Cycle Computers Explained

How Far Will You Cycle Today? 

You Won't Know Unless You Fit A Cycle Computer!

Here's the scenario.... you have a bike, you go for a bike ride and you return home feeling exhilarated. But how far did you cycle, how long were you cycling, what distance did you travel? You may have done less than you thought. If you had encompassed today's technology however, by investing in a cycle computer, you will have a record of all your accomplishments.

Cycling computer reviews are a good way to help you decide which cycling computer is right for you. One of the most popular wireless cycle computers is the cateye strada wireless computer that attaches to your bicycle handlebars. The cateye cycle computer will show you important cycling activity that allows you to track your progress. Other makes of bike computer, such as the polar cycle computer will give you more functionality, including your heart rate statistics.

Cycle computers give you information when you are riding your bicycle. Depending of the type and model of cycle computer that you have, they are designed to show speed, average speed, trip mileage and total accumulated mileage (or odometer reading). Some cycle computers such as the polar cycle computer, even incorporate calories burned, and a heart rate monitor. There are also computers that show cadence.  Cadence is the term used to show the rate at which a cyclist is turning the pedals per minute or, the revolutions per minute.

Wireless cycle computers work via a small transmitter installed on the bike's fork omitting the need for untidy wires. There are also wired cycle computers but you will need you to run a wire from the device on the handlebars down through the front wheel fork -- the part of the bike frame that holds the front wheel. A small magnet is fixed to the wheel spokes and the transmitter is fixed to the front fork. As the wheel turns, the transmitter counts wheel revolutions and transmits the information to the computer display unit that you install on your bikes handlebars.
 
Calibration will also be necessary to ensure accurate data is sent to the device display. This normally involves measuring your bike wheel circumference; however, instructions on how to do this will come with your cycle computer. It's not difficult to do, but it has to be done correctly to ensure accurate data is being displayed. The distance between the transmitter on the wheel fork and the magnet fitted on the wheel spoke is important. You will need to adjust the transmitter accordingly or else the computer will not register any data.

Cycle computers will record the distance that you travel on your bike and you'll know how far you have travelled over time by the odometer reading. Depending on the model of cycling computer you choose, other functions may include time of day, temperature, elevation above sea level, maximum speed and average speed and a host of other features. As with most gadgets, it is best to make a list of the functions that you need and only spend what you need to.

As with most gadgets, it is best to make a list of the functions that you need and only spend what you need to. But ensure that you choose a cycling computer wisely to avoid the risk of having to spend more money because you found that you need additonal cycling computer functions later.