Top 10 Picks for 2024

Cycling is all about enjoying the ride, but having the right tools can make a big difference. The Best Smartwatches for Cycling isn’t just a gadget it’s your personal cycling companion. With features like GPS to guide your route and heart rate monitoring to keep your effort in check, it helps you ride smarter, not harder. Imagine knowing exactly how far you’ve gone, how fast you’re going, and even how your body’s responding—all with a quick glance at your wrist.

For cyclists, whether you’re hitting the road for fun or training for your next race, Best Smartwatches for Cycling can be a game-changer. It’s like having a coach right there with you, offering real-time insights that can help you improve your performance and keep you safe. And the best part? It’s all in one small, convenient device that you don’t have to think twice about.

So, if you’re looking to take your cycling experience to the next level, finding the right smartwatch is a great place to start. Let’s explore some of the Best Smartwatches for Cycling that can help make every ride your best one yet.

Why trust Technology Elevation? Our expert team rigorously tests products in controlled environments, ensuring you receive accurate and reliable insights. We provide honest opinions based on thorough evaluations, helping you make the best choice for your budget. With Technology Elevation, you can trust that we prioritize your needs with unbiased recommendations.

---

The Quick List – Best Smartwatches for Cycling

Our top 10 picks of the best smartwatches for cycling

Best Garmin watch for cycling

After testing the Garmin Venu 3, we found it to be a standout option for fitness enthusiasts and anyone looking to stay on top of their health. The bright AMOLED display is easy to read, even in direct sunlight, and the over 30 built-in sports apps make tracking your activities a breeze.

What impressed us most is the advanced sleep monitoring and body battery energy tracking—features that give you real insights into your well-being. During our tests, the smartwatch lasted up to 14 days in smartwatch mode, which is a huge plus for those who don’t want to charge their device constantly.

We also found the heart rate monitoring to be accurate, and the stress tracking feature is a nice touch for keeping tabs on your mental health. Garmin Pay adds convenience for contactless payments, and the ability to store and play music directly from the watch is a game-changer, especially for workouts.

In terms of compatibility, the Venu 3 works seamlessly with both Android and iOS devices. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just someone who wants to stay healthy, the Garmin Venu 3 offers a well-rounded package that can fit into your daily life.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable smartwatch that balances fitness features with everyday usability, the Garmin Venu 3 is definitely worth considering.

Specifications

• Brand: Garmin
• Model Name: Fenix 7X Pro – Solar Edition
• Style: Pro Solar
• Color: Slate Gray w/ Black Band
• Screen: Size 1.4 Inches
• Special Feature: Touchscreen, Bluetooth
• Compatible Devices: iPhone, Android

Reasons To Buy 

• Long battery life
• Solar charging
• Comprehensive fitness functions

Reasons To Avoid

• Companion apps can be confusing

Best budget smart watch for cycling

After testing the Amazfit Bip 5, we found it to be an excellent budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on features. The large 1.91-inch color display is vibrant and makes navigation easy, while the over 120 sports modes cover just about every activity you can think of.

The health tracking features, like heart rate monitoring and blood oxygen saturation measurement, performed well in our tests, and the built-in GPS was accurate for outdoor activities. We were particularly impressed by the 10-day battery life, which held up even with frequent use.

What sets the Amazfit Bip 5 apart is its versatility. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just need a reliable smartwatch for daily wear, it covers all the bases. The integration with Amazon Alexa is a handy bonus, allowing for voice control of your smartwatch. Compatible with both Android and iOS, this is a solid choice for anyone looking for a feature-packed smartwatch at a reasonable price.

Read more about 8 Best Smartwatch Under $50

Overall, if you’re after a reliable, budget-friendly smartwatch that delivers on both fitness tracking and daily functionality, the Amazfit Bip 5 is definitely worth considering.

Specifications

• Brand: Amazfit
• Model Name: bip
• Style: Bip 5
• Color: Pink, Black, Cream, Soft White, Soft Black, Pastel Pink
• Screen Size: 1.69 Inches
• Special Feature: Wireless, Water-Resistant, Sleep tracking, Blood Oxygen Heart Rate Monitor, GPS
• Compatible Devices: Smartphone

Reasons To Buy 

• Great value
• Supports cycling-specific apps and features

Reasons To Avoid

• Inconsistent tracking accuracy

---

Best watch for cycling Strava

After spending time with the Garmin Venu 3S, it’s clear that this compact smartwatch is perfect for those who want a smaller device without giving up on features. The bright AMOLED display is easy to read, even in various lighting conditions, and the battery life really does last up to 10 days, which is a relief if you don’t like charging frequently.

What we loved most were the advanced health-tracking tools like sleep and stress monitoring. These features gave us real insights into daily well-being. The Body Battery feature, in particular, helped us understand our energy levels throughout the day. If you’re into fitness, the 30+ sports apps cover everything from running to yoga, making it a versatile option for different activities.

The added convenience of Garmin Pay and music storage is a bonus, especially if you prefer to leave your phone behind during workouts. Plus, the Venu 3S works seamlessly with both Android and iOS, making it an easy fit for any lifestyle.

If you’re looking for a smartwatch that balances fitness tracking with everyday convenience, the Garmin Venu 3S is definitely worth considering. Its sleek design doesn’t sacrifice performance, making it a great choice for anyone in need of a reliable and stylish smartwatch.

Specifications

• Brand: Garmin
• Model Name: Venu 3
• Style: Casual
• Color: Black, Sage Gray, Whitestone, Pebble Grey, Ivory, French Gray, Dust Rose
• Screen Size: 1.4 Inches
• Compatible Devices: Smartphone

Reasons To Buy 

• Large AMOLED Display
• Great all-around smart functionality

Reasons To Avoid

---

best smartwatch for indoor cycling

After testing the Polar Vantage M, we found it to be a fantastic option for athletes who need a versatile and reliable multisport watch. Its advanced wrist-based heart rate monitoring and accurate GPS tracking stood out during our workouts. With over 130 sports profiles, you can track nearly any activity with ease. The watch also offers personalized training insights, making it great for those serious about their fitness goals.

We were particularly impressed by its long battery life—up to 30 hours in training mode—so you don’t have to worry about constant charging. The sleep tracking and recovery insights are also valuable for optimizing your training and ensuring you’re ready for the next session. Plus, the lightweight and comfortable design makes it easy to wear all day.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded multisport watch that delivers both performance and comfort, the Polar Vantage M is definitely worth considering. It’s a reliable companion for any fitness journey.

Specifications

• Brand: POLAR
• Model Name: Polar Vantage M Multisport Watch
• Color: Black
• Screen Size: 45 Inches
• Special Feature: Waterproof
• Band Color: Black
• Battery Life: 30 Hours

Reasons To Buy 

• Many cycling-specific functions and tests
• Fuel coaching
• AMOLED display

Reasons To Avoid

• Improved M battery life is still relatively short

---

best smartwatch for golf and cycling

After testing the Apple Watch Series 9, we found it to be an impressive upgrade with notable improvements in performance and usability. The new S9 chip makes everything run smoothly, and the brighter display, up to 2,000 nits, is fantastic for outdoor use. One of the standout features is the double-tap gesture, allowing you to control the watch without touching the screen, which we found incredibly convenient.

The enhanced health and fitness tracking, including heart rate monitoring and sleep tracking, worked flawlessly during our tests. Siri now processes commands directly on the device, making it faster and more responsive. With up to 18 hours of battery life, the Series 9 holds up well for daily use. Available in various case materials and colors, it offers customization options to suit your style.

If you’re looking for a smartwatch that blends advanced technology with everyday convenience, the Apple Watch Series 9 is definitely worth considering. It’s a well-rounded device that delivers on both performance and features.

Specifications

• Brand: Apple
• Model Name: Apple Watch Series 9
• Style: M/L – fits 150–200mm wrists
• Screen Size: 41/45mm
• Special Feature: Cycle Tracking, Activity Tracker, GPS, Voice Control,
• Heart Rate: Monitor
• Compatible Devices: iPhone

Reasons To Buy 

• Crash detection and satellite roadside assistance
• Lots of quality-of-life features when paired with an iPhone
• Accurate fitness tracking

Reasons To Avoid

---

Best GPS smartwatch for cycling

After testing the Polar M430, we found it to be a reliable and practical choice for runners and fitness enthusiasts. The wrist-based heart rate monitoring is accurate, and the GPS tracking provided precise data on our runs, including pace, distance, and altitude. What sets the M430 apart is its personalized training guidance, which really helped tailor our workouts to our specific goals.

With a battery life of up to 30 hours in GPS mode, it’s built for long runs or endurance training. Plus, its waterproof design makes it versatile enough for swimming. Syncing with Polar Flow was straightforward and gave us in-depth insights to track progress over time.

If you’re looking for a GPS running watch that delivers on both functionality and durability, the Polar M430 is definitely a solid pick.

Specifications

• Brand: POLAR
• Model Name: Polar M430 GPS Running Watch
• Screen Size: 0.96 Inches
• Special Feature: Bluetooth, Waterproof
• Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, USB
• Sport: Training, Running
• Battery Life: 8 Hours
• Mounting Type: Wrist Mount
• Resolution: 128 x 128

Reasons To Buy 

• Crash detection and satellite roadside assistance
• Lots of quality-of-life features when paired with an iPhone
• Accurate fitness tracking

Reasons To Avoid

• Improved M battery life is still relatively short

---

After testing the COROS VERTIX 2, we can confidently say it’s a beast of a GPS watch for extreme athletes and outdoor adventurers. The dual-frequency GPS really shines in challenging environments, giving accurate tracking even in the most remote areas. The battery life is another standout feature—lasting up to 60 days in standard mode and 140 hours in full GPS mode, which is perfect for extended expeditions.

We also loved the large 1.4-inch touchscreen, which is responsive and easy to navigate. The advanced navigation features, including offline mapping, make it a great companion for those venturing into uncharted territories. Heart rate monitoring, SpO2 tracking, and the ability to play music directly from the watch add to its versatility. Plus, with water resistance up to 100 meters, it’s built to withstand the harshest conditions.

Read more about the Best Smartwatch with Long Battery Life

If you’re looking for a rugged, feature-packed GPS watch that can handle anything you throw at it, the COROS VERTIX 2 is definitely worth the investment.

Specifications

• Brand: COROS
• Screen: Size 1.4 Inches
• Map Type: Satellite
• Sport: Running
• Mounting Type: Wrist Mount
• Resolution: 480 x 272
• Product Dimensions: 9″L x 6″W x 3″H
• Display: Type LCD
• Human Interface: Input Buttons
• Are Batteries Included: Yes

Reasons To Buy 

• Incredible battery life
• Dual-frequency GPS
• Tough design and construction

Reasons To Avoid

• Limited touch functions
• Heavy

---

Best Garmin watch for cycling and running

After putting the Garmin Forerunner 965 through its paces, we found it to be a top-tier choice for serious runners and triathletes. The bright AMOLED display is stunning and easy to read during outdoor workouts. With advanced training metrics and multi-band GPS, tracking your runs and triathlons has never been more accurate. The wrist-based heart rate monitoring performed well in our tests, and with over 30 built-in sports apps, it covers all your fitness needs.

One of the standout features is the impressive battery life—up to 23 days in smartwatch mode—meaning you can focus more on your training and less on charging. The Forerunner 965 also offers extras like music storage and Garmin Pay for contactless payments, adding convenience to your daily routine. It’s water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming and triathlons.

If you’re an athlete looking for a smartwatch that combines advanced performance tracking with everyday functionality, the Garmin Forerunner 965 is a strong contender. Its features and durability make it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about their fitness journey.

Specifications

• Brand: Garmin
• Model Name: Garmin Forerunner 965
• Style: Modern
• Color: Whitestone and Powder Gray
• Screen Size: 1.4 Inches
• Special Feature: Training Readiness; Full-Color Mapping; Triathlon and Multisport Profiles
• Compatible: Devices Smartphone

Reasons To Buy 

• Bright maps via a stunning display
• Accurate tracking

Reasons To Avoid

• Poor battery life with GPS on

---

best budget smartwatch for cycling

After testing the Apple Watch Ultra 2, it’s clear that this watch is built for those who demand the best in rugged performance and advanced features. The titanium case and bright display, with up to 3,000 nits of brightness, stood out during our outdoor adventures. The watch’s dual-frequency GPS provides exceptional accuracy, even in challenging environments. With enhanced water resistance up to 100 meters, it’s perfect for water sports and diving.

We also appreciated the health and fitness tracking, along with crash detection for safety. The battery life, up to 36 hours, extends to 72 hours in low-power mode, making it reliable for long excursions. The new modular ultra watch face is incredibly useful, offering more information at a glance.

If you’re looking for a smartwatch that can handle extreme conditions while keeping you connected and safe, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a top contender. It’s an investment that pays off in both durability and advanced functionality.

Specifications

• Brand: Apple
• Model Name: Apple Watch Ultra 2
• Color: Natural Silver
• Screen: Size 49 Millimeters
• Special Feature: Cycle Tracking, Activity Tracker, GPS, Voice Control,
• Heart Rate Monitor
• Compatible: iPhone
• Display Type: OLED

Reasons To Buy 

• Gorgeous display
• Fantastic tracking
• Vast smart features

Reasons To Avoid

---

Best watch for mountain biking

After testing the Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2), we found it to be a top-tier choice for both fitness enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The AMOLED display is bright and responsive, making it easy to navigate through the more than 30 built-in sports apps. The advanced GPS tracking was highly accurate, even in challenging environments. We were particularly impressed by the extensive health monitoring features, including heart rate, sleep, and stress tracking.

The battery life, up to 31 days in smartwatch mode, is a standout feature for those who don’t want to charge frequently. With water resistance up to 100 meters, the Epix Pro is built to handle tough conditions, whether you’re swimming, hiking, or just going about your day. Plus, the added convenience of music storage and Garmin Pay makes it a versatile option for daily use.

If you’re in the market for a rugged, feature-packed smartwatch that excels in both fitness tracking and outdoor activities, the Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) is definitely worth considering.

Specifications

• Brand: Garmin
• Model Name: Instinct® 2X Solar, Graphite
• Style: Standard
• Color: Graphite, Coyote Tan, Flame Red, Black, Moss, Whitestone
• Screen Size: 1.27 Inches
• Special Feature: Bluetooth
• Compatible: Devices Smartphone

Reasons To Buy

• Durable build quality
• Long battery life

 Reasons To Avoid

---

 What to Consider When Buying the Best Smartwatches for Cycling

When buying a smartwatch for cycling, you want to make sure you’re getting something that really meets your needs. It’s not just about having the coolest gadget on your wrist—it’s about having a tool that genuinely helps improve your rides. Here are a few key things to think about, based on what real cyclists look for:

1. GPS and Route Tracking

• Why It Matters: Accurate GPS is a must for tracking your routes, distance, and speed. It’s especially useful if you’re cycling in new areas or need to map out your rides.
• What to Look For: Watches with advanced GPS features like multi-band or dual-frequency GPS offer better accuracy. If you’re into off-road or mountain biking, this becomes even more critical.

2. Battery Life

• Why It Matters: Long rides need long battery life. Nothing’s worse than your smartwatch dying in the middle of a ride, especially when you’re using GPS.
• What to Look For: Look for watches with extended battery life, particularly in GPS mode. Some models even offer solar charging to keep you going longer.

3. Durability and Water Resistance

• Why It Matters: You’re going to be sweating, maybe riding in the rain, or even getting a bit muddy. Your watch needs to handle all of that.
• What to Look For: Check for water resistance and a rugged build. Watches that are built to withstand tough conditions will last longer and stay reliable.

4. Display and Readability

• Why It Matters: You need to be able to see your stats at a glance, whether you’re cycling in bright sunlight or low light.
• What to Look For: Bright, clear displays like AMOLED screens make it easier to check your data while on the move. A larger display can be helpful, but it shouldn’t be so big that it gets in the way.

5. Cycling-Specific Features

• Why It Matters: The more tailored a smartwatch is to cycling, the more useful it will be.
• What to Look For: Look for features like heart rate monitoring, VO2 max estimation, cadence tracking, and power meter compatibility. These features provide deeper insights into your cycling performance.

6. App Compatibility

• Why It Matters: Integration with cycling apps can enhance your training and data analysis.
• What to Look For: Ensure the watch works with apps like Strava, Komoot, or Garmin Connect, and that it can connect to external sensors via Bluetooth or ANT+.

7. Comfort and Fit

• Why It Matters: You’ll be wearing this watch for long periods, so it needs to be comfortable.
• What to Look For: Opt for a watch that is lightweight with an adjustable, comfortable strap. Silicon bands are usually a good choice for sports.

8. Price vs. Value

• Why It Matters: Everyone’s budget is different, but it’s important to get the best value for what you’re spending.
• What to Look For: Balance the features you need with the price. Sometimes, paying a bit more upfront can save you from needing to upgrade too soon.

9. Ease of Use

• Why It Matters: You don’t want to be fiddling with your watch when you’re trying to focus on your ride.
• What to Look For: Choose a watch with an intuitive interface, whether it’s through physical buttons, a touchscreen, or both.

10. Design and Aesthetics

• Why It Matters: While performance is key, you’re probably going to be wearing this watch off the bike too.
• What to Look For: Go for a design that fits your style, whether it’s sleek and modern or rugged and sporty.

11. Support and Updates

• Why It Matters: A good smartwatch is a long-term investment, and you want to ensure it stays updated.
• What to Look For: Check the manufacturer’s history with software updates and customer support.

In short, think about what you need from your smartwatch both on and off the bike. Make sure it’s something that’s not just functional but comfortable and reliable too. A great cycling smartwatch is one that enhances your rides without getting in the way.

How we test the Best Smartwatches for Cycling

Every watch on this list has been worn and tested by the Cycling Weekly team, not just for a few minutes but over extended periods. We focused on how well they recorded data, how smoothly they connected with other devices, and how easy they were to use during intense rides and in daily life. Since smartwatches often stay on your wrist 24/7, we made sure to wear them all day and night, testing them as both exercise tools and everyday watches. This way, we could really see how they perform in real-world conditions, from tracking your workouts to just telling the time during a busy day.

What types of sensor and wireless support is important? in smartwatches for cycling?

For smartwatches used in cycling, key sensors, and wireless support features include:

1. GPS: Accurate GPS tracking is essential for mapping routes and measuring distance.
2. Heart Rate Monitor: Monitors your effort and intensity levels during rides.
3. Altimeter: Tracks elevation gain and loss, crucial for cyclists in hilly terrains.
4. Cadence Sensor Compatibility: Measures your pedaling rate, helping optimize performance.
5. ANT+/Bluetooth: Enables connection with external sensors like power meters, cadence sensors, and heart rate monitors, as well as integration with apps like Strava.
6. SpO2 Sensor: Monitors blood oxygen levels, especially useful for high-altitude cycling.

---

FAQs: Best Smartwatches for Cycling

---

Conclusion

Your unique demands and preferences will ultimately determine which smartwatch is best for riding. Nonetheless, a few products stand out for their unique blend of robustness, user-friendliness, and cycling-specific features.

In the end, the Best Smartwatches for Cycling that best suits your needs in terms of functionality, robustness, and usability is the one that is ideal for riding. There are smartwatches available to improve your cycling experience. Choose yours today.