It seems like almost everything that once existed solely as an electronic device is now also available as a smartphone app, and cycling computers are certainly no exception. Applications such as Cyclemeter, B.iCycle and PedalBrain – just to name a few – all allow riders to use their iPhones to keep track of things such as speed, location, and distance travelled. Now, Florida-based Velocomp has thrown its hat into the ring with the iBike Dash CC (Cycling Computer) app and hardware package.
The basic version of iBike Dash CC requires an iPhone or iPod touch, and includes a waterproof/shock-absorbing holder, steer tube mount, ANT+ wireless speed sensor, and the iBike app and computer software. It's also compatible with all ANT+ cadence and heart rate sensors.
The app allows the iPhone or iPod to act as a speedometer, odometer, chronograph, altimeter, GPS navigator, and all the smartphoney things one would expect, while also allowing users to place and receive phone calls without interrupting its iBike functions. It also includes 50 training programs, that are designed to keep riders within an optimum-but-safe heart rate zone and pedaling cadence.
The programs vary between training for weight loss, fitness, and performance. Buyers should beware, however, that most if not all of those programs will require a heart rate and/or cadence sensor, which are not included in the basic package (the deluxe package includes a combined speed/cadence sensor and a heart rate strap, but not the sensor itself).
iBike Dash CC is available online. The basic version costs US$199, while the deluxe version goes for $329. A third version with a power meter function is also available, for $749. Depending on what features they want, potential buyers might also want to check out the LiveRider, another bike computer app/iPhone holder combo, that sells for $100 and includes a speed/cadence sensor. They could also spend $59.99 on a BioLogic iPhone bike mount, then just blow a few bucks more on an app.
