the height above sea level;
• Implemented moisture resistance;
• You can download driving routes;
• Good work of the GPS chip;
• Compact dimensions;
• You can upload the results to your computer.

disadvantages

• No smartphone sync;
• Small monochrome display;
• Not very long battery life;
• Not the largest amount of memory.

Sigma BC 16.16 STS

Rating: 4.5

Another bike computer under the German brand Sigma in our ranking. This is a much simpler device, which is intended for beginner cycling enthusiasts. There is no longer any GPS chip. This means that in order to navigate the route, you will have to use the corresponding application on your smartphone, discharging it. It also uses a very simple display. It has a modest diagonal, and information is displayed on it using segment technology. This means that if numbers are displayed in some area of ​​the screen, then you will definitely not see anything other than them. And if an abundance of all kinds of information was displayed on the bike computer considered above, then here you have to observe only the speed and travel time (or the remaining time, if you move at the same pace).

However, to display is not to fix. This model has a built-in altimeter, which stores in memory not only your speed, but also ascents and descents. It is curious that the gadget received an NFC chip for 4000 rubles. With its help, all information about the completed trip is transferred to the smartphone, if it also has the same chip. You can view your results exclusively in the free Sigma Link app.

As mentioned above, two measurements are displayed simultaneously on the screen. But this does not mean that you will see, for example, only the current speed. Pressing the corresponding button will display the maximum and average speed, as well as the mileage for the day. The total mileage is stored in the device. The bike computer can also show the distance to the destination (if you have indicated in advance how many kilometers you are going to conquer). You can also access the current temperature – surprising that such an inexpensive bike computer received a thermometer.

The measurement of the speed and the covered distance is carried out using the STS technology. This means that you first need to install a special sensor on the wheel, and also drive in the diagonal of the wheel in the settings. And even in this case, you can definitely get a not ideal result – in theory, you need to make an amendment for the thickness of the tire.

It feels like the manufacturer has squeezed the most out of a bike computer that does not have a GPS chip. The only thing missing here is the ability to connect a cadence sensor and a heart rate monitor. However, a beginner does not need such difficulties – this device was created exclusively for those who use a bicycle for walking, and not for training.

Advantages

• Built-in NFC chip for synchronization with a smartphone;
• Low cost;
• Shows the estimated time of arrival;
• Convenient management;
• Easy data transfer to a computer;
• Implemented moisture protection according to the IPX8 standard;
• Compact dimensions.

disadvantages

• Interaction with iPhone is not possible;
• No support for cadence sensor and heart rate monitor;
• The monochrome segment display may not appeal to everyone;
• No GPS chip.

TOPEAK Panoram V10

Rating: 4.4

Another compact bike computer that made it into our rating. It has a square shape, and a two-color backing is located under its segment display. It is thanks to her that the eye immediately determines the parameter that you need to familiarize yourself with.

In Russia, this device is sold for 3-4 thousand rubles. Of course, for that kind of money, you shouldn't expect to get a device with a GPS chip. And how could he fit here if the gadget turned out to be so tiny? Instead, the system uses readings from a special sensor attached to the wheel rim. The speed is shown in the middle of the display. If you click on the corresponding button, you can find out what your maximum speed was. Another press will display the average speed for the current ride.

Below are the time readings. By default, the bike computer writes how long you are on the road. Average time display is also available. But the remaining time is not shown – the bike computer is not trained for this. This makes starting much easier. Before driving, you do not need to indicate the distance that you are going to travel – you can drive immediately after turning on the gadget.

The device displays two parameters at once above the speed. The most important of these is distance. You will always see how much distance you have already covered. By the way, there is also an odometer here. This means that all previous rides are stored in the bike computer's memory. The device adds up all the mileage, allowing you to enjoy the big figure. Or not big enough if you only use the bike once a week, and then only for trips in the park. And it is these people who will like TOPEAK Panoram V10 the most. The rest will want to get at least moisture protection, and as a maximum – a GPS chip. Yes, this device is not splash proof in any way. However, this only means that he did not receive the appropriate certificate – the manufacturer did not spend money on testing. In reality, the device is quite capable of surviving not the heaviest rain, skating under which still does not cause discomfort.

It should be noted that in some stores you can find the TOPEAK Panoram V10X bike computer. This is the same model, but wired. This means that the data from the wheel sensor is transmitted over a thin wire. Needless to say, it's less convenient? But on the other hand, such a bicycle computer costs almost half the price.

Advantages

• Easy one-button control;
• Quick acquaintance with all the main parameters;
• There is a battery indicator;
• Low cost;
• Compact dimensions.

disadvantages

• Data cannot be transferred to a computer or smartphone;
• No GPS chip;
• There is no full moisture protection;
• Not very rich functionality.

Echowell Ui20

Rating: 4.3

Another inexpensive representative of our rating. They ask for less than three thousand rubles for this cycling computer! At the same time, someone will like it even more than a couple of the models discussed above. However, the reverse situation is also true – someone will be shocked by the design. The fact is that this gadget is most like an e-book. Especially the version with a white body color. Such a comparison also arises from the display, which has a gray substrate.

A fairly large number of various parameters are displayed on a monochrome screen. Traditionally, the current speed is displayed in the largest font. It is determined by counting the time it takes for the sensor mounted on the wheel rim to complete a full circle. The display also shows the average speed – it seems more important to many cyclists. There is also information about the current temperature. This is already a real surprise! But a few years ago one could only dream of having a thermometer in a cycling computer.

Finishing the conversation about the front panel, one should note the presence of three buttons. They are used to reset data, as well as to switch between different parameters. You will also have to work with the buttons immediately after placing the bike computer on the steering wheel for the first time. The fact is that at this moment the cyclist will need to choose the diameter of the rim. You can find it out without any measurements, just look at the designations indicated on the tire. By the way, two profiles are supported here – at any time you can transfer the product to a second bike with wheels with a different diameter.

The data from the sensor is transmitted wirelessly. This makes me happy. The lack of Bluetooth and NFC is disappointing. This means that you cannot synchronize with your smartphone by transferring all the training information to it. Moreover, there is no USB connector here either. Therefore, information cannot be transferred to a computer either. If you are planning to upload data about each bike ride to any service, then you definitely need some other bike computer from a different price segment.

However, let's forget about the serious shortcomings of the Echowell Ui20. This device also has a lot of positive features. For example, it has a waterproof case. Of course, the device will definitely have problems underwater. But the product will survive the rains, we guarantee it. Also, the bike computer is not afraid of heat and low temperatures. You should not use it only if it is freezing outside, when the temperature dropped to −11 ° C or even lower. However, in such cold weather cyclists rarely dare to ride their 'iron horse'.

Unfortunately, there is no altimeter here. This means that the device is unable to detect ascents and descents. This must be why the bike computer doesn't even try to count the calories a rider burns. Instead, the device keeps track of the distance traveled. Including there is an odometer – a function through which you can find out how many kilometers you have covered during the entire time you own this bike computer. In the same way, you can find out the total time of all 'bike rides'.

Most often, such a gadget will be used to monitor the current and average speed. Well, pressing one of the buttons will allow you to find out your maximum speed, which was reached on the current trip. If a special sensor is connected to the bike computer, then displaying the cadence will be no less useful. Pressing the appropriate buttons will again display the average and maximum cadence.

This bike computer turned out to be cheap, but it is still capable of surprising with some features. In particular, many more expensive devices do not know how to determine cadence! But this device cannot be called ideal – the reasons were stated above.

Advantages

• Low cost;
• Cadence measurement possible;
• Built-in thermometer;
• Compact size and light weight;
• The case is waterproof;
• A wheel sensor transmits readings wirelessly.

disadvantages

• No GPS chip;
• Other sensors are not supported;
• Does not calculate the remaining travel time;
• The screen is monochrome.

VENTURA IV

Rating: 4.2

The cheapest bike computer in our ranking. You can buy VENTURA IV for just 1000 rubles, and even cheaper in some stores. Of course, for that kind of money, you get an exclusively wired model. This means that the wheel rotation sensor is connected to the main unit with a wire, it cannot transmit readings through the air. One serious problem immediately pops up here – the wire is not long enough. For some, this wire will be enough, but some cyclists will have to puzzle over how to build it.

This cycling computer has 14 functions. Its body is made of black painted plastic. The display is monochrome. Moreover, it is segmented – four lines consist almost only of numbers. The largest font has a speed indicator – it is slightly bolder than the rest. If you press the corresponding button, you can find out the maximum (MAS) and average (AVS) speed. You must have already understood the main difficulty that awaits the buyer of this cycling computer. You will have to learn what these or those designations mean, because they are exclusively English-speaking. On the net you can even find a corresponding sign with their description.

Of course, this bike computer allows you to find out how far you have already covered. Alas, this device does not know how to predict how much more time you will spend on getting to the finish line. It does not support entering the distance you want to travel at all. This is the trouble with all cheap bike computers. If you regularly travel long distances, it is better to look for a model with a GPS chip and the ability to upload your own routes.

Of course, there is an odometer function here. It allows you to see the total mileage, measured in kilometers. But here, too, one unpleasant surprise awaits you. The segment display is capable of displaying only 9999 km, no more. However, it is possible to conquer such a distance when traveling around the city only in ten to twenty years. And for country trips, this device, we repeat, is not suitable.

Of course, this bike computer can be used to record the time in which you covered a particular distance. In fact, this turns the device into a regular stopwatch. There is also a calorie burner counter. But you should not believe in his testimony, because the product does not know about the ascents and descents, just as it does not suspect about your weight.

A removable battery powers this device. Its full charge is quite enough to go for a drive in the city, at least somewhere in nature. Unfortunately, it was not possible to find out the exact duration of battery life – it is not indicated either in the instructions or in the reviews. But the latter speaks of poor display readability. Alas, this is the main problem of all segment screens installed in the cheapest bike computers.

Advantages

• Quick installation, easy to remove;
• Minimum price tag;
• Complete with instructions in Russian;
• The case has some moisture protection.

disadvantages

• Bad display
• The measurements are not very accurate;
• There is no GPS chip;
• The wheel rotation sensor is wired;
• Some people complain about the length of the wire;
• The functionality seems rather limited;
• Additional sensors cannot be connected;
• It is not possible to output information to another device.

Conclusion

This is a list of the best bike computers that can be found in their respective stores right now. Please note that not everyone needs a top-end gadget that can determine speed and distance using GPS navigation. Such models are needed only for those who regularly travel outside the city, and also travel by bike. If you only ride near your place of residence, then you will be quite satisfied with the budget model, which calculates using a sensor located on the rim of the wheel.

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Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.