As you start taking the challenging routes, riding longer distances, and covering scenic countryside, your bicycle needs something extra to pack a punch. This is where the best bike computer for Strava and compatible with other useful outdoor apps for recording activities come into play.
The modern bike computers of today have come a long way from the original and humble cyclo-computer that was designed to calculate the distance. These compact devices feature Bluetooth, GPS chip, WiFi, ANT+, Strava Live Segments, and much more.
For the beginners, Strava is one of the world’s best tracking apps that is compatible with your smartphone, bike computer, GPS watches, head units and a host of other popular devices. It helps you record your performance metrics and stats to delve deep into the details later on.
Besides recording your riding data, you are also allowed to export your outdoor activities and share your adventures with friends. Strava also works like a social networking platform for like-minded bike enthusiasts to share their races on the news feed and comment on each other’s activities.
Strava also turns your bike computer into a storehouse of new race routes and riding trails. If there’s a road that has been ridden or run, you can expect to find it on this global community. So, whether you wish to build a new route, seek a suggestion or get inspired by a friend’s activity, you can do them all here.
I am sure that gives you a fair idea why serious bikers love to be on Strava and make sure they are connected on every ride. However, if you start looking for the best Strava compatible cycle computer, expect to be confused with so many options available online.
To make it easier for you to find that perfect one, we have reviewed dozens of bike computers for Strava and handpicked a few based on our research, analysis, and comparison. If you are too busy to read till the end then we recommend the Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt GPS Bike Computer (learn more) that can be used both on the trainer and bikes to get great results every time.
#1. Garmin Edge 830 Mountain Bike Bundle
If you want to put your endurance to test or emerge as an unbeatable racer then you must check out the Garmin Edge 830 Mountain Bike Bundle. This is a performance GPS bike computer with impressive touchscreen and mapping features.
It is compatible with sensors and brings superior activity performance monitoring at your fingertips with easy access to a data including training load focus, VO2 max, altitude acclimation, hydration, nutrition, and recovery. To help you get better in the game, the MTB dynamics also tracks the jump distance, jump count, hang time, and also the difficulty levels.
When you take the route less traveled, you can still have your peace of mind as the cycle computer comes with a new bike alarm, group tracking, messaging and assistance. It is also compatible with the Varia rearview so that you can easily see and be seen as well.
It also includes the Garmin Cycle Map that helps you explore different locales and ride confidently like a local. With features like route creation, integrated trail data, and off-course recalculation, it helps you make the most of your time on the road. Although the device offers up to 20 hours of battery life with GPS, you can get up to 40 hours of extra battery life with Garmin Charge power pack.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 3.20 x 0.80 x 1.90 inches
- Weighs 2.72 ounces
- Edge 830 touchscreen
- In-ride notifications
- Connect IQ Store
- Dynamic performance monitoring
- Garmin Heart Rate Monitor straps
- Speed Sensor & Mountain Bike Mount
- Up to 40 hours battery life
User/ Customer reviews
People are impressed with how impressive and responsive their Garmin Edge 830 touchscreen is. Both intermediate and pro bike riders find this incredibly useful to stay on track when they ride on unidentified trails.
Users have also mentioned that the buttons and functions are so user-friendly, they can easily swipe the screen to see more data on display. A few customers have said that the high price hurts a bit and installation is not that simple, but the battery life and results you get after that are flawless.
Conclusion
If you have an adventurer in you who likes to travel and explore new trails and share experiences with fellow MTB enthusiasts, the Garmin Edge 830 Mountain Bike Bundle is a must-have. Although it is slightly more expensive than an ordinary bike computer, the end results are absolutely exhilarating.
#2. Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt GPS Bike Computer
When you are a bike racer or mountain biker raring to break the boundaries and set new records, you can’t be content with just any cycle computer. Just customizing your bike is not enough, and you need something more powerful like the Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt GPS bike computer (learn more) to record your activities and data.
This is the first-ever aerodynamic design GPS cycle computer that is meant to be installed on the front of your bike. You just need to download Wahoo’s ELEMNT app, pair it up with the device, configure it with ease and ride. It comes with automatic route downloads and uploads that are easily compatible with third-party apps such as Strava, Singletracks, Komoot, and Ride With GPS.
The Wahoo bike computer comes with an integrated stem mount, aero out-front mount, and charging cable. It allows you to create a new route, get pop-up notifications, and LED notifications on screen so that you never miss out on a turn.
The device is waterproof to help you enjoy your outdoor activities in all types of weather. It comes supported by Satellites like BEIDOU Galileo, GPS, GLONASS, and QZSS; and fully integrated with Strava Live Segments to give you that extra push to achieve your goals.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 1.86 x 0.87 x 2.94 inches
- Weighs 2.20 ounces
- Aerodynamic Design
- KICKR/SNAP Control
- Wireless Uploads and Downloads
- Tactile Smart Buttons
- Quicklook LED Indicators
- Strava Live Segments
- Call, Text and E-mail Alerts
User/ Customer reviews
Cyclists love the integration among the various apps and functions to help them deliver an unbeatable performance and record activities like none other. The integration with Strava is amazing and they also work perfectly with the indoor cyclists to give advanced data.
Users love how beautifully the sensors sync to deliver a great performance. People have also expressed their happiness on how easily they are able to shift from their trainer to different bikes by using the Wahoo Elemnt app.
Conclusion
When you wish to get more from every ride, measure your every progress and push your limits to achieve more, you need a powerful bike computer like the Wahoo ELEMNT (learn more). This GPS cycle computer for Strava is just what you need to take the leap and beat your past records.
#3. iGPSPORT IGS618 GPS Cycling Computer
This GPS bike computer from the iGPSPORT stable is compatible with a wide range of apps and sensors to help riders with fast positioning and better precision in complex riding environments. It comes with a 2.2 inch anti-glare LED color screen that is clearly visible in daylight and even after sunset.
The screen can be adjusted to three different modes – racing mode, training mode, and indoor mode. We love the fact that this advanced cyclo-computer is compatible with Strava to enable you to upload your rides, activities, and share them with your friends on social media.
The IGS618 GPS works with sensors to help record various stats related to speed, heart rate, cadence, and power. It is compatible with ANT+ sensors, Roto, SRM power meters, Stage, and Shimano. There are support setting and alarm functions for distance traveled time taken to reach the destination, and the amount of data storage. Besides Strava, you may also upload the activities to iGSPORT App for better data analysis. It has a good battery life that can last for up to 22 hours on a single charge.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 3.4 x 2.1 x 0.7 inches
- Weighs 3.2 ounces
- 2.2 inch anti-glare LED color screen
- IPX7 Waterproof
- 3000 hours’ data storage
- Rechargeable, built-in battery
- Bluetooth 4.0
- Wireless transmission
User/ Customer reviews
People find this affordable and convenient to use GPS bike computer that does a great job despite being much cheaper than the Garmin and Lezyne counterparts.
Users have said that the device locates the satellite within minutes and easily connects with the sensors and third-party apps such as Strava to upload rides and activities. A few users have said that the display is not a touchscreen, and it comes with three buttons with a menu that involves scrolling, hence it takes some time to get used to it.
Conclusion
When you want more out of every ride without having to burn a hole in your pocket, invest in the iGPSPORT IGS618 GPS Cycling Computer. At this price, you get a complete bundle that includes a handlebar mount and a USB flashlight. Overall, we feel that this is a great deal.
#4. iGPSPORT GPS Bike Computer
If you are looking for a cycle computer that is easier to operate and highly visible in sunlight then check out this GPS enabled device by iGPSPORT. It boasts a lightweight design with two buttons for simple and easy operation. As a highly-sensitive device, it acquires the satellites more accurately for correct positioning, tracking the distance traveled and the speed at which you ride.
The device does not directly connect to your smartphone but you have to install the third-party apps in order to do so. This GPS cycle computer supports all types of sensors to help you measure the heart rate, speed, and cadence.
To help you get better with your performance, it displays 12 real-time data such as speed (max and average), riding time, total distance, trip distance, gradient, altitude, temperature, date, time, and calorie. It supports all brands of ANT+ sensors, cadence sensors, speed sensors, and heart rate monitor.
It is also compatible with Strava to enable you to upload your riding activity files and the battery life stays up to 25 hours. The manufacturer stands behind the product with two years warranty and lifetime support for iGPSPORT.
Product features and specifications
- Weighs 4.2 ounces
- High-Sensitivity GPS
- Smart backlight
- Lightweight design
- Strava Compatible
- IPX6 Waterproof
- About 90h riding data memory
- Compatible with Cadence Speed Sensor
- Battery Up to 25 hours
- 2 year warranty
- Lifetime support
User/ Customer reviews
People are impressed with the accurate data even if you do not buy separate speed sensors and the satellite picks sensors within 30 seconds of turning it on. Users highly appreciate the lighted display and smart backlight which turns on and off automatically.
As the screen is waterproof, customers find it easy to embark on a bike trip in any weather condition. A few users have warned about the 24 hours format without any am or pm functions and lack of compass too.
Conclusion
If you are a beginner or intermediate rider hoping to take your bike riding skills to the next level, the iGPSPORT GPS Bike Computer is a good device to start with. It has a decent display and with good amount of data easily accessible while riding. It also has good connectivity with sensors and compatibility with apps to gives you optimum performance.
#5. XOSS G+ GPS Cycling Computer Wireless
When you want that extra push to extend your limits and beat your goals, you need something more powerful like the XOSS G+ GPS Cycling Computer (see Amazon). The device is compatible with Strava and supports ANT+ for external sensors such as heart rate, speed, cadence, etc. It is designed to track every moment of your body and the bike precisely.
The 1.8 inch LCD display gives you broadcast of all the details right in front of you and the automatic backlight boosts visibility as the sun goes down. The cycle computer comes with a built-in GPS with four-satellite positional systems and provides a stable connection on each ride. It is compatible with GPS, GLONASS, BEIDOU, and GALILEO.
The battery boasts a 25hrs battery life and gives the user 15 types of data recording along with numerous third – party apps sharing. The XOSS G+ is also equipped with IPX7 technology to give your water-resistance so that you can enjoy riding in all weather.
Product features and specifications
- Weighs 4 ounces
- 1.8 inch LCD display
- Automatic Backlight
- Built-in barometer
- Quad-Satellites System
- IPX7 Waterproof
- 25 hours of battery life
- XOSS App Support
- Sync with Strava
User/ Customer reviews
Customers find this bike computer easy to use and simple to install in less than 10 minutes. Users also find the compatibility with Strava easy flowing and the ability to use the app to upload rides and activities seamlessly.
Cyclists have said that the installation and set-up are extremely easy, and the screen is easy to view and read the updates. People are also impressed with the customer support which always has your back if you face any issues.
Conclusion
Those who want to watch the real-time stats of their heart rate, speed, and cadence right in front of their eyes find the XOSS G+ GPS Cycling Computer a good investment. It may not be at par with the high-end cyclocomputers, but they offer a good bang for your bucks.
Strava Tips For Cycling
After you are done with choosing the most suitable bike computer with Strava, you need to make sure that you make the most of the device. Whether you are a beginner, an intermediate or pro rider, you will find the device useful for all stages. Here are a few tips and tricks to improve your game.
Create new routes
If you are in an unknown location and finding it hard to understand the route, then let the Route Builder function to do it for you. You just need to tell the start and finish points to allow Strava to suggest a route, trail, or path that you otherwise do not find on Google.
Beat your past records
Set your goals high and beat your old records by racing on the same segment twice. When you go faster in your attempt, Strava will award you a virtual trophy. Some people manage to get multiple gold trophies that they can share on their social media platforms.
Break someone’s record
When you are a part of a global community, you realize you are not the only one who treads that road less traveled. Give other contenders a fierce competition and break other’s records to set new highs.
Take new challenges
Don’t let your spirits snooze. With Strava, you can take new challenges to discover interesting and creative ways to keep your users happy. It gives you a flow of new and exciting community features to motivate and promote.
Connect Strava to Fitbit and Garmin
One of the best things about Strava is that it can be connected with Fitbit and Garmin. So, if you already use a Garmin Forerunner device or Fitbit, you can make the most out of your Strava.
Join clubs
When you join new clubs and connect with like-minded people, you get motivated to embark on new routes, break records, and share your achievements with others. It encourages you to keep cycling and never give up.
Related Questions
Does strava use a lot of battery?
The Strava app is based on the location services, hence it requires extra battery power. So, if you are using Strava for recording rides, make sure your bike computer has a good battery life. When used with smartphones, it can record activities of more than 5 hours.
What happens when you auto-pause Strava?
When the auto-pause function is enabled, the app will automatically pause the activity when it detects that you are in rest. This negates the need to manually pause the app when you need to stop.
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