Bike Computers
When shopping for a bike computer, the amount of functions available can be bewildering. Prices vary from $20 for a basic computer to well over a month's rent for the latest in power measuring and heart rate monitoring technology. While power meters and heart rate monitors can be very useful tools to competitive cyclists with strict training regimen, many cyclists are content with a reliable computer that keeps track of speed, time and distance. The following is a quick overview of the computers available at BikeTiresDirect. We carry a variety of computers to suit the needs of every cyclist.
Powermeters
Over the past several years, training based on power output has become the standard for competitive cyclists. Measuring power output in relation to heart rate is the only surefire way to track fitness improvements. Because powermeters can be very difficult to install, set up and calibrate, we carry the Velocomp iBike Pro Power Meter. It requires no attachment to cranks or hubs and easily syncs with your personal computer for at home analysis.
The iBike Pro is easy to set up, quite accurate and also measures hill slope, wind speed, altitude and bike speed, among many other features.
GPS
Garmin is a leader in navigation systems for planes, cars and bikes. Their computers bring GPS navigation and a host of other features to your handlebars. 
The 305 is your all-in-one bike computer, altimeter and also provides GPS based tracking after linking with your home computer, it also features a customizable interface and race simulation as well as optional heart rate and cadence measurement. The 705 offers real time, full color mapping of your ride, as well as traditional bike computer features and cadence and heart rate options.
Garmin GPS units are a must-have for the serious touring or randonneur rider. Explore the most remote back roads without having to carry cumbersome maps or guess if that beautiful winding road will dead end, loop around or will take you 30 miles in the wrong direction. After the ride you can review your route, check your pace and learn how to make your next trip even more epic!
Computers
While power meters are becoming standard issue for many pro bikes, when it comes to the really big races, a simple bike computer gives the world's strongest riders all the information they need. The Cat Eye Strada Wireless Cyclecomputer RD300W delivers speed, distance, averages, odometer and ride time and can be switched easily between bikes. It has memory for two separate wheel sizes so it can even be switched between your road and mountain bike. Its small, light and has no wires. The simplicity of the Strada makes it the most popular computer around the BikeTiresDirect warehouse.
Computers can do much more than just keep track of distances and times. The Sigma BC1706HR DTS Wireless Cyclocomputer provides a heart rate monitor (measuring current, average and maximum heart rate) along with the usual computer functions.
While a lightweight computer that offers dozens of features may be enticing, it is important to note that cramming multiple features into a tiny computer can create a cumbersome user interface. When shopping for a computer, make sure the features you need are the easiest to access. For riders who plan on consistently measuring heart rate or cadence, an all-in-one setup can make life very simple. For those who occasionally get the heart rate monitor out for some interval practice, it might be better to use separate computers. It can be frustrating to have to click through a litany of unused functions just to figure out how fast you've been riding.
Using a Computer on a Trainer
Most bike computers measure the speed based on the front wheel. To measure your riding on a trainer, you need one that calculates speed based on the rear wheel. Here's a quick overview of computers by the wheel based on which they measure. Garmin and iBike Pro computers both rely on actual motion rather than wheel speed, they can only be used on the road.
- Rear wheel sensor mount:
- Cat Eye Double Wireless Cyclocomputer - Speed and cadence from a single, rear mounted sensor.
- Cat Eye Strada Cadence Cyclecomputer - Wired cadence and speed at rear wheel.
- Sigma BC 1606L Wireless Cyclecomputer
- Sigma BC 1606L DTS Wireless Speed/Cadence Cyclecomputer - Both Sigma computers have a speed sensor with a 90cm range. It may be necessary to mount the computer on the stem on very large frames.
- Cat Eye Strada CC-RD100 Cyclecomputer - www.cateye.com
- Sigma BC 1106 Cyclecomputer
- Sigma 1606L Cyclecomputer - www.sigmasport.com
- Cat Eye Strada Wireless Cyclecomputer RD300W
- Contact manufacturer for rear wheel conversion kit:
- Front wheel mount only:
As always, the experienced staff at BikeTiresDirect is ready to help you find the computer that best suits your needs. Contact us at sales@biketiresdirect.com or with any questions regarding computer selection.
