A bike computer is a device that cyclists mount on a bicycle to calculate speed and distance. Furthermore, bike computers display a lot of information; similar to that of a car’s dashboard instruments. A bike computer could also be referred to as a cyclometer or a bicycle speedometer. A bike computer is a very crucial device to cyclists since it helps them track their speed, distance, and many more.
There are different categories of bike computers, and most of them have common features. Such features include; distance, maximum speed, average speed and have a clock Advanced bike computers; however, have more advanced features such as heart rate monitor, calorie counter, and much more. This article will give you insights on bike computers, starting with the different categories, features, and tricks of using them.
Bike mileage distance tracker
This refers to a device that helps to determine the speed and distance covered while cycling. Devices such as odometers and a bike computer can be used to determine this. Odometer usually determines the number of miles a bicycle or a vehicle covers.
Categories of bike computers
Wired bike computers
These are bike computers that require users to use a wire to connect them to the wheel sensor. They are affordable and usually display distance covered and the speed.
Advantages of wired bike computers
They are lighter than wired computers, simpler to use and a cheaper option.
Disadvantages of wired bike computers
You cannot use them in multiple bikes, meaning you cannot swap them. Swapping them between bikes would cause the wire to rip out.
Wireless bike computers
Wireless bike computer also serves the same functions as the wired computers, meaning that they can also display speed, distance, and other features. However, the difference between wired and wireless bike computers lies in the structure. Wireless computers do not need users to connect a wire to the wheel sensor for them to function.
How does a wireless computer function?
Signals are generated whenever a wheel-mounted magnet passes sensors to the fork. The bike computer, in turn, determines speed and distance by measuring the time between the signals. Advantages of wireless bike computers
You don’t need wires to install them thus have a clean look compared to wired computers. They are also easy to install.
Cadence bike computer
Cadence, also known as pedaling rate refers to the rate at which a user turns the bicycle pedals. Cadence bike computers are therefore bike computers that have a cadence sensor to measure revolutions made per minute. Top cyclists use them to help them improve their performance and also have an excellent pedaling technique. Though cadence differs from one cyclist to another, the ideal one ranges between 60-90 RPM.
Parts of bike computers
The head; It displays various features depending on the type of bike computer. You find that some bike computers will display more advanced features such as the heart rate and much more. However, the common features that all bike computers display on their heads include; the maximum speed, average speed, current speed, and the distance.
Wheel sensor; this is mounted on the bicycle’s fork or the frame’s rear. It detects signals made by the magnet mounted on the wheel.
Cadence sensor; determines the number of revolutions made per minute. A magnet is usually attached to a crank arm and a sensor to the bicycle frame to ensure that the cadence sensor functions appropriately.
Transmission wires; for data transmission, some bike computers use wires while others do not require wires for data transmission. The backlight; It makes the screen readable.
What tricks should you be aware of when using bike computers?
-Mount your magnet far from the hub
When using one-magnet bike computers, there are several points on the wheel that you can choose to mount your magnet. It is, however, advisable to mount your magnet closer to the hub. Attaching the magnet very far, cause the bike computer to give you unreliable readings when cycling at high speed. Additionally, mounting it closer to the hub ensures that it passes slowly through the sensor and the sensor switch has adequate time to give signals.
-Always ensure that the distance between the sensor and the magnet ranges between 1-4 mm
This distance you choose will depend on the type of cyclometer you are using. It is also good to ensure you read the instructions on the manual to ensure that you use the correct distance.
-Always test your bike computers after mounting the sensor and before securing your wires
Testing your bike computers will allow you to identify and make all necessary sensor and magnet adjustment before proceeding to secure your wires.
-Put your bike in an upside down position while securing the wires
This makes the task easier and also saves you time.
-When doing wire routing in front-mount bike computers, do not attach your wires to the frame’s head tube
Doing this will force you to leave two slack loops at the position where the wire enters and leaving out the head tube. To avoid such a situation, always ensure that your wires follow the cable at the front brake.
A bike computer is a must-have electronic device for every cyclist. It helps cyclists keep track of their speed, distance, heart rate, and much more. There are various types and categories of bike computers available today, but they differ in their features and the information they can display on their heads. While using bike computers, it is crucial for all cyclists to be aware of some of the tricks they can incorporate to make use of bike computers easy and exciting.
