Best Bike Speed Sensors for Road & Mountain Biking

Choosing the right bike speed sensor can significantly enhance your cycling experience, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual rider. This guide will help you navigate the market, highlighting key features and functionalities to consider before making your purchase. We’ve reviewed top contenders to make your decision easier.

1. Garmin Wireless Bike Speed

Garmin Wireless Bike Speed

Garmin’s bundle provides accurate speed and distance data. It features both a speed and cadence sensor for comprehensive workout tracking. Easy to install and move between bikes, offering ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity for versatile use. Speed and cadence sensor bundle ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity Self-calibrating Odometer feature

Key Features

  • Speed and cadence sensor bundle
  • ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity
  • Self-calibrating
  • Odometer feature

Pros

  • Accurate data
  • Easy installation
  • Dual sensor functionality
  • Wide compatibility

Cons

  • Higher price point

Best for: Serious cyclists needing comprehensive data and wide compatibility

Why buy: Get precise speed and cadence readings for improved training. Enjoy versatile connectivity options and effortless bike-to-bike transfers.

2. Magene S3+ Outdoor/Indoor Speed/Cadence

Magene S3+ Outdoor/Indoor Speed/Cadence

Magene’s versatile sensor offers flexibility for indoor and outdoor cycling. It can be used for speed and cadence but requires two sensors to use simultaneously. Compact and efficient, boasting both ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity. Speed or cadence mode ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity Compact design Long battery life

Key Features

  • Speed or cadence mode
  • ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity
  • Compact design
  • Long battery life

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Versatile
  • Dual connectivity
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • One sensor mode at a time
  • Requires app-based search for connection

Best for: Budget-conscious cyclists needing speed or cadence data

Why buy: Enjoy a cost-effective solution for tracking speed and cadence. Benefit from its versatility for both indoor and outdoor cycling.

3. Garmin Speed Sensor 2

Garmin Speed Sensor 2

Another Garmin speed/cadence bundle; easy to install and move between bikes. Wireless and accurate, it pairs with various Garmin devices for comprehensive data. No magnets are used in its design. Speed and cadence sensors Wireless technology Easy installation Compatible with Garmin devices

Key Features

  • Speed and cadence sensors
  • Wireless technology
  • Easy installation
  • Compatible with Garmin devices

Pros

  • Accurate readings
  • Easy setup
  • Wireless convenience
  • Reliable performance

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Limited to Garmin ecosystem

Best for: Garmin users seeking simple, reliable speed and cadence tracking

Why buy: Experience the convenience and accuracy of Garmin’s wireless sensors. Benefit from seamless integration within the Garmin ecosystem.

4. Garmin 010-12843-00 Speed Sensor

Garmin 010-12843-00 Speed Sensor

This Garmin sensor focuses solely on speed. Easy to install, offers accurate speed and distance tracking for enhanced performance. Pairs effortlessly with Garmin devices and various training apps. Speed sensor only ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity Accurate speed and distance tracking Odometer functionality

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Key Features

  • Speed sensor only
  • ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity
  • Accurate speed and distance tracking
  • Odometer functionality

Pros

  • Precise speed measurement
  • Easy setup
  • Wide compatibility

Cons

  • No cadence data
  • Relatively expensive

Best for: Cyclists who need only speed data and are in the Garmin ecosystem

Why buy: Get highly accurate speed readings for performance analysis and training. Benefit from its effortless setup and wide compatibility.

5. Wahoo RPM Cycling Cadence

Wahoo RPM Cycling Cadence

Wahoo’s RPM sensor provides speed and cadence measurement. It integrates seamlessly with a variety of training apps and devices, featuring a sleek design and magnet-free installation. Offers both ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity options. Speed and cadence measurement ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity Sleek design Easy installation

Key Features

  • Speed and cadence measurement
  • ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity
  • Sleek design
  • Easy installation

Pros

  • Accurate data
  • Wide compatibility
  • User-friendly
  • Magnet-free

Cons

  • Price

Best for: Cyclists who want speed and cadence data with a focus on app integration

Why buy: Benefit from precise speed and cadence tracking for improved cycling efficiency. Enjoy seamless integration with your favorite training apps.

6. Wahoo TRACKR Speed Sensor

Wahoo TRACKR Speed Sensor

Wahoo TRACKR speed sensor delivers accurate speed data. Easy to install without magnets, it’s compatible with various devices, including Wahoo’s ecosystem. Offers ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity for enhanced versatility. Speed sensor only ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity Easy installation Compatible with Wahoo ecosystem

Key Features

  • Speed sensor only
  • ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity
  • Easy installation
  • Compatible with Wahoo ecosystem

Pros

  • Accurate speed data
  • Easy installation
  • Wide compatibility
  • Good battery life

Cons

  • Price

Best for: Cyclists who prefer a streamlined Wahoo setup

Why buy: Enjoy reliable speed readings with simple installation. Benefit from seamless integration with other Wahoo products.

7. CYCPLUS Bike Speed and

CYCPLUS Bike Speed and

CYCPLUS offers both speed and cadence sensors in one package. Easy to install, it utilizes ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity and boasts excellent battery life. A budget-friendly option for comprehensive data tracking. Speed and cadence sensors ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity Easy installation Long battery life

Key Features

  • Speed and cadence sensors
  • ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity
  • Easy installation
  • Long battery life

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Dual sensor functionality
  • Long battery life
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • Bluetooth limited to fitness apps

Best for: Budget-conscious cyclists needing both speed and cadence tracking

Why buy: Get both speed and cadence data at an affordable price. Benefit from long battery life and convenient installation.

8. COOSPO Bicycle Cadence &

COOSPO Bicycle Cadence &

COOSPO offers separate speed and cadence sensors for simultaneous use. Compatible with numerous apps and bike computers, it uses ANT+ and Bluetooth. Offers decent battery life and ease of installation. Separate speed and cadence sensors ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity Compatible with various apps Good battery life

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Key Features

  • Separate speed and cadence sensors
  • ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity
  • Compatible with various apps
  • Good battery life

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Simultaneous speed and cadence tracking
  • Wide compatibility

Cons

  • Bluetooth limitation to one device at a time

Best for: Cyclists needing precise speed and cadence data with a wide range of app compatibility.

Why buy: Track your speed and cadence with accuracy and reliability. Benefit from compatibility with multiple apps and devices.

9. COOSPO Bike Speed Sensor

COOSPO Bike Speed Sensor

COOSPO’s BK9S speed sensor provides precise speed readings. Features ANT+ and Bluetooth 5.0, boasting waterproof design and a long battery life. Easy to install and compatible with numerous devices and apps. Speed sensor only ANT+ and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity IP67 waterproof Long battery life

Key Features

  • Speed sensor only
  • ANT+ and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
  • IP67 waterproof
  • Long battery life

Pros

  • Accurate speed data
  • Waterproof
  • Long battery life
  • Easy installation

Cons

  • No cadence data
  • Wahoo App limitations

Best for: Cyclists seeking a reliable, accurate, and waterproof speed sensor

Why buy: Get precise speed data in any weather conditions. Benefit from a long battery life and hassle-free installation.

10. COOSPO Cadence and Speed

COOSPO Cadence and Speed

COOSPO’s 2-in-1 sensor tracks both speed and cadence. It’s compatible with numerous apps and computers via ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity, and provides accurate data with a long battery life. Speed and cadence sensor ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity Long battery life Wide compatibility

Key Features

  • Speed and cadence sensor
  • ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity
  • Long battery life
  • Wide compatibility

Pros

  • Dual functionality
  • Long battery life
  • Wide app compatibility

Cons

  • Not recommended for indoor spinning bikes

Best for: Cyclists needing an affordable all-in-one speed and cadence solution

Why buy: Track both speed and cadence with one compact sensor. Enjoy long battery life and compatibility with various apps and devices.

Buying Guide- Choosing the Best Best bike speed sensor

The market offers a diverse range of bike speed sensors, each with unique features and functionalities. Key factors to consider include compatibility with your existing devices (smartphone, cycling computer, etc.), the sensor’s connectivity protocols (ANT+, Bluetooth, or both), and the ease of installation.

Some sensors offer additional features such as cadence measurement, odometer functionality, and even integration with popular training apps like Zwift. Make sure to check whether your preferred apps or devices support the sensor’s chosen communication standard for a seamless experience.

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When choosing between ANT+ and Bluetooth, remember ANT+ is generally preferred for its reliability and ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously, which is beneficial if you use multiple cycling computers or fitness trackers. However, Bluetooth often provides a broader range of app compatibility.

Furthermore, battery life is a crucial factor; some sensors boast significantly longer battery life than others, reducing the frequency of battery replacements. Examine the sensor’s size and weight; consider your preference for a compact sensor for minimal visual impact on your bike.

Finally, installation is also a factor. Some sensors require complex calibrations and specific setups, while others offer a more straightforward, plug-and-play type of experience. Read the product descriptions carefully to assess this aspect, paying close attention to whether any specific tools or expertise are needed. By understanding these factors, you can select a sensor that seamlessly integrates into your existing setup and meets your individual needs.

Prepare the surface well: clean, fill dents, sand lightly, and use a bonding primer where needed. Good prep is 70% of the result.

Choose the right finish for the room: matte hides flaws, satin balances look/durability, semi-gloss is most wipeable for kitchens/baths.

FAQs

What is the difference between ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity?

ANT+ is generally more reliable for multiple device connections, while Bluetooth offers wider app compatibility.

Do I need a separate cadence sensor?

Cadence sensors are separate from speed sensors, but some bundles offer both.

How easy are these sensors to install?

Installation varies depending on the model; some are easier to install than others.

What is the typical battery life of a bike speed sensor?

Battery life varies; check individual product specifications. Many use standard CR2032 batteries.

Are these sensors waterproof?

Many offer water resistance, but check the IP rating for specifics.

Which apps are compatible with these sensors?

Compatibility varies by sensor and depends on ANT+ and/or Bluetooth support; check specific app and sensor details.

Conclusion

Selecting the best bike speed sensor depends heavily on your individual requirements and preferences. Consider your budget, desired features, and compatibility with your existing devices before making a final decision. The products reviewed here represent a solid selection of top performers in the market, offering diverse features to cater to various cyclists’ needs.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices change frequently; confirm on Amazon.


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