Smartphone use on road bike
07-26-15, 10:04 AM
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Smartphone use on road bike
How useful is a smartphone? Do you mount it on your bars (rough roads cause some large shocks)?
What's your experience? Thanks, as always...
- Two days ago, I got my first smartphone (Samsung Note 4 - the electronic stylus won me over). I've always carried my cell phone (in a plastic bag in a jersey pocket).
- I also have a Garmin 705 that I bought 5 years ago (six weeks after I started riding - I felt I needed heart and cadence info).
- I plan to keep it in my back pocket unless I get a call (I always stop before I answer any call) or I get lost (rare, but I have always found the Garmin very difficult to use when that happened - it's great to follow a pre-loaded course, though).
- Two friends use their iPhones audio for turn-by-turn instructions - they both also have good Garmin devices, but they prefer the audio. They keep the iPhone in the back. I assume the similar audio is possible with an Android system, but I haven't even looked into it.
What's your experience? Thanks, as always...
07-26-15, 10:26 AM
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I used my smartphone mounted on the handlebars until a month ago. I started using the Wahoo RFLKT and keep my phone in the underseat bag. Don't have to worry about damage to the phone from shocks or crashes. Calls and emails are out of sight, out of mind.
Roger
Roger
07-26-15, 11:20 AM
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I always bring my smartphone on a ride for 2 reasons:
1. Any sort of emergency that needs 911, or less extreme emergencies where I can call a cab or a friend to pick me up (my bike frame broke once while I was riding - that's not the sort of thing you can bring repair equipment for lol). I've never had to call 911, and was able to walk home that one time with the frame breaking (rusted out at the downtube), but a cell phone is a device that let's you communicate with anyone from (almost) anywhere - I think it would be stupid not to bring it. If you prefer to leave it off and only turn it on for emergencies that's fine with me to, but it's the best emergency device you could have with you.
2. It makes my rides around new places FAR more relaxing knowing that if I get lost, I can pull out my cell phone and bring up google maps and find out exactly where I am and figure out how to get back.
I don't use my cell phone almost at all when riding, but having it as a backup makes my rides more relaxing.
1. Any sort of emergency that needs 911, or less extreme emergencies where I can call a cab or a friend to pick me up (my bike frame broke once while I was riding - that's not the sort of thing you can bring repair equipment for lol). I've never had to call 911, and was able to walk home that one time with the frame breaking (rusted out at the downtube), but a cell phone is a device that let's you communicate with anyone from (almost) anywhere - I think it would be stupid not to bring it. If you prefer to leave it off and only turn it on for emergencies that's fine with me to, but it's the best emergency device you could have with you.
2. It makes my rides around new places FAR more relaxing knowing that if I get lost, I can pull out my cell phone and bring up google maps and find out exactly where I am and figure out how to get back.
I don't use my cell phone almost at all when riding, but having it as a backup makes my rides more relaxing.
07-26-15, 11:37 AM
#4
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Kept in pocket. It's nice when it uploads Garmin data from the 510 after the ride.
Don't count on a phone to call for help in a crash. Mine was crushed in the jersey pocket and useless last time. Now I put the spare tube over it for cushioning.
Mind you, it's the MotoX, which on YouTube has been hit with rubber mallets and run over by autos without crushing it.
Don't count on a phone to call for help in a crash. Mine was crushed in the jersey pocket and useless last time. Now I put the spare tube over it for cushioning.
Mind you, it's the MotoX, which on YouTube has been hit with rubber mallets and run over by autos without crushing it.
07-26-15, 12:27 PM
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Cell phones are amazingly tough against shock and vibration. Direct impacts and bending break the glass, but a bike mount and your handlebars prevent that in all but a flip. The vibration on a road bike, even one with a brutal ride quality, is nothing. On the other hand, falling on it in your back pocket is not good. Find a mount or bag that puts it where you want it and don't worry about it.
Usefull? I almost never use mine other than emergencies. My wife can check my location if she wants, as can I. I don't like fretting over a zillion metrics mid ride. Camera comes in handy (never had to document a crash). Have searched for local services, like when I broke a cleat. Yes, it is useful, but not in my face.
Usefull? I almost never use mine other than emergencies. My wife can check my location if she wants, as can I. I don't like fretting over a zillion metrics mid ride. Camera comes in handy (never had to document a crash). Have searched for local services, like when I broke a cleat. Yes, it is useful, but not in my face.
07-26-15, 03:22 PM
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I have an iPhone 5s, carry it every ride, track each with Strava. It is attached to my stem on a Rokform Pro Series mount, it isn't coming off unless I take it off.
If one of the kids or my wife calls I will immediately know it (they do not call unless it is an emergency).
If one of the kids or my wife calls I will immediately know it (they do not call unless it is an emergency).
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07-26-15, 05:38 PM
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I have a Note 4 as well, and have it mounted to the stem, using an Otterbox Defender case and holster, and a cheap (walmart) mount that is sort of a gummy rubber thingie that is designed to wrap around the phone. At first I mounted the phone directly to that mount, but with the rough roads around here, it was shaking the heck out of the phone, and actually ruined two camera lenses from rattling around and hitting the top of the stem. Now I clip the holster to the flexible mount. It keeps the shaking down to almost nothing, and the holster protects the camera lens. I have a Garmin Fenix 3 that I wear to track rides, but like to use the IPBike computer app on the phone as well. Gives me all the relevant stats at a glance on one screen. I like to have a phone with me, and keeping a note 4 in a jersey pocket feels clunky.
07-26-15, 05:46 PM
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Depends on your goals. I have an iPhone. At start of ride I turn on Strava app. Phone goes in back pocket. Does not get used unless I get or make a text/call. Stop strava at end if ride.
They make mounts if you want to use phone display but since you have a garmin that's not needed.
They make mounts if you want to use phone display but since you have a garmin that's not needed.
07-26-15, 09:32 PM
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Depends on your goals. I have an iPhone. At start of ride I turn on Strava app. Phone goes in back pocket. Does not get used unless I get or make a text/call. Stop strava at end if ride.
They make mounts if you want to use phone display but since you have a garmin that's not needed.
They make mounts if you want to use phone display but since you have a garmin that's not needed.
Iphone 6, lifeproof case, in a jersey pocket.
07-27-15, 04:09 PM
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My wife was dubious when I bought an IPhone 6+, warning me it could easily fall out of my shirt pocket (into the toilet). So I was delighted when that very weekend I went to a national meeting…and they distributed the great meeting ID badge holders pictured below.
On the front is a clear plastic small badge holder for my work ID, needed to gain access through the entrance where I take my bike. On the reverse is larger clear plastic pocket, a perfect fit for the I Phone 6+. Inserted upside down allows easy access to the headphone jack and home button, the speaker is unobstructed, and I can still use the touch screen. Between the badge and IPhone holders is a flat zippered pocket for my power cord.
On the bike I wear it around my neck underneath my innermost jersey, resting on my T-shirt so it is kept warm next my chest, insulated by the outer layers, and protected from sweat by the plastic case and T-shirt. Notifications and sounds from my playlist are easily audible. The weight of the Phone is noticeable…I then wear it all day at work as my ID badgeholder.
So far, I’ve ridden with it down to 19º F. No drenching rain yet, and I have pretty good rainwear, but I likely would not ride in a drenching rain anyways, and a Ziplock bag would provide additional protection. Summer was well over when I got it so those conditions await experience.
So now after I came home from the meeting, I jokingly quote my wife as, “You went to Philadelphia and only brought back that crummy badgeholder?.”
On the front is a clear plastic small badge holder for my work ID, needed to gain access through the entrance where I take my bike. On the reverse is larger clear plastic pocket, a perfect fit for the I Phone 6+. Inserted upside down allows easy access to the headphone jack and home button, the speaker is unobstructed, and I can still use the touch screen. Between the badge and IPhone holders is a flat zippered pocket for my power cord.
On the bike I wear it around my neck underneath my innermost jersey, resting on my T-shirt so it is kept warm next my chest, insulated by the outer layers, and protected from sweat by the plastic case and T-shirt. Notifications and sounds from my playlist are easily audible. The weight of the Phone is noticeable…I then wear it all day at work as my ID badgeholder.
So far, I’ve ridden with it down to 19º F. No drenching rain yet, and I have pretty good rainwear, but I likely would not ride in a drenching rain anyways, and a Ziplock bag would provide additional protection. Summer was well over when I got it so those conditions await experience.
So now after I came home from the meeting, I jokingly quote my wife as, “You went to Philadelphia and only brought back that crummy badgeholder?.”
So my final, and most satisfactory innovation was to buy a Hidden Security Waist Wallet with a top zippered opening from L.L. Bean for about $9.00, and a pair of suspenders with clips. I then shortened the front suspender straps as short as possible, and fashioned a “shoulder holster” as it were, that comfortably holds the I-phone high to make it easily accessible.
[
I call it an ”I-bra.”
. As mentioned above, I usually wear a yellow cycling vest, so the holster doesn’t show. 
FYI, see also this thread,”Keeping your smartphone waterproof; how?”
07-27-15, 05:10 PM
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I have a Note 4 as well, and have it mounted to the stem, using an Otterbox Defender case and holster, and a cheap (walmart) mount that is sort of a gummy rubber thingie that is designed to wrap around the phone. At first I mounted the phone directly to that mount, but with the rough roads around here, it was shaking the heck out of the phone, and actually ruined two camera lenses from rattling around and hitting the top of the stem. Now I clip the holster to the flexible mount. It keeps the shaking down to almost nothing, and the holster protects the camera lens. I have a Garmin Fenix 3 that I wear to track rides, but like to use the IPBike computer app on the phone as well. Gives me all the relevant stats at a glance on one screen. I like to have a phone with me, and keeping a note 4 in a jersey pocket feels clunky.
You prompted me to get a case. GREAT reviews on Amazon for yours but a reference by the #1 (2?) reviewer pointed me to another one which seemed like it might be better.
I'm a full-fledged Fred - I wear a handlebar bag on my bike, so I actually use that.
PS - a front bag is incredibly convenient - I've carried a giant cup of lemonade with ice, extra water bottles, bandana for mopping my brow - it's wonderful.
07-27-15, 05:11 PM
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I still use paper maps. My phone, an ancient Juke that is tiny and decidedly stupid, stays off until I need to use it(generally to call the wife to let her know I finished my ride and did not die).
Cycling is my escape from phones, computers, technology, stress, etc. When I come to an intersection, I often pick the more interesting way to go. If I had a phone telling me I should have gone straight when I decided to go left, I'd probably chuck the thing in the ditch.
Cycling is my escape from phones, computers, technology, stress, etc. When I come to an intersection, I often pick the more interesting way to go. If I had a phone telling me I should have gone straight when I decided to go left, I'd probably chuck the thing in the ditch.
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07-27-15, 05:13 PM
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I carry a cell phone for communication, in particular because I am often on call for work; for navigation; as a camera; and as a listening device. I like to keep my I-Phone 6+ on my chest close to my head so I can hear it, and have it easily accessible to answer a call, take a photo, or spot my position on the confusing, haphazard thoroughfares of Metro Boston. Earlier this year I replied to this thread, ”Water proof cases for iPhones”, describing a badge holder suspended from the neck, in which it nicely fit.
Eventually, the weight of the phone on my neck became a nuisance, so I started carrying it in a side pocket inside my cycling vest, but then it was less readily available, harder to quickly pick up a call, and more awkward to use for the other tasks.
So my final, and most satisfactory innovation was to buy a Hidden Security Waist Wallet with a top zippered opening from L.L. Bean for about $9.00, and a pair of suspenders with clips. I then shortened the front suspender straps as short as possible, and fashioned a “shoulder holster” as it were, that comfortably holds the I-phone high to make it easily accessible.
[
I call it an ”I-bra.”. As mentioned above, I usually wear a yellow cycling vest, so the holster doesn’t show.
FYI, see also this thread,”Keeping your smartphone waterproof; how?”
Eventually, the weight of the phone on my neck became a nuisance, so I started carrying it in a side pocket inside my cycling vest, but then it was less readily available, harder to quickly pick up a call, and more awkward to use for the other tasks.
So my final, and most satisfactory innovation was to buy a Hidden Security Waist Wallet with a top zippered opening from L.L. Bean for about $9.00, and a pair of suspenders with clips. I then shortened the front suspender straps as short as possible, and fashioned a “shoulder holster” as it were, that comfortably holds the I-phone high to make it easily accessible.
[
I call it an ”I-bra.”
. As mentioned above, I usually wear a yellow cycling vest, so the holster doesn’t show. FYI, see also this thread,”Keeping your smartphone waterproof; how?”
see me above response re my handlebar bag. But you solution seems interesting - I can imagine using it at some point in the future.
07-27-15, 05:26 PM
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I use mine to run strava but also for Google maps. I am using a handlebar mount to hold it. Having it is great if you like to take off and explore new places. I went on a new to me bike path just the other day and wound up lost for a few minutes but figured out where i needed to be with google maps. I dont have the screen on the entire ride only when i need it otherwise you will kill your battery pretty fast.
07-27-15, 05:31 PM
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THANX
You prompted me to get a case. GREAT reviews on Amazon for yours but a reference by the #1 (2?) reviewer pointed me to another one which seemed like it might be better.
I'm a full-fledged Fred - I wear a handlebar bag on my bike, so I actually use that.
PS - a front bag is incredibly convenient - I've carried a giant cup of lemonade with ice, extra water bottles, bandana for mopping my brow - it's wonderful.
You prompted me to get a case. GREAT reviews on Amazon for yours but a reference by the #1 (2?) reviewer pointed me to another one which seemed like it might be better.
I'm a full-fledged Fred - I wear a handlebar bag on my bike, so I actually use that.
PS - a front bag is incredibly convenient - I've carried a giant cup of lemonade with ice, extra water bottles, bandana for mopping my brow - it's wonderful.
07-27-15, 06:18 PM
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Thanks for your reply. I just noticed you post from Acton, MA, "Acton, MA (20 miles west of Boston) - GORGEOUS cycling territory!". and I'm in Boston. Do you read the Northeast Regional Discussion thread, "Metro Boston: Good ride today?", IMO the virtual de facto Metro Boston sub-forum?
Also FYA, I've written a compendium of Metro Boston cycling, and I describe the western suburbs (to include Acton):
07-27-15, 06:36 PM
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Garmin 510 and Motorola Droid Turbo.
The phone is in my back pocket and it has setting that know when i'm "driving" or cycling. It turns off all sounds with the exception of text and phone. It will read me the text and I can dictate a reply without touching the home. For calls I can answer it and hangup again without touching it.
The phone is in my back pocket and it has setting that know when i'm "driving" or cycling. It turns off all sounds with the exception of text and phone. It will read me the text and I can dictate a reply without touching the home. For calls I can answer it and hangup again without touching it.
07-27-15, 06:37 PM
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I used to have mine mounted on my handlebar as I used the Wahoo Fitness app as my bike computer. Once I switched to a Garmin Edge 500, that took its place on the bar. I still carry the phone on me -- in a SpiBelt hip belt that I also use for running -- for emergencies, as others have noted. I can always check Google Maps if I'm lost, or I can call my wife to bring the "team car" if my bike is disabled. Fortunately, neither emergency scenario has happened but I'm prepared regardless.
07-27-15, 07:02 PM
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Hi hobkirk,
Thanks for your reply. I just noticed you post from Acton, MA, "Acton, MA (20 miles west of Boston) - GORGEOUS cycling territory!". and I'm in Boston. Do you read the Northeast Regional Discussion thread, "Metro Boston: Good ride today?", IMO the virtual de facto Metro Boston sub-forum?
Also FYA, I've written a compendium of Metro Boston cycling, and I describe the western suburbs (to include Acton):
Thanks for your reply. I just noticed you post from Acton, MA, "Acton, MA (20 miles west of Boston) - GORGEOUS cycling territory!". and I'm in Boston. Do you read the Northeast Regional Discussion thread, "Metro Boston: Good ride today?", IMO the virtual de facto Metro Boston sub-forum?
Also FYA, I've written a compendium of Metro Boston cycling, and I describe the western suburbs (to include Acton):
07-27-15, 07:09 PM
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I have always has the latest iPhone; I love it.
I take it on my rides stashed in a jersey pocket but it is always turned off.
If I need to call someone or figure out where I am or where I want to go I can always turn it on; otherwise, I don't want to be bothered.
Cell phones are great, but they are just another tool.
Don't let tools run your life...
I take it on my rides stashed in a jersey pocket but it is always turned off.
If I need to call someone or figure out where I am or where I want to go I can always turn it on; otherwise, I don't want to be bothered.
Cell phones are great, but they are just another tool.
Don't let tools run your life...
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Today, I believe my jurisdiction ends here...
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07-27-15, 07:23 PM
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I love my smart phone. I keep it in a ziploc bag in my jersey pocket when cycling. I keep a few bucks and an ID in the bag as well.
I use a cheap little cycling computer mounted on my bars so I can see my speed, progress, and the time. I also use a cycling app that tracks my travels, miles, etc. that runs quietly in the background in my pocket. I really like the cycling app.
I rarely get calls or texts while I am out cycling. But if I do.... I assume they are important and I stop. If I am expecting an important call.... I'll forward it to the smart phone.
I use a cheap little cycling computer mounted on my bars so I can see my speed, progress, and the time. I also use a cycling app that tracks my travels, miles, etc. that runs quietly in the background in my pocket. I really like the cycling app.
I rarely get calls or texts while I am out cycling. But if I do.... I assume they are important and I stop. If I am expecting an important call.... I'll forward it to the smart phone.
07-27-15, 08:18 PM
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Hi hobkirk,
Thanks for your reply. I just noticed you post from Acton, MA, "Acton, MA (20 miles west of Boston) - GORGEOUS cycling territory!". and I'm in Boston. Do you read the Northeast Regional Discussion thread, "Metro Boston: Good ride today?", IMO the virtual de facto Metro Boston sub-forum?
Also FYA, I've written a compendium of Metro Boston cycling, and I describe the western suburbs (to include Acton):
Thanks for your reply. I just noticed you post from Acton, MA, "Acton, MA (20 miles west of Boston) - GORGEOUS cycling territory!". and I'm in Boston. Do you read the Northeast Regional Discussion thread, "Metro Boston: Good ride today?", IMO the virtual de facto Metro Boston sub-forum?
Also FYA, I've written a compendium of Metro Boston cycling, and I describe the western suburbs (to include Acton):
Manic, you say? Yeah...
Now I still belong to CRW, but I ride alone mostly except for WW. And with them I lead a ride every year, my "Bonsai Ride" (after riding through Groton, we eat lunch in the courtyard of Bonsai West, the best Bonsai "museum" I've ever seen). Two years ago, there were 70 riders! I got distracted while leading, hit a curb, and broke my hip!
This year it's on 9/23 and it's "Doug's 70th Birthday Bonsai Ride."
So, I don't know where you live, but if you want to give or receive info on rides or clubs, contact me.
07-27-15, 08:26 PM
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I must be REALLY smart to have moved here! Pure chance - 24 years ago, Acton had the best schools and I was a runner. Boy, did I luck out!
07-28-15, 07:46 AM
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I also do this, but I put my phone in jersey pocket.
07-28-15, 08:57 AM
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It depends on the riding, but I'll either keep it in a pocket or in a saddle bag, but I always bring my phone with me to both track my ride and for emergencies. You never know what might happen. I also have a Moto 360 smart watch that will give me notifications from my phone and will also let me control my current Strava ride. I generally don't even pull the phone out until I get home.