Bike computers and cycling computers help you train more efficiently by helping measure your training efforts. They allow you to tweak and optimize your training goals, and all training adjustments are based on the helpful information provided by these computers.

Cycling computers work by using a magnetic counter that measures your speed. The front wheel of the training bike is equipped with a powerful magnet and the fork is equipped with a magnet pickup device. When the tire revolves, the pickup gets activated. The bike computer then calculates the distance and other factors depending on the signals received from the magnet pickup and the training settings (machine calibration).

There are different types of bike computers in the market. You must buy a computer that will help you achieve your training goals. For example, if you are a casual biker, you will need a basic computer that calculates distance and reports the speed. If you are training harder for a competitive racing event, then you will need an advanced computer that can measure multiple laps, number of pedal revolutions (cadence), contain an altimeter, or even indicate if your cycling speed is below (or above) your regular (or average) speed.

Some athletes may use more than one bike (for example, a mountain bike and a dirt bike) and therefore may need to switch computers between bikes. Some athletes who ride in a group may require a wireless model to measure individual speed. Some cycling computers are specially intended for mountain bikes because these computers are designed to measure low speeds.

They are priced depending on their functions. Basic models are reasonably priced while the advanced models are expensive.

What you must consider before choosing from cycling computers

1. Some athletes are very particular about their training equipment's weight. Such athletes must choose from lightweight bike computers – however, athletes must note that they all don't weigh much.

2. Athletes who are very particular about maintaining their average speed must choose a computer that benchmarks the actual speed with the average.

3. Downhill racers need sturdy bike computers that are meant for the sport.

4. Athletes who'd like to shift gears based on the number of pedal revolutions must choose a computer that is capable of measuring revolutions.

5. Your bike computer must ideally measure distance and record your prior mileage so that you can increase your training load depending on past record.

6. The odometer, which is a standard feature on all cycling computers, will help you know when it's time to change tires.

7. Athletes that are into anaerobic exercises require a stopwatch that measures sprints at different time intervals. Many athletes may want to program before their training preferences into their bike computers.

8. Mountain bikers will require an altimeter, which measures and records elevation.

These are the features of bike computers. You must choose one that's just perfect for your type of training. Remember that sophisticated models that have a lot of features cost more. Also note that if you are into basic exercising, you don't have to waste money on a sophisticated bike computer.