Cycling is a popular physical activity in Australia. As per research in 2019, more than 80 per cent of Australians cycle for recreation while others use for transport, work or to visit friends. According to a survey in 2017, approximately 1.2 million bicycles were purchased by Australians in 2017. So, if you have a bicycle, you can buy a cycle computer in Australia online. Another research states that the bicycle computers market can grow tremendously by 2026. Are you pondering if you really need them? Can you use an alternative like a smartphone? What features should you consider before purchasing the computers? Read on to know about the advantages and features of bicycle computers in this article.
What are the advantages of cycle computers over smartphones?
If you do regular long training rides, you will definitely require a full array of data related to those rides. Before going towards the positive points of cycle computers, it is necessary to research properly before deciding anything. Bike Cycling Reviews will provide you with great help as they help buyers like you check the quality and functioning of the bikes.
For this reason, bike computers were created. So, keep reading to know their advantages over smartphones.
- Price: You will find an array of features in all the bike computers. Hence, the price differs depending upon the model. Although you can use a smartphone, there is a risk of crashing and getting it damaged in the process. Replacing them can cost you more than the computer. Additionally, utilising a cycling app on the smartphone can cost you in the long run due to the subscription fees.
- Size and screen visibility: Smartphones are designed for indoor use and are superior in terms of size. You might have to increase the brightness of the screen to view them outdoors. When it comes to bike computers, they have high contrast screens to use in the bright sunlight. They save space in the handlebars due to their relatively compact size.
- Durability: Although your device might be waterproof, heat and sweat can cause damage to your smartphones. You won’t be able to use touchscreens properly when wet. While you might use a waterproof phone case to solve the issue, bicycle computers are waterproof. You can find some of them with buttons, so you don’t have to be concerned about scrolling over a wet and slippery screen.
- Battery life: You require long battery life computers for long-distance rides. You might have a cycling application, GPS and other processes running on your phone. Due to this reason, your battery can drain quickly. Battery life is not an issue when you ride your bike for a short commute. Your battery life must be at a sufficient level in emergencies. But using a computer can spare you the inconvenience of the situation mentioned above.
What are the features of the cycle computer?
There are several attainable features in the bicycle computer. Below listed are some of those features.
- Mountain biking functions: If you connect the computer with an application, you will be provided with trail information and navigational data. The metrics of mountain biking include air time, flow and jumps.
- Navigation: You can find affordable units that alert you and provide basic tracking if you are off course. Some sophisticated units include functionalities similar to that of cars. You can enter the destination and get turn-by-turn guidance. The base maps can vary in every navigation system.
- GPS function: The most affordable bike computers won’t be GPS enabled. GPS underlines a range of data such as elevation, speed, distance and navigation functions. The most sophisticated or expensive units connect to multiple GPS systems for swift and precise tracking. Hence, you can purchase a cycle computer in Australia with a great GPS system.
- Heart rate monitor functions: To monitor the heart rate, you will have to connect with the most sophisticated fitness tracker with the bike computer.
- Wireless technology: Most bike computers communicate wirelessly with a power meter, fitness tracker or phone. Many devices work with different communication protocols like Bluetooth.
