Spin bikes are very effective for indoor cycling as these bikes are best for indoor practice. But it’s also important to know a lot of information, including speed, during cycling practice, right? In that case, many of us get stuck on quarries like ‘can I put a speed sensor on a spin bike?’
Well, yes, you can as the Speed sensors are readily available and any can install them easily on a spin bike. Frankly speaking, these sensors will help you experience the real-time speed of the bike accurately. In this article, I will discuss spin bikes, their features, usages, the differences between spin bikes with other stationery bikes and cadences as well as putting speed sensors, and their ins & out with some high-voltage questions answering. So, keep reading till the end for absorbing all of its details.
What Is A Spin Bike And Its Specialty?
Spin bikes are indoor exercise bikes formed following the design of road bikes. These bikes differ slightly from other stationary bikes used for indoor exercise. As stationary bikes work specific muscles, spin bikes can provide a full-body workout. Thus the seats, handlebars, and flywheels of spin bikes set them apart from other stationary bikes.
Specialty & Uses Of The Spin Bike
The heavy flywheel of a spin bike makes it different from other bikes. Thus spin bikes and normal bikes are completely different, as they are only applicable for indoor use and have only one flywheel.
Although spin bikes can provide a full-body workout, these are good for workouts of hamstrings, glutes, calves, hips, shoulders, abs, and ties.
- These bikes are also ideal for providing an intense cardio workout.
- A spin bike is also great for interval training as these bikes improve strength and metabolism by combining high-intensity workouts.
In short, you can keep yourself active without going out, just by using a spin bike. And, if you consider using bikes only for exercise, a spin bike will be ahead in all aspects as you can accomplish your required workout without going outside in any weather.
Key Features Of A Spin Bike
Spin bikes have some unique features that easily set them apart from other exercise bikes. And, a better understanding of these key features will help us understand the true performance of these exercise bikes.
Flywheel
A spin bike has a heavy flywheel, which is one of the key features of these bikes. As you may have noticed, riding a normal bike requires a lot of effort at first. Later, the bike starts moving and its momentum makes it easier to ride the bike. The same thing happens with spin bikes.
- Flywheels contain more weight on the outer edge of the wheel, making starting a little more difficult.
- Spin bike’s flywheel can weigh anywhere from 20 to 50 pounds. There are exceptions to this, with some manufacturers using relatively low weights on their bikes. However, most experts consider heavier flywheels to be better.
Seat
Spin bikes have seats similar to road bikes. While the seats of other stationary bikes are big and comfortable, the seats of spin bikes are small and not comfortable. But that’s not an issue, because, with regular use, you will get habituated to this seat. Moreover, you can upgrade the seat if you want or attach a comfortable cushion to the seat.
Handlebars
Although spin bikes come with drop handlebars like road bikes, they are adjustable. Handlebars offer a variety of grips that help when riding by changing posture. Also, cyclists can make the handlebars slightly higher, lower, or shorter.
Difference Between Spin Bike And Stationary Bikes
Spin bikes are often considered stationary bikes, but they have some significant differences from other stationary bikes. I would like to present these differences through a chart.
| Parameter | Spin Bike | Other Stationary Bikes |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Spin bikes are similar in structure to road bikes and give you the feel of riding a bike on the road. | They are only structured for safe indoor workouts. |
| Nature of Workouts | Ideal for intensive workouts.
Also, full-body workouts are possible as this type of cycling directly works on core muscles, shoulders, arms, and back as well as building muscle and losing weight. | Good for moderate-level workouts, including cardiovascular fitness to help build muscle and lose weight. |
| Compatibility | There is more opportunity to adjust various parts, including the seat and handlebar. | The scope for adjustment is relatively less. |
| Seat | The seat of a spin bike is a bit small and not comfortable. | Comes with a big seat, quite comfortable. |
| Riding Posture | Provides aggressive riding posture. | Provides upright and comfortable riding posture. |
| Resistance | You can change resistance and speed constantly as they got variable resistance control. | The resistance level comes with pre-set programs, you can adjust them. |
| Flywheel | Comes with a heavy flywheel, and the wheel continues to spin even after pedaling is stopped. | Comes with relatively light wheels, and the wheels stop quickly when pedaling is stopped. |
| Technology | It is not technologically advanced. | Technologically advanced. |
| Handlebar | Much like a road bike, adjustable, offers different grips and sits slightly away from the seat. | Available in various designs, comfortable and adjustable, close to the seat. |
| Injury Risk | Comparatively higher injury risk, especially for elderly people and beginners. | Lower injury risk compared to spin bikes and safe for elderly people and beginners. |
Well, What Is A Speed Sensor For Bikes?
The speed sensors are modern devices on the bike that provide you with real-time speed. This device helps in maximizing the results of the workout. Most cyclists use various GPS devices to track bike speed and distance traveled. But they may not always show accurate results. Besides, a speed sensor gives you more accurate results.
And, How Does A Bike Speed Sensor Work?
Speed sensors work by measuring the rotational speed of the bike’s wheels. Thus we need to place these on the rear wheel hub. Also, the speed sensor determines the speed of the bike by calculating the multiple wheel circumference and rotational speed. And, bikers can check bike speed through the supplied console or a special app on their smartphone.
- Some speed sensors require a magnetic button to attach to the spoke. These types of sensors are usually attached to the rear fork of the bike. When the magnetic button attached to the spoke passes the sensor, it can determine the speed of the bike.
- Many companies make these types of devices that can be used as speed and cadence sensors at the same time.
However, Modern Speed Sensors do not require a Magnetic Button.
Purpose And Benefits Of Using Speed Sensor
The purpose of using the speed sensor is to know the actual speed of the bike accurately.
- They give you an actual idea about your performance.
- The advantage of speed sensors on road bikes is that they help you constantly improve performance.
- Also, helps to maintain a controlled pace.
So, yes, speed sensors can play a much more important role in spin bikes.
- It allows you to keep a record of your performance when you start as a beginner and gradually improve your performance.
- Rapid improvement is possible by practicing following this record in daily exercise.
But Are Spin Bikes Have A Readymade Speed Sensor?
Unfortunately, most spin bikes do not come with a speed sensor. Because of the low cost of this necessary device, you can attach it to your spin bike separately.
- A speed sensor for just $20 to $50 will help take your exercise and bodybuilding program to the next level.
Can You Put A Speed Sensor On A Spin Bike, But How?
Yes, you can put a speed sensor on your spin bike easily.
Usually, spin bikes use speed sensors that include a magnetic button. Installing these devices takes only 2 to 3 minutes. All you need to install a speed sensor is-
- A Phillips Screwdriver,
- A Scissor, or A Wire Cutter.
Installing Speed Sensors On A Bike Or A Spin Bike:
It is best to read the user manual that comes with the speed sensor for proper installation. Usually, in a standard speed sensor box, you’ll also find all the necessary accessories.
- First, you need to attach a clamp to the handlebar to attach the display console which you will get in the box.
- Pull the bottom part of the clamp through the gap and put it on the handle.
- Then tighten it well using screws.
- Once the clamp is attached, you can easily attach the display console by sliding it along.
- Fasten the speed sensor tightly to the fork of the spin bike using the zip ties provided in the box.
- So, place the tip of the sensor close to the flywheel.
- Attach the magnetic button to the flywheel. As most spin bikes have full flywheels made of metal, just put the magnetic button in one of its places.
➢ Note That-
The button passes in front of the sensor as the wheel rotates. So, the distance between the sensor and the button should be within 3mm when passing the button.
- Now cut off the excess of the zip tie using scissors or wire cutters.
Finally, your speed sensor is ready to use.
Is A Speed Sensor Important For Cycling?
Yes, a speed sensor is important for cycling.
It is a remarkable workout tool that helps track speed, distance, and other information during road cycling.
- Exercise bikes such as spin bikes, allow you to track fitness goals.
- While a speed sensor isn’t essential, they encourage you to push performance forward by tracking essential data.
And, there are a few models of spin bikes that have a speed sensor already installed. If not, you should install it, it definitely becomes more meaningful for you.
Let’s Know About The Key Differences Between Cadence And Speed Sensors
Many times, we think of cadence sensors and speed sensors are the same. Actually, these two types of sensors are different. So, there are significant variations between the two. The chart below will help you understand the differences better.
| Parameter | Speed sensor | Cadence sensor |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose of Use | It is used to measure bike speed which is expressed in mph or km/h. | A cadence sensor measures rotational speed which is expressed in rpm. |
| Place of Installation | Speed sensors is placed in the forks of spin bikes and in the rear wheel hub or fork, in the case of road bikes. | A cadence sensor is usually attached to the crank arm. |
| Method of Calculation | Usually, it displays data based on the number of wheel spins. | Typically, it displays data based on the number of pedal rotations. |
| Impact of Gears | Gears has no effect on the speed sensors. | In the case of road bikes, gears affect the cadence sensor. |
| Suitable Use | Speed sensors are suitable for spin bikes and road bikes. | Suitable for various stationary bikes such as upright bikes, recumbent bikes, etc. |
Best Speed & Cadence Sensor For Spin Bikes
Final Verdict About Putting Speed Sensor On A Spin Bike
Spin bikes are best for bodybuilding or multi-muscle workouts. You can put a speed sensor on your spin bike, which will help you understand and improve your cycling performance. If you are a sensible cyclist, then this sensor may be more helpful for you.
As a spin bike with a speed sensor can be your best exercise tool, it allows bikers to do more intense cardio workouts and burn calories than other stationary bikes. While many cyclists underestimate spin bikes because they are behind in technology. But adding an advanced speed sensor will easily overcome this shortcoming of spin bikes.
