Cycling has become popular as more people turn to this enjoyable and healthy activity. Whether you are a beginner or an enthusiast looking to take your cycling to the next level, investing in a good cycling computer can significantly enhance your experience. A cycling computer, also known as a bicycle cyclometer or bicycle GPS, provides valuable data to help you track and improve your performance. In this article, we’ll discuss the basic data needs of cyclists, compare entry-level and middle-class options from Bryton, and help you decide which is the best for you.
Basic Data Needs of Cyclists
Bike computers are specially designed devices with features tailored specifically for cycling activities. They typically require a dedicated mount so you can easily view them while riding. The most common features of these cycling gadgets include monitoring speed, distance, and time, with GPS integration offering more accurate measurements. Bike computer GPS is usually more accurate in open areas where it can capture satellite signals effectively. However, in more obstructed areas like tall buildings, trees, or tunnels, smartphone GPS, which is also aided by GSM signals, can provide better location accuracy.
Here are the key metrics that are essential:
- Speed: Knowing your current, average, and maximum speed helps you gauge your effort and performance.
- Distance: Tracking how far you’ve ridden is fundamental for setting and achieving goals.
- Time: Monitoring the duration of your ride helps in planning and assessing endurance.
- Cadence: The rate at which you pedal, or cadence, is crucial for maintaining efficiency and preventing fatigue.
- GPS Navigation: For those exploring new routes, GPS navigation helps ensure you stay on track.
- Heart Rate: Monitoring heart rate helps in training within your optimal heart rate zones, maximizing performance and safety.
Many bike computers also come with software or additional apps to download recorded cycling data. This data can be transformed into graphs, maps, analyses, and comparisons. Many people overlook these features, merely using the device without leveraging its full potential. However, this data and analysis are extremely useful for assessing performance and providing feedback to achieve more efficient cycling.
Advantages of Entry-Level Cycling Computer: Bryton Rider 15 Neo
The Bryton Rider 15 Neo is an excellent choice for beginners or casual cyclists on a budget. It is the most affordable cycling computer in Bryton’s lineup, making it accessible for those new to cycling or those not wanting to make a significant financial investment. Despite its low cost, the Rider 15 Neo supports up to 21 functions, providing rich data such as distance, time, altitude, temperature, heading, speed, cadence, and heart rate. This data can be reviewed post-workout using the Bryton Active companion app, available for both iOS and Android.
The Rider 15 Neo features a large 2” segment-type HTN LCD display, which can show up to four data grids per page (with a maximum of five pages). This ensures clear visibility of speed data and other metrics from any angle and in various lighting conditions. Equipped with a powerful 16-hour battery (430 mAh), the Rider 15 Neo supports long rides without the need for frequent recharging and allows on-the-go power bank charging.
Connecting with the Bryton Active app via BLE enables the Rider 15 Neo to display phone notifications, including calls, texts, and emails, directly on the device, making it a smart companion for every ride. The high-contrast screen can be brightly illuminated, making it suitable for riding in dimly lit areas or at night. Additionally, pairing with the Bryton Active app allows cyclists to customize data fields and pages based on their training goals, enhancing its user-friendliness and versatility. The Rider 15 Neo also supports simple setup and synchronization with popular training apps like STRAVA, TrainingPeaks, and Selfloops, facilitating easy sharing of activities and comparison with millions of other users.
The Bryton Rider 15 Neo is perfect for beginners or casual cyclists who are budget-conscious but still want to track essential data. Its affordable price point and comprehensive features make it an excellent starting point for those new to cycling or those who cycle casually and want to monitor their performance without a large financial investment.
Advantages of Middle-Class Cycling Computer: Bryton Rider 320
For those looking to take their cycling more seriously, the Bryton Rider 320 is an excellent middle-class option, offering advanced features at a competitive price. This makes it a great choice for cycling enthusiasts who need comprehensive data and reliable performance.
The Rider 320 is the most cost-effective option in Bryton’s middle-class lineup, providing an impressive array of features compared to its competitors. The 2.3-inch high-quality black and white screen is optically bonded for crystal-clear readability from any angle and in any environment. It can display up to 8 data fields per page, across a maximum of 7 pages, allowing cyclists to monitor their real-time performance comprehensively.
The Rider 320 supports both ANT+ and BLE sensors, enabling tracking of speed, cadence, heart rate, and power. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of accessories for enhanced training. It offers full GNSS support, including GPS, Glonass, BDS, Galileo, and QZSS, providing fast start-ups and reliable satellite coverage in various environments, whether urban, forested, or mountainous.
With over 72 functions, the Rider 320 provides detailed metrics to accurately gauge performance, including time, speed, distance, calories, cadence, altitude, power, laps, temperature, and heart rate. It boasts an impressive battery life of up to 35 hours on a single charge, with the ability to recharge via a power bank while recording, making it ideal for long-distance rides. The device also supports power meter calibration and pedal analysis, enhancing its compatibility with ANT+ power meters and enabling detailed left/right pedal power analysis.
The Rider 320 offers smart notifications for phone calls, emails, and text messages after pairing with your smartphone via BLE, ensuring you stay connected without distractions. Using the Bryton Active App, you can easily customize data fields and pages according to your training goals, ensuring relevant information is always at your fingertips. It also integrates seamlessly with popular training apps like STRAVA, TrainingPeaks, and Selfloops, making it simple to share activities and compare performance with other cyclists.
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Summary: Best Use for Cyclists
The Rider 15 Neo is a more affordable option compared to the Rider 320, making it ideal for budget-conscious cyclists. It offers up to 120 hours of log history, while the Rider 320 provides a more extensive 300-hour log history. The Rider 15 Neo supports BLE Smart Sensor 5.0, suitable for basic sensor connectivity, whereas the Rider 320 supports both ANT+ and BLE dual-band sensors, offering greater compatibility with advanced training accessories.
In terms of display, the Rider 320 features a larger and higher-quality LCD screen compared to the HTN LCD display of the Rider 15 Neo. This allows the Rider 320 to show more data per page and provide better readability from various angles. Additionally, the Rider 320 offers more functions and a significantly longer battery life than the Rider 15 Neo. It also supports power meter calibration and pedal support, making it a more versatile tool for serious cyclists.
For beginners or casual cyclists who prioritize a low budget, the Rider 15 Neo is a recommended choice due to its good display, durability, water resistance, and essential data tracking. However, for enthusiasts seeking advanced features, longer battery life, enhanced durability, better display options, and comprehensive sensor support, the Rider 320 is the superior choice. Its extensive functions and superior display make it an invaluable tool for those looking to elevate their cycling experience.
For more advanced features suited to professional cyclists, be sure to check out our article on high-end cycling computers.
Joining a cycling community, such as Rodalink Social Rides, can further enrich your journey. These communities offer support, camaraderie, and opportunities to learn from experienced cyclists. Engaging in social rides can also provide additional motivation and make your cycling experience more enjoyable.
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