How to Install a Bicycle Speedometer
A bicycle speedometer, better known as a cyclometer, uses simple technology to track several aspects of your bike ride. The simplest models track your speed and distance, while more advanced cyclometers will give you information about top and average speeds.
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Parts
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Most cyclometers include a console, magnet and length of wire. At one end of the wire is the sensor and at the other end will be the housing for the console. The console slides into the housing so it can be removed when the bike is unattended.
Installation
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Attach the magnet to one of the spokes of your front wheel close to the hub. Latch the console housing to your handlebar in a convenient spot then wrap the wire down so the sensor can be attached to the front fork without the wire being too loose or too tight. The sensor should be in line with the magnet before tightening the sensor down with zip ties (test by spinning the front wheel to see if the computer comes on).
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Programming the Computer
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Each cyclometer will have slightly different features that need to be programmed, but the speed and distance computations are based on your wheel and tire size. Look at the information on the side of your tire for numbers such as 700x23 or 26x1. Your instructions will have a chart for these sizes with a number you will enter into your cyclometer.
Considerations
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If your wire is too tight you won't be able to turn your handlebars. If it is too loose or hangs, the wire can be a hazard so wrap it well and keep it secure with zip ties. If your cyclometer stops working check to see if the magnet and sensor are lined up. If they are, you probably need to change the batteries.
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References
- Photo Credit woman on a bicycle image by Wimbledon from Fotolia.com
