The pervasiveness of electronics in our everyday lives leaves us expecting computing to be very complex. Yet, one of the most important computers we use everyday is our simple cycling computer. Below is a list of a few cycling computers that we find outstanding.
- Garmin Edge 705: In the world of GPS bike computers, Garmin reigns as king. The 705 is the undisputed ultimate in cycle computers sporting turn by turn instructions along with its tracking and speedometer duties. What makes the 705 so compelling is its accurate hall effect sensors that measure cadence, and speed. Coupled with a heart rate monitor and the 705 can handle nearly all of your training needs. The only downside is its very steep price of $500.00 or more (unless you catch it on sale).
- Planet Bike Protege 9: The Protege 9 is a solid, simple wireless bike computer that works great for enthusiast. Like most simple bike computers, it uses an electronic read sensor to count both distance and speed using the sensor and a spoke magnet. One serious downside is that the Protege 9 is very large significantly contributing to aerodynamic drag.
- Cateye CC-VL510: The Cateye is a very basic wired bike sensor. No frills and running at only $18.00, it is so cheap it is difficult not to justify on any bike. Coupled with solid sensors and a simple rugged design, even a tough mountain biker can appreciate the CC-VL510.
- iMapMyRide iPhone App: If you really want to condense and analyze your rides with a free app, this is it. Not only is the app easy to use, with the multitude of iPhone bike mounts, your phone can become your cycle computer. We have used ours to track over 1,500 miles of riding and elevations data. You get all of those functions for free and with real time speed and time data available at your finger tips.





Shaw's Original Fir...
Velox for Android. Google Tracks are both fantastic and gratis.
I use other iPhone apps (usually RunKeeper but sometimes MotionX) but they are all about the same. I also have a cheep wired sensor
The key difference with the iPhone (or any Smartphone) based apps is that they will not be great if you do not have a wireless signal. I know my iPhone 4 tends to do pretty poorly with GPS if I have a weak 3G signal. A dedicated GPS unit doesn't need that. Of course my iPhone doesn't present any additional cost.
I guess that's the tradeoff
love the protege 9, i have the wired version though. I have set my dad and my bro-in-law up with them too. Great little computer.