On paper this is the mother of all cycle computers. As well as the usual parameters (wireless cadence, speed, distance), it measures heart rate, temperature, altitude, gradient, total ascent/descent and can probably predict what your mum’s cooking for dinner. It interfaces with a PC via a USB connection and software supplied for ‘easy’ analysis. In […]
Nobody has a better reputation for computer reliability than Cateye, but visibility and versatility could be better. While the rack-and-pinion thumbwheel attachment strip is very clever, it’s a lot bulkier than zip ties and can’t cope with flat wing-style bars. The combined cadence and speed sensor makes for easy set-up and rear-wheel turbo compatibility. The […]
Sigma has always had a solid reputation for decent easy-to-use computers and this full-function squarehead is no exception. Paying nearly £100 gets you chrome sidestripes and crisp detailing all round, as well as a massive book of instructions. ‘O’ ring installation is easy and repeatable on different bikes without the need for extra zip ties. […]
The Pro range is basically Shimano’s set of accessories, and this computer was a joy to use. The head-unit twist locks into a thin, but perfectly secure stem- or bar-mount cradle that’ll flatten to fit onto wing bars. HR belt is a bit broad, stiff and basic, but it registered reliably from the first lick […]
Ciclosport has a big European presence and Lance Armstrong was a long-time user, but this computer needs several add-ons to compete on functions. Having to pay £32.99 extra for the heart-rate belt and £24.99 for the cadence sensor is the sting, especially as the software and USB stick that you need to work with the […]
If you want cutting-edge computing power then you have to look at Garmin’s latest GPS-enabled baby. First thing you’ll realise is that this is a big piece of kit even compared to the old 305. However, while it definitely takes up a lot of space on the bars, it sits on top of a stem […]
We’re guessing the electronics designer for Blackburn has an impressive collection of Star Wars figures, but behind the retro styling there’s some decent stuff going on. Fitting comes second to cosmetics, though, as the big handlebar clamp only fits around section bars, and the steerer tube mount tends to rattle on the stem top. Despite […]
This little square comp is basic, but what it does it does well. Head and transmitter mount simply and easily with ‘O rings’ that make initial fitting to either stem or bar, and subsequent switching between bikes, easy. Once you’ve knocked it out of the default German language setting, getting it going is easy and […]
The Velomann sounded promising but proved to be a very frustrating comp to use. On the plus side there was no trouble fitting the universal twin zip-tie bar/stem mount even to flat profile bars. And while it’s bulky, the combined cadence and speed sensor unit means you only have to fit one piece. One of […]
Mavic’s Gallic flair has created a very neat set-up here and it delivers the essentials well. The whole sensor/fork leg trauma you normally experience is avoided by the use of a fattened front wheel QR skewer that also doubles as the transmitter. The slim head unit takes up minimal space but you’ll need to buy […]
