Experimenting with utilizing a mobile device instead of a bike computer for a week's worth of use - the outcomes observed.
In the world of cycling, keeping track of crucial metrics and navigating routes efficiently is paramount. Enter Cadence, a smartphone app that's challenging the dominance of high-end dedicated bike computers.
Cadence offers a like-for-like feature set at a significantly lower cost compared to other bike computers. The most function-rich version of the app, Cadence Elite, costs just $39.99 a year. This affordability makes it an attractive option for many cyclists.
For those planning to upgrade their computer but seeking a bigger screen for improved legibility, Cadence would undoubtedly be on their shortlist. The app's capability on smartphones is now rivaling many of the best dedicated bike computers in terms of functionality and performance.
Users benefit from a larger, brighter screen with easy navigation between metrics and full integration of data within the app, eliminating the sync delays typical of separate devices. Advanced features such as bike radar integration (e.g., Garmin Varia), Strava live segments, offline maps, turn-by-turn navigation, live tracking, and the ability to import GPX routes from popular sources like Strava and Komoot are all part of the package.
Post-ride analytics are rich and powerful, covering speed, power, laps, splits, and even vehicle detection through radar[1][3]. The navigation features are easy to use, with the screen's quality and size being most apparent[4]. Swiping between screens is easier due to the larger target[4].
Initiating a ride with Cadence involves hitting a big red start button and pedaling. The live tracking functioned reliably, and the traffic band on the user's iPhone screen mimicked the experience on their Edge 1050[2]. The iPhone screen used with Cadence is brighter, crisper, and larger than any bike computer screen[4].
For first-time investors in a bike computer, Cadence is a serious consideration. The user, who cycles for 7 to 10 hours a week, uses a Quad Lock mount to secure their phone to their bike bars. Their Garmin Radar worked faultlessly with Cadence[2]. Post-ride analysis is instantaneous because all data is stored within the app[5].
While elite bike computers still hold some edge in hardware features and battery endurance for professional or ultra-endurance use[1][2][5], for most cyclists, especially those riding moderate durations who value a combination of advanced metrics, navigation, and integration, the Cadence smartphone app is now a viable alternative to many standalone bike computers.
[1] Cadence App vs High-End Bike Computers: A Comparative Analysis [2] Cadence App Review: Transforming Smartphones into Powerful Bike Computers [3] Cadence App: A Comprehensive Guide for Cyclists [4] Cadence App: A New Era for Bike Computing [5] Cadence App vs Garmin Edge 1050: A Detailed Comparison
- In the realm of sports, cyclists are finding a new advantage in using smartphones as bike computers, with Cadence becoming increasingly popular due to its robust feature set and affordability.
- For tech enthusiasts who love sports, the integration of technology in cycling has expanded, making smartphones like a versatile gadget that can double as a high-performing bike computer, such as the Cadence app.
