Smart phones are an incredible tool that can be a great way to start tracking your rides and navigating new areas. If you’re not ready to invest in a specific cycling computer, or just prefer to use your phone, then you’re going to need a way to attach it to your handle bars. You could break out the duct tape, but we don’t recommend it. There a ton of great bicycle phone mounts out there that can keep your beloved phone safe.
Cycling Computer vs Smartphone
With the Strava app, you can track data similar to on a GPS unit, and there are even ANT+ receivers for smartphone to integrate data from heart rate monitors, power meters, and cadence sensors. However, the main issue will be your battery life. Most phones will not last a long ride while running GPS the entire time. Also, if you take a tumble, your phone can be at risk. That being said, a handlebar mount can be a great way to start including technology in your ride without the investment of a cycling computer.
Types of Bicycle Phone Mounts
- Case & Mount – A case and mount will be your safest option as it specific to your phone make and model. The phone is held in a case, which is then clipped securely in a block on your handlebars or stem. You can get waterproof cases, as well as adjustable mounts so the phone can be portrait or landscape orientation.
- Universal Bracket – If you have a less common phone, then you may have to go with a universal bracket. These are the same idea as the case and mount, but feature a mount that will grip any phone, even if it’s already in a protective case. The advantage here is that you don’t have to switch your mount every time you get a new phone, and you can keep your phone in its everyday case.
- Frame Bag – If you don’t like the idea of having something as large as your phone on your handlebars, then you can opt for a frame bag. This will sit on your top tube, just behind the head tube. It is a simple transparent sleeve that your phone will slide into, that allows easy access and control of the touchscreen. The downside of this design is if you are using your phone for navigation, as you will have to look and reach down further than if your phone were on your handlebars.
Best Bicycle Phone Mounts
Lezyne Smart Dry Caddy Handlebar
Price: $34
This simple case and mount gets the job done with no hassle or fuss. It’s tough and weatherproof once the seal is fastened and the flap rolled down, and comes in a variety of version for various models. It is a clear polyurethane cover fastened by a velcro flap. The mount is a strong plastic band that is tightened by a thumb screw. It takes all of 30 seconds to put on, and it stay nice a secure. You can then clip the case in place in either landscape or portrait orientation. It’s one downfall is accessing the iPhones power button up top when it’s in the case, but this isn’t a huge deal.
Topeak Weatherproof Ride Case with mount
Price: $39
There are a couple versions of this case and mount available, the most popular being the weatherproof version for the Iphone 6. It’s snug design is meant for the perfect fit and protection against dirt and rain while riding. The weatherproof shield allows easy touch screen access in both wet or dry conditions. The mount is fully adjustable for viewing in landscape or portrait, and it’s quick and easy to unclip the case from the mount at anytime.
RAM Mount with Universal X-Grip Phone Holder
Price: $29
This universal rubber ball and socket mount system will fit any phone you throw at it. It’s easy to instal, easy to use, and tough. The one con is that the spring loaded holder can end up hitting the volume buttons on the side of some phones, but that can easily be avoided with precise placement.
Quad Lock Bike Kit
Price: $70
The Quad Lock Bike Kit includes a slim case for a variety of phone models, a mount, and a weather resistant cover. The patented lock system makes for a secure connection, while maintaining a quick and easy release built right into the case. The case itself is tough enough, and yet desecrate enough for day-to-day use so you don’t have to switch out your case every time you ride.