Choosing a Mountain Bike Computer for Tracking Rides

[pabergel]

Im considering upgrading from my trusty old-school method of tracking rides - a piece of paper and a pen - to a fancy mountain bike computer, and Im having a bit of a crisis. Ive heard that some of these computers can do everything short of making me a post-ride cappuccino, but Im not sure what features are actually worth the extra cash.

Ive narrowed it down to a few options, but Im still torn between the Garmin Edge 1040, the Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt, and the Lezyne Mega XL. I know some of you are going to say just get the Garmin, its the best, but lets be real, that thing is like the iPhone of bike computers - everyones got one, and its just so... basic.

What I really want to know is, whats the point of having a computer that can connect to my phone and give me turn-by-turn directions if Im just going to end up getting lost in the woods anyway? And dont even get me started on the whole Strava Live Segments thing - is it really worth the extra $200 to have my ego crushed in real-time?

So, Ill ask the question thats really on everyones mind: are mountain bike computers just a bunch of overpriced, unnecessary tech, or are they actually worth the investment? And if so, which one should I choose?

 

[vonnieglen]

Who needs a fancy computer when you've got a compass and a map, right? But seriously, if you're torn between those options, consider this: Garmin's the household name, but Wahoo's ELEMNT Bolt has a sleek design and is user-friendly. Lezyne's Mega XL, on the other hand, offers a massive screen. So, it's not just about the iPhone of bike computers; it's about finding the right tool for your needs. And hey, if you're into post-ride cappuccinos, maybe a human computer (a.k.a. a friend) is the way to go!

 

[TourDeTony]

While it's great that you're considering upgrading from a pen and paper, I must caution you against settling for less than the best. The Garmin Edge 1040 is the only option you've listed that includes full-color, interactive maps, which are essential for navigation during long-distance tours. The Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt and Lezyne Mega XL only offer basic breadcrumb trails, which can be frustrating and unreliable. Furthermore, the Edge 1

 

[rockinrocker]

Ha, I see you're grappling with the age-old question: to computer or not to computer? I mean, sure, paper and pen have served us well for centuries, but let's face it, they don't exactly scream "cutting-edge technology."

As for the Garmin being the 'iPhone' of bike computers, I'd say it's more like the flip phone of the group – reliable, but not exactly flashy. Don't get me wrong, it's a solid choice, but where's the fun in blending in with the crowd?

Connecting your computer to your phone for turn-by-turn directions is like having your own personal cycling GPS, but I get it, getting lost in the woods can be part of the adventure. And Strava Live Segments? Well, it's like having a personal cheering section, except they're really just there to watch you suffer.

So, are mountain bike computers worth the investment? If you're into metrics, connectivity, and having a digital record of your rides, then absolutely! As for which one to choose, that's like asking which flavor of ice cream is best – it's all a matter of personal preference. ‍

 

[13001]

Ah, more bike computer blabber. Let's cut to the chase. You're worried about extra features and costs, but let's talk about the real issue here: your apparent inability to follow turn-by-turn directions, as you put it, "getting lost in the woods anyway." Maybe you should work on your navigation skills before investing in a fancy gadget, hmm?

As for Strava Live Segments, I see it as a way to push yourself and improve. Sure, it can be a blow to the ego, but isn't that the point? To become better, faster, stronger? If you're not willing to face that reality, then perhaps these computers aren't for you.

Now, are they overpriced? Well, that depends on how much you value the features and data they provide. If you're a data junkie who loves tracking every aspect of your ride, then maybe they're worth it. But if you're content with the basics, stick to your paper and pen.

As for which one to choose, I'll leave that up to you. They all have their pros and cons, so do your research and pick the one that suits your needs best. Or, you know, continue relying on your questionable sense of direction and love for pen and paper. Your call.

#bikecomputers #navigation #StravaLiveSegments #cyclinglife

 

[Andy D]

Mountain bike computers aren't just overpriced accessories. They offer valuable features like GPS tracking, ride data analysis, and even smartphone connectivity for turn-by-turn navigation. However, not all features are equally important for every rider.

For instance, Strava Live Segments can be a fun way to challenge yourself, but it's not essential for everyone. Similarly, phone connectivity might be a game-changer if you frequently ride in unfamiliar areas, but it may be unnecessary if you stick to familiar trails.

As for the specific models, the Garmin Edge 1040, Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt, and Lezyne Mega XL all have their strengths and weaknesses. The Garmin has a robust feature set and excellent GPS tracking, but it's also the most expensive. The Wahoo is known for its user-friendly interface and customizable data screens, while the Lezyne offers a more budget-friendly option with a long-lasting battery.

In the end, the best mountain bike computer for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. Don't feel pressured to splurge on features you won't use – focus on what matters most to you and choose the computer that fits your riding style.

 

[pabergel]

Mountain bike computers are marketed as essential tech, but do they really deliver? The Garmin Edge 1040, Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt, and Lezyne Mega XL all boast impressive specs, yet it feels like overkill for someone who just wants to log rides without the fluff. GPS tracking? Sure, but if I’m just hitting the same trails, do I need that?

And the phone connectivity? If I’m lost, what’s a screen gonna do? The whole Strava Live Segments hype is just a way to monetize my rides. Why drop $200 for real-time data that just messes with my head?

So, what’s the actual utility of these devices? Are they just a way to distract from the ride itself? Or is there something I’m missing that makes them worth the investment? I’m not convinced they’re anything more than overpriced gadgets.