Sigma, Garmin and Co. in comparison
The trend shows that bicycle computers for professionals and ambitious hobby cyclists have become indispensable. Numerous manufacturers such as Garmin, Wahoo or Sigma therefore offer bicycle speedometers for exactly this purpose – in addition to GPS, the devices often have a wide range of other functions. We present some of the most popular models and tell you what else you should pay attention to before buying.
Contents
Wahoo Element Bolt v2
GIGA tip Of the Wahoo Element Bolt v2 (look at Amazon) is probably one of the most popular bike computers on the market right now. In the meantime, its predecessor has therefore been replaced by an improved version, which speaks all the more for the success of the GPS bike computer. The most important change is above all the new display, which can now finally display colors just like the Elemnt Roam. However, it is rather small at just 2.2 inches, which should be taken into account before purchasing.
Probably a matter of taste: The display is not operated by touch, but with the associated buttons. However, this is an enormous relief, especially in the rain or with gloves. In addition, the internal memory for your maps has been increased from 2 to 16 GB – a welcome change in itself, but still a bit poor compared to competing products. Last but not least, almost all common apps such as Strava or Komoot can be linked to the GPS computer. This also applies to the in-house sensors, which are optionally available – they measure speed, cadence or heart rate to make your training even more effective.
advantages
- Integration of common apps (Strava, Komoot etc.)
- IPX7 water protection
- color display
- Sensors for power measurement optionally available
- Compatible with Wahoo KICKR
Disadvantages
- Only 16 GB of internal memory
- Display is only 2.2 inches
- Mediocre battery life
The Wahoo Elemnt Bolt v2 is my first bike computer and after just a few rides it was clear: I wouldn’t want to be without this device anymore. Gone are the days when I had to worry about the battery in my cell phone, which previously served as a navigation device during my tours. Helpful turn-by-turn directions (a friendly beeping can also be heard as an option) keep me informed at all times about the further course of the route. At the touch of a button, I can also display all relevant data such as kilometers traveled, speed, incline or similar. Theoretically, this works just as well with the corresponding apps on the mobile phone. A device like the Wahoo Elemnt Bolt v2 is still a lot more practical, which is not least due to the significantly longer battery life compared to a smartphone.
Sigma Sport Rox 2.0
price tip A good bike computer like that Sigma Sport Rox 2.0 (look at Fahrrad XXL) does not have to cost a fortune directly. If your budget is almost exhausted after buying a bike, this affordable entry-level model may be the right choice. At first glance, the device may look like a conventional speedometer, but behind the simple-looking facade is a very capable GPS bike computer.
That The device can be paired with your smartphone, by installing the accompanying Sigma Ride app. You can also connect it to Komoot – the routes planned there are sent to the Sigma Sport Rox 2.0, which then navigates you to your destination. Certainly you have to accept some compromises compared to significantly higher priced products. For example, the display is limited to turn-by-turn directions. Detailed information about your route and a map view are missing. In addition, the connection with external sensors is not possible. But for the price, it’s really bearable.
advantages
- Ideal for beginners
- Solid battery life
- Easy to read display
- Integration of Komoot
Disadvantages
- Only shows turn-by-turn directions and no map
- Cannot connect to external sensors
Garmin Edge 1040 Solar
With the Garmin Edge 1040 Solar (look at Fahrrad XXL) we go straight into the high-end area in terms of bike computers. This is the current top model from Garmin. This version also has a special feature: there are tiny solar modules on the top, which should ensure a greatly improved battery life in good conditions. According to the manufacturer, the bike computer lasts up to 45 hours in normal operation. In energy-saving mode, it is even 100 hours.
As befits a device in this price range, it is possible to connect additional sensors, the in-house indoor bike trainer and other gadgets to the Garmin Edge 1040 Solar. So if you want, you can do it this way a fully interconnected ecosystem create that always accompanies you during your training or during longer tours. In addition to the high price, some people could be particularly bothered by the touch display. Although it is sufficiently large at 3.5 inches, experience has shown that it does not always work reliably in bad weather or with gloves.
advantages
- Excellent battery life thanks to solar technology
- IPX7 water protection
- Large color display
- 64GB internal memory
- Integration of common apps (Strava, Komoot etc.)
- Compatible with Garmin Smart Trainers
Disadvantages
- Touch display difficult to use with gloves/in the rain
- high price
Hammerhead Karoo 2
Similar to the devices from Garmin or Wahoo, the Hammerhead Karoo 2 (look at Fahrrad XXL) also a true all-rounder. The main difference to the competition is the integrated slot for the SIM card. The bike computer’s Android-based software can be connected via mobile internet, making the Karoo 2 the best-connected computer on this list.
That’s really an exciting approach, but it’s probably also the biggest weakness of the device. The battery only lasts up to 7 hours at full capacity, which could become a problem depending on the application. The internal memory of 32 GB is sufficiently large for this. So if you’re looking for an alternative far away from the mainstream, you’ve probably come to the right place. But you should definitely think about charging cables and power banks for longer tours.
advantages
- Mobile Internet connection possible via SIM card
- Android-based software
- Color display with touch and additional controls
- 32GB internal memory
- Integration of common apps (Strava, Komoot etc.)
Disadvantages
- Only IP67 protection against dust and water
- Weak battery life
Sigma Sport Rox 11.1 Evo
Of the Sigma Sport Rox 11.1 Evo (look at Fahrrad XXL) is one of the current flagships of the manufacturer. Compared to the competition, the bike computer is still in the lower price range. That’s why it could be a worthwhile alternative for many.
The positive points first: The color display is easy to read and thanks to the large buttons it is just as easy to operate. In addition, he holds Battery lasts up to 18 hours, which is a more than acceptable value. Finally, the device is compatible with numerous apps and external sensors can also be connected to the computer. However, the navigation is somewhat limited, since you are only shown the rough route without real map material. But if you are consciously looking for a device that only has the necessary basics, you should definitely take a closer look at the Sigma Sport 11.1 Evo.
advantages
- Solid battery life
- Easy-to-read color display
- Easy to use with large buttons
- Compatible with external sensors
- Integration of Komoot and other apps
Disadvantages
- Only IP67 protection against dust and water
- Only shows route and no map
This is how we selected the recommendations
We conduct intensive research for every article of this type so that we can then pass on the knowledge we have gained to our readers in a compact and, above all, understandable way. Likewise, all listed products are always selected with care and different purposes and price segments are also taken into account.
In addition to my fascination for video games and (PC) hardware, the bicycle is also one of my preferred means of transport – be it with the single speed in daily city traffic or with the gravel bike on tours lasting several days. Of course, I have even more fun with the right equipment, which is where my passion for technology comes into play again. The purchase of every new gadget is first thoroughly researched, which has meanwhile gotten around in my circle of friends and acquaintances. In order to give you the best possible overview, we have included external user opinions in our selection in addition to our own experiences.
How we test at GIGA and why you trust our judgement we have explained here:
You can find more information about the best apps for route planning and navigation as well as further recommendations for bicycle gadgets in the related article:
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