Bike computer: how to choose the best one

The bike computer is one of the most loved technological devices. These small computers go far beyond simple bike mileometers and provide a great amount of data for the rider to improve performance or just to get information about the reached altitude.

Are you looking for the best cyclocomputer for racing bikes? Or are you just looking for good equipment to use when you’re cycling? Whatever your needs are, I have something for you!

I compared 3 different cyclocomputers, so you can evaluate the advantages and features of each one on your own. Choosing the one that suits you will be child's play!

The cheap and essential Infini Maia cyclocomputer

Let us start now with the simplest and most economical model. It is the Infini Maia cyclocomputer, which offers just the necessary and is perfect for those who don't want to give up on data monitoring, but have a limited budget.

The Infini Maia cyclocomputer features 10 basic functions. Let us see more closely what they are:

• Clock, which you can set at 12 or 24 hours according to your preferences;
• Speed of travel, indicated both in kilometers per hour and in miles per hour;
• Average speed, also in km/h or miles/h;
• Maximum speed, so you can keep track of the best performance;
• Travel time, to track the duration of your trip;
• Daily kilometers, the favorite function of those who want to go beyond their limits;
• Resettable odometer, to keep track of all the kilometers traveled in total;
• Caloric consumption, so you can also measure the calories you burn;
• Visual alarm, to grab the attention of the cyclist when is needed;
• Maintenance lamp, to indicate possible malfunctionings.

As you can see, although this is a bike computer that costs less than 30€, the functions are different. It is perfect for those looking for simplicity or doesn't have a great relationship with technology.

One of the most interesting features of this cyclocomputer for bike is the very large display, which allows the cyclist to have an eye on the data without suffering any eyestrain.

It can also be used in case of rain because it resists water and it is equipped with a practical silicone cover that protects it from shocks. What else? It weighs less than 90 grams and it is equipped with a CR2032 battery. The display also indicates when the battery is about to run out.

The Infini Maia cyclocomputer is recommended for those who buy for the first time a computer for bikes, those who do not like too technological devices and those who want to have only what they need.

The professional cyclocomputer of the economic range XLC BV C-01

The second product we take a look on is also quite economical, but compared to the first product it is produced by the XCL X-cellent Bike Components, a German company specialized in the production of bike parts and accessories.

The model in question is the XCL BV C-01 cyclocomputer, which looks very good in its elegant white cover. The functions available partly coincide with those of the computer bike that we have already examined, but there are some more:

• Clock, which can be set in 12 or 24 hour mode;
• Travel speed, average speed and maximum speed;
• Odometer to count all the kilometers covered;
• Counting the kilometers covered in a single tour;
• Travel time of each journey;
• Illuminated screen, very convenient for evening rides;
• Automatic switching on and off;
• Scan mode, to display the sequence of the various functions automatically;
• Senso-Touch menu that guides you through the various functions;
• Equipped with cable with a heavy duty sensor.

The price of the XCL BV C-01 bike computer is around 40€, so it is also a low cost solution, but without sacrificing the essential functions that can never be missing in a bike computer.

Even in poor visibility conditions, the display is always in view thanks to the lighting. It is therefore ideal for amateur cyclists who like to ride even when it's dark outside.

The best bike computer with wireless altimeter XCL BV-W03

The last product to be examined is undoubtedly the most professional of all 3, because it has more advanced functions. This is the BV-W03 XCL cyclocomputer, which operates wirelessly and transmits data without interference.

In addition to the basic functions, there are also the altimeter and pedaling cadence functions. Here is the detailed list of all the functions available:

• Clock settable in 12 or 24 hours modes;
• Travel speed and average speed;
• Comparison of two possible speeds;
• Odometer, which in this case also works for two bikes;
• Daily kilometers and those made on a tour;
• Travel time of each journey;
• Indication of caloric consumption;
• Illuminated display visible even in the dark;
• Automatic switching on and off;
• Battery status indicator;
• Measuring the cadence of your pedaling;
• Calculation of the average and maximum pedaling frequency;
• Barometer and thermometer, to always know the altitude and temperature;
• Altimeter indicating the daily, maximum and total difference in height.

The cyclist looking for a professional bike computer, can only get his attention on the XCL BV-W03 model. It is interesting to note that it can also be used on bicycles that have wheels of different sizes, for example a MTB or a racing bike. The cyclocomputer will save the data of both bikes, which can be updated from time to time.

Why can it be useful to know the cadence of the pedal stroke? Many cyclists have the habit of pushing very long gears, which consequently cause the frequency of the pedal stroke to drop. When the cyclocomputer sensor detects the cadence of the pedal stroke, it is easier to use shorter ratios and therefore suffer less fatigue.

The altimeter for bikes is another of the most useful functions, especially for those who love to take the uphills and always want to keep under control the altitude reached.

How to choose the best cyclocomputer for your bike

We have compared 3 different cyclocomputers and you surely will have a clear idea of which model suits your needs. Economical, professional or with an altimeter? The choice is up to you! In any case, you can always count on very large screens that have nothing to envy compared to modern smartphones.

I will leave you just one last tip: if you don't want to miss out on the latest cyclocomputer offers in the Mognetti Bike store, I suggest you to subscribe to the newsletter below, so you can get the computer for the bike you prefer at the best price. ;-)