Cycling is not only a great way to get your daily exercise, but, because of the distances you can cover, it’s also a really nice way to get out of your immediate area.
- Best fitness trackers: Top activity bands to buy today
If you’re getting more into your cycling, though, you might be thinking about how to take your rides to the next level, and start tracking yourself more accurately. This can help not just in monitoring and ramping up your fitness, but also just in understanding more about your performance too.
We’ve gathered together some of the very best bike computers for you to browse. Whether you want an entry-level or a more advanced option, we’ve tried and tested plenty of picks from the likes of Garmin, Wahoo and more. Let’s dive in.
Best cycling computers available to buy today
For
- Superb route clarity Amazing tracking Easy to use
Against
- Not cheap
Garmin makes some of our best-loved fitness trackers, with premium designs that cater to those with particular interests, whether they’re mountaineering or diving, and it’s also a specialist in cycling trackers.
Its Edge series has loads of bike computers to choose from, ranging from entry-level to really in-depth, and we think the Edge 530 represents a great middle-ground for most people.
While it’s far from cheap, its feature-set is hugely impressive. It’ll navigate you through your route turn-by-turn, tracking all sorts of metrics, from pace and cadence to calories, time, temperature and loads more.
It’s easy to use, and Bluetooth makes it a doddle to connect, as well. This is like having a cycling trainer on your handlebars.
Nice and simple Easy to attach Has the key metrics
Not great for navigation Won’t be ideal for true enthusiasts
If you don’t want to break the bank, and also don’t mind losing some features from the top-end models, Cateye’s got a great, dead simple bike computer with one of the cleanest designs on the market.
It’s nice and simple, but still tracks distance, speed, elevation, pace indicator and time, which is a great set of metrics for those starting out, and it’s all really intuitive to use and check while you’re riding. If you’re looking for a simple intro to the cycling computer world, this could be a superb first option.
Good screen Loads of tracking Solid value
Takes some getting used to
Wahoo’s another big name in the fitness tracking world, with heart rate straps some of its special items. Its bike computers are great too, though, and the Elemnt Bolt is one of its finest - we prefer it on value terms to the more feature-packed Roam.
This unit has a clear and easy to use screen, and tracks countless metrics while offering navigation and has thousands of pre-baked routes that it can call upon to help you find a great ride quickly. With ANT+, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi all on board, you’ll also find it easy to upload your data.
Nice and compact Great tracking Good and simple
Basic to use
Garmin’s Edge range is extensive enough that it can offer competition when it comes to budget options, and its Edge 25 is a great entry in that category.
It’s dead simple to set up and really simple to use, too, with a few metrics displayed at a glance. While it won’t win you over with a colour touch screen, it’ll track what you’re likely to want.
Connectivity is still solid, with Bluetooth onboard, and you can also hook it up to a heart rate monitor, as so many users are likely to want to. If you don’t want to splash for the Edge 520 Plus but still want a Garmin, this could be the answer for you.
For something a little different, you might want to check out Beeline’s offering, which strips out a lot of the stats to make a clean and freeing travel experience by bike.
The Velo is a simple puck that you can easily wrap around your handlebars. Using the companion app’s map, you name your destination and set off. The puck’s display simply points by default, as the crow flies, to your desired end-point. That’s it - the finer points of navigation are up to you, letting you find new routes and places while keeping track of your overall process.
If that’s too barebones for you, though, you can also get turn-by-turn navigation if preferred, making it a great pick for both freedom and specificity.
Great battery life Solid app Good navigation
No route storage on-board
We’re not convinced about the name of Lezyne’s Mega C, but it’s got performance in spades where it counts. Its real speciality is a 32-hour battery life that should see you through even the most taxing of marathon rides.
It’s got a really solid companion app, too, making it easy to integrate with whatever platform you’re tracking yourself on. Navigation is also available via routes from your phone, though it’s important to point out that it doesn’t store any of its own.
Beeline Velo 2
Beeline’s bike computer is a breath of fresh air.
View offer on Beeline.com
Super dinky Great routing Clear directions
Stats aren’t comprehensive Isn’t for super-enthusiasts
If you’re looking for a bike computer that errs more on the side of accessibility, rather than packing in every stat under the sun, Beeline’s second Velo generation is an excellent choice.
It has a great little display that’s perfect for following routes you’re less familiar with, while tracking your distance and speed using help from your tethered phone. It works perfectly in cities and is therefore a great pick for urban cyclists and commuters.
