If you want to pair your indoor cycling routine with any bike training app, your only option is to get one of a cadence monitor for spin bikes.
A cadence monitor is a great gear that can facilitate your cycling and pedaling sessions by allowing you to track how hard you are working. However, finding the right cadence monitor can be a challenge. This is because most cadence monitors aren't designed to work with spin bikes.
A few months ago, we set out to find the best cadence monitors for a spin bike to save you from all the hassle. We've tried over 40 models throughout our research and testing and finally found six great options that you'll love!
Best Cadence Monitor For Spin Bike:
- Garmin Spin Bike Speed Sensor and Cadence Sensor
- Wahoo RPM Speed and Cadence Sensors
- moofit Bike Cadence and Speed Sensor for Spin Bikes
- Magene S3+ Sensor for Spin
- XOSS Bike Cadence Sensor & Speed Sensor
- POLAR 910 Cadence and Speed Sensors
Garmin Speed Sensor 2 and Cadence Sensor Bundle – Value for Money
Click Image to See It on Amazon
Garmin needs no introduction. They are widely known because their gears are exceptional in quality, and they have a wide array of products for different sports. As such, we knew that when we set out to find a high-quality speed and cadence sensor for a spin bike, they were the first to ask. And while their products are in the higher price range, their fantastic quality makes every purchase worthwhile.
When we found this Garmin speed cadence sensor, we just knew it would be a total winner in our books. It features a very slim profile, so you'll be able to attach the speed sensor to your flywheel and cadence sensor to the crank easily. Besides, these cadence sensors have a self-calibrating feature, so you don't need to do any work at all.
With this spin bike speed and cadence sensor, you can track and live-stream the distance, speed, and cadence data effortlessly through the ANT+ connectivity. You will also find the Bluetooth connectivity very useful during your rides. However, the odometer in this one only works with the speed sensor, so take note of this con. Overall, this is a fantastic set up to track your performance and get the best out of your purchase.
Wahoo RPM Speed and Cadence Sensor – Best Minimal Design
Our choice of the best minimalist cadence monitor is way up there with the one from Garmin. It comes with a straightforward and simple design, but there is nothing simple about its features.
Click Image to See It on Amazon
The cadence attaches to various models' crank arm while the speed sensor goes to the Flywheel's hub with ease. Moreover, this sensor for spin bike is integrated with ANT+, Bluetooth, and RPM sensors that can connect to multiple devices. This includes smartphones, tablets, and bike computers from various brands. This cadence monitor is also compatible with more than 50 smartphone apps, which is fantastic.
You will love the wireless feature of this cadence monitor, as well as the lightweight design. In addition, the battery in this one is a big winner as it is capable of lasting up to 12 months without the need to recharge.
moofit Bike Cadence and Speed Sensor – Most Versatile Choice
Click Image to See It on Amazon
This waterproof cadence monitor gets our trophy for being the most versatile option. It works with all the spin bikes of major brands, which is impressive. Similarly, it works with all the fitness apps across several platforms.
The real-time data tracking of cadence and speed will make sure you are on top of your game. Besides, the built-in Bluetooth and ANT+ technology ensure connectivity at all times. However, you need to know that pairing both the sensors with the Wahoo App will not work, so you need to hook up one at a time.
Installing the Moofit sensors is effortless, and no magnets are required. The universal fit of this cadence means that it hooks up with most bikes with ease.
Magene S3+ Cycling Speed or Cadence Sensor – Most Affordable Choice
No products found.
Click Image to See It on Amazon
These speed and cadence sensors are among the most affordable ones without compromising the features. Of course, the price will be a little higher if you get both pieces of the sensor. But the good thing is that you can use one sensor for speed or sensor – with the red light indicating cadence and the green light indicates the speed.
The S3+ speed and cadence sensors are compatible with most devices that have ANT+ technology, as well as Bluetooth 4.0. In addition, the lightweight design facilitates easy installation on the crank of most bikes. However, the sensor may not work on the wheel of some spin bikes, so check out the compatibility before making a transaction.
But on the plus side, the data transmission within three seconds is a fantastic feature. Moreover, battery life at 400-500hours is not bad at all. Also, this cadence monitor is water and dustproof.
XOSS Bike Cadence Sensor & Speed Sensor – Most Lightweight Option
Click Image to See It on Amazon
If you prefer your gear to be as versatile as possible without compromising its efficacy, this is the one for you. It features a unique dual-mode that lets you switch between speed and cadence.
These speed and cadence sensors works with all major devices that have ANT+ protocol. Additionally, it is compatible with cycling trainer apps, Android, and iOS devices. However, you cannot run both the speed and cadence simultaneously on the same sensor. So if you require both data to make the most out of your cycling, you need both the sensors.
The battery on this speed and cadence sensor is also great at 400hours. You will find this sensor very effortless to install, and the two sizes of rubber bands make it easy to mount the speedometer on different bike sizes.
POLAR 910 Spin Bike Cadence Sensor and Speed Sensor – Premium Pick
Click Image to See It on Amazon
Our choice for the best premium speed and cadence sensors comes with a gamut of features, making it a fantastic investment.
This cadence sensor is compatible with most major cycling apps, so it is very versatile. The Polar 910 sensor is also compatible with Android devices running OS 4.3 and later and most apple devices.
In terms of design, this cadence and speed sensors are quite compact, so you can easily fit it on nearly any spin bike to measure the speed and distance. Also, this speed sensor for spin bike will work with Bluetooth technology and does not consume a lot of energy.
FAQ about the best cadence monitor for a spin bike
For additional tips and information about the best cadence monitor for a spin bike, the FAQ section can be an invaluable place. So don't miss reading it, if you ever get the chance.
Why use a cadence monitor on my spin bike?
A cadence monitor is a fantastic piece of equipment for any serious spin bike user. It allows you to monitor your speed and distance, making it possible to keep track of your pedaling sessions. Besides, it even allows you to increase or decrease the speed and intensity of your spin bikes.
Pedaling at high cadence has been known to build endurance over time. In addition, high cadence cycling also reduces muscle fatigue and reduces the glycogen buildup in the muscles.
Top related article: The Best Small Stationary Bike for Your Home Office
What does it mean that the speed sensor is not compatible with my spin bike?
In some spin cadence sensors, the speed component is not compatible with spin bikes. Although this may sound alarming, it is quite normal.
The speed sensor typically mounts on a bicycle wheel hub to measure the wheel's rotational speed. This speed is then multiplied by the wheel's size, which will give the reading of the speed.
This is not easily possible in spin bikes because they come with a solid flywheel that often doesn't provide access to the hubs. Therefore, the readings from the speed sensor become tricky to measure. This is why it is paramount that you check the sensors' compatibility with your spin bike before you purchase one.
With the sensors we've presented, you won't have to worry about this issue. They are all capable of being fitted to your spin bike. The only complication will be the type of exercise bike you own.
How difficult is it to mount cadence and speed sensors on a spin bike?
In most cases, installing a cadence monitor is pretty straightforward. To do so, you need to hook up the sensors to the flywheel and crank arms.
Then all it requires is syncing up the sensors with your device of choice, and you are ready to start pedaling. The best cadence monitors for spin bikes come with wireless technology, so it should be quite easy to pair the sensors with your devices.
Conclusion
Cadence monitors are an integral part of spin bikes, especially if you take cycling more seriously than a hobby. Research has shown that cyclists who pedal at a cadence of 80rpm or more build endurance and burn more calories. So this seemingly small device can be an excellent way to keep track of your exercise efficiency and allow you to be on top of your cycling game.
Our recommendations of the best cadence monitor for spin bikes cover a good range of choices. So whether you are looking for a high-tech cadence monitor or an affordable speed sensor or an interactive one, you should have no problem getting your pick.
You might also be interested in: Peloton SPD Clips: The Best Way to Get the Most Out of Your Workouts
Last Updated on October 14, 2023 by Daniel White