How to choose a bike computer? Comparison of cycling computers Sigma Sport, BRI, VDO, Assize, Cateye. Correct setting of the bike computer

What is a cycling computer? This is a small device that is mounted on the handlebar in order to measure the speed, mileage of the bicycle, and also display the parameters of the current time, pressure, etc. In its functions, this device resembles a car panel.

History

The first speedometer for a bicycle was created back in 1895. The inventor of this device was Kurtis Hussein Veder. In those days, the device was a very primitive mechanical speedometer, which was attached to the wheel with a special paw. This allowed to give information about the number of rotations and miles, which was reflected on the analog odometer by means of a cable.

The bike speedometer has become very popular. Subsequently, this model was significantly improved.

Select a device

Which bike computer is best to buy? To do this, you need to determine the functions that, in your opinion, should be equipped with this device. Also, the choice of a cycling computer depends on the amount of money that you are willing to spend on this purchase.

Wired or wireless device? What's better?

In the event that before you is the question of how to choose a bike computer, it is necessary to decide which device is needed: wired or wireless. Differences in these models lie in the presence or absence of a wire that is located between the bike computer and the sensor on the wheel. In the second variant, the information from the sensor is transmitted by means of a radio signal.

How to choose a bike computer? Which option should I prefer? To do this, you need to weigh all the pros and cons, having studied the pros and cons of each device.

It is worth bearing in mind that the price of a wired bike computer is lower than that of a device that feeds information using a radio signal. At the same time, there is no battery on the sensor. One of the reasons for the breakdown of such a product may be mechanical damage to the wire.

As for the second option, a wireless computer can always be hidden in a bag or pocket. At the same time, he will continue to give information about the movement. A positive feature is the absence of a wire between the wheel and the sensor. However, the cost of such a device is slightly higher than the first version, besides, its work becomes incorrect in the case of strong radio interference. In addition, the sensor requires an element of power supply.

Thus, a wireless computer will be the best choice if you have to travel in difficult conditions. The device will be in your pocket, and the measurements will, nevertheless, continue. This eliminates the risk of damage to the wire. In addition, some buyers take care of the appearance of their bike. They believe that the wire spoils it. But this is a matter of personal taste.

Possible Functions

How to choose a bike computer so that it meets all the necessary requirements? First of all, you will need to familiarize yourself with its functions.

The simplest models of cyclo-computers display the maximum and average speed, the frequency with which the wheel rotates, the total mileage, the current time, the distance of the trip, and the time during which the cyclist is on the road. There are more advanced options. They are equipped with an altimeter, inclinometer, GPS-navigator, stopwatch and a reverse timer. Some models on the display screen reflect the pulse and consumption of the kilocalorie of a bicyclist, the humidity and its temperature, altitude, etc.

However, it is worth remembering that the main function of the cycling computer is to measure the performance when driving. Everything else is considered secondary.

When deciding how to choose a bike computer, you should pay attention to the clarity of the display of the model you are interested in. With good quality of the device, it is possible to follow the indications without detaching attention from the road for a long time. The big size of the display will be a plus.

Cost parameters

The price of a bike computer is directly dependent on the functions that the device is endowed with. That is why it is necessary to decide on the need for each information provided by the device. Most bicyclists have enough standard functions. Think about whether to overpay for secondary applications.

Practice shows that, from all models, consumers prefer those that accurately display the information received, are easy to install and manage. It is important that there is a shockproof and waterproof housing, as well as a backlight for the dark time of the day.

Instrument Setup

The device you select must be mounted on a bicycle. After this, the cycling computer is tuned. Not every buyer knows about this.

What actions need to be taken to set up the bike computer? The instruction for its operation is simple and accessible, it will tell you which button you need to press.

First of all, you need to enter the length of the wheel circumference into the computer. In some models, this function is simplified. It is carried out according to the nominal diameter. However, this method is inaccurate. In the instructions of any decent model, you can find a table that contains not only the diameter, but also the width, as well as the height of the tires. However, there are some nuances in this matter. The width of tires from different manufacturers is considered differently. This fact can affect the accuracy of the readings of the speedometer.

Thus, setting the bike computer involves fixing an inch (circle) of the bicycle wheel and selecting the measure of the distance traveled.

VDO cycling machines

Back in the forties of the last century, many leaders of the German automotive industry sought to equip their cars with only the best speedometers. At the same time, they gave preference to VDO devices. These devices guaranteed the accuracy of measurements, ergonomics and reliability.

The VDO cycling computer was developed in the nineties of the last century. This device is a miniature model with measuring instruments. The VDO cycling computer displays not only the speed parameters of a bicycle, but also the time spent on the road. The functions of this device allow you to record real time and take into account the distance traveled.

The company VDO was released a whole series of bicycle computers. Their list includes models that have five, eight, ten and fifteen different functions. At the same time, all the devices reflected the wishes of numerous cyclists.

VDO cycling computers have a large display on which bright figures are clearly read. At the same time they are equipped with a convenient table made of heavy-duty plastic, a reliable connecting wire or sensitive wireless sensors. The housings of these devices are water resistant. They are conveniently located control buttons. A distinctive feature of the computers of this company is the reflector on the body. It was he who became the key to successful competition with other producers of similar products.

SigmaSport cycling computers

Many cyclists tend to keep statistics of their achievements and successes. This allows them to constantly improve their training. The SigmaSport cycling computer has been helping this for more than twenty years. The German company creates perfect devices, constantly adding new functions to them. Currently, these bike computers are convenient and compact polyfunctional devices. In this case, different models have not only basic functions. There are devices with advanced capabilities.

The best bike computer for yourself can pick up every buyer. Sigma's models are easy to handle and have an affordable price.

Beginners, as a rule, acquire devices that have ten to twelve functions. They are as easy to manage and have a low price. Professionals prefer more sophisticated devices.

BRJ cycling computer

Devices that provide information about the parameters of movement, set on their bikes, not only professionals. Such instruments serve as reliable assistants and novice athletes.

BRJ cycling computers are popular with consumers. Many models are equipped with a large display displaying special reminders on the need for maintenance or lubrication of the vehicle. In addition, there are functions of real time, current and maximum speed, etc.

Velocomputer Assize

This multifunctional device will be a worthy choice for your bike. His purchase is a choice in favor of practicality and comfort. The Assize velocomputers are equipped with an excellent mount that prevents the sensor from disconnecting during the trip. Many models have small, but convenient dimensions. You can always choose devices with additional features.

Cateye Cycle Computer

A good choice for any bicyclist will be a device that combines multifunctionality and ease of use. Such a device can become one of the models of the Cateye cycle computer. Together with the readings about the movement, he will allow you to follow the heart rate, power and pace. This will allow you to quickly adjust the direction of your workout.

The backlighting, which is equipped with the device, can be programmed to automatically turn on and off depending on the driving schedule. The body of the cycling computer is waterproof. Models that do not have external sensors can easily be transferred from a bicycle to a bicycle.