Iron horse bike computer
You should ensure that your unit is multi bike ready. The mount should stay on the handlebar, so you will need multiple mounts. When using the same device for multiple bikes, you need to have a few extra pieces. There are also bike computers on the market designed for multiple bikes. However, you can find options for best cycling computers that allow you to use multiple bikes.Īny GPS unit will quickly move to another handlebar. Different terrains and different needs require different equipment. Most non-casual riders have more than one bike.
IRON HORSE BIKE COMPUTER SKIN
Heart rate monitors, skin temperature monitors and even electric bikes. There are also other ANT+ profiles for other devices that can be used with your head unit. You should ensure your device and sensors can support the required ANT+ profile for your particular application. Speed only and Cadence only are still new ANT+ profiles and may or may not be supported by your device. Without fail, if a device is ANT+ capable it supports this profile. The most common ANT+ profile is speed/cadence combo sensor. Your sensors will fit one of three ANT+ profiles and be able to send data to the head unit using the ANT+ technology. Having an ANT+ enabled bike computer means no wires. ANT+ĪNT+ is a wireless technology that allows devices to talk to each other. The units are heavier, though, and for competitive riders may not be the best option. That alone could save you money by not having to purchase multiple bike computers. This means they can be transferred between bikes effectively. Mounting the GPS is easier than standard mounts as there are no wires. The downside to bike GPS cycling computers is that they require a strong signal which can be affected by weather, location and availability. Using a satellite signal to transmit your ride data is very accurate and efficient. You can transfer your data to a computer, for example. GPS features give you a lot more data capabilities than standard types. However, you will need a special mount for the phone and without the proper case, there will be less weather resistance and greater risk of damage in an accident. When using your smartphone as a head unit, you have certain advantages such as a larger display and easy to read mapping capabilities. This is a great feature if you want to take your progress with you even when you aren’t on a bike. While smartphone pairing is still less accurate, you can use a smartphone, or smart watch instead of a head unit. SmartPhone PairingĪ lot of the best bike computers will offer the advantage of paring with your smartphone. Having a head unit short out because of water damage will not only cost you money, but it won’t be able to record your data for that ride. You should ensure that it is rated for water resistance and take the needed precautions when riding in the rain or after a rain shower.Ĭhecking your head unit for cracks or damage should be a part of your pre-ride routine. While your sensors are generally going to be weatherproof (especially the magnetic sensors), the head unit may only be water resistant. Having a bike computer that is water resistant is an important feature to look for. Unfortunately, we can’t always ride in perfect weather conditions. The best bike computer for you depends on the type of rider you are (causal, enthusiast or competitive) as well as the type of bike you ride ( road, mountain, hybrid, etc.). There are two types of data transmission from the sensors to the head unit: wire and wireless. One downside to a bike GPS cycling computer is that the sensor runs on rechargeable batteries that will need to be regularly maintained. While the GPS sensors can easily be moved between bicycles, they are more expensive. This data is then sent to the head unit by the transmission to be displayed on the screen for the rider. GPS sensors use a GPS enabled device to monitor data through GPS signals. The accuracy can be counted on in any condition. A sensor is then mounted on the frame or front fork of the bike and reads every time the magnet passes the sensor.īecause the magnetic field is strong, these sensors are immune to dirt, dust, water or mud. A magnet is mounted to the spoke of a wheel or the crankarm. Magnetic sensors are generally used for cadence and speed. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages. There are two types of sensors: magnetic and GPS.