Experienced cyclists, as well as aspiring amateurs who strive to enter the professional sphere, may meet various obstacles and issues on their paths. Just imagine a day when you are gliding down a winding trail, yet surrounded by unfamiliar landscapes, which might disturb and even terrify anyone behind the wheel.
For one not to get lost and stay on track with all trails down, we recommend that you incorporate innovative tools of cycling-specific nature that may appear in the forms of GPS systems, number tracker apps, sports bands, etc. Hence, you are always connected with the external world, receive immediate notifications, and appeal to those concerned. Let your cycling experience be a pleasure, not a burden anymore.
Basics First: What Are the GPS Trackers for Bicycles?
In general, bicycle GPS trackers, as well as any other GPS-enabled devices are small, portable gadgets that rely on the Global Positioning System so as to track and register a bicycle’s location in real time. These days, cycling enthusiasts cannot imagine their days without these devices, for they usually offer performance tracking, safety, and security in addition to navigation at the highest level possible.
As such, GPS trackers utilize numerous satellites to pinpoint a bicycle's precise location, then send this information to a computer, smartphone, or other dedicated device, and analyze it in the end. As a rule, cyclists use this to keep track of their routes, examine performance metrics, and make sure their bikes are secure (not stolen) all the time. By the way, the majority of modern GPS trackers have extra features designed specifically to meet the cyclists' needs and preferences more efficiently.
Why It Is Necessary to Use GPS Trackers
Since bicycle GPS monitoring systems have grown into something more than simple location trackers, they deliver dozens of advantages that may facilitate any sporting endeavor and even save lives. Here, we have compiled the primary reasons for adding a GPS tracker to your bicycle equipment.
Enhanced Security: Bicycle theft is one of the most common issues sportspeople may encounter, and a GPS tracker is here to help. As usual, it can be an effective solution and recovery tool, with the use of which one can easily trace the precise location of the stolen bike and even recover it as quickly as possible. Besides, there appear geofencing functions that let you react promptly to possible implications by sending out an alarm if your bike leaves a predefined area.
Improved Safety: Indeed, there are several risks associated with cycling, especially when one strives to explore remote or unknown areas. What GPS trackers do is boost your sense of security as they allow you to share where you are with your loved ones, Moreover, certain GPS trackers include crash detection features, enabled when the system detects emergencies to send automatic SOS signals to the local emergency services and your own contacts.
Accurate Navigation: A lot of cyclists worry about getting lost, yet location trackers are to feature accurate navigation, which aids in staying on course and avoiding detours. With the assurance that you can always find your way back, these gadgets' capabilities let you confidently explore new paths or stick to established routes – whatever you like.
Performance Tracking: Last but not least, the benefit of any GPS tracker comes down to quick and relevant information about rides, be they complete or current as well. With their ability to record a list of factors, e.g., time, speed, distance, and elevation, one is able to track and improve their riding performance, set up objectives, monitor their progress, and choose a training program over time.
Quick Tips to Choose the Right GPS Tracker
Although the industry dazzles with numerous location-tracking opportunities, it is a major problem for bicycle enthusiasts to select an appropriate platform to track their progress, locations, and goals. At this very point, we cannot give you a recommendation on which tools to employ, as all of them (with some not being released yet) may be considered both controversial and health-promoting, sophisticated and convenient simultaneously.
Step 1. Assess Your Needs
Think about the purposes and the reason why you need the GPS tracker. Seek an option with precise metrics measurements, geofencing, and real-time tracking if theft prevention is your primary concern.
Step 2. Consider Battery Life
Battery life is quite important, particularly for long drives or extended roads. Pick a tracker with a battery that is expected to survive in the majority of your journeys, and take into account models that have battery-saving and recharging features.
Step 3. Check Real-Time Tracking and Alerts
For the tracker not to disrupt your ride or draw unwelcome attention, most enthusiasts assert it should be small and discrete. Verify the way your gadget is to be attached to the bike since some of them are made to blend in with the frame or a seat.
Step 4. Evaluate Durability and Weather Resistance
In addition, picking a tracker with advanced opportunities and weather-resilience features inside is vital as cycling exposes your device to the very details. All in all, seek a version resistant to rain, mud, and dust for you to travel and explore the world around.
Step 5. Know the Price and Subscription Costs
Think about how much you can spend on your bike and any recurring expenses. For extra capabilities and real-time tracking, some GPS trackers require a monthly subscription with a long-term contract paid for once a year.
