Using a smartwatch as a bike computer: How it works

• Smartwatches can also be used as bike computers with a suitable mount
• You can use the watches, like a bike computer, to record your route and with some models you can even do hand work
• Not all smartwatches are suitable as bike computers. You also have to do without professional features and the larger screen.

Bike computers have become an indispensable addition to bikes, especially for cycling enthusiasts. The devices can be used to measure various values ​​such as speed or distance – more expensive devices that have an LCD display can even be used for navigation. What many people don't know is that modern smartwatches can also replace a bike computer to a certain extent. We explain here how this works and what limitations there are.

In principle, smartwatches can be used as bicycle computers. To do this, the smart watch is clamped into a suitable holder that is attached to the handlebars of the bicycle. Suitable holders are available on Amazon and other retailers for just a few euros. A largely universally usable model is the holder from TUSITA, for example, to which you can attach all smartwatches with a strap width of less than 35 mm. The sporting goods retailer Decathlon also offers its own universal bicycle mount.

At Buy mount from Tusita*

Advertisement

At Decathlon Buy universal mount*

Advertisement

How to use a smartwatch as a bike computer

If the watch is mounted on the bike, you can either start the bike training mode on your smartwatch or navigation via Google Maps or Apple Maps. This is where users are likely to encounter the biggest problem: very few models are able to display navigation, current speed and other data that are normally shown at a glance on a bike computer on the screen at the same time.

With WearOS models, you at least have the option of running the training in the background and opening the maps navigation in the foreground. This makes it possible to record the route and operate it at the same time; however, you do not have a direct overview of your current speed. This is important to many cyclists – a major limitation compared to bike computers.

However, if you don't need to navigate your routes, the training mode should be perfect for you. All important data such as speed, distance, gradient and time are displayed. In comparison to real bike computers, however, all data here is based on the GPS reception and the acceleration sensors of the watch, which can sometimes be less accurate than the data from the magnetic sensor that most bike computers use.

• ” Tip: The best VPN providers for more security and data protection
• » Buy a balcony power plant: Comparison of the best solar systems