How to Carry Phone While Cycling
Carrying a phone while cycling has become an essential safety measure for many cyclists. With the widespread use of smartphones, cyclists now have access to a variety of tools and apps that can enhance their cycling experience. Some of the most important reasons for carrying a phone while cycling include:
Emergency communication: In the event of an accident or injury, having a phone on hand can be critical for contacting emergency services or loved ones.
Navigation: Many cyclists use their phones for navigation, whether it’s using a map app to plan a route or following turn-by-turn directions.
Safety: There are several safety apps available that can alert emergency contacts or emergency services in case of an accident or crash.
Tracking and Recording: Many cyclists like to track their rides and record their performance using apps. This data can be used to monitor progress, set goals, and share with friends and family.
Entertainment: Some cyclists like to listen to music or podcasts while they ride, which can make the experience more enjoyable.
In addition, many cyclists also use their phones to capture photos and videos of their rides, which can be shared with friends and family. Carrying a phone while cycling also allows cyclists to stay connected with friends and family, and to share their experiences with others.
Overall, carrying a phone while cycling offers a wide range of benefits for both safety and enjoyment, and is an important consideration for any cyclist.
Options for carrying a phone while cycling
1. Handlebar Mount
A. Description of handlebar mounts
A handlebar mount is a device that attaches to a cyclist’s handlebars and securely holds a phone in place. These mounts typically consist of a bracket that attaches to the handlebars and a holder that attaches to the phone. The bracket can be adjusted to fit different handlebar sizes and the holder can be adjusted to fit different phone sizes. Some handlebar mounts also include additional features such as a weatherproof cover or a vibration-damping system to protect the phone from the elements or rough terrain.
B. Advantages and disadvantages of handlebar mounts
Advantages:
- Handlebar mounts offer easy access to the phone while cycling, allowing the rider to use it for navigation, communication, and other purposes.
- Handlebar mounts keep the phone in a secure position, reducing the risk of it falling out of a pocket or bag.
- Handlebar mounts are easy to install and can be moved from bike to bike.
Disadvantages:
- Handlebar mounts can obstruct the rider’s view of the road, potentially increasing the risk of an accident.
- Handlebar mounts can make it difficult to see the phone’s screen in bright sunlight.
- Handlebar mounts can be bulky and may not fit with all bike models.
C. Examples of popular handlebar mount products
Quad Lock Handlebar Mount: This mount uses a unique locking mechanism that attaches to the handlebars and securely holds the phone in place.
Topeak Phone DryBag: This mount is a handlebar bag that keeps the phone dry and protected from the elements.
Roam Universal Phone Mount: This mount is adjustable to fit a wide range of handlebar sizes and phone models.
Rokform Handlebar Mount: This mount offers an adjustable holder that can rotate 360 degrees and securely holds the phone in place.
2. Stem Mount
A. Description of stem mounts
A stem mount is a device that attaches to a cyclist’s bike stem and securely holds a phone in place. These mounts typically consist of a bracket that attaches to the stem and a holder that attaches to the phone. The bracket can be adjusted to fit different stem sizes and the holder can be adjusted to fit different phone sizes.
B. Advantages and disadvantages of stem mounts
Advantages:
- Stem mounts keep the phone in a secure position, reducing the risk of it falling out of a pocket or bag.
- Stem mounts are easy to install and can be moved from bike to bike.
- Stem mounts provide a more direct line of sight to the phone, making it easier to see the screen while riding.
Disadvantages:
- Stem mounts can be bulky and may not fit with all bike models.
- Stem mounts can make it difficult to reach the phone while riding.
- Stem mounts can obstruct the rider’s view of the road, potentially increasing the risk of an accident.
C. Examples of popular stem mount products:
Wahoo Stem Mount: This mount attaches to the stem and securely holds the phone in place.
K-Edge Stem Mount: This mount is made of CNC-machined aluminum and attaches to the stem.
Bontrager Stem Mount: This mount attaches to the stem and can rotate to adjust the angle of the phone.
Lezyne Power GPS Stem Mount: This mount attaches to the stem and securely holds the phone in place.
It is worth noting that stem mounts are not as popular as handlebar mounts. But still have a niche market for cyclist who prefers this type of setup.
3. Top Tube Mount
A. Description of top tube mounts
A top tube mount is a device that attaches to the top tube of a cyclist’s bike frame and securely holds a phone in place. These mounts typically consist of a bracket that attaches to the top tube and a holder that attaches to the phone. The bracket can be adjusted to fit different top tube sizes and the holder can be adjusted to fit different phone sizes.
B. Advantages and disadvantages of top tube mounts
Advantages:
- Top tube mounts keep the phone in a secure position, reducing the risk of it falling out of a pocket or bag.
- Top tube mounts are easy to install and can be moved from bike to bike.
- Top tube mounts provide a more direct line of sight to the phone, making it easier to see the screen while riding.
- Top tube mounts are a great option for riders who prefer not to have a mount on their handlebars or stem.
Disadvantages:
- Top tube mounts can be bulky and may not fit with all bike models.
- Top tube mounts can make it difficult to reach the phone while riding, especially for smaller riders with smaller frames.
- Top tube mounts can obstruct the rider’s view of the road, potentially increasing the risk of an accident.
C. Examples of popular top tube mount products:
Topeak TopTube Phone Bag: This mount is a top tube bag that keeps the phone dry and protected from the elements.
Bontrager Top Tube Phone Mount: This mount attaches to the top tube and securely holds the phone in place.
Blackburn Outpost Elite Top Tube Phone Mount: This mount attaches to the top tube and can be adjusted to fit different phone sizes.
Topeak iPhone DryBag: This mount is a top tube bag that keeps the phone dry and protected from the elements.
4. Saddle Mount
A. Description of saddle mounts
A saddle mount is a device that attaches to the saddle of a cyclist’s bike and securely holds a phone in place. These mounts typically consist of a bracket that attaches to the saddle and a holder that attaches to the phone. The bracket can be adjusted to fit different saddle sizes and the holder can be adjusted to fit different phone sizes.
B. Advantages and disadvantages of saddle mounts
Advantages:
- Saddle mounts keep the phone in a secure position, reducing the risk of it falling out of a pocket or bag.
- Saddle mounts are easy to install and can be moved from bike to bike.
- Saddle mounts provide a more direct line of sight to the phone, making it easier to see the screen while riding.
- Saddle mounts are a great option for riders who prefer not to have a mount on their handlebars, stem or top tube.
Disadvantages:
- Saddle mounts can be bulky and may not fit with all bike models.
- Saddle mounts can make it difficult to reach the phone while riding, especially for smaller riders with smaller frames or for those who prefer to ride in a more aerodynamic position.
- Saddle mounts can obstruct the rider’s view of the road, potentially increasing the risk of an accident.
C. Examples of popular saddle mount products:
Topeak iPhone DryBag: This mount is a saddlebag that keeps the phone dry and protected from the elements.
Blackburn Outpost Elite Top Tube Phone Mount: This mount attaches to the saddle and can be adjusted to fit different phone sizes.
Bontrager Saddle Mount: This mount attaches to the saddle and securely holds the phone in place.
Topeak Phone DryBag: This mount is a saddlebag that keeps the phone dry and protected from the elements.
5. Other Mounting Options
A. Explanation of other mounting options
In addition to handlebar, stem, top tube and saddle mounts, there are several other mounting options available for cyclists who wish to carry their phone while riding. These include:
Fork mounts: These mounts attach to the fork of the bike and securely hold the phone in place.
Backpack mounts: These mounts attach to a backpack and securely hold the phone in place.
Jersey pocket mounts: These mounts attach to the inside of a jersey pocket and securely hold the phone in place.
Tank bag mounts: These mounts attach to a tank bag and securely hold the phone in place.
B. Advantages and disadvantages of these options
Advantages:
- Fork mounts, backpack mounts, jersey pocket mounts, and tank bag mounts can provide a more direct line of sight to the phone, making it easier to see the screen while riding.
- Fork mounts, backpack mounts, jersey pocket mounts, and tank bag mounts are great options for riders who prefer not to have a mount on their handlebars, stem, top tube, or saddle.
- Fork mounts, backpack mounts, jersey pocket mounts, and tank bag mounts can keep the phone secure, reducing the risk of it falling out of a pocket or bag.
Disadvantages:
- Fork mounts, backpack mounts, jersey pocket mounts and tank bag mounts can be bulky and may not fit with all bike models.
- Fork mounts, backpack mounts, jersey pocket mounts and tank bag mounts can make it difficult to reach the phone while riding.
- Fork mounts, backpack mounts, jersey pocket mounts and tank bag mounts can obstruct the rider’s view of the road, potentially increasing the risk of an accident.
- These options are not as popular as handlebar, stem, top tube or saddle mounts and may not be as widely available.
Tips for Using a Phone While Cycling
Keep one hand on the handlebars at all times: It’s important to keep one hand on the handlebars while cycling to maintain control of the bike. This is especially important when using a phone, as it can be distracting and take your attention away from the road. To avoid this, it’s recommended to use a phone mount that allows you to access your phone easily without having to take your hand off the handlebars.
Use voice commands and other hands-free options: Many smartphones have built-in voice assistants, such as Siri or Google Assistant, that can be used to make calls, send texts or access other features without having to physically interact with the phone. This can help minimize distractions and keep your hands on the handlebars. Additionally, many apps have hands-free options, such as audio-based navigation, that can be used while cycling.
Minimize distractions: Using a phone while cycling can be distracting, so it’s important to minimize distractions as much as possible. This can include turning off notifications for non-essential apps and avoiding social media.
Keep your phone charged: It’s important to keep your phone charged while cycling, as you may need it for emergency purposes. It’s recommended to carry a portable charger or power bank in case your phone runs out of battery during your ride.
It’s important to note that while it’s possible to use a phone while cycling, it’s important to prioritize safety and be aware of the risks. It’s recommended to pull over in a safe location if you need to use your phone for an extended period of time. Additionally, it’s always best to be aware of the traffic laws and regulations in your area regarding phone use while cycling.
