Bike Computers - What Are They?

Bike computers are nifty little gadgets that can be attached to your cycle in order to keep track of and measure speed, distance traveled, calories burnt, many more.

Most cycling computers require no more than twenty minutes to set up, and then you're good to go! Most of the time, no extra equipment or tools will be needed to set up the gadget on your own cycle.

Here's just a small sample of what they can do:

    measure speed and distance
    GPS navigation (never get lost in the city again!)
    measure time traveled
    track heart rate, pulse, calories burnt, etc. (yep, it's true!)
    and many, many more

Please note that not all of these functions will be available with each and every bike computer. Naturally, the more advanced ones will cost a little more, but they generally have better value due to their numerous functions.

The cost of a bike computer will usually range between $6 (low functionality) and $15-20 (high-functionality). However, there are a few that go up as high as $250! You will find that most of the cycle computers that have a GPS (global positioning system) will be closer to this range. For the average Joe, the ten-buck model available on Amazon or any other major retailer is perfect. For more advanced, hardcore mountain bikers, GPS is a must.

There are many reasons to purchase a bike computer, particularly if you cycle for fitness reasons. Cycle computers are a great way to keep track of the health benefits you're getting from your daily rides. As already mentioned, some track calories burnt and the fitness benefits from each and every ride. They make it easier to set and achieve cycling goals. For example, many computers come with the capability to alert you when you have reached a certain distance (10 miles, for example). If, before starting your journey, you decided to attempt to achieve this landmark within a certain period of time, you'll need something to track that; and that's where bike computers come in.

Not only can bike computers be cost effective, they are a great way to track your cycle rides and motivate yourself to cycle more. When you purchase a bike computer, you'll probably immediately start seeing results; just like that! The thrills you get from using your computer are so much so that you will find yourself reaching for your bike over and over again.