Measuring your cadence is an underrated performance cycling metric. Pedaling with a correct cadence will help you improve your performance, prevent injuries and get the most out of your training. That’s why you need to choose the best cadence sensor.
When installed in a bike, cadence sensors measure the rider’s pedaling rate and provide feedback about performance.
This feedback will help you understand how to improve the technique and ultimately increases speed and endurance.
Finding the suitable cadence sensor for your bike is an important decision, as different sensors provide different features and levels of functionality.
In this guide, we will look at 9 of the best cadence sensors for bikes in 2023, examining their features and features, making comparisons and recommendations.
Whether you are an experienced cyclist or someone just starting with bicycles, you should be able to find a cadence sensor that will meet your needs by the end of this guide.
Best Cadence Sensor Selected By Experts
Garmin Cadence Sensor 2
The Garmin Cadence Sensor 2 is a Bluetooth-enabled cycling cadence sensor with very low-power technology.
It can measure the rotations per minute (RPM) of your cycling and provide feedback based on that information.
The weatherproof sensor has LED indicator lights to inform you if the battery is low and the device needs to be charged. The battery can last up to a year, and you can mount it on various bicycles.
Specifications:
- Fabric composition: plastic
- Weight:12 grams
- Battery life: up to a year
- Protocol: Bluetooth
Price: US$ 35
Wahoo RPM Cycling Cadence Sensor
The Wahoo RPM Cycling Cadence Sensor uses Bluetooth 4.0 technology to accurately measure cycling cadence and synchronize with the popular cycling tracking app Strava.
This cadence sensor is easy to install, and you can attach it to any bike you own.
It is lightweight and weatherproof and runs on a long-lasting coin-cell battery that lasts over a year.
The Wahoo RPM Cycling Cadence Sensor also provides live readings during your cycling workout to stay aware of your cadence in real-time.
Specifications:
- Fabric composition: plastic and metal
- Weight: 15 grams
- Battery life: over a year
- Protocol: Bluetooth 4.0
Price: US$ 39
Magene S3+ Speed and Cadence Sensor
The Magene S3+ Speed and Cadence Sensor is a lightweight, compact cycling cadence and speed sensor designed for cyclists.
This sensor is designed to be compatible with Bluetooth 4.0 and ANT+ protocols and with many popular cycling tracking apps.
It quickly begins tracking speed and cadence as soon as it is installed and can provide alerts if desired.
The battery life on the Magene S3+ Speed and Cadence Sensor is quite impressive, lasting for up to 18 months.
Specifications:
- Fabric composition: metal and plastic
- Weight: 8.2 grams
- Battery life: up to 18 months
- Protocol: Bluetooth 4.0 and ANT+
Price: US$ 16
moofit Bike Cadence And Speed Sensor
The moofit Bike Cadence and Speed Sensor is a Bluetooth-enabled cycling cadence sensor designed specifically for cyclists.
This sensor measures your cadence in real-time with high accuracy and can be connected to various platforms such as Strava, Zwift, and Wahoo Fitness.
The moofit Bike Cadence and Speed Sensor has a long battery life of up to 10 months and is also water-resistant for wet and rainy days. Additionally, it is a very lightweight sensor, weighing only 12 grams.
Specifications:
- Fabric composition: plastic
- Weight: 12grammes
- Battery life: up to 10 months
- Protocol: Bluetooth
Price: US$ 16
CooSpo Cadence and Speed Bike Sensor
The CooSpo Cadence and Speed Bike Sensor is a compact, lightweight cycling cadence and speed sensor designed for cyclists.
This sensor is designed to be compatible with both Bluetooth and ANT+ protocols and can track your current speed, maximum speed, and average speed.
The CooSpo Cadence and Speed Bike Sensor also features low power consumption and an impressive battery life of up to 15 months.
Specifications:
- Fabric composition: plastic and metal
- Weight: 12.8grammes
- Battery life: up to 15 months
- Protocol: Bluetooth and ANT+
Price: US$ 15
Polar Speed and Сadence Sensor Bluetooth Smart
The Polar Speed and Cadence Sensor Bluetooth Smart is a Bluetooth-enabled cycling cadence sensor designed specifically for cyclists.
It uses very low-power technology to measure the RPM of your cycling and provides you with detailed feedback based on this information.
The Polar Speed and Cadence Sensor Bluetooth Smart is easy to install, water-resistant, and lightweight.
The battery lasts up to one year, and you can easily transfer data to the popular Polar Flow app.
Specifications:
- Fabric composition: plastic
- Weight: 16grammes
- Battery life: up to one year
- Protocol: Bluetooth
Price: US$ 117
Saris Magnetless Speed/Cadence Sensor
The Saris Magnetless Speed/Cadence sensor is a Bluetooth-enabled cadence sensor that attaches to your bike for easy installation.
This sensor measures your cadence and speed in real-time and is compatible with popular cycling tracking apps such as Strava and training platforms such as Zwift.
The Saris Magnetless Speed/Cadence Sensor is designed to be highly durable and can last up to 10 months on a single charge.
Specifications:
- Fabric composition: plastic
- Weight: 9.9grammes
- Battery life: up to 10 months
- Protocol: Bluetooth
Price: US$ 49
iGPSPORT Speed or Cadence Sensor
The iGPSPORT Speed or Cadence Sensor is a cycling sensor that is designed for cyclists.
This sensor is designed to be compatible with Bluetooth and ANT+ protocols and accurately measures the speed or cadence of your cycling.
The iGPSPORT Speed or Cadence Sensor also features a long battery life of up to one year and is water-resistant for wet and rainy days.
Additionally, it is tiny and lightweight, making it quite easy to attach to your bike.
Specifications:
- Fabric composition: plastic and metal
- Weight: 8.5grammes
- Battery life: up to one year
- Protocol: Bluetooth and ANT+
Price: US$ 24
Wahoo Blue SC Speed & Cadence Sensor
The Wahoo Blue SC Speed and Cadence Sensor is a cycling sensor easily attached to any bike.
The sensor accurately measures the speed or cadence of your cycling and is compatible with popular cycling tracking apps and platforms such as Strava and Zwift.
The Wahoo Blue SC Speed & Cadence Sensor also has a very long battery life of up to one year, is waterproof, and very lightweight at just 6.8 grams.
Specifications:
- Fabric composition: plastic
- Weight: 6.8grammes
- Battery life: up to one year
- Protocol: Bluetooth
Price: US$ 59
Best Cadence Sensor Key Takeaways
In conclusion, after evaluating the provided list of nine cadence sensors, I would recommend the Garmin Cadence Sensor 2, the Wahoo RPM Cycling Cadence Sensor, and the Polar Speed and Cadence Sensor Bluetooth Smart.
Each of these cadence sensors offers unique features and benefits that set them apart from the rest.
The Garmin Cadence Sensor 2 is a top choice for many cyclists due to its accuracy, ease of installation, and compatibility with various bike systems.
This sensor provides precise cadence data, enabling cyclists to optimize their pedaling efficiency and improve their performance.
The installation process is straightforward, as it attaches to the crank arm without the need for magnets or complicated calibration procedures.
Additionally, the Garmin Cadence Sensor 2 is compatible with both ANT+ and Bluetooth, ensuring seamless connectivity with a wide range of bike computers and smartphones.
The Wahoo RPM Cycling Cadence Sensor is another excellent option for cyclists who prioritize a lightweight and versatile design.
This sensor is incredibly compact and lightweight, making it ideal for those who want minimal interference with their bike’s aesthetic or weight.
The Wahoo RPM sensor can be installed on the crank arm or the shoe, providing flexibility based on individual preferences.
With both ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity, it is compatible with numerous devices, including smartphones and bike computers.
The Wahoo RPM Cycling Cadence Sensor also boasts a waterproof rating of IPX7, ensuring durability and reliable performance in various weather conditions.
Lastly, the Polar Speed and Cadence Sensor Bluetooth Smart stand out for its dual functionality and easy installation.
This sensor offers speed and cadence measurement, providing comprehensive data to cyclists looking to improve their performance.
The Polar sensor uses Bluetooth Smart technology for seamless connectivity with compatible devices like smartphones, smartwatches, and bike computers.
Its installation is user-friendly, requires no magnets or complicated setups, and can easily move between bikes.
While the other cadence sensors on the list offer specific benefits and features, the Garmin Cadence Sensor 2, Wahoo RPM Cycling Cadence Sensor, and Polar Speed and Cadence Sensor Bluetooth Smart stand out for their combination of accuracy, ease of installation, and advanced features.
Each of these cadence sensors is suitable for a wide range of cyclists, from beginners to professionals, and offers a reliable solution for those looking to enhance their training efficiency.
The choice between these three cadence sensors ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences, but you can be confident that any of them will serve you well on your cycling journeys.
