Cycling computers have existed since 1895, when Curtis Veeder invented a simple odometer device that measured the distance you’ve cycled by how many times the wheel rotated. Fortunately for us, they’ve come a long way since then, and now include all the measurements we need to improve our riding and a whole lot more. Whether you want to beat your personal best up Cheddar Gorge, Burrington Combe or Notting Hill Way, or pace your time trials better, here are five options to help you computerise your cycling this summer.
Garmin Edge 25
The Edge 25 offers everything you need to improve you riding in a compact package. It’s minimal in size, but filled to the brim with features. With ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity it can be paired with heart rate monitors and smartphones almost instantly. This, combined with the standard speed, distance, and time measurements, gives you a great amount of data to track performances.
Wahoo ELEMNT
Indoor trainer brand, Wahoo, hit the bike computer industry with the ELEMNT in 2016 and by so doing, breathed fresh air into the market dominated by Garmin. With Bluetooth and ANT+ dual-band technology the ELEMNT will pair with any cycling sensors quickly and easily. One of the first thing you’ll notice is it’s unique high-contrast grayscale screen which optimises visibility even in the gloomiest conditions. But what really sets it apart, is the smartphone companion app where you can customise your data fields, track performances and share ride data with the press of a button. Another great feature is the row of LED QuickLook indicators, which indicate whether you’re on target to meet your programmable training goals. Considered the perfect touring computer by many, the navigation is brilliantly intuitive to follow once set up on the smartphone app, and the 14-hour battery life is unprecedented in the market.
What’s more if you buy a Wahoo ELEMNT this July you can receive £50 cashback if you trade in your old computer!
Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT
The BOLT shares many features with its predecessor, the ELEMNT (above), such as the QuickLook LEDs and companion app, but the big difference is its aerodynamic design. It is the first computer to have an integrated system of computer and mount, designed using Computational Fluid Dynamics to significantly reduce drag. The result is that in a 40KM TT, a rider averaging 21mph will save approximately 12.6 seconds compared to other computers. Just like the ELEMNT, the screen is colourless, optimising visibility in even the darkest and most grim conditions, and contributing to the exceptional battery life.
Garmin Edge 520
If you are lacking motivation to push yourself further whilst on the bike, this is the computer for you. The Edge 520 has a whole host of training capabilities when paired with compatible ANT+ accessories, like heart rate monitors and power meters. Whether you want to do time trial efforts or a dreaded threshold test, the Edge 520 is equipped to give you all the help you need. You can also follow a course that you or another rider have created, and literally race your past recorded stats, with the virtual partner keeping you company and pushing you on.
Garmin Edge 1000
Whether you're wanting to compare yourself against the pros, or improve your own personal best, the Edge 1000 is the computer you need. It lets you connect, compare and compete, so every ride can be a race by competing on Garmin Connect segments and seeing real-time results on your Edge. This is helped no end by the alerts for segment starts and finishes and the leaderboard rankings at the end of the effort. With the segment features, workouts and navigation, motivation to keep you pushing for improvement shouldn’t be hard to find.
Whether you want to better your own times, compete with friends or go somewhere new, a cycling computer is a great investment to help you meet your goals.
