Experimenting with smartphone navigation over bike computer for a week - my experiences detailed here
In the ever-evolving world of cycling technology, the Cadence app on a smartphone is making waves, rivaling the best bike computers in terms of functionality and performance. This is particularly true when used on a modern device like an iPhone.
The Cadence app boasts a bright, large, and crisp display, making it easier to view metrics compared to traditional bike computers. Its navigation features, rich analytics (covering speed, power, laps, splits, and even vehicle detection with radar), and live tracking work reliably and intuitively within a single app, avoiding data syncing delays common with separate devices.
Compared to dedicated bike computers, which are feature-packed devices often including extensive training functions, route mapping, sensor connectivity, and some even near smartphone-like capabilities, Cadence stands out for convenience and user-friendliness, benefiting from the smartphone hardware's screen size and interface ease.
However, top-tier bike computers offer some specialized functions — such as proprietary performance metrics, advanced training tools, very long battery life, or integrated payment and electronic bell features — which apps like Cadence may not fully replicate yet.
The user, who has been using a Garmin Edge 1050 bike computer for some time, having upgraded from the Edge 530, is now considering using the Cadence app on their iPhone instead of a dedicated bike computer. This shift is due to the growing cost of cycling tech and the inconvenience of carrying two devices.
The user also employs Favero Assioma Pro MX power pedals and a Garmin Varia RTL515 radar unit, both of which work seamlessly with the Cadence app. The user's Garmin Radar, in particular, functions faultlessly with Cadence.
To use Cadence for advanced metrics like heart rate, power, and cadence, additional sensors need to be added via Bluetooth. Post-ride analysis is instantaneous within the Cadence app, including all past ride data. The user secures their iPhone to their bike using a Quad Lock mount, finding swiping between screens on the iPhone easier due to the larger target.
The user cycles for 7 to 10 hours per week, with a moderate one-hour ride every weekday and a longer ride and a rest day on the weekend. For most cyclists, especially those who prefer simplicity, familiarity, and ease of use, Cadence on a smartphone is a very competitive alternative to the best bike computers. However, for riders needing specialized, proprietary training features or ultra-long battery life, higher-end dedicated computers may maintain an edge.
Cadence is a multisport app that supports both running and cycling. If the user is planning to upgrade their computer for a bigger screen, Cadence would be on their shortlist. Users can connect and share data with Apple Health, Strava, and MyBikeTraffic.com using Cadence, making it an attractive option for first-time bike computer investors due to its lower cost and feature-rich version (Cadence Elite at $39.99 a year). The user finds the setup process for Cadence smoother on a smartphone than on a bike computer.
In summary:
| Aspect | Cadence App on Smartphone | Top Dedicated Bike Computers | |------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------| | Display | Large, bright, and crisp smartphone screen | Smaller dedicated screens, some with touchscreens | | User Interface | Intuitive swiping and navigation on phone | Often button or touchscreen, tailored UI | | Navigation | Easy route import and search, large display | Advanced mapping, turn-by-turn, sometimes offline | | Data Metrics & Analysis | Detailed stats including speed, power, radar data | Deep, proprietary metrics, rich training data | | Sensor & Accessory Support | Connects to radar, heart rate, power meters | Broad connectivity, including electronic shifting | | Battery Life | Limited by phone battery | Long endurance options (up to 35 hours or more) | | Convenience | All data stored and accessible on the phone | Requires syncing between devices |
[1] Cadence App Review [2] Cadence vs Garmin Edge [3] Cadence vs Wahoo
- The user's decision to switch from a Garmin Edge 1050 bike computer to the Cadence app on an iPhone is influenced by the growing cost of cycling tech and the inconvenience of carrying two devices, as the Cadence app offers a user-friendly alternative with a larger display and seamless syncing with smartphone hardware.
- For most cyclists who prefer simplicity, familiarity, and ease of use, the Cadence app on a smartphone provides a very competitive alternative to the best bike computers, offering features like detailed stats, real-time tracking, and intuitive navigation that rival the functionality of dedicated bike computers.
- While the Cadence app offers a compelling alternative for general cycling needs, top-tier dedicated bike computers may still have an edge for riders seeking specialized, proprietary training features or ultra-long battery life, as they cater to specific needs and offer advanced functions that apps may not yet fully replicate.
