Best Cadence & Speed Sensors For Spin Bikes with Instructions
Home > Spin Bike Accessories > Best Speed & Cadence Sensors For Spin Bikes
By Your Exercise Bike • Updated: April 16, 2023
Speed and cadence sensors determine the speed on a bike and the rotations per minute of the crank arm. Whether you are practicing for a serious event or you just intend to ride at home for fun, it is important to work on improving your performance on a spin bike.
Unfortunately, most spin bikes computers don’t track the RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) and some including best spin bikes on the market don’t even come with a fitness monitor to start with. So, in order to track your stats, you have to buy spin bike cadence and speed sensors.
In this article, we would introduce you to the best cadence sensor for spin bike and best speed sensors for indoor bikes that can improve your
performance.
Top Speed & RPM Sensors For Spin Bike Compared
| Name | Monitors | Connectivity | Batteries | Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garmin Spin Bike Cadence Sensor | RPM/Cadence (one sensor) | ANT+ & Bluetooth | Included | 5 |
| Garmin Bike Speed and Cadence Sensors | RPM, Speed & Odometer (two sensors) | ANT+ & Bluetooth | Included | 5 |
| Wahoo RPM Indoor Cycling Cadence Sensor | RPM/Cadence (one sensor) | ANT+ & Bluetooth | Included | 5 |
| Wahoo RPM Cycling Cadence and Speed Sensors | RPM, Speed & Odometer (two sensors) | ANT+ & Bluetooth | Included | 5 |
| CooSpoo RPM Spin Bike Speed & Cadence Sensor | Cadence OR Speed (one sensor) | ANT+ & Bluetooth | Included | 4.8 |
| Magenes S3+ Spinning Speed and Cadence Sensor | Cadence OR Speed (one sensor) | ANT+ & Bluetooth | Included | 4.8 |
| XOSS Indoor Bike Cadence Sensor and Speed Sensor | Cadence & Speed (two sensors) | ANT+ & Bluetooth | Included | 4.8 |
Editor’s Note On Indoor Cycling Cadence and Speed Sensors!
Cadence sensors are compatible with any spin bike, no matter the design because they simply attach to the pedal cranks and every spin bike has two pedal cranks/crankarms (one on the right and one on the left). However, speed cadence are not compatible with all indoor bikes. Especially if your spin bike flywheel is located in the back.
The reason for that is because speed sensors need to attach to the flywheel. And unfortunately, some flywheels don’t have sufficient space (minimum 10mm) between the flywheel and the fork arm. So, before buying a speed meter for your indoor bike, I suggest you check out the gallery of images below.
These are real successful installation of spin bike Wahoo cadence reader and speed readers. By looking at these Bluetooth and ANT speed/cadence sensors, you should be able to draw a certain conclusion to whether you can buy indoor bike speed and cadence sensor or not.
Note: If there is enough space between the flywheel and the fork arm, install the speed sensor horizontally (seen in some images below), it’s much better in terms of speed and distance accuracy. The following spin bike speed and cadence sensors that you see in the images are by Wahoo (not Garmin) but ultimately they work the same.
Quick Overview of Best Cadence & Speed Sensors for Spin Bike:
- Garmin Spin Bike Cadence Sensor
- Garmin Bike Speed and Cadence Sensors
- Wahoo RPM Indoor Cycling Cadence Sensor
- Wahoo RPM Cycling Cadence and Speed Sensors
- CooSpoo RPM Spin Bike Speed & Cadence Sensor
- Magenes S3+ Spinning Speed and Cadence Sensor
- XOSS Indoor Bike Cadence Sensor and Speed Sensor
Picks of 7 Best Speed & RPM Sensors For Spin Bikes:
#1 Garmin Spin Bike Cadence Sensor
One of the best speed sensors for indoor bike, this product is fastened to the crank arm of your bike. It does not require any head unit, and it can be fastened to any size of crank arms.
The Garmin cadence sensor for spin bike helps you track your RPM as you ride your bike by measuring each pedal stroke. Simply attach this cadence sensor around the crank arm. The cadence sensor for spin bike also enables you to have better training sessions where you can accurately track your progress.
Since users are always on a lookout for sensors that are easy to install, this is a great choice for an everyday user. It is very easy to master, and very easy to switch between indoor and outdoor bikes.
This Garmin cadence sensor also comes with the ANT+ and Bluetooth Low Energy technology that lets you share your biking data with Garmin Connect and other apps that can help to enhance your training. This also includes access to bike trainers and bike computer.
This sensor allows you to access a wide range of third-party apps like Zwift, MapMyRide, etc. The cadence sensor also comes with an odometer that tracks your distance to help you maintain your bicycle. Additionally, these Garmin bike cadence sensors are highly affordable.
Additional Information!
This product comes with a one-year warranty. It weighs 2.8 ounces and is designed in black color. Manufactured by Garmin, it has a package weight of 3.2 Ounces. Garmin cadence sensor uses coin batteries that can last up to two years. 2 Lithium Metal 1 9V batteries are included.
PROS:
- The Garmin cadence sensors are remarkably easy to install, so you do not need help from an expert to install them for you.
- You can switch the sensors between bikes. This means that you do not need to own different sensors for different bikes.
- Long battery life for this indoor cycle cadence sensor.
CONS:
- Some users have complained that the Bluetooth function has some issues with connectivity.
#2 Garmin Bike Speed and Cadence Sensors
3 used from $51.95
This product helps you monitor your speed and cadence with its wireless sensors. Magnets are not needed during installation, and this makes the job of installation even easier.
The indoor cycling speed sensor 2 should be attached to the flywheel. This speed sensor for spin bike adjusts itself, your Garmin device and your Edge cycling computer to give you the correct speed and distance measurements all the time.
Attach the cadence sensor for spin bike to any crank arm and track pedal stroke. This enables you to keep track of your progress during training.
You can send live data about your cycling experience through its ANT+ feature on the sensor, as well as the Bluetooth Low Energy Technology.
Another reason why it is ranked among the best speed and cadence sensors for indoor cycling in the market, this sensor has powerfull wireless connectivity feature. This feature enables you to connect your mobile devices, access training apps, bike trainers and bike computers withot intruption.
Additional Information!
It has a package weight of 3.2 ounces, and an item weight of 2.08 ounces. Manufactured by Garmin, these indoor cycle RPM and Speed sensors have a one-year warranty. Garmin speed and cadence sensors use coin batteries that can last up to two years. 4 Lithium Metal 1 9V batteries are included.
PROS:
- Garmin speed sensors are easy to install. With these spin bike cadence and speed sensors, you do not need help from an expert for installation.
- You can switch the sensors between bikes. This means that you do not need to own different sensors for different bikes. This is going to help you save money because you do not need to buy another pair of sensors for your other bike.
- The Garmin speed sensor has an odometer that can measure how far your bike had traveled.
CONS:
- If the sensors are installed on the same wheel as the power meters, it might obstruct the power meters.
- Some users have complained that the Bluetooth function has some issues with connectivity.
#3 Wahoo Indoor Cycling Cadence Sensor
Wahoo spinning cadence sensor is used by by many indoor cyclists who are interested in measuring their cadence. This is only one sensro so it can meansure the cadence (not the speed). The cadence sensor on spinning bike comes without magnets, meaning that installing this sensor would be very easy.
Wahoo cadence sensor for spin bike is sleek, and has a lightweight design, as it only weighs 7 grams. The wonderful thing about this cadence sensor on spinning bike is that it can be used on multiple bikes, and it has a replaceable battery which can last up to 400 hours.
Your Wahoo cadence sensor is to be fastened to the crank arm and compatible with all indoor bikes. It comes with a Bluetooth 4.0 and ANT+ that would work with mobile devices, especially iPhone and a bike computer if you have one.
It also allows you to share your data with top indoor cycling apps like MapMyRide and Cyclometer, as well as allow you to access biking computers.
Additional Information!
This model of cadence sensor on spinning bike weighs 4.5 Grams and has a package weight of 2.08 grams. It is manufactured by Wahoo Fitness, and its part number is 2015. This top-rated cadence sensor for spin bike uses a 1 Lithium Metal CR2 ion battery.
PROS:
- This RPM sensor for spin bike is compatible with most cycling applications including Zwift.
- It has a wireless connection that works well with mobile phones and bike computers.
CONS:
- Most users of this RPM sensor for spin bike complain that the readings and calculations of the sensors have been incorrect. This is clearly something the developers have to work on.
- Also, some users of this spin bike RPM sensor encounter some challenges while setting up their Bluetooth devices.
#4 Wahoo RPM Cycling Cadence and Speed Sensors
Unlike the Wahoo RPM monitor for spin bike model, these are two sensors so they measure both speed and cadence, and they have the waterproof feature that prevents the sensors from damaging once they come in contact with water.
This speed and RPM speed sensor for spin bike also captures real-time cycling data and trasfer them to your mobile devices and on your bike computer.
Wahoo speed sensor recalibrates itself and gives you an accurate measurement of your speed and should be fastened to the hub of flywheel. The cadence meter for indoor cycle measures cadence by measuring the stroke of each pedal per minute, and it should be attached to the crank arm of the bike.
This RPM sensor for spin bike is well versed in smart technology, as it possesses the latest Bluetooth 4.0 and ANT+ cadence sensor software alongside a host of other third-party apps that help to improve the cycling experience.
Additional Information!
This RPM sensor for spin bike weighs 9.07 grams and has batteries included in its packaging. It is manufactured by Wahoo Fitness and has a shipping weight of 2.88 ounces.
PROS:
- The speed and RPM sensors accommodate third-party apps, allowing the user to have access to an array of apps at their disposal.
- The RPM sensor for spin bikes can fit all bikes. You do not have to get sensors for your other bikes.
- This speed sensor for spin bike also measures the distance.
CONS:
- Some users have had complaints about the incorrect speed sensor for spin bike measurements.
- Speed sensor is pretty long and requires lots of space to attach horizontally between the fork and flywheel.
#5 CooSpoo RPM Spin Bike Speed & Cadence Sensor
With this sensor, you can monitor your speed and cadence meter cycling on a spinning bike. It is one sensor that can be used as speed or cadence depending where you install it. Coospoo indoor cycling cadence sensor lets you track your pedaling progress by measuring each pedal stroke if it is attached to the crank arm of the bike. But if you attach it to your flywheel, it is a speed sensor for spin bike that measures your speed by self-calibrating.
It has a 4.0 Bluetooth and a wireless connection that lets you connect the sensor to your smartphone and other apps like bike computers. With this sensor, you have complete access to bike trainers and you can also share your cycling data with your loved ones. You can connect your sensor with third-party apps like Zwift, MapMyRide, Clymester, and many other spinning exercise apps.
In addition, this spinning RPM sensor has a waterproof exterior that ensures that you can ride during inclement weather. It also has a shock resistance feature for when you have to ride on bumpy surfaces.
This product is surprisingly cheaper than other competing models, so if you want a cadence computer for spin bike and a speed sensor that would not cost a fortune, the CooSpoo RPM is the perfect choice for you. With that being said, this is not our most favorite speed and cadence sensor for indoor cycling (Wahoo is).
Additional Information!
This model weighs 0.64 ounces and has a package dimension of 4.1x 3.4 x 0.9 inches. Both of these indoor cycling cadence and speed sensors use Lithium Metal CR2 ion battery which isn’t included.
PROS:
- This device is compatible with applications like Zwift and MapMyRide and can allow you to access so many biking services.
- It has a water-resistant exterior that would allow you to ride comfortably, even in inclement weather.
- It can track the speed, distance, and works okay for spin bikes.
CONS:
- Some users have complaints about the wireless connection and how they cannot connect their mobile devices to the Bluetooth and ANT+ connection on this device.
- Switching between speed and cadence mode can be a hassle.
#6 Magenes S3+ Spinning Speed and Cadence Sensor
One sensor but two functionalities. They are some of the best-rated speed and cadence sensor for indoor cycling come with excellent IP67 waterproof and dustproof features that let you enjoy your cycling in any kind of weather.
If you decide to use this as cadence sensor, you should attache it to the crank arm, where it will measure your pedal stroke every minute, giving you an accurate reading of your cycling performance.
But if you want to use it as a spin bike speed sensor, you should fastened to the flywheel of your indoor bike. It will self-calibrates to give you an accurate measurement of your speed.
Furthermore, this sensor has ANT+ and Bluetooth protocol that is both stable and accurate. This model does not require a magnet to connect to other devices.
It connects easily with bike computers and bike apps, as well as smartphones that have a Bluetooth Feature. It ensures that it is compatible with all Bluetooth powered devices like smartphones, bike computers, bike trainers, etc.
For smartphone apps, it works with Nike+, STRAVA, Run keeper, etc. With this device, there is no need for magnets, as you can install the device through simple steps.
This spinning cadence/speed sensor boasts a 500-hour battery capacity which is a lot of battery life that can last for months. The device is also dustproof and waterproof, and this ensures that you can keep riding even in unfavorable weather.
Additional Information!
This model weighs only 8.8g with the battery, and its weight does not affect the comfort of the bike. It has 1P66 water rating and a 400h routine battery life.
PROS:
- It comes with Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity that can connect a wide range of wireless devices.
- Magnets are not needed for installation. And the installation process is easy and straightforward.
- It boasts of a battery life that spans 500 hours, enough to keep you going for days.
CONS:
- In some cases it can be very difficult to install and use them as spin bike cadence counter, but it works well for outdoor bikes.
- Switching between the cadence and speed mode is time-consuming and a bit of a headache if you have to do it often.
#7 XOSS Indoor Bike Cadence Sensor and Speed Sensor
This speed and cadence sensor for spin bike is remarkably good. It is fast becoming one of the best speed and cadence sensors for indoor cycling in the market. The cadence sensor on spinning bike should be fastened to any crank arm size, where it measures your pedal stroke per minute.
It also enables you to get the most out of your training. The speed sensor should be fastened to either wheel of the hub, where it will self-calibrate and give you the correct measurement of your speed.
For a wireless connection, this cadence and speed meter for indoor cycle with Bluetooth 4.0 and ANT+ speed cadence sensor delivers accurate data about your cycling. You can also connect your mobile devices or your bike computer.
As for third-party apps, this model is compatible with lots of cycling apps like Zwift, Wahoo Fitness, Strava, and many more. This model features a low energy system and is very affordable.
XOSS has an amazing low battery consumption-ability that enables it to last for about 450 hours. It is ranked among the best speed and cadence sensors for indoor cycling, because of its remarkable battery life and affordable price.
Furthermore, magnets are not needed to install this sensor, and the methods are so self-explanatory that you can install the sensor by yourself. You can also pair this sensor with IOS and Android operating systems.
Additional Information!
This cadence sensor on spinning bike is waterproof, meaning you can ride your bike in inclement weather without worrying about your sensors getting affected. It comes in the size of 38MM” x 30MM” x 10MM”, has a temperature of -20-50°C, and weighs 10G including the battery.
PROS:
- It has strong connectivity that enables it to work with all Bluetooth cadence sensor.
- Magnets are not required to install this sensor. The procedure is easy, and you can do it yourself.
- There is an inclusion of a coin cell battery in this cadence sensor for the spinning bike, which is easily replaceable.
CONS:
- Some buyers have complained about its resilience in the long term.
- Not as accurate as a few other indoor cycle speed and cadence sensors.
- This sensor is large, and this is bad for crank arms that are slender.
Speed and Cadence Meter for Spin Bike – FAQ
Q: Are all sensors water-resistant?
A: No. Only certain sensors are water-resistant. Waterproof sensors might cost more than regular censors. This is to enable you to have better training sessions where you can accurately track your progress.
Q: Why is my device not connecting to the Bluetooth of my sensor?
A: This can happen for many reasons. Check if your sensor is fully charged, as having a low battery can affect the wireless connection of Wahoo and Garmin indoor bike cadence sensor. Also, check that your phone does not have any connectivity issues. If the problem persists, contact the manufacturer of the sensor.
Q: Are waterproof and dustproof sensors really necessary?
A: Yes, they are. They may be more expensive than regular sensors, but they would last longer than any regular sensor you would buy due to their ability to withstand inclement weather. We have included several waterproof cadence meters for spin bike in this review.
Q: Where should I attach the cadence sensor for spin bike?
A: The cadence sensor should be attached to the inside of the non-drive size crank arm. Placing it outside the crank arm can make it scrape against your shoe. The cadence sensor should not be installed on your drive-side crank arm, as it may cause interference with your drive train. It should lie flat against the crank arm or lie perpendicular to the crank arm.
Q: Where should I install the speed sensor for spin bike?
A: The speed sensor should be fastened to the wheel hub (preferably horizontally). Note that installing the sensor on an asymmetrical hub does not affect its performance. Ensure that the sensor does not contact other parts of your bike as this can cause interference and make your ride discomforting.
Q: Can bike cadence and sensors measure the watt?
A: No. There are apps that calculate the RPM and Speed giving from the sensors and provide an estimation of watt/power output but they are not really accurate. For watt tracking I recommend you to buy a pair of cycling power pedals, they provide excellent watt output.
Q: What accessories are needed to install the speed and cadence sensors?
A: Nothing, in most cases. Most spin bikes speed and cadence sensors such as Wahoo and Garmin come with everything you need to install the sensors. Sometimes you might need a piece of tape but that’s it. If your bike doesn’t come with a media shelf, you will need an exercise bike tablet holder.
Speed and RPM Sensor for Spin Bike Buying Guide:
It is very likely that when you go to your local store to buy speed and cadence sensors for your spin bike, you may not see some or most of the products we have reviewed above.
The products we have reviewed are the best products from some of the best manufacturers of cycling speed and cadence sensors in the world. In case you cannot find the above products at your local store, here are some guidelines that would help you choose a good, whatever the brand.
Wireless Connectivity: Always ensure that your speed and cadence monitor for spin bike sensor has at least a Bluetooth 4.0 connection, as well as an ANT+ connection. Wireless connection is important because it is the only way you can access biking computers, third party apps, and connect with your mobile devices.
Ease of Installation: Ensure that you buy a ANT/+ Bluetooth cadence sensor for your spin bike that is easy to install. It is advisable to buy sensors that do not install with a magnet, as the installation process if this kind of sensors is easy to master. Except it is not avoidable, avoid sensors that need magnets to install.
Waterproof and Dustproof Sensors: They may be more expensive than regular sensors, but waterproof and dustproof spinning RPM sensors are crucial if you want the ultimate biking experience. With them, you can ride your outdoor bike even in inclement weather without worrying about your sensor. Even though they are more expensive than regular sensors, prioritising them when you are buying a sensor would save you a lot of money because you won’t need to change your sensors regularly when they get bad as a result of coming in contact with water and dust.
Sayed Hosseiny
Hi there, I'm Sayed Hamed Hosseiny, the founder and one of the authors at yourexercisebike.com (YEB). I am a former indoor cycling instructor and personal trainer with nearly 20 years of experience. With a passion for indoor cycling, I have spent years designing cycling parts, repairing, and importing exercise bikes. All the articles, tips, guides, reviews, and comparisons on YourExerciseBike.com (YEB) reflect my personal opinion and expertise in the field. I'm excited to share my knowledge with fellow exercise bike enthusiasts and help people find reliable indoor cycling information and the best exercise bike for their needs.
I have a LeMond Revmaster Spin Cycle with a solid wheel – so there is no hub on which to fasten a speed sensor. Also, the clearance between the frame and the side of wheel is ~0.2 inches (5 mm) which is not enough clearance to glue a sensor to the side of the wheel.
In the past, I have been using a very old wired Avocet 25 bike computer with a very thin magnet glued to the side of the wheel but the Avocet is now giving me problems and I would like to go wireless.
Any ideas?
Hi Bob, thanks for stopping by,
I am not 100% sure but I think the Spinning Bio HR spin bike computer works for you, it’s wireless and uses a thin magnet which you should be able to replace it with an even thinner magnet if needed.
I hope it helps.
Do I need a monitor on the bike to use the cadence sensor? Or can I use my IPAD to connect to the senor for data?
Hello Charmaine, thanks for stopping by and sorry for the late response
You can use your iPad to connect the sensor for data
I hope it helps
Best,
Sayed (YEB Team)