Cycling Computer Vs Smartphone: Which Should You Choose? | Cycling Weekly

We pitch a cycling computer against a mobile phone to find out which is better for your type of riding. | Subscribe to Cycling Weekly here: kzbin.info...
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[@futurez12]

When you realise that a GPS cycling computer costs more than your bike. 😬

[@GoustiFruit]

And now your bike costs more than your motorbike. 😱

[@DrKjoergoe]

"[smartphones] can be one of the most expensive objects that we buy" You do realize that you are talking to roadies?

[@matthewjacobson252]

I thought the same thing....I'm not even at the top even of road cycling and I have invested 2k for my bike and all accessories.....

[@DrKjoergoe]

@Asa Harley Fucked up business model. Fuck off

[@LR6092]

I haven't even bought my bike yet and I just spent a little over 1k for all my riding kit head to toe. Just waiting on the bike now. That'll be another 3k. I can't wait to get my fitness to a whole other level!

[@PotBanginEejit]

I've set my wife's roadie up with a Quadlock mount plus a top bar bag to hold a powerbank/powerbanks for long/really long rides. The Quadlock system is excellent - the mount is tiny profile and solid, and the phone case is so low-profile that she just keeps it on the phone all the time for added protection. I've cable-tied a charging cable discretely down the stem and into the bag for when she's on longer rides. She can have her lovely big screen on full brightness for hours if she needs. The whole thing looks tight. She just doesn't use her Garmin any more.

[@Merseysiderful]

I have a Cateye Solar CC-2000 cycling computer I bought new in 1986 for £48. It still works in 2020.

[@doomsday2206]

U guys had cycling computers in 1986 😮

[@Rakusan2]

The biggest battery draw on a smartphone is the screen which can be confirmed by using a GPS-less smart watch for navigating. When it comes to cycling computers, most tend to use a transflective lcd or a similar low power screen.

[@singingitman]

I have an issue over the way you reference GPS, you were stating, “GPS Galileo “ and “GPS glonass”. GPS are the American satellites Galileo is the European Glonass is the Russian. Where the cycle computer says “GPS + Glonass” what it means is that it is using the two satellite systems simultaneously to improve accuracy. The side effect is that it uses more battery.

[@zyghom]

true GPS in this context however was meant something else but you are completely right ;-)

[@WasinIntasarn]

He also misunderstood that mobile phone use just the GPS. actually all current phones are alway incorporate multiple systems include the Chinese Baidu.

[@palmface42]

Sounds like spreading misinformation to push cycle computers

[@DominikLoeffler1]

You're right, the general term is GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System), not GPS which is the US specific system.

[@Guitarherodan1988]

I bet you're fun at parties

[@connieback7577]

I use a small computer that shows me the basics while I’m riding-speed, distance, time, etc. I use apps on my smartphone for the other data. There is very little drain on the phone battery because the apps on the phone are active but off screen and the screen stays black and can be securely tucked into a warm, waterproof pocket. My Wahoo SC Blue even talks directly to my phone. I ride 2-3 hours and rarely / never?finish with my battery under 85% charged. I’m also listening to music through my Bluetooth Aftershokz.

[@futurez12]

Right, but some people wanna see their heartbeat/power/elevation etc live, not to mention GPS maps, as they're cycling. If not, then your solution is definitely best.

[@chetanshah100]

I use a old Iphone 5c & Iphone 6 as a computer with the Wahoo fitness app and bluetooth HRM & cadence sensors. It gives me all the stats of a high end computer, a awesoem display - specially in early morning rides when my co-riders can hardly see their comp screens. I use this setup for 2-3 hour rides and it does a fab job. upload rides directly to strava. I dont even insert a SIM in these old phones for this purpose. I would highly recommend riders to try using a old phone with a smaller screen as a bike comp as they are lighter.

[@nekonara]

Chetan Shah so i need a cadence censor fitted onto the spoke?

[@chetanshah100]

@@nekonara yeah. If u want that functionality.

[@nekonara]

@@chetanshah100 so cadence sensor (any brand) will pair with phone via bluetooth. and i HAVE to use Wahoo apps or any apps will do?

[@chetanshah100]

@@nekonara most cadence and hrm with Bluetooth connectivity works with phone, wahoo fitness app perfectly.

[@Headhunterzify]

Now, I know. I have the 5s. Would try. Thank you for sharing!

[@vornamenachname7618]

I just bought an used Android phone for 20€, installed cyclemeter on it and now I have the same functionality as a cycling computer. I mounted the phone on a normal Garmin mount in front of the handlebar. For battery life I mounted a small powerbank underneath the phone. Works fine and cost me about 30€. If a wahoo would cost about 100€, I would buy a wahoo but the cycling computers are way too expensive.

[@qdcomm]

how are you attaching the back of the phone with the mount adapter? is there any specific part available for it ?

[@maxithesnowman]

Magic Frame Films try Quad Lock or SP-Connect bike mount

[@conan_der_barbar]

they're soo expensive though. cost more than a lot of phones and watches for a very limited amount of features and use cases

[@SuburbaniteUrbanite]

The majority of phones cost $300 plus. Cycling computers start at $200. Plus smartphones cost nearly as much as their original cost to repair.

[@carbonsuicidemtb1583]

I use the cycle streets app, you can download the maps for you area for free, this means out on the bike you are not using data, only the phones internal GPS, this saves battery, data costs and means that if you do lose cell mast connection, it still works

[@ChaosDamianClareon]

I don't need either of these. My Samsung Gear S3 Frontier Smart Watch wrecks both using Smart Phones and Cycling Computers. As long as my watch is on me, it will automatically detect my ride, track my speed, distance, heart rate, energy expenditure, time, and location using GPS. So once my ride is done or if I need to make a pit stop, it knows to pause. In addition to all of that, it lets me listen to music without needing headphones. All of that with a 2 day battery life. Never in my life will I consider using a cycling computer as the watch I have will do all of that and even verbally update me in real time so I dont need to take my eyes off the road. That and cycling computers add unnecessary weight to the bike, which I know most cyclists loathe the idea of. I would strongly encourage anyone interested in picking up a cycling computer to also look into a smart watch as well. The added functionality and battery life greatly outclasses even the best cycling computer by a long shot.

[@dpustovalov]

Ditched my old Garmin couple years ago after using it for 7 years. Use a a Cyclemeter app on my phone now and super happy. The app costs $10 a year, allows to connect external sensors and has more functions than Garmin. The downside is a battery life but it is not an issue on most of my rides, I take a backup battery on longer rides and recharge it. Have no plans to buy a dedicated cycling computer any time soon.

[@dpustovalov]

Brainjock yes, you can connect it to Strava and MyFitnessPal, so every ride will appear there. Wahoo TICKR heart rate monitor works great with the app and they have a recommended list of external devices as well. In addition, I connect a SRAM (Quarq) power meter.

[@sebsoud]

Very important also: gps generally can be seen much better in sunlight. A smartphone screen also has to be activated to be read... which is not the case on gps screens, technology is different.

[@mileswithdevendra2950]

Just buy a 100$ smart phone, only for map and use offline maps.

[@ArunPlaysPiano]

@This World Shall Know Pain! Hi, I also experience this. Do you have any experience of using GPS Computers in the woods and knowing whether it records your location more accurately than a smartphone? I would be persuaded to buy a Comp if it did record more accurate GPS in forest locations, but I'm not sure it will?

[@adrianwiltshire9563]

That same money can go into a cycling computer. And you don’t need to pay monthly for phone service. Not a good solution at all.

[@mileswithdevendra2950]

I am road bike guy, so far no issues for me.

[@djmadmax007]

If you use phone app, its has some pros.. 1) Don't need to carry 2 expensive devices. 2) In emergency situations you can use phone to make a call. 3) If you get lost in unknown place, u can be traced if ur phone connected to nearest/recent tower. 4) You can take selfie or screenshot and upload it to social media.

[@davidkosi7662]

@@adrianwiltshire9563 GPS is free

[@REMAX_CCA]

I always wanted to know the pros and cons of each. Thanks for this vid!

[@GyverChang]

I use a Fitbit Ionic that has GPS and HR, it syncs perfectly with Strava. Seems like a perfect solution as it doesn't need any mount and doesn't risk having the battery of the phone running out.

[@LukeNixsound]

Good video, cheers. I would like a cycle computer, but would only consider buying one for navigation. I am not interested in stats and only want a screen with an arrow to follow on a detailed screen like google maps for when I tour. I don't see any reviews on cycle computers where navigation (aside from the obvious benefits of battery life and ruggedness) is compared to smartphones and that is the area I'm most keen to see if it's justified buying a dedicated cycle computer.

[@grahamriley8124]

For about 20 quid a year I have used the OS App. Cannot beat it for navigation and creating routes. It saves an offline map for you with the route too and it does basic tracking as you ride with an elevation profile too. I love it.

[@Alanicus1]

I use a Garmin watch for the ride stats etc and a Google Pixel 6 on a QuadLock mount on the stem, which is very neat and tidy and secure, so the phone is unlikely to be damaged in a crash. I also have OS maps on the phone, which is great for the type of riding I do, which includes lengthy off road sections. To improve battery life turn off WiFi. I also carry a small powerbank in my top tube bag to top up the battery on longer rides.

[@charlied1675]

I carry my phone for safety but don't use it unless I'm off track. I do a lot of riding in the city and I also get up in the mountains on single track, both require good mapping/routing. Using my phone for that has always had me out of power in a few hours, so not practical. Plus, as the video indicates, if you're out in the rain, it is easy to ruin your phone if you're not careful. So, for me, a GPS bike computer is the winner, hands down. Now, if only they would work as reliably as my phone... I'm looking at you Wahoo and Garmin!

[@bntejn]

I use iPhoneXR + Quad Lock + Cyclemeter. Sleek, aero, all sensors paired + strava. Perfect combination for me so far. The only downside is the batter; it’s good for about 4 hours. For a longer ride, i need to carry a battery pack and charge while having lunch

[@eljonsathwe8874]

Great video. Myself, cannot find any good video how navigation works in practice on computers like Garmin. I do cycle freely, wherever I see ingesting pub or lovely little streets, wherever I think is ok. I wish to see the map on the go., to always orientate myself in general. Without preplanned route .

[@RomanoCortesJorge]

The latest cycling computer by Hammerhead, the Karoo 2, is basically an Android mobile phone stripped down to function only as a cycling computer. Having all the capability and flexibility of smart phone makes the Karoo 2 arguably the best cycling computer currently available. But this also begs the question: Why not just use an actual smart phone as a cycling computer? Why not just attach a smart phone on your handlebar, download a sports app that displays performance metrics and navigation, and pair it with your power meter and heart rate monitor? The premium Garmin Edge 1030 Plus is as large as a mobile phone and costs just as much. So you can argue, why not just use a smart phone instead? The modern smart phone can work not only as a cycling computer but also as an emergency communication device, camera, currency converter and language translator when abroad, as well as wallet with smart pay. The latest smart phones are also waterproof and can be incased in shockproof casings to further improve durability. But it's precisely because the smart phone is also their emergency communication device, camera, etcetera--all sharing just one battery and the same memory capacity--that cyclists are hesitant to use their smart phones as cycling computers. Use your smart phone as a cycling computer for both fitness metrics and navigation while riding and use the same phone to take pictures and calling people during stops and the smart phone's battery won't last very long. (Also, crashing with your smart phone mounted on your handlebars may mean you've also destroyed the same device you need to call for help.) Perhaps the solution is to get a separate smart phone and use it as a cycling computer, since premium cycling computers are getting to be as expensive as smart phones anyway. I feel that if smartphone batteries lasted several times longer and were made even more durable, they would make cycling computers obsolete.

[@marekkozub8957]

I'm using regular, non GPS cycling computer for speed, distance, altitude and gradient and smart watch for other functions.

[@EstevanValladares]

I do have a Cateye computer and a "spare" Asus Zenphone, because I bought a new one and kept the old to be mostly for using in my bicycle. Not to be cocky, but that old Zenphone I use with gps and hud, and I can use it all day long and only recharge it while I sleep. As it is a "spare phone", my main phone is there in my bag if I need a phone. On the size of precision, I had my computer installed and my phone side by side, while I had testing done to see precision of the computer. The computer responded precisely by the test with trainer that give precise speed. The phone outdoors give the same speed reading the computer does. Problem is while in tunnels, at night and in underground, the phone hud gives wrong or delayed reading. I dont have to choose, but if I did, the computer is not better in any way than the smartphone. I would rather use only the computer if I had only one phone and I had to use it as a phone so I would save battery. That would be the only reason.

[@Downytr]

What is the bracket you use?

[@jeremywj]

If you are a serious rider, I think hands down you get a garmin or a wahoo. Using your phone can easily take your battery from 100% to dead in 1-2 hours. To me, my phone is my emergency lifeline. I don't want to be killing its battery. My Wahoo can last 12 hours WITH the back light on at all times. I'd imagine if I turned the back light off during the day it would last closer to 15-20 hours. Finally, and maybe the most important, a cycling computer is dedicated to just that, cycling. You are far less likely to have issues with lost rides, bad data, the app crashing, etc. Further, with your phone you are more likely to have other apps interrupt or even mess up your ride tracking. If you are serious about tracking your rides there is really no need to watch this video. Get a cycling computer. Here's a challenge, find one person who has spent the money on a decent cycling computer (garmin or wahoo) that decided they are better off using their phone after they got it.

[@jubjuber1]

One under rated one. I had my phone overheat riding on Saturday! Don't think a head unit would have that issue hopefully

[@ecopennylife]

I use a basic cycling Speedo unit with a magnetic sensor coupled with a Fitbit Ionic watch for GPS tracking & logging to Strava.

[@dominiksteiger161]

Where I cycle the phone (inside a waterproof case) just gets way too hot when mounted on my handle bar. If that were not the case then I'd also say that a phone is better, especially when it comes to navigation. I do enjoy the elemnt bolt though

[@zyghom]

phone can do more for sure and if used for navigation only (plus recording in the background) can have screen off until next turn phone can also speak the turn w/o turning screen on but phone is bigger for sure I use sport watch + phone in the pocket - it does the job and as I am running the same watch works for both gps in background with voice announcements works OK

[@dewiowen3010]

This is very useful for making a decision. Thanks for making the video.

[@naitsirkxify]

I love this video, this helps a lot, thank you very much!

[@patrickheavey9090]

my mobile connects to heart rate monitor and blue tooth earphones. I go out for out 8 hours and facebook live at lunch stops and take pictures on phone. never ran out yet. Sporttracker FTW! Strava had me doing 399 kph to Dover once lol

[@salassian3162]

Nice review. Very informative and smart. Kudos.

[@THTHvs]

I am simultaneously running Komoot for turn-by-turn-Navigation and the free version of Ride with GPS (not Strava) to record my ride with power and heart rate on an 8 year old Motorola smartphone. Battery life is still about 3 hours using this setup. For longer rides I bring a powerbank.

[@mikesimms1]

As a massive nerd, I wrote my own cycling app for my iPhone after my expensive Garmin decided it didn't want to work anymore. I figured I had to bring my phone with my anyway, for safety reasons.

[@floraliciavinascoch.2519]

suuuper!!!! awesome, incredible!

[@superwelder24]

Wut

[@FuriaKKK]

Did you use open street map?

[@sdxpt2014]

So he going to say that, and not release the app out. Lol😂

[@sdxpt2014]

J Y lol imagine if it was only real

[@Nessunego]

After years in cycling, I finally bought a Garmin Edge 830. I think I should have done it before.

[@ohrodrigs7970]

I typically ride for 2-3 hours and use my smartphone with the screen on. I use MapMyRide and gps. I almost always have more that 50% power left when I finish. White cares about aerodynamics unless you are a professional rider. Us weekend warriors are fine with a smartphone. Plus most phones are now water-resistant . Just get a good mounting device like Quadlock. Really good video here.

[@denizyalcn4759]

aero fetishists are triggered

[@EnligUlv]

I live at 6000’ elevation with intense sunlight; mounting a smartphone in the bars will cause the phone to overheat immediately shutting down. On the flip side, re: Garmin, I’ve had nothing but pairing/connectivity issues every time I go ride with any Garmin unit. I’ve owned their late 2000s Forerunner for Triathlon, the edge 500, and now the edge 530, and I seem to spend more time with tech support than I do actually riding. In fact I’m in the process of returning the 530 before the 90 day warranty period expires.

[@rafalkumorek6195]

Locus Map Pro + Garmin Cadence & Speed + Wahoo Tickr is the best option for me.

[@johnjhunter5185]

Nice informative blog mate,just what I needed to answer a question👍

[@D_in_DC]

Cyclemeter app all the way! I've been using it for years now. Works great. It has always connected to my HR monitors and power meters without any problems. I carry a small battery bank for long rides.

[@D_in_DC]

@Brainjock I don't use Zwift, so I'm not sure. I know it connects with Strava. I do my long rides in Southern, MD, near Rte 301. Nice long stretches of roads.

[@D_in_DC]

@Brainjock You would have to have Strava running at the same time.

[@UpNorthMI]

Didn't think of the impact on cold weather on my phone. SMART. Cycling computer it is. Thanks!

[@athletejmv]

...wahoo sensors for speed and cadence sync with the phone app. Someone probably already mentioned this but I'm just throwing it out there. I prefer the cycling computer opposed to cellphone... just like having a dedicated device for the moment... If my Garmin Edge stops working (It's over 10 year old), I may opt to just use my cellphone as I've done in the past. Great video.

[@lkoach]

Very helpful and succinct. Do cycling computers give you turn by turn instructions? Can you discuss how cycling computers aggregate your data so you can evaluate your performance and routes over time, say from your desktop computer?

[@desyfer831]

Great video man. thanks.

[@codevyper]

I just use my smart phone and Cyclemeter app. Covers everything I need. I'm more interested in climbing so aerodynamics aren't as big a concern for me. That said, if you're a road rider and looking to shave as much weight as possible, why would you carry both a phone and a riding computer? You could shave some grams by just running with your phone provided you can get an aero enough mount to suit your needs.

[@WillMorgan89]

I rode with my Wahoo Elemnt Bolt from Exeter to Stoke on Trent over two days just using the nav and it was brilliant. My phone battery was still good by the end of the day and I still had over 20% battery on the bolt after a whole day riding. The cycle computer screen can stay on all day with no issues whereas the phone would be flat in no time. I also find the Wahoo screen less reflective and easier to read at a glance. Cycle computer everytime.

[@ocubex]

@Will - I'm considering the Wahoo Element Bolt (my phone died during a ride today), does it have a safety feature that allows others see where you are? I sometimes go exploring and currently use Strava to let family see where I am. Would love if Wahoo can do that.

[@WillMorgan89]

@@ocubex hi mate, yeah it can do all of that, you can also see people with Wahoos in your map. I have it set so it sends my wife an email with a link to track me

[@WillMorgan89]

@@ocubex also worth mentioning it uses your phone's mobile internet to make the connection, but uses considerably less battery :)

[@slowerandolder]

I use an old iPhone 5s on the 'bars with the EasyRoute app for directions: quick to tap in a new route, sooo much easier than a paper cue sheet. But it's often hard to read the screen on sunny days. If you're gonna stare at your numbers instead of the scenery, a dedicated cycle computer all the way.

[@tquindt1]

Ride with GPS will pair with sensors. It also has an Apple Watch or Android Wear companion app (no Samsung yet). Do get the most out of the app, however there is an $80.00 USD/year subscription fee. It does link up with Strava and has very good route planning. There are several clubs who use it to plan their group rides, so you can send the route to your phone with just the click of a mouse. Likewise from your home computer.

[@esa4141]

Computer over phone definetly. Dont wanna spoil my ride with any messages or calls etc. Phone out of sight out of mind.

[@drewcycles]

airplane mode

[@esa4141]

Andrew Vigne dont wanna see the phone either. 😎

[@drewcycles]

@@esa4141put it in a paper bag

[@arturfreire4329]

Agree with you, it's nice to have a GPS, in my case i have Garmin 1030 but use the smartphone when i ride, in case of a crash or another case i need to call someone.

[@mtbboy1993]

I currently use Trailforks on my phone.

[@cyclecheshire8164]

Despite the janky software and poor screen quality i would still go for the cycling comp, mainly for battery life. The garmin 830 is a beast for battery, might not be the claimed 20 hours but it does last for ages. For 12 hour days it’s good to never have to think about charging it until the end of the day.

[@Xcerptshow]

save the hundreds of $$ and buy a battery bank...

[@cyclecheshire8164]

@@Xcerptshow but it's just so much easier to use the computer. Smaller and waterproof with cycling specific functions. Dont have to think about loss of phone signal when navigating and finding a place on my road bike for a large phone and a battery bank would be tricky.

[@themoodyteam]

Smartphones (and other technology) have destroyed the SatNav market. Cycling computers could be next. Just takes one of the big boys to take an interest …

[@TheCityCyclists]

Picked up a Wahoo few weeks back . It was a nightmare ! Apple and Wahoo have some issues they need to sort out . Sent it back and bought the Garmin 530 edge ...Cant knock it :)

[@Gravelsis]

My expensive Garmin edge 1000 is driving me crazy. Really clunky to use and years behind. I now use my iphone together with a small power bank. Love apps like komoot eg. Will never go back to Cycling computers

[@JimmyNalishebo-yu9bg]

Nice advise thanks to you all

[@gazjt7550]

The ine thing you left out it a phone on long rides needs connecting to an external battery and in hot weather I've had my phone overheat and it makes it unusable so if it being relied on it's made useless

[@justinbouchard]

I'm less than a minute in but I have my thoughts :) I'm a new roadie. Super addicted since last fall. When I can afford a cycling computer with gps I'm definitely getting one. My phone doesn't have the batter power to do 5 hours in the saddle running strava and taking the odd picture. I've more than once had a good strava ride messed up from a dead phone. Then I also have a dead phone lol. So that's my thoughts :D

[@justinbouchard]

@Brainjock I had to tell you this because you also might be right about that. But yesterday out fishing I dropped my phone in the lake, luckily it was only a foot deep and got it back but toasted my batter and seemingly not my phone bahhaha. So new battery it is lol. Will update with better battery life bahahhahha

[@danielcox9850]

My wahoo roam has a battery life like no phone ever. Works flawless and sends all ride data to Strava and anywhere else automatically. If it took photos I would not even bring my phone!

[@ocubex]

Lol... Actually they just might add that functionality, you never know.

[@kevindean9613]

If you down load a route to a phone for off line use it uses up a lot less battery ,you can use an old phone for this .I use a wahoo but have this for a back up .

[@retroonhisbikes]

I used to use my phone, but the battery would run out, right before a break down. Now I keep phone for making calls and cycle computer for data

[@ocubex]

That's exactly the problem I face. Now that I am cycling further my phone is getting to under 10% by the time I get home, it died on me today 9km from home.

[@arbjful]

ocubex use a battery bank..

[@jamesmcneil2472]

If you live in a Town or city - phone is fine. If you live or like to cycle in wild country where a phone is about as much use as an ashtray on a motorbike get a GPS system. It is way more accurate on position. The circular error probability is not good on phones when it comes to fixing position once outside of signal range. 380 meters error probability on some of my big brand name mobile devices. GPS is a consistent 3 meters cep.

[@dikalioglu]

I had an old galaxy s3 mini, I got and extended battery from aliexpress just for a 3 USD with back cover. it look almost like a bike computer. in very sunny day it is little hard to see but still possible. Rooted and installed android version 7, and Wahoo and bike computer application is installed. Both apps can connect with cadence sensor and wahoo also connects with speed sensor via bluetooth.

[@rdst75]

90% of “problems” with mobile phone mentioned here, can be resolved by using a power bank or having second, older phone, Not sure why I should switch to glonass, why not using it always? Maybe the are some aero dynamic holders for phones as well ?

[@SoyJayP]

Yeah, but then you need a power bank holder or put the power bank in a bag and get a long enough cable. I’m still using my phone tho lol

[@rdst75]

@@SoyJayPNot really, i have a triangle bag, it's close to steering, ordinary iphone cable is more than enough.

[@kaseycarpenter73]

This. I bought a cheap silicone case for my already waterproof note 8, zip-tied it to my stem so the phone sits perfectly between my aero bars, and a small USB cable to my toptube bag with the battery. boom.

[@AWriterWandering]

How about with turn-by-turn directions? I know that bike computers have made some strides in this area recently, but how do they compare with smartphone turn-by-turn overall?

[@Coospo]

Would you like to try and review Coospo Brand GPS bike computer?

[@JohnBatty]

Rupert seems unaware of Bike Computer Pro app, which pairs with ANY ANT+ or BT4 accessory. It can display all the metrics available and allows you to customise what you see and in what position (and how big). It's just a few quid and (in my case) runs on my previous Samsung S8 (still waterproof) mounted on a quadlock out front mount, just like a dedicated head unit. On long rides (over 4 hours) a short charge cable connects it to a portable battery in a top tube bag. The mapping and turn directions are easily audible in pretty much any conditions from the phone speaker, but a BT earpiece could be used if preferred. Finally, rides auto sync to Strava on completion with all the accessory data.

[@BoatingJapan]

Basic cateye velo wireless is plenty good for me. I can read a map or ask for directions, I am 58 so there is no point knowing power, I don't race now and when did I was not good despite training (won point score for my grade because I turned up for every race), and I want to go riding not computer programming, batteries last long, and if they don't I can work out how far I rode from g.maps. Just my personal preference.

[@ellwitz9838]

I go in this order. 1) Garmin 1080 for GPS, heart rate and power, the route planning is better for cycling. If that dies I switch to 2) Fitbit Ionic for GPS and heart rate. Never had to go to option 3) iPhone. Certainly wouldn't want to attach it to my bars.

[@23bogarka]

For amateurs like me, who's riding max 2 hours long rides for training, and these day all of us have min. one old extra phone in the house,then using a phone with much bigger screen and strava on it or Google maps is the way to go..And about power meters.. We all have our favorite routes, Soooo in the end it's all goes down to did I get a better time then last time? 😇(Xperia z5 compact, waterproof, 4,6 col) 😎

[@DominikLoeffler1]

I would have loved mention of power meter integration. Is that meaningfully better on cycling computers? What smartphone apps are the best for that purpose?

[@mariconor242]

This is why I got a wahoo ELEMNT. Shows me heart rate, power meter & cadence. Uploads to Strava when I press stop and the battery doesn’t suck like on my iPhone. The plus side is I don’t run out of battery on the phone even though I’m streaming music through Bluetooth all day. Beforehand it would die within 6 hours or so. Just get a head unit 👍

[@acedotcom]

i just use a cheap phone with and it works just fine and it save the battery life of my main phone

[@viathariusvi1519]

same. works fine

[@Jbvidd]

Cheap phone ? So don't you pay for service on the other phone ? Just curious!

[@acedotcom]

@@Jbvidd nope. You can get a cheap prepaid Android phone, set it up on wifi, and use it just for the GPS. Idk how stuff like Strava works with no data connection, but there are plenty of cycling computer apps that are free if you just need a HUD with route tracking. You download the apps you need and set them up on wifi and then head out.

[@mdfel1]

Strava Android Dark Mode would help so much. Maybe 2020 is finally the year.

[@jake_guides_bikes]

2020 wasn’t the year😆

[@willburn182]

The GPS chip in your smartphone functions completely separately from your mobile data plan so you can still use it in airplane mode if you download the map beforehand. This significantly improves battery life.

[@ChrisGamble]

So can l switch to Airplane mode and still follow Strava route? That's sounds like a perfect battery saver

[@h1n1worm]

@@ChrisGamble you can turn off cell data and use gps only.

[@joshuabayan1495]

What phone cover and mount are they using?

[@johnny_veritas]

Why would the battery on a Garmin not be affected by the cold? Is it made of a different material?

[@renifeer]

There are lots more aps for android devices that offer ant or bluetooth sensors compatibility. For example Locus Pro works with ant, you just need a ant receiving phone, like most of Xiaomi or Samsung.

[@zyghom]

Strava first removed activity recording and few weeks later brought it back, silently

[@ArunPlaysPiano]

Does anyone have any experience of using GPS Computers in the woods and knowing whether it records your location more accurately than a smartphone? I would be persuaded to buy a Comp if it did record more accurate GPS in forest locations, but I'm not sure it will?

[@ianh9696]

Another down side to using a mobile phone that you didn't mention is Data Usage. If you are on a low Gig Data Plan then you could run out of Data whilst out on the road and then Google Maps will be useless.

[@boomerangfreak]

For not even a moment have I regretted buying my Polar V650. It has outstanding battery life, I can use it for many many hours without charging. I used to commute 30-45 minutes a day 5 days a week and use it for an after hour ride of maybe like an hour or so AND use it for a multi hour day out in the weekend and still have like 20-30% left. I just charge it like once a week or nowadays more like every 2-3 weeks and I have NEVER had to worry about battery life. Also as both a MTBer and light roadie I can have multiple bike and sports set up which give me different date fields etc. And well this thing is built like a tank, dropped it quite a few times and has crashed with me more than I care to admit out in the woods and on the road with just some scratches on the body, not even the screen. The only reason I'd want to replace it is because it can't do onboard routing. Been looking to get another cycling computer, maybe smth like the karoo hammerhead or sigma rox with proper built in routing options for when I wanna do some more roaming. TLDR: I will never consider using my phone as a cycling computer as to me it can never win from a dedicated cycling computer.

[@Gamebit450]

I use my S8+ and a Tic Watch with strava.

[@nathanberry7445]

A lot of apps use Ant+. I use "Bike Computer" and my phone sits in a Quad Lock semi rugged case connected to an "Out Front" mount like that of Wahoo or Garmin. It looks very nice and sleek. I also have the go pro adaptor that sits underneath which I connect to my front light so it sits neatly under my phone. I then have a quad lock rain cover to keep water of phone. I pay the $1 A month to have the black background on the app. It has Time, avg. Speed, elevation, distance, cadence, heart rate, temp and swipe right for a map. If I go out for more than 3 hours I use my short charging cable and connect to a battery charger in my top tube bag. The only thing I am out of pocket is the quad lock out front mount and rain cover and $1 A month for app. Everything else I always have for my phone. A lot cheaper than a gps bicycle computer.... and very stylish.

[@marcelk6514]

Try iPBike, works way better in my experience and doesn't require a subscription

[@waterside13]

Hi, I have an Out Front Quad Lock for my I Phone 8 (small screen version) connected to free Strava. Works well.

[@omardgardiner2225]

Respect for showing the Hammerhead Karoo

[@mennobangma]

I'm tempted to go the smartphone route, but can't really find an App that shows all BT sensor info like speed, cadence, heart-rate AND offers real turn-by-turn navigation. Ride-with-GPS is one, but that requires a monthly subscription, which reduces the price benefit aspect of a smartphone.

[@voldy3565]

Does a cycling computer GPS work offline, or do I need data or Wi-Fi?

[@adityagupta101]

Nowadays you are also looking at a choice between cycling computer and fitness watch. The better watches are self contained with both GPS and heart rate. My own plans are to go for a good smartwatch and a minimalist cycling computer with backup mount for smartphone from decathalon.

[@singingitman]

Aditya Gupta I find when cycling the heart rate monitor on the watch is not accurate. I use a chest strap to ensure the data is valid. If you look at DC Rainmaker he demonstrates this on some of his videos.

[@zyghom]

plus HR strap

[@larsthorwald3338]

When on tour with the phone, I just carry a small charging brick and wireless earbuds. I get GPS tracking, and can listen to music while getting turn-by-turn voice directions for the route I uploaded from my desktop. If I want heart rate, I can just invoke the app that shipped with my sensor. Bulkiness is not a factor, since I just put the phone in the trunk or handlebar bag with the screen turned off. This way, I get a full day's riding on a single charge. When in camp, I just recharge using the brick, watch movies in the tent, repeat next day. All-in-one simplicity.

[@alexsemine1]

Actually it's the screen turned on is what kills the battery. For me, my galaxy s9+ currently lasts for around 70km from fully charged to nothing, staying on all the time for showing me the way. After learning some routes and just checking me location from time to time i barely use 20 to 30 percent for the same ride. In all cases with a track recording app on and Samsung health tracking the ride as well.

[@jpoodle]

My phone kept sliding out of my jersey pocket until I converted to a phone mount and now use it as my bike computer. I've had it for roughly five months now without a single negative comment and it's one less thing I can forget before taking off

[@jpoodle]

@Brainjock Ironically I use the Wahoo phone app haha it can track cadence and hrm. I believe power is available. But ridewithgps is my favorite app because of the routes functionality. Both are nice depends on what one is searching for in an app.

[@chrismac6504]

Which phone mount do you use

[@chrismac6504]

@Brainjock I thought that might be the case, thnx

[@jpoodle]

@@chrismac6504 actually use the nite ize wraptor mount. I have a 130mm stem and it fits perfectly. Secure, has not moved a bit once. Check it out.

[@SahirSiddiqui]

Makes sense. Thanks for stopping me spending cash on a pricey cycling computer that I don't really need, or a cheap cycling computer that doesn't do anything the Wahoo app on my phone already does.

[@onabikecc5849]

Your first point: Cycling computers can pair with sensors, but only few apps on phones can. True, but your cycling computer is effectively one app only as well. You only need one app. Hint: OruxMaps. Second: external backup battery weighs less than an added bike computer. You do need to factor in the weight of the phone case. Don't take something as awful as the pouch you use in your video; use something like Quadlock. Third: bulkiness depends a lot on the phone you use and how you mount it. Fourth: I've found GPS on phones to be more accurate than Garmin's best-accuracy performance on an FR 945, for instance, once conditions become more challenging. Fifth: The real maintenance issue of contemporary phones is the faster battery decay/screen decay but intensified use of the phone in bright sunlight. - Sony Z3 Compact, Quadlock and OruxMaps with OpenAndroMaps loaded on the phone were the closest I ever got to the ideal bike computer. Back then, there was no easy way to add an external battery (now there is), and riding in cold conditions meant I wouldn't be able to use the touch interface (now there are compatible gloves). I now use the mentioned FR 945 as my interface, simply because I wanted one device for all sports, and the phone doesn't work well as a display in other sports where no bike can act as your third hand. When I need better navigation, I still use the phone. The bike computer is the device that I happily did not buy to reduce my environmental impact.

[@dcmsr5141]

Cycling computers are the way to go. I personally have the wahoo ROAM. It's great for workouts with heart rate monitor and cadence sensor. In general, great for just riding and exploring. Phone in top tube bag on standby. It's really a no brainer

[@D_in_DC]

Not really a no brainer. I use Cyclemeter on my phone. Never had a hiccup. I hear my cycling buddies complaining about their Garmins all the time...lol. Maybe Wahoo is just better.

[@hobosbite6580]

Garmin edge 1080 4 life ,mates. With garmin fenix 5x they are doing amazing team work

[@reu13]

Owning the latest phones give us water proofing, magnetic compass, and barometer. Almost all the new sensor include Low power bluetooth. I think the tech is there and for shorter rides it's the perfect option. My issue is that there just isn't a good app to bring it all together. Strava, intentionally leaving that space to focus on social, Ride with GPS is lacking in user friendliness and features. I guess maybe Cyclemeter is the best option, but it still lacks the features and customizability of a dedicated unit. Side note, I don't buy the aero argument. My phone is thinner than my Garmin 530 when mounted with a Quadlock out front mount. Only the leading edge is the problem when angled correctly.

[@moreaupi]

Reuben Neese I am surprised to read that. Cyclemeter is fully customizable and you can even have a dark background to limit battery drain. I leave my screen on for 3.5 hours and still have 50% of my battery at the end of my rides...

[@D_in_DC]

Cyclemeter is indeed fully customizable. Not sure what features it doesn't have compared to a dedicated computer.

[@omg_wtf]

I went for a 50km ride today and had the wahoo app open the entire time. HRM connected too. I got home with 3% battery. Next ride I'm gonna leave the screen off and just use a small computer for speed, cadence etc

[@wildbill7267]

I do touring rather than racing so weight and stats is not my priority. I like to see how far I rode and where I rode and have bragging rights on Facebook. I just connect my iPhone to a portable power bank. No issues with my phone’s battery dying mid-ride.

[@DD-ly8og]

How do i pair my speed sensor on strava app on my phone ?