Bicycle computers: device and functions, rules for selection and installation

On-board computers for bicycles are by no means an unexpected phenomenon, given the speed of technological development. Their main task is to make the management of a “smart” bicycle as simple and safe as possible. The initial version of the devices measured only speed and mileage, but today the number of capabilities of the technology has increased significantly, which allows it to be used in various fields with the highest possible efficiency.

To date, the on-board bike computer is used not only by athletes, but also by those who prefer to travel on similar vehicles both in the city and on rough terrain. Everything works on small batteries that need to be changed several times a year, depending on the model. The computer itself and all components are mounted on a bicycle, and a magnet attached to the spokes of the front or rear wheel conveys the necessary information.

Model dependent the magnet and the sensor are connected by a wire or by means of a wireless radio signal.

If we talk about practical benefits, then a bicycle computer allows you to record such results as:

• current and average speed;
• set speed;
• distance for a certain period of time or all the way.

All this information is very useful for athletes and travelers.Some models also contain cardiac functions that indicate the average and maximum heart rate or the difference in indicators from a given range.

A bicycle computer is a specialized device that consists of several parts. The principle of its operation is quite simple, All information is transmitted using a small magnet and a high-precision digital signal. In fact, you can distinguish several main types of on-board computers.

In this case, a magnet and a fixing device are included, which measures the results. Between themselves they are connected by a special wire. The main advantage is the ability to save battery consumption, it needs to be changed no more than twice a year.

This option differs from the previous one in that the wires are completely absent, and information is transmitted using a wireless radio signal. But such a model can work intermittently in an urban environment, where you need to take into account the appearance of extraneous interference in the radio. In addition, the energy consumption of such models is much higher, and the batteries will have to be changed more often. There are also very compact models that run in the form of a watch and are very convenient for athletes, so as not to be distracted from the road on the road and measure the results.

In addition to the basic functions, the set may include a number of additional options at the request of the user. As a rule, if it affects the price, it is insignificant. The amount of basic functionality varies from 5 to 25, and additional provides a more comfortable ride in any conditions.

Models with a GPS-navigator are ideal for travelers in order to navigate an unfamiliar area. Outwardly, they are slightly different from the usual Google Maps, but users deal with the features pretty quickly. The technology itself is interactive and convenient, and a pointer to the target will quickly determine the optimal route for the trip. In addition, navigation can help you find a lost bike if necessary.

Computers with a cadence sensor allow you to fully load the terrain, right down to the location of houses, trees and main streets. But it is worth considering that To do this, you need to connect it to a laptop or tablet computer, you can also use the special application on your smartphone.

Athletes will be useful for tracking their condition models with a heart rate monitor, which can be found literally for any level of finance. Wireless devices are quietly detected using bluetooth or a radio signal, of course, such models are more in demand for travelers and people leading an active lifestyle.

Sunding SD-563b - A well-known bike computer model, the kit includes a bracket for mounting on the steering wheel, a set of several couplers, a magnetic sensor and a magnet. The functions of this device are declared more than 20, and there are several unique features.

• LCD display with automatic backlighting. All information is displayed in several lines.
• The weight of the sensor is compact - no more than 30 grams.
• Dimensions do not exceed 57x40x18 mm.
• Strong, waterproof case.
• Battery indicator
• Even an inexperienced user will be able to understand the installation and operation of the device, and as for the functions, everything that a cyclist may need is collected in them: a speedometer for measuring speed, the ability to measure the full run since the device started to work, the ability to record the highest speed and total time,spent on the way, the function of counting down the time on the way and fixing the speed of movement in all its sections.

The Garmin bike computer also has many features. For example, the fact that for work it is recommended to create an account in a special application. Thanks to Connect software, it will be possible to record the results of training statistics. Also, thanks to this, it is possible to compile universal training programs with a flash drive in the kit, an input for usb with the connection of additional devices. Certain changes have occurred in the design of the menu, there are more pages and it would be easier to go to the necessary settings.

Cyclotech - A bicycle computer with a protective case and a fairly simple mounting option. The functionality of this device is as follows:

• travel time;
• total mileage during use;
• maximum and current speed;
• power saving mode.

Cateye is a rugged and reliable computer that can work in several modes. Providing high functionality and fine tuning, the user can use the computer with maximum performance. Installation and fastening are simple and intuitive, this computer is suitable for any type of bike.

Stern bicycles can be used not only within the city, but also over rough terrain. A bicycle computer mounted on the model will help to effectively record the distance traveled, speed and other features of the path. Clear digital indicators encourage you to continue the journey and help create an individual training program for each user.

Lezyne is a cycle computer programmed with a number of interactive features, thanks to which it can work on several protocols simultaneously. Thanks to simultaneous synchronization, the user receives all available information not only about speed or power, but also about heart rate. The computer is ideally direction-finding with electronic transmission and captures all the results in real time.

If the user needs an accurate calculation of the average speed, distance traveled and travel time, then Stels is the perfect choice. A bicycle computer is equipped with all the necessary functions and is affordable for literally everyone. The dimensions of the device are quite compact, and you can use it in combination with any model of bicycle. At the same time, setup and installation is intuitive even for beginner cyclists, and if necessary, the instruction will answer all the questions posed.

The setup as a whole is to determine the circumference of the bicycle wheel, usually in millimeters. It is from this stage that the accuracy of calculating the speed and distance traveled depends, so it is very important to set the necessary values ​​in the system. Usually, all figures are approximate, and it all depends on the manufacturer's instructions. The distance covered is also affected by the condition of the road surface, tire pressure and the weight of the cyclist.

In order to purchase a suitable on-board computer for a bicycle, you need to pay attention not only to the design or brand, but also to several important nuances:

• what information the user will need on a trip;
• how much is acceptable in the selection process;
• what additional functions or options will be needed during use.

For those who play sports more actively, and use the bike not only for walking, you will need much more information. For example, the minimum and maximum speed of a bicycle, the passage time of a certain section or the acceleration time from the start point to the final point of travel. In this case, you will need more professional on-board computers that can satisfy the requests.

Installing an on-board computer on a bicycle, regardless of make, begins with mounting the device. In general, there are three main locations:

• steering wheel center;
• bracket;
• grips around the edges.

Most often installed exactly in the center, because in this case the computer is protected by a frame and does not touch the cyclist while driving. It should be noted that for the accuracy of the measurements when installing a highly sensitive device, you can install it even on alloy wheels. The device is fixed using special harnesses, which must be tightened as tight as possible. They are provided by the manufacturer in the kit, as well as a rubber substrate for the working monitor, to avoid slipping during operation.

Computer setup starts only after installing all the components, after the monitor, a magnet and a sensor are attached to the bicycle. The sensor is then turned to the magnet so that the signal is received with the necessary accuracy. And the magnet itself is mounted on the knitting needles. All this should be located at a right angle, after which the position of the device can be permanently fixed. The wheel on which the sensor and the magnet will be installed does not matter for the accuracy of the measurements. But most often all components are installed exactly in front.

After the installation has been completed, you must configure the device. To do this, it is enough to reset the main parameters to the “default” level and restart the computer. After that, you can safely start using it.

If you want the gadget to serve you for a long time and without failures, it is very important to pay attention to the technical condition. At least periodically inspect your vehicle for reliable fastening, the safety of the main components and parts, as well as correctly set indicators. Pay attention to the mounting of the magnet on the wheel, the condition of the brakes and steering wheel. The surface of the brakes must be clean, and in the case of an automatic brake, the reaction must be visible immediately after pressure.

The location of the steering wheel also plays a significant role, It should be perpendicular to the front wheel. If necessary, the height is adjusted, but always taking into account the limiter. It is also worth making sure that there is enough lubricant. The operation of the computer itself is almost not required to be controlled, it is enough several times a year to reset the parameters to the “default” state and make sure that the necessary drivers are updated on time.

Adjusting the brakes ensures that they work accurately and on time. And this is precisely what affects their lifespan. If a wired computer is installed on the bike, then you will have to monitor the condition of the wires.

Magnetic bike computers with a sensor - one of the cheapest and most compact options. But the owner must always monitor the state of the reed switch, where all the small parts are located, ensuring the operation of the mechanism and interaction with the magnetic field as a whole due to the closed electrical circuit. This choice is also understandable if you need to purchase something with a minimum of energy consumption. Particular attention should be paid to enclosures that protect against dust and moisture.

See how to install and configure your bike computer in the next video.