The world is data-obsessed, and cycling is no different. Understanding your performance data can phenomenally affect how you train and the results you experience. However, a Garmin bike computer has functions beyond your riding output—it can help you navigate, provide the weather temperature, capture rides for future reference, and tell the time! Moreover, for many of us, unless the ride features on Strava, then did the ride ever really happen…? This is one of the best cycling accessory investments you could make.
Cycling computer features
So, what kind of data can you expect from your device? Depending on which option you go for - and which fields you select from that option - you can expect any or all of the following:
- GPS bike computer location - showing where you are and providing a detailed map of the surrounding area
- Heart rate
- Distance travelled (odometer)
- Elapsed time (how long ago you set off. A good device will pause monitoring when you are stationary)
- Bike speed
- Cadence
- Power
- Calories burned
- Route elevation
- Weather temperature
- Other rider activity (records such as King and Queen of the Mountains, sprint stages etc)
- Notification of your own wins (King/Queen of Mountain etc)
- Integration with a training app
- Muscle oxygen sensor integration
- Mounting device
- Backlighting (for use in poor weather/night-time)
- Weather resistance
- Time of day
How does a cycling bike computer work?
Small sensors that you attach to the wheels and forks will ‘talk’ to your device. You will need to tell the device what wheel size you’re using, as this will then form the backbone of your data (calculating the time it takes for the wheel to complete one revolution). Integrating your heart rate monitor provides additional layers of physiological data.
Setting up bike computers
Top tip - set up the software first, and then turn your attention to the physical setup of getting the computer on your bike. Bear in mind the details will vary from brand to brand and the age of the device, but the basics should be as follows:
- Charge the computer
- Once charged, set up the data screens - there will be a bunch of fields available so think about what you want to know.
- You will then want to set these up as your home screen fields (just follow the prompts).
- Sync devices to one another (for example, if you’re syncing a heart rate monitor, then you will need to put it on so it can register a reading). Set the computer to search so it can find these devices and pair with them. In theory, you should only do this once.
- For a Garmin bike computer, you will need to now set up Garmin Connect and Garmin IQ (provides extra apps) on your laptop.
- If you’re on Strava, you will need to link this to Garmin Connect. Just visit the Strava settings.
- Using Bluetooth, now pair your cycling computer with your smartphone.
- It’s now time to attach the sensors to your bike.
Everything should be talking to one another and literally ready to roll!
