Are you a cycling or mountain biking enthusiast and want more insight into your performance? Then connectable sensors for your bike computer are essential. With a cadence sensor, heart rate monitor, and speed sensor, you get accurate real-time data to analyze and improve your training. These sensors provide insight into important data such as cadence, heart rate zones, and riding speed. All of this is visible on your bike computer or sports watch .
What do these sensors do?
A cadence sensor measures your pedal revolutions per minute (RPM). This helps you pedal more efficiently, prevent injuries, and find your ideal cadence. A consistent cadence is especially important for your energy consumption during long rides or interval training.
A speed sensor measures your precise speed and distance, independently of GPS. This sensor is usually mounted on the front or rear wheel and is ideal for accurate measurements in areas with poor GPS reception, such as forests or tunnels. A speed sensor is also a valuable addition to an indoor trainer .
The heart rate monitor, often in the form of a chest strap or optical wristband, continuously records your heart rate while cycling. This gives you insight into how hard your body is working and which heart rate zones you're training in. This allows you to target training for endurance, fat burning, or recovery.
How do you connect sensors to your bike computer?
Most sensors work wirelessly and connect via ANT+ or Bluetooth. Many modern cycling computers, such as those from Garmin , Wahoo , or Bryton, support both protocols. This allows you to pair multiple sensors simultaneously, such as a heart rate monitor and a cadence sensor.
Pairing is simple: turn on your bike computer, go to the sensor settings menu, and select "add new sensor." Once the sensor is active (for example, by pedaling or wearing the heart rate monitor), it will be automatically recognized. You can then give the sensor a name and customize the screen where the data is displayed.
Sports watches and training apps such as Zwift , Strava or Wahoo SYSTM also support these sensors, making them ideal for both outdoor rides and indoor training.
Well-known brands of bicycle sensors
Several brands offer reliable cycling sensors. Garmin offers high-quality heart rate straps, cadence, and speed sensors that work perfectly with their Edge cycling computers. Wahoo, known for its ELEMNT series, offers compact and accurate sensors with easy pairing options via Bluetooth and ANT+. Bryton and Sigma offer affordable, well-functioning alternatives that are particularly popular among recreational cyclists. Polar focuses primarily on heart rate monitoring and offers compatible sensors for multiple sports.
Some sensors are also available in bundles, so you have everything you need to complete your cycling data at once.
Improve your training with accurate data
With connectable sensors for your bike computer, you can train more focused, efficiently, and smarter. Whether you're training for a race, touring, or simply want to improve your performance, insight into your speed, cadence, and heart rate gives you the tools to take yourself to the next level.
Want to know which sensors are compatible with your bike computer? At Cycle Center 5311, we're happy to help with personalized advice and a wide selection of sensors from top brands. Order easily online and pair your new sensor with your bike computer or sports watch in minutes.
