Cycling is a very popular sport that offers many benefits, both physically and mentally. To fully enjoy this activity, it is essential to equip yourself correctly. Among the essential accessories for cyclists is the bicycle GPS: this device not only allows you to follow your route but also to analyze your sporting performance. We therefore offer you a complete guide to help you choose the best bike GPS according to your needs, practices and budget.
Important criteria to consider
To choose your bike GPS, several criteria must be taken into account:
- Autonomy: A good GPS must have sufficient battery life to cover the duration of your outings. Choose models offering at least 10 hours of battery life.
- Cartography : Opt for a device with preloaded maps or the ability to easily add more via an SD card or internet connection.
- The screen: It must be large enough and readable in direct sunlight to facilitate navigation. Touch screens are more convenient, but generally consume more power.
- Fonctionnalities : Depending on your needs, check if the bike GPS offers options such as heart rate monitoring, power analysis or compatibility with ANT+ and Bluetooth sensors.
- Weight and size: A light and compact GPS is preferable so as not to clutter up your handlebars and make it easier to transport.
- The price : Finally, determine your budget and compare models based on their value for money.
The main brands available on the market
Among the many brands offering bike GPS, some stand out for their quality and reliability. Here is a selection of the best brands to consider when making your purchase:
- Garmin: Undisputed market leader, Garmin offers a wide range of bicycle GPS adapted to all budgets and levels of requirement. The best Garmin cycling GPS currently available is undoubtedly the Garmin Edge 1030 Plus which offers a large touch screen, detailed mapping as well as a multitude of advanced features to analyze your sports performance.
- Polar: This Finnish brand specializes in cardio-GPS watches intended for athletes. The Polar V650 is a powerful and versatile bike GPS that will suit most cyclists.
- Woohoo: The American brand Wahoo has managed to find a place in the market thanks to its innovative and intuitive products. The Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt is a great choice for those looking for a compact and easy-to-use cycling GPS.
- Sigma: This German company offers bike computers and GPS with good value for money. The Sigma Rox 12.0 Sport is a premium model offering many great features for demanding cyclists.
The steps for installing and configuring the bike GPS
To take full advantage of your new bike GPS, it is important to install and configure it correctly before your first ride. Here are the main steps to follow:
- Attaching the support: Install the mount provided with your GPS on the handlebars or stem of your bicycle following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Setting up the GPS: Then attach your device to the mount, ensuring that it is secure and stable while you travel.
- Switching on and initial configuration: Turn on your bike GPS, choose the desired language then follow the initialization steps (creation of a user profile, time settings, etc.).
- Sensor configuration: If your bike GPS is compatible with external sensors (heart rate, cadence, power), pair them via ANT+ or Bluetooth to receive data in real time.
- Mapping update: Finally, check if a mapping update is available and download it if necessary to benefit from the latest road and topographical information.
Answers to frequently asked questions regarding the use of bicycle GPS
To conclude this guide, here are some answers to the most common questions about using bike GPS:
- How can I extend the battery life of my bike GPS? To save battery, dim the screen brightness, turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when you’re not using them, and choose a power-efficient display mode if available.
- Should we choose a specific GPS for mountain biking or road? Some models are designed specifically for mountain biking (like the Garmin Edge Explore) with mapping adapted to off-road paths. However, most all-round GPS devices will be suitable for both road cyclists and mountain bikers.
- Is it possible to use my smartphone as a bike GPS? Yes, there are dedicated applications (like Strava, Komoot or RideWithGPS) that turn your smartphone into a cycling GPS. However, battery life and screen readability in direct sunlight may be limited compared to a dedicated GPS.
By following the advice in this guide, you should be able to choose the best bike GPS suited to your needs and budget. Do not hesitate to compare the models available on the market and consult the opinions of other cyclists to help you in your decision.
