Bicyle Speedometer vs. GPS Sports Watch
Measuring Cycling Performance
Which is best for measuring performance between a bicycle speedometer vs. a GPS sports watch? Both will do some of the same things, but the final analysis of which one is best for you will depend on a few key factors.
Here is how to make the proper decision on which bicycle gadget is best for you.
Bicycle Speedometer
A bicycle speedometer is a very simple electronic device for a bicycle that will offer a reasonably accurate measurement of speed to let you know how fast you are going while biking.
There are some key benefits to selecting a bicycle speedometer.
- it is very inexpensive
- satisfactory measurement of current speed keeps you on pace
- other features include average speed and maximum speed
- very easy to read while biking
Really, if you are looking for a simple to read display of speed to keep you on a goal pace, an inexpensive bicycle speedometer is a great choice and will serve you very well. It's easy to install and use.
GPS Sports Watch
A GPS-enabled sports watch will also measure your speed, but will include a number of other features that may make this the bicycle gadget of choice.
The key benefits of using a GPS sports watch instead of a simple bicycle speedometer are below.
- additional functions like calories, route, and pace are included
- may include quick upload to the internet for analysis
- with a heart rate monitor strap they will show heart rate
If it is features and more data that you want, a GPS watch is what you need. However, these little devices are considerably more expensive than the standard bicycle speedometer, so make sure you really need it before buying. A watch is less convenient to view when biking, but the additional features will be something you use in other workouts as well such as jogging or even walking.
Feature
| Bicycle Speedometer
| GPS Sports Watch
|
---|---|---|
Easiest To Read
| X
| |
Heart Rate Monitor
| X
| |
Low Cost
| X
| |
Route Tracking
| X
| |
Usable For Other Workouts
| X
|
How Will You Measure Progress?
If you want a device to measure cycling performance you really can't go wrong with either a bicycle speedometer or a sports watch. The bottom line is this. If you want to keep cost down and really just want to target a consistent speed in your workout with a simple device that is super easy to read while you are pedaling, a bicycle speedometer is for you.
If you really want a feature-rich device that will go beyond your cycling routine and work in your other workouts, or if you need the addition of a heart rate monitor or desire the other goodies that come with it, a GPS-enabled sports watch is a lot of fun and offers a wealth of data.
Now that you know which is best for you in the battle of bicycle speedometer vs. GPS sports watch, make your choice and get back on your bike for another workout.