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Points to keep in mind when buying used cyclocomputers
Posted at: Jun 15, 2021
High-performance cyclocomputers that are expensive when new can be obtained at affordable prices when bought used. In this issue, we have compiled a list of points to keep in mind when buying a used cyclocomputer.
Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on cyclabo. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.
Table of contents
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Let’s check the condition of the main body of the cyclocomputer.
Mounter specifications and availability
If you want to use a cyclocomputer on a road bike or hybrid bike, you absolutely need a mounter to attach it to the handlebars. In such cases, you will need to purchase an additional expensive genuine product.
Also, be sure to check for broken claws on the mounts on the main body of the cyclocomputer. If the pawl is broken or damaged, you will not be able to attach the main body of the cyclocomputer to the mount.
If you are doing indoor training on a roller stand or Zwift, where the vehicle body does not vibrate much, you can use a band to force the cyclocomputer to stay in place, but when riding outside, you do not want to use a cyclocomputer with a damaged mount because the cyclocomputer may fall off due to bumps or other large vibrations.
LCD Screen
The LCD screen is also important because all information on the cyclocomputer is viewed on the LCD screen.
The following three points should be checked on the LCD screen of a used cyclocomputer
- scratches on the screen
- strength of the backlight
- whether or not the display is distorted
Scratches on the screen and display irregularities are phenomena that may well occur due to accidental drops, etc., since cyclocomputers are often used outdoors.
There is little need to worry about backlight strength for modern cyclocomputers, but be aware that there are many older models with backlight LEDs that are out or do not have a backlight in the first place.
Battery
For battery-equipped cyclocomputers, the degree of battery drain should be checked carefully. While you cannot check detailed numbers such as “XX% battery capacity” like you can with a smartphone, you should always check things like “How long will the battery last under normal use?” Before purchasing a used bicycle, be sure to check the battery life.
Also, if you are going on long rides, check the continuous use time on the specs of the cyclocomputer in the first place. Since a cyclocomputer is a bicycle accessory that is used continuously for a long time, it is out of the question if the battery does not last.
Older models often do not have battery life information, but if you are not sure how long the battery will last, it is safer to look for another used cyclocomputer.
Is there a problem with the GPS?
Many modern cyclocomputers are equipped with GPS, but without GPS in such models, not only can you not get information such as speed, but you may not be able to get ride records if the cyclocomputer is the type that obtains the current time from GPS, such as bryton’s.
Those who have external sensors tend to think that they can just get speed and other information from the external sensor, but as long as you do not know how GPS is used in the system, do not buy a used cyclocomputer that does not have GPS available.
Similarly, a used cyclocomputer that says in the description that “GPS may go out of range” or “GPS grabbing is poor” is not only a software problem, but may also have a faulty GPS antenna or other problem, so it is best to stay away from it.
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Check the specs of your cyclocomputer!
Compatibility around GPS (location) and sensors
Most of the latest models of cyclocomputers costing $100 or more are compatible with GPS and external sensors. However, the key to GPS and sensors is how many satellites are supported, and the key to sensors is how they are connected.
For location information, a model that supports multiple satellites such as GPS, GLONASS, BEIDOU Galileo, and QZSS is best, as GPS alone is less accurate, making it impossible to accurately track route history and reducing navigation accuracy.
As for sensors, currently the best is a cyclocomputer that supports both Bluetooth LE and ANT+. If both are supported, you can connect to most external sensors, and you can also connect to sensors while pairing with your smartphone.
Connection and pairing conditions with PC and smartphone
When using a cyclocomputer, you will want to keep a comprehensive history of your training and cycling. The heavy lifting then is how to upload the data.
Most Bluetooth-equipped cyclocomputers allow you to exchange data with a dedicated app on your smartphone and upload the data to the portal from the app side, but if your cyclocomputer does not have Bluetooth, you may need to connect it to your PC with a USB cable or it may not support uploading data in the first place. If your cyclocomputer does not have Bluetooth, you may need to connect it to a PC with a USB cable, or it may not support data upload in the first place.
If you use a training portal site such as Strava, it is also important that the app has the ability to connect to the training portal site. Without this functionality, you will have to upload data manually, which is very time-consuming.