Why do you need a smartphone holder when riding a bicycle if you have pockets, a backpack or a purse? But here's why.
- Your smartphone is always in sight
This is important for a number of factors:
You won't miss an important call;
The smartphone can be used as a navigator;
Thanks to applications, a smartphone can also be used as a sports tracker: record a GPS track of a trip, see the speed of movement before your eyes, and, if there are sensors, monitor your cadence and heart rate;
Based last point, you don’t have to buy a separate cycling computer.
- Efficiency
You've received a call that you can't help but answer. Thanks to the smartphone holder, you will see who is calling you, and you will also be able to answer on the go if you have a Bluetooth headset, and without it, stop and talk calmly.
- Convenience
One way or another, this point borders on efficiency. Agree, it’s not very convenient to take a smartphone out of your pocket on the go, especially from a backpack. Because of this, you begin to be distracted, nervous, and swerve along the road, which directly affects traffic safety. While you are performing all these manipulations, the call may be interrupted, which is why you will have to call back.
There seems to be enough information to think about the holder. They may differ depending on the smartphone model, but may be universal. But what is also interesting is that there are different fasteners, which determine the conditions under which they can be used.
The most convenient and widespread among all. The holder can be attached not using a clamp, but to the bolt of the upper cover of the steering column. It is most convenient to use such a mount in the city when driving on roads. If you plan to use it on the ground, then you need to take care of a reliable mount and an anti-slip surface so that the mount does not break or the smartphone does not fly out of it. This option is most likely not suitable for extreme descents.
Frame mount
It can be in the form of a handbag, in the upper transparent compartment of which you can put a smartphone. If you have a spare one in your purse, then the phone will be much less susceptible to shaking and shocks that the frame will transmit.
It does not allow you to constantly keep your smartphone in sight, but you will definitely hear the call and have time to answer. In addition, it fits quite tightly to the hand and you can be sure that even with strong shaking it will not fall off.
This cover can be attached to your hand, frame, or steering wheel. All this is good, but we don’t have sunny weather all year round, and a situation will probably happen when you get caught in good rain. For such cases, a waterproof case is used. If you do not have the appropriate equipment, then you will get wet to the skin, and the space inside the case, along with the smartphone, will be the only dry place.
In addition to the fasteners, the materials of the holders also differ.
- Plastic most common. The quality of the plastic varies depending on the manufacturer, but in general we can say that plastic fasteners are quite reliable.
- Neoprene used mainly in cases that are attached to the hand.
- There are cases from fabric and leather, but they are mostly used in frame phone “bags”. You can also find leather components in waterproof cases.
If you prefer not to spend money and do it yourself in most situations, then watch a video on how you can make a smartphone holder with your own hands.
The need to install a phone holder on a bicycle in the age of gadgets does not surprise anyone - the modern industry offers many accessories for mobile device models of different types and sizes. With the help of such a device, you can significantly make your life easier on the road and on your daily travels, and you won’t miss an important call or message. Besides, at correct selection The smartphone holder can easily be turned into a bike navigator or tracker while traveling.
But how to do this without errors? Without studying the features of bicycle mounts for smartphones, it can be difficult to navigate the offers on the market. How to choose a handlebar or frame stand? What is the difference between different types of fasteners? Before choosing the right mount for your smartphone, it's worth considering all the available options and understanding how well they suit the riding style of a particular rider.
Features and purpose
A phone holder mounted on a bicycle is a mount in the form of a case or frame into which a mobile device is inserted. It would seem that this device should often be found on two-wheeled vehicles, but for now such accessories appear more often on the pages of thematic websites and magazines.
Riders are not yet very willing to acquire holders for phones - most prefer not to take risks, fearing vibration, shock or the risk of breaking a smartphone if dropped.
However, the benefits of having a fastener still outweigh the possible risks. The holders help expand the capabilities of your bike and make using your smartphone safer on the go.
Initially, handlebar mounts were used in the field of motorcycle tourism, but they were also appreciated by representatives of the bicycle industry.
When to use bicycle holders Is it absolutely necessary for phones?
- When using your phone as a navigator. In this case, the device should be in front of the rider's eyes. Its secure fixation at the correct angle is also an important component of successfully turning a smartphone into a navigation system. Instead of a separate microcomputer in this case, you can install a mobile device in a horizontal position. You won’t have to worry about it when leaving the bike unattended – you just need to remove the phone from the mount.
- If necessary, be constantly in touch. If a missed call or message threatens the loss of clients or other risks, you should consider using a special holder. It is placed vertically, in sight. In this case, it will be convenient to use the phone in combination with a headset, and if you don’t have one, you can always stop and answer the call.
- When monitoring sports performance. Using a smartphone instead of a tracker allows you not to acquire unnecessary gadgets, as it clearly demonstrates all measured parameters in real time. Using the holder, it is easy to fix the device in a convenient position, connect sensors to it and receive useful information according to biological parameters, distance traveled along the way and other important characteristics.
Essentially, a bike mount for your phone is a convenient accessory that can significantly make the life of a lover of walking on two wheels easier.
Varieties
All bicycle racks can be divided into categories according to the method of fastening, type of grip and size. A smartphone stand can be of several types.
- Universal. In this case, the fastener is adjusted to specific parameters, shifting its edges in a horizontal or vertical plane. The bracket frame is fixed using special bolts.
- For Android smartphones or iPhone. An individual bike holder is more reliable and allows you to secure the device more firmly in the place chosen for it. But if you change the model and brand of the device, you will have to buy an accessory that does not have adjustable elements again.
- Waterproof. Available in both universal and individual versions, with fixation on the steering wheel or frame. Suitable for use on expeditions and travel.
By mounting method
Depending on which fastener is chosen, the stand can be fixed in one of several ways. Most often, this function is played by a regular plastic clamp that clamps around the steering wheel. To secure it, screws or special keys are used, allowing you to quickly dismantle the bike holder.
The steering wheel stand is the most comfortable and versatile.
Frame mounts are made in the form of a bag or hard block, allowing you to securely fasten the device. In this case, the smartphone will not be used as a navigator, but will be within reach for calls and messages.
Model with pad most often found among offers from the most famous brands. This mount is combined with the case and allows you to securely mount your smartphone. This option is used by real extreme cycling enthusiasts who prefer country routes to riding on a flat highway.
By capture method
Bicycle phone holders can vary in how exactly they attach to the cradle. The most common option is the classic “frame” with elastic or rigid sliding sides, clamped with a screw lock.
Full-fledged cases are no less in demand.– they allow you to reliably protect the structure of the device from moisture and dirt, do not cover the screen – it can be used as a navigator or tracker. But answering a call without a headset will be quite difficult.
Some manufacturers are experimentally offering installation on bicycles vacuum Velcro– they hold the phone by pumping air out of the space around it. It is difficult to call such a mount reliable, but it is quite suitable for use when riding in the park.
Flexible elastic bands grab the steering wheel and attach the smartphone to the corners. Not the most reliable option, but on the road in an emergency it can help out.
Manufacturing materials
Among the materials suitable for making a bicycle phone holder are the following options:
- Silicone. A practical and non-slip option. A transparent silicone case is usually made for devices that require all-weather protection. In addition, “rubber bands” are made from it - express fasteners that easily take the desired shape.
- Plastic. Holders from it are made mainly with mounting on the steering wheel. Polymer materials have low strength, but they are cheap and practical. Special soft polymers create contact areas where the smartphone body can hit or rub against the stand.
- Leather. Acts as an element of the overall design of a closed case; in front of such a product there is always a transparent silicone insert. Leather is considered a premium material and is often used by well-known companies.
- Metal. Today this material is rather considered as auxiliary. But a metal holder can use existing fastening elements. For example, being part of a bottle holder or a place for a pump on the frame.
Popular models
Bicycle holders for telephones are produced today by many famous brands. The models that are especially popular include the following.
- GUB G-83. A universal holder can be attached to the stem or the steering wheel itself, the manufacturer provides detailed instructions. The stand is plastic, the mounting bracket is aluminum, there are polymer crimp bushings. The bracket is rotating and can be in 4 positions. For removal, fixation is made with the screw included in the kit.
- Life Proof. The company creates mounts for iPhone, universal ones, for motorcycles or bicycles. Can be mounted to hold the device horizontally or vertically.
The mount can be easily dismantled if necessary, literally with one hand.
- Scoche Handle IT. Universal model for mounting on the steering wheel. It is conveniently fixed with a screw that regulates the intensity of the clamping. The mount itself has limiters on 3 sides and can be expanded to fit the required dimensions of the mobile device. Includes a convenient button for quickly removing the phone.
- BioLogic. Not the most budget model, but one of the most versatile to use. The mount is equipped with a rigid block in the form of a case with a transparent front panel. Access to the ports is protected from moisture, the entire structure successfully softens any shocks and other external influences.
There are rotating elements to create different viewing angles, the model is adapted for using the camera while moving, and you can shoot streams.
- Arkon Slim-Grip. The holder model with a handlebar mount is considered universal, suitable for fixing most smartphones and telephones, and adapted to bicycles of different designs. The set includes a head that supports 180 degree rotation and guarantees accurate positioning of the device. The model is equipped with an additional seat belt for better fastening.
In addition, phone holders from companies deserve attention Wahoo, Satechi, iCarry Bike-S, Joy Factory. These companies regularly update their product range and take into account the features of new models of mobile devices.
How to choose?
When selecting a bicycle holder for mobile phone or for a smartphone, the following points should be considered.
- Vehicle type. To travel over rough terrain on a mountain bike or fat bike, it is better to choose from the very beginning closed cases from which the device will not fly out when moving. For city and road models, open and plastic universal mounts are suitable.
- Number of closed sides. There must be at least 3 of them, otherwise if the wheel hits a bump, the device may simply fly out of the holder. Most often, repurposed car phone mounts are double-sided.
- Smartphone type. If the device's processor gets very hot during operation, it is better to forget about completely closed sealed cases. This problem most often occurs on Android smartphones.
- Mounting type. If you just need to have your phone within reach, you can get by with a regular frame mount. But when it comes to using the device as a navigator or you need to quickly answer calls, it is better to give preference to open designs with a location on the steering wheel.
Considering these important points, you can choose the holder that is most convenient for use on the road and securely attach it to your bike.
The following video provides an overview of 8 models of phone holders for bicycles from the GUB brand.
Total cost me $9.01, which does not include the cost of the LifeProof phone holder I already owned.
I needed an inexpensive, good holder with which I could securely attach it to my expensive iPhone or so that it would be convenient to use while driving.
The LifeProof FRE phone mount is shockproof, waterproof, and well protected from dirt, but it's not very versatile or secure. It is equipped with a clip that has a rotating belt mount. There is a lock button that protects the phone from accidentally slipping out. When the lock is turned on, the phone cannot fall out, unless the mount itself breaks. But it is made of very durable plastic, so even with a very aggressive driving style you don’t have to worry about the phone.
So, let's try to assemble a bicycle phone holder with our own hands.
As you can see in the photo above, this homemade mount is installed in front and slightly to the right on the steering wheel.
Components required to assemble the holder:
- 2 round clamps size 3/4";
- 4 1/4" nylon self-locking or locking nuts;
- 2 long screws measuring 1/4" and 3/4";
- roll of foam 3/4" wide by 7/16" thick (two 1.5" long pieces needed), self-adhesive sealant.
- Plastic for outdoor use - one control box cover (you can use any durable plate made of plastic, wood, metal, etc.)
Step 1: Measure and cut out the plastic cover.
The clamp must snap onto a plate that is too wide for it. In order for them to fit together well, the plastic plate will have to be cut.
Determine the center of the plate.
Center the clamp on the plate and mark where the clamp ends.
Using a small T-square or any other one with a right angle, draw perpendiculars to the end of the plate. Cut off the excess using a Dremel or other tool you have.
Be sure to trace the lines carefully before cutting. It's very easy to cut off more plastic than you need. And unfortunately, you can’t add it back.
The end result should look something like this.
Along with the clamp.
Since the plate is not thick enough, the clamp may play a little. Therefore, you need to attach two strips of foam rubber on top of the cutout.
After this, attaching the clamp to the plate is much more pleasant.
Step 2: Install the mounting brackets.
The mounting brackets are two 3/4" round clamps. Secure the clamps securely to the handlebar on either side of the stem.
Place the plate on the clamps and align the bottom edge of the plate with the holes in the clamps. Place the plate in the center of the stem. For this purpose, you can use any measuring device.
Mark the locations of the clamp holes along the edges of the plate. The mounting holes must be drilled virtually along the center line of the plate. I was able to securely install the clamps just next to the stem. Perhaps in your case you will have to position the clamps a little further.
Transfer the hole marks to the center line of the plate.
Drill holes for 1/4-inch screws. Attach the clamps to the underside of the plate using 1/4" lock nuts and long 1/4" and 3/4" screws.
The nuts should be on the back side of the plate. Also note that the clamps have square holes and a round hole where the mounting screws should be screwed. A 1/4" carriage bolt should be screwed into the square holes of each clamp. They are specifically designed to fit square holes and allow the nuts to be tightened securely without the use of a screwdriver. The smooth round head of the bolt should be on the side of the square hole of the clamp, facing toward. Make sure both clamps are positioned in the same way so that the sharp ends of the screws do not come into contact with your hands while driving.
Step 3: Install the phone holder on the steering wheel.
Install the clamps on the handlebars, using lock nuts instead of the nuts that come with the clamp. Clamps are usually used in construction and are not subject to significant vibration, but this is a completely different case. Therefore, to prevent the screws from accidentally coming loose while driving, it is necessary to use locking nuts or at least “grovers”.
Install the clamps on the handlebars, but do not tighten the screws all the way so that you can adjust the position of the phone after you get on the bike. Once you find a suitable position, you can fully tighten the nuts on the clamps.
Step 4: Install the phone on the holder.
Simply place the clip on the holder and secure your phone. Turn on lock mode to prevent your phone from accidentally falling out.
The clamp uses a notched hinge joint that allows you to rotate your phone in any direction.
This holder can be adapted to any device. For example, after a simple modification, this mount can be installed Garmin GPS navigator eTrex.
The Garmin GPS receiver clamp is too thick to fit between the stem and the back of the plate. But if you add a few spacers between the clamp and the plate, you can increase the gap. At the same time, compatibility with iPhone is maintained.
In these navigators special cards, which have cycling routes. In addition, there is a database of POI points compiled specifically for cyclists. In principle, there are practically no special differences here compared to a car. Except that these navigators are made vertical rather than horizontal; it’s more convenient on a bicycle. Well, some other models can work as a cycling computer, so you don’t need to connect several gadgets at once. But the devices are expensive, and even more expensive than their automobile counterparts. So, the most inexpensive Garmin Touring will cost 20 thousand rubles. However, if you like to travel by bicycle, then you cannot do without such a gadget. But if you need to make a simple city route, then a phone is enough, then we will tell you how to attach it to the steering wheel.
Locator
Nowadays, all automobile companies care about safety, including ensuring that cars coexist peacefully with bicycles on the road. Some cars already have radar systems, but what about the same for a bicycle? The risk of an accident on the road depends on both the driver of the car and the athlete on the “iron horse”. In order for the cyclist to also be aware of whether there are cars around him, the Backtracker bicycle radar was created.