7 Best Bike Computers for Gravel Riding

GPS bike computers are a great help when it comes to gravel bike riding. They help you measure your performance and find possible routes whenever you get stuck in forests or other deserted locations.

Unfortunately, there are only a few brands that have come up with good gravel bike computers. This is why it becomes a bit challenging to find the one that works well and is budget friendly as well.

For your ease, here are some of the best bike computers for gravel riding, along with buying instructions for you to choose right bike computer according to your needs. So, let’s get in for more.

Best Bike Computers For Gravel Riding Overview

IMAGE	PRODUCT	DETAILS
Best Wahoo Option	Best Wahoo Option	Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM GPS Bike Computer	Battery Life: Up to 17 hours Connectivity Type: Bluetooth and ANT Screen Size: 2.7 inches	Check On Amazon
Best Garmin Option	Best Garmin Option	GARMIN EDGE 840 SOLAR Bike Computer	Battery Life: Up to 32 hours Connectivity Type: Bluetooth Screen Size: 2.6 inches	Check On JensonUSA
Budget Friendly	Budget Friendly	LEZYNE SUPER PRO GPS Bike Computer	Battery Life: Up to 28 hours Connectivity Type: Bluetooth and ANT Screen Size: 2.8 inches	Check On JensonUSA
Mid Wahoo Option	Mid Wahoo Option	Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt V2 GPS Computer	Battery Life: Up to 15 hours Connectivity Type: Bluetooth and USB Screen Size: 2.2 inches	Check On Amazon
Mid Garmen Option	Mid Garmen Option	GARMIN EDGE 540 SOLAR Bike Computer	Battery Life: Up to 60 hours Connectivity Type: Bluetooth and ANT Screen Size: 2.6 inches	Check On JensonUSA
Cheapest Garmin Option	Cheapest Garmin Option	GARMIN Edge 130 Plus Cycling Computer	Battery Life: Up to 15 hours Connectivity Type: Bluetooth Screen Size: 1.8 inches	Check On JensonUSA
		iGPSPORT iGS630 Bike Computer	Battery Life: Up to 35 hours Connectivity Type: Bluetooth and USB Type-C Screen Size: 2.8 inches	Check On Amazon

Top 7 Best Bike Computers For Gravel Riding Review

In this review, I have carefully selected seven best bike computers after a comprehensive research and testing during gravel bike rides. These best bike computers for gravel riding excel in durability, functionality, and user-friendliness. So, let’s dive in and discover the perfect companion to elevate your gravel riding adventures.

Let’s start this review with its design. It has a strong body, is built to last for longer, and is perfectly suited for gravels or rough terrains. It is further accompanied by a large display that is also colored. Likewise, it works on both Bluetooth and ANT. And as a person who can’t be bothered by wires, this was a great blessing.

The best thing about this screen was that I was able to get all my smartphone notifications on this computer. Hence, I wasn’t missing anything. Moreover, apart from software integrations, you can attach it to the hardware of your MTB. I did this with the muscle oxygen sensors and gear shifters, and the process became comfortable instantly.

The last function that impressed me about this bike computer is its navigation maps. It comes preloaded with maps for all the countries. All you need to do is select one country, and it will show you all the on-demand routes. The best part is that it has all the secret short routes for you to get through the journey.

Why I Recommended Wahoo ELEMNT Bike Computer

Finally, this bike computer from Wahoo Elemnt is an infamous product you can find across the market. It has preloaded maps for each country and has the ability to filter out multiple maps for your route. Not only this, it helps you receive all the mobile notifications, so you are not missing out on anything.

Make sure to always wear gravel cycling helmet during gavel bike rides

It is further accompanied by a large 2.6 inches display. It is a colored touchscreen display with high illumination. Hence, you can easily navigate it, even in dim situations. The manufacturers have also added a Li-ion battery that is pretty safe and can last you for 32 hours straight.

Moreover, this latest version of the computer is GNSS technology. It uses multiple bandwidths of satellites to track your location and gives you remarkable results. It has lengthy maps that allow you to figure out routes.

Why I Recommeded Garmin Edge 840 Solar Bike Computer

Wrapping up, this Garmin New Edge 840 is perfect to be used for gravel or mountain adventures. The highlight of this model is GNSS technology that allows you to track location and find possible routes. You may also be looking for gravel bike clothing.

So, let’s start with its construction quality. The manufacturers have used composite material for construction, which is coated with a waterproof layer. This has IPX7 ratings that make sure it can survive extreme weather conditions. It can be mounted easily on the stem or the front of the bike.

Moreover, it has a large 2.7 inches display that has two modes, landscape and portrait. So, you can adjust it in a way that the screen is clearly visible to you. The screen has a 200x400p resolution, so even if you are somewhere with dim lighting, there won’t be any issues with visibility.

In the end, the highlight of this bike computer is the GPS function. Though using it is not as easy as those of Wahoo and Garmin, it definitely is worth the money. You will have to connect it to the phone in order to allocate the point of interest. It will figure out the local terrains and help you in getting reliable route assistance.

Why I Recommended Lezyne Super Pro GPS Bike Computer

This Lezyne Pro GPS bike computer is the best-suited option for anyone in search of something durable and functional. It is equipped with a large display screen that is based on GPS technology and allows you to figure out the possible routes. The only downside is that it has a bit of a learning curve.

The first thing to note about this computer is its colored screen display. It is fairly large and allows you to read everything clearly. So, you don’t have to wear reading glasses at all times. Sadly, the display is not touched. That being said, I experienced no issues in navigating this screen.

The display also has a smartphone function. It allows you to get all the messages, calls, and email notifications, so you don’t miss out on anything. Next is its design. This one is designed for front or stem mount, both of which are easily accessible and can be seen while riding bikes.

Lastly, it’s time to talk about its navigating mapping. For this, the manufacturers have added autoroute downloads that help you go through different rides. It also has the ability to run third-party apps for day-to-today activities, and trust me, it is a great help when you have no network access.

Why I Recommended Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt V2 GPS Bike Computer

In essence, this Wahoo Fitness Elemnt Bolt V2 is definitely a great choice for MTB bikes to ride on gravels and rough terrains. It is pretty durable and can easily be mounted on the front. So, there are minimal chances of it falling down or getting dirty. All in all, it allows you to access numerous maps when you are stuck.

So, let’s start with its design. This one has a composite layout with a 2.6 inches LED screen display. It is a touchscreen and comes with two buttons that allow you to navigate easily. It is pretty bright and works in dim conditions. So, even if you get stuck at night time, it has got you covered.

Now, when it comes to its route planning technology, it is based on the GPS. It is integrated with your phone, so whether you are stuck in the forest or some other place, this can get you out with its database. It has maps of each country and its local surroundings, so there is no chance you won’t be able to find the correct way.

Another thing to appreciate about this computer is that it has a total of 16 RGB memory, which is more than enough to store maps in its repository. This is another reason why it immediately responds to action. As soon as I opened it, the GPS started giving me directions.

Why I Recommended Garmin Edge 540 Solar Bike Computer

Finally, this Garmin Edge 540 computer is the best-suited option for people in search of something functional at a reasonable price. It has a small size that can be easily mounted on the front of the bike. This one also has a reliable GPS system for you to track the location and figure out possible short routes.

The thing that immediately attracted me to this bike computer is its large 1.8 inches display. It is colored and has bright illumination that allows you to easily read the notifications. Though it is not a touchscreen, I really like using the large buttons. Also, you can easily mount it on the front.

Now, speaking of its durability, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that this computer is perfectly suited for rugged surfaces and gravel. And this is all credit to its plastic construction with a heavy coating of waterproof material. It has IPX7 ratings, so there is no need to worry about moisture damage at all.

Finally, another good thing about this bike computer is that it works on GPS signals. This means that it can provide you with local maps. Hence, sorting out routes that work for you becomes extremely easy. It also sends your contact information and location to emergency numbers that are preloaded on the computer.

Why I Recommended Garmin Edge 130 Plus Cycling Computer

In conclusion, the Edge 130 Plus computer is definitely a great choice for MTB bikes. I have been using it for mountain and off-roading adventures, even in extreme weather conditions. Similarly, the display is bright and easy to read, not to mention it has a GPS networking function that is definitely better than other typical options.

What makes it great for gravel is its durable construction. The manufacturers have used quality composite for this computer, which is coated by a layer of waterproof material. According to the manual, it has IPX7 ratings that make sure the computer can survive extreme weather conditions.

Another highlight of this bike computer is its large battery setup. This one has two rechargeable Li-ion batteries that can last you easily for 35 hours on a single charge. Given its price, this is pretty incredible and allows you to carry it for long mountain adventures.

Finally, let’s talk about route planning technology. This one uses ANT radar that connects to your phone. All you need to do is set your travel goals, and it will tell you all the possible routes to that place. It also gave me some tips time and again so that there are minimal chances of misdirection.

Why I Recommended iGPSPORT iGS630 Bike Computer

Finally, this iGPSPORT iGS630 is a quality alternative for people who often forgets their traveling routes and need assistance. My favorite thing about this computer is its reliable GPS function that accurately locates you and provides you with short routes. Likewise, navigating this computer is no big deal, even for first-timers.

You can also read about gravel biking Ritchey Beacon Handlebar Review

How to Choose the Right Gravel Bike Computer?

Finding a bike computer can be a bit challenging, especially if there are a few good options available. Hence, it is ideal to do your research regarding its mapping technology, durability, and size. Here are some instructions that can help you buy the right bike computer for gravel rides.

Mapping Technology

The first thing you need to consider here is the mapping technology. Typically, you will find options like GPS technology that locates you on the map and provide you with local maps.

However, if you want to go advanced, definitely go for Garmin’s latest solar models. They utilize GNSS technology that is better than other options and offers you multiple routes.

Bike Computer Display Size

Display size is by far the most important thing you should look into while buying a bike computer. And the rule of thumb says that a larger display is always better. These screens come between the size of 2 and 3 inches. I usually prefer using 2.6 or 2.7 inches displays, as they are vibrant and easily understandable.

Battery Life of a Bike Computer

Likewise, the battery is a deal breaker or maker in this scenario. And if you are aiming to go for GPS-based cycling computers, it becomes even more important. Hence, it is ideal to have at least a bike computer that can last you for 15 hours. If you have the budget, you can even go for one that has an average life of around 26 hours.

Connectivity Technology

Lastly, it is equally important to look into the connectivity technology the computer uses. This is because it will determine whether you can use third-party apps or not.

When it comes to expensive brands like Garmin and Wahoo, the majority of their bike computers have both Bluetooth and ANT+ options. And with these, you can easily connect your phone to commonly used applications like emails, messages, and call logs. You can also monitor your fitness and heart rate using these applications.

Another edge of ANT+ technology specifically is its ability to connect to external sensors. Some modern options even allow you to connect your bike hardware to the computer for ease. Finally, I hope now you know how to find the best bike computer for gravel riding.

FAQs about Bike Computers

What bike computers do pro cyclists use?

Garmin is the biggest name when it comes to professional cyclist bike computers. The latest models from the brand use the GNSS technology that has multi-scope satellite data and is known for its accurate tracking.

What is the best bike computer for gravel riding?

Wahoo Elemnt Roam GPS is definitely one of the best when it comes to gravel riding. This is all credit to its durable and compact design that can easily survive extreme weather conditions. It also uses GPS technology, which is pretty reliable in locating the rider.

What are good bike computer brands?

There are multiple brands across the market that make good bike computers. The two high-end manufacturers are Wahoo and Garmin. I have used some of their bike computers, and the experience was amazing.

Final Thoughts about Gravel Cycling Computers Review

Planning for a gravel riding adventure? Don’t know about the tracks? Well, you must be looking for a bike computer. They can be a bit tricky to find, especially if you have unlimited options for your budget. But the good news is that you can find them with a little bit of research.

Here are some of my favorites for you to consider buying.

• Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM GPS Bike Computer is best known for its advanced GPS system and illuminated display screen.
• GARMIN EDGE 540 SOLAR Bike Computer is waterproof and has a large battery setup for long and intense rides.
• LEZYNE SUPER PRO GPS Bike Computer is a much cheaper alternative for people who want a functional computer and saving money.

Finally, I hope you will soon be able to find the best bike computer for gravel riding with the help of this guide.