Ride
companion.
If
you're serious about cycling, a bike computer is great way to keep
track of everything you've done upon two wheels, while helping you to
not get lost. Last year we reviewed the impressive Rflkt+ computer
from Wahoo, but since then it seems they've decided to put at least a
couple vowels in the name of their latest product. But have they put
any more clever tech in there? We review the Wahoo Elemnt Bike
Computer.
For those not in the know, a bike computer is a small removable device that clamps to your handle bars and acts like a dashboard display while you cycle. Speed, elevation, time, distance and so much more is displayed, as well as a map of your surroundings, SatNav style. For the casual cyclists and commuter all this data might not be necessary, but for anyone who cycles for fitness, training, and adventure, a decent computer up front on your handle bars is invaluable.
Bigger
than than the Rflkt+ (even typing that makes us feel uneasy), the
Elemnt has a 6.8cm screen which displays info in black and white
only. To be honest, considering the price, we were expecting a full
colour touchscreen on the device, but everything is controlled via
tactile buttons on the base and edges. Some hardcore cyclists might
prefer that, especially if you're wearing gloves with fingertips, but
some on-screen controls would've been nice.
One
thing we did love was the set up. Once charged up and switched on,
the Elemnt displays a QR code for your phone to scan. Do so, and all
the info between app and computer will be exchanged and you're good
to go. After that, you use your phone to prepare it for a ride,
customising the tabs on screen to show what you'll need, as well as
adding other sensors your bike, or other equipment, might have. Oh,
and we were happy to see that it found lots of satellites as soon as
it was switched on, nailing the GPS location.
The
Wahoo Elemnt Bike Computer attaches to your stead by way of a mount,
with the computer itself detaching from it with a twist. This means
you can take it with you when you dismount, without having to undo
all the attachments. However, the mount itself is secured with the
included cable ties, which can look a bit ungainly and need to be cut
off when removing it all from your bike. Still, it holds it very
firmly.
Getting
a ride started is a simple case of pressing one of the buttons, and
then you either press another to stop or to pause your ride. You can
also track your progress with the blue LED lights that span the left
side of the device, which fade out the closer to your target you're
getting. It's a nice touch, and very useful for a quick glance to the
computer. Once done, all collected data can be updated via the app,
so you can track your progress and see your routes and times.
So
although relatively chunky, pricey, and lacking a colour touchscreen,
the Wahoo Elemnt Bike Computer seems pretty spot on at accurately
tracking your movements while cycling. We like the easy as pie set
up, as well as the Wahoo app itself, and the easy to find tactile
buttons. A solid build, with some nice and simplistic software, means
it should keep you more than satisfied for many miles to come.
£249.99
Visit
wahoofitness.com