Cycling is the best exercise for those who want to be healthy and stay healthy. However, if you don’t clearly understand your health condition, cycling for a long time with a vigorous intensity can hurt your health.
A simple way to avoid this situation is to use a heart rate monitor. This intelligent and compact device will help you adjust your cycling intensity to suit your fitness and endurance.
So what are the best heart rate monitors for cycling? The answer is below!
What Is A Heart Rate Monitor?
A heart rate monitor is a device used to measure the electrical signals generated by your heart when you engage in intense activities like running, cycling, swimming.
In other words, the heart rate monitor will tell you how fast or slow your heart is. Thanks to that, you can analyze your exercise intensity through the parameters displayed on the heart rate monitor.
There are two most common heart rate monitors on the market, including fitness trackers and chest strap monitors. While the fitness trackers are more convenient and straightforward to use, the chest strap monitors provide the best accuracy.
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How Do I Calculate My Target Heart Rate?
When exercising, your heart rate should be beating faster than usual for the best results. The heart rate within that range is called the target heart rate. So how to calculate the target heart rate accurately and efficiently?
Here are steps to measure your target heart rate:
- Step 1: Calculate your resting heart rate.
It is essential to know what your resting heart rate is. Only then can you compare it to your workout heart rate.
Find the pulse on the wrist and calculate the figure of beats per minute. You should repeat this process at least three times and take the average as the final result.
- Step 2: Calculate the maximum safe heart rate
You should keep in mind that the target heart rate needs to be higher than the relaxed heart rate, but it should not be as high or higher than the maximum safe heart rate.
The way to calculate the maximum safe heart rate for each age is different. Subtract your age from 220, and you’ll know what your maximum safe heart rate is.
For example, if you are 20 years old, the maximum will be 220 minus 20 and equal to 200 beats/minute.
- Step 3: Calculate the target heart rate
The target heart rate will typically be 50% or 85% of the maximum safe heart rate. So, for example, if your maximum safe heart rate is 200 beats/minute, your target heart rate would be 100 beats/minute or 170 beats/minute.
What Are The Best Heart Rate Monitors For Cycling To Buy?
Each product has its own strengths. Therefore, below are the best heart rate monitors for cycling based on different requirements and uses.
- Best Overall – Fitbit Charge 3 Heart Rate Monitor
“This model is equipped with an incredibly long battery life which can last up to 7 days in use; This monitor comes with numerous modern features such as calorie burn measurement, resting heart rate monitor, and vibration mechanism.”
- Best for Chest Strap – Garmin HRM-Dual Heart Rate Monitor
“This model features an adjustable and comfortable strap fitting both men and women perfectly; it gives more accurate data since it is an electrical heart rate strap; it comes at a low price for the value.”
- Best for Wrist – POLAR VANTAGE M Heart Rate Monitor
“This heart rate monitor is designed for the wrist; it comes in a modern and attractive design; this model is operated with optical technology to calculate your heart rate zones.”
- Best for Running – Wahoo TICKR X Heart Rate Monitor
“This model offers other measurements that help your exercises more effectively such as ground contact time, distance, and vertical oscillation; this one is ideal for outdoor running, outdoor and indoor cycling cadence.”
- Best for Strava – Wahoo Fitness TICKR FIT Heart Rate Monitor
“It supports Strava’s users by recording and uploading data to Strava automatically; It offers more accurate data compared to wristband monitors; this one is equipped with a rechargeable battery for long-term usage.”
- Best for Triathletes – Garmin HRM-Pro Heart Rate Monitor
“This model will be a worthy consideration if you are a triathlete; it could connect to Garmin apps perfectly; it will store accurate data about your heart beats during outdoor activities including biking, running, and swimming.”
- Best for Exercise – Fitbit Versa 3 Heart Rate Monitor
“This heart rate monitor comes with Built-in GPS for more convenient exercises; This one is equipped with sleep tracking and sleep score; with an inbuilt Voice assistant, you can set up and use this device through your voice.”
- Best for Peloton – POLAR H10 Heart Rate Monitor
“It is the best heart rate monitor for Peloton since it can connect to your Peloton and applications in seconds; it works with numerous devices and applications such as Polar Beat, Strava, and Garmin devices.”
- Best for Swimming – Garmin HRM Heart Rate Monitor
“This one is the best device for swimming since it has all the necessary features that a swimmer needs; it could store your heart rate data during swimming within 20 hours.”
- Best for The Money – POLAR T31 Heart Rate Monitor
“This device is the best value for your money; it costs less than $40; This chest strap is designed with elastic and adjustable straps for comfortable wearing; it’s coded to protect your data.”
- Best for Rowing – Polar H7 Heart Rate Monitor
“This model is popular in the rowers’ community since it could connect to a wide range of rowing machines; It offers correct heart rate data in real-time; It could count the calories you’ve consumed correctly.”
- Best for Sleep – Fitbit Charge 4 Heart Rate Monitor
“This device can measure your skin temperature and the range of SpO2 when you sleep; It is equipped with Built-in GPS that helps you manage your distance and pace via a screen.”
Best Heart Rate Monitor For Cycling Comparison Chart 2021
Here is a comparison chart including some important features of 12 best heart rate monitors for cycling. Compare these items and you will see what is the best for your own.
Top 12 Best Heart Rate Monitor For Cycling to Buy (2021)
To help you have in-depth information about these 12 best heart rate monitors for cycling, I have made the following review. Check it out and find the best one for you!
Best Overall: Fitbit Charge 3 Heart Rate Monitor
Pros
- It comes with an extra-long battery life
- It could be used for multi-purposes
- Easy to use with convenient touchscreen
- This device come in a compact and attractive design
- This one has a perfect water resistance
Cons
- It needs more accurate step counts
One of the best features of this model is its extremely long battery life. This device could last up to 7 days without charging. Thanks to that, you can use this heart rate monitor in long-term cycling with peace in mind.
Moreover, this device will offer an accurate measurement. For example, it could help you measure calorie burn, resting heart rate, and workout heart rate. In addition, you could use it to track your swims thanks to its complete waterproofness.
Another attractive improvement of this heart rate monitor is that it can work as an alarm clock. You can wear this watch through the night since it’s comfortable for your wrist. Moreover, this item can also analyze your sleep and give accurate data.
In the morning, this Fitbit Charge 3 will wake you up with a robust vibration mechanism. This feature is an innovation compared to previous versions like Fitbit Charge 2.
Product Specs
| Item Weight | 8 Ounces |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth |
| Compatible Devices | Iphones; Android phones |
| Type of Battery | Lithium Ion |
| Materials | Silicone; Plastic; Metal |
Key Features:
- 24/7 heart rate tracking
- Battery life of up to 7 days
- Maximum operating altitude: 8,535 m
- Water resistant
- Connectable to Smartphone GPS
Best for Chest Strap: Garmin HRM-Dual Heart Rate Monitor
Pros
- This product has a low price for the value
- It offer the best accuracy
- Adjustable and soft strap makes it comfortable to wear
- Easy to wash and clean this item
- It is backed by a super long battery life
Cons
- It might be required to replace the battery in some situations
If accuracy is your priority, this Garmin HRM-Dual Heart Rate Monitor is an ideal way to go.
It is designed with an adjustable and soft strap. Thanks to that, it can fit both men and women. In addition, this chest strap will be in place with a grippy material even when you have some strenuous exercises.
You can connect this heart rate monitor to almost all compatible devices via Bluetooth and ANT+. This machine analyzes heart rate in real-time, and this means it will give accurate results.
Another great feature of this chest strap monitor is that it uses electricity instead of optical sensors to measure your heart rate. Thanks to that, the data it gives is almost entirely accurate.
Product Specs
| Item Weight | 1.9 Ounces |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth; ANT+ |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphones |
| Type of Battery | User-replaceable size CR2032 (3 volts) |
| Materials | 100% Cotton Jersey |
Key Features:
- Battery Life: Up to 3.5 years
- Strap Length: Adjustable from 25″ to 52″
- Operating Temperature: 23°F–122°F
- Water Resistance: 1 ATM
Best for Wrist: POLAR VANTAGE M Heart Rate Monitor
Pros
- This one has an attractive design
- It could be used for a wide range of activities
- You can customize its wrist band
- It has a great battery life
Cons
- It doesn’t have a touchscreen and WIFI connectivity
If you are looking for the best heart rate monitor for your wrist, there are no reasons to miss this POLAR VANTAGE M Heart Rate Monitor. It’s designed as a stylish smartwatch that can work conveniently on your wrist.
This model is operated with optical technology to calculate your heart rate zones. Unlike an electrical device, this one monitors the heart rate through blood flow on your wrist. However, the workout data offered is still accurate.
Another impressive feature of this model is that it’s straightforward to set up via the Flow app. With a large screen and bright colors, you can see all the content clearly in the sun.
Don’t worry if you have a small wrist. You can customize the length and color of the band to fit your wrist perfectly.
Product Specs
| Item Weight | 45 Grams |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth |
| Compatible Devices | Standard BLE heart rate sensors; Running cadence; Power sensors |
| Type of Battery | 230 mAh Li-pol battery |
| Materials | Stainless steel |
Key Features:
- Battery life lasts for up to 30 hours
- Bio-impedance electrodes and optical sensors
- Customizable fitness band options
- Replaceable wristbands
Best for Running: Wahoo TICKR X Heart Rate Monitor
Pros
- This device offers good accuracy
- It supports both ANT+ and Bluetooth technologies
- Its price tag is affordable
- Lightweight and comfy to wear
Cons
- It need better quality strap
This Wahoo TICKR X Heart Rate Monitor is more versatile and functional than other counterparts on the market. You could use this one for cycling and running as well. With many innovative features, it will benefit runners in many ways.
This device gives correct heart rate data and offers other measurements that help your exercises more effectively. For example, it could measure the ground contact time, distance, and vertical oscillation.
Thanks to that, it will be a valuable device for outdoor runs, outdoor cycling, and indoor cycling.
Moreover, you could use the Wahoo Fitness app to track your activities effortlessly. If you forget your smartphone, this model could store the data without 16 hours, thanks to the built-in memory.
Product Specs
| Item Weight | 0.12 Pounds |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth; ANT+ |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphones; Tablets; GPS watches; Bike computers |
| Type of Battery | Lithium Metal batteries |
| Materials | Fabric |
Key Features:
- Built-in memory
- Strap Length: Adjustable from 23 inch to 48 inch
- Works with 50+ Smartphone Apps
- Battery life up to 8760 hours
Best for Strava: Wahoo Fitness TICKR FIT Heart Rate Monitor
Pros
- It is one of the best armband HRM
- Easy and comfy to wear in hard exercises
- It comes at a low price tag
- This device tracks your training zones accurately
- Rechargeable battery for long-term usage
Cons
- You can only see the data through compatible devices
This Wahoo Fitness TICKR FIT model will be the best option if you prefer the Strava platform. This product will allow you to record and upload your heart rate data on Strava automatically.
With a specific armband design, this item will make your activities more convenient and easy. Also, it is more accurate than a wristband and more comfortable than a chest strap.
Another feature that will capture your interest is the rechargeable battery. Instead of using a one-time Coin Cell battery like other versions of TICKR heart rate monitors, this one is equipped with a rechargeable battery.
Thanks to that, you can use this device for a long time. After each full charge, this heart rate monitor can work continuously for 30 hours. This product pairs with a USB charger that helps your charging quicker and more effortlessly.
Product Specs
| Item Weight | 0.1 Pounds |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth; ANT+ |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphones, Tablets |
| Type of Battery | Lithium-Ion |
| Materials | Fabric |
Key Features:
- Battery life: 35 hours
- Record workout data
- Works with 50+ Smartphone Apps
- Personalized Heart Rate Training
Best for Triathletes: Garmin HRM-Pro Heart Rate Monitor
Pros
- This device is lightweight to wear
- It comes with long battery life
- It supports both ANT+ and Bluetooth
- This device is equipped with built-in storage
- It is ideal for mobile apps
Cons
- Quite expensive than same-range products
Garmin HRM-Pro Heart Rate Monitor will be a worthy consideration if you are a triathlete and own some Garmin devices like a Garmin Watch.
This product is manufactured to connect with Garmin devices perfectly. You can connect it via both Bluetooth and ANT+ technology. Moreover, This product will help to record accurate data of your heart rate when doing triathlons.
For runners, this model will measure your running dynamics through the ground contact time, vertical oscillation, and your stride length. When you swim, this one will store accurate data after you finish.
In addition, it can record the data up to 18 hours before you sync the data thanks to the built-in storage.
One of the best features of this Garmin HRM-Pro Heart Rate Monitor is its long battery life. Even though the battery is unchargeable, this one could last up to one year before being replaced.
Product Specs
| Item Weight | 2.1 Ounces |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth; ANT+ |
| Compatible Devices | Garmin devices; Compatible fitness equipment; Online training apps |
| Type of Battery | CR2032 battery |
| Materials | Not available |
Key Features:
- Battery life: up to one year
- Transmits data over ANT+ and Bluetooth
- Captures running dynamics
- Stores heart rate data during swimming
Best for Exercise: Fitbit Versa 3 Heart Rate Monitor
Pros
- It comes with impressive water resistance
- It could be used for other activities like running, hiking
- This device could calculate your resting heart rate
- It will track your sleeping quality
Cons
- It comes at a high price tag
The first feature that makes this Fitbit Versa 3 Heart Rate Monitor outstanding from other products on the market is the built-in GPS. Thanks to this intelligent technology, you can do your outdoor activities without carrying your phone.
Another appreciated function of this device is sleep tracking and sleep score. It allows you to track your sleeping quality and blood oxygen levels via the Fitbit app and SpO2 clock faces.
Then, the Sleep Score function of this heart rate monitor will help you know about your sleeping quality per night.
Moreover, this model comes with an exciting feature that will help you have a more effortless experience. With an inbuilt Voice assistant, you can set up and use this device through your voice.
In short, with all the excellent and convenient features, I consider this product the best heart rate monitor for exercise.
Product Specs
| Item Weight | 0.441 pounds |
| Connectivity Technology | GPS |
| Compatible Devices | Weather; Sleep Monitor; Reminders, Voice Assistant; Phone; GPS; Heart Rate Monitor |
| Type of Battery | Lithium Ion |
| Materials | Black rubber |
Key Features:
- Alexa Built-in
- 6+ Days Battery
- Built-in GPS
- Active Zone Minutes
- PurePulse 2.0
Best for Peloton: POLAR H10 Heart Rate Monitor
Pros
- This model comes at a cheap price
- It is compatible with a wide range of other devices and smartphones
- Ideal to put on the Peloton
- It could connect to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously
Cons
- It might get some troubles in connecting to Apple watch
If you are looking for the best heart rate monitor for your Peloton, this POLAR H10 Heart Rate Monitor is one of the best ways to go. Just put it on your Peloton, and your bike will find it in seconds.
After connecting, this device will provide the most accurate data. Moreover, this item is also compatible with the Peloton app.
This heart rate monitor works with Peloton and numerous devices and applications such as Polar Beat, Strava, and Garmin devices.
Thanks to that, if you have more than one device that tracks your fitness and intensity, this will make syncing data more accessible and faster.
Product Specs
| Item Weight | 0.1 Kilograms |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth; ANT+ |
| Compatible Devices | iOS mobile devices; Android mobile devices |
| Type of Battery | CR2025 battery |
| Materials | Polyester |
Key Features:
- Waterproof HR Sensor
- Works with many sports and smart watches
- Fully waterproof
- Internal memory for one training session
Best for Swimming: Garmin HRM Heart Rate Monitor
Pros
- This item is excellent to store data during swimming
- Easy and comfy to wear thanks to non-slip design
- It comes with lightweight and compact size
- The replaceable battery has long lifetime
Cons
- Battery replacement is quite time-consuming
I consider this Garmin HRM Heart Rate Monitor the best device for swimming since this one has all the necessary features that a swimmer needs.
In addition, this monitor will be able to store your heart rate data during swimming within 20 hours.
It comes with a compact and lightweight design. As a result, this device creates very little drag when you are underwater.
Not only that, with the non-slip material, this heart rate monitor will be stable in your hand even when you are active in the water.
When you buy this device, you will receive more than a heart rate monitor. In addition, you can take part in the Garmin Connect, which is an international media group of Garmin’s users. There, you can see the swim metrics to enhance your underwater activities.
Product Specs
| Item Weight | 0.16 Pounds |
| Connectivity Technology | Not available |
| Compatible Devices | Garmin Connect app |
| Type of Battery | User-replaceable CR2032 battery |
| Materials | Not available |
Key Features:
- Stores up to 20 hours of heart rate data
- Non-slip design
- Up to 18 months battery life
Best for The Money: POLAR T31 Heart Rate Monitor
Pros
- This one is the best deal for your budget
- Adjustable chest size and elastic strap for better fit
- Long battery life included
- It will be compatible with other heart rate monitors
Cons
- The battery is unchangeable
This POLAR T31 Heart Rate Monitor is the best bang for your buck. At less than $40, you will own an excellent heart rate monitor equipped with numerous beneficial features.
This comfortable chest strap is designed with elastic and adjustable straps. Thanks to that, you can adjust the size to suit your body best when you put it on. This one could work well for 25-inch to 54-inch chest sizes.
Moreover, this device is coded. Thanks to that, when you use this heart rate monitor, it will prevent data from other devices from passing to your heart rate monitor and interrupt your heart rate readings.
Product Specs
| Item Weight | 0.01 Kilograms |
| Connectivity Technology | Not available |
| Compatible Devices | FT1, FT2, FT4, FT7, FT40, FT60, FT80, RS100, RS300X, RS400, RCX5 |
| Type of Battery | CR123A batteries |
| Materials | Elasticized-Fabric |
Key Features:
- Using 5kHz transmission
- Waterproof design
- Fits 25 to 54 inch chest size
- Average battery lifetime is 2500 hours
Best for Rowing: Polar H7 Heart Rate Monitor
Pros
- It is one of the best fitness tracker on the market
- This has a good price for what on offer
- It comes with high-quality sensors
- It will help you track the calorie burn
Cons
- Compatible apps is quite complicating to use
This Polar H7 Heart Rate Monitor is a popular product in the rowing community. Like other chest strap monitors, this device offers correct heart rate data in real-time.
It could pair with many types of rowing machines, including Concept, Concept2, Concept 2 Model D, etc. Moreover, when wearing this device, you can hear the voice notification and feedback through your headphones.
As such, you could focus on your rowing exercises as well as the environment to have the best experience. In addition, you could connect this Polar H7 model to almost all smartphones, tablets, and training applications via Bluetooth.
One feature that I appreciate about this product is the ability to count the calories you’ve consumed. So, if your fitness goal is to lose weight and burn calories, this device will be an ideal companion for you.
Product Specs
| Item Weight | 0.26 Pounds |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth |
| Compatible Devices | Apple iPhone; iPads; Android Devices |
| Type of Battery | CR3032 watch battery |
| Materials | Plastic |
Key Features:
- Waterproof heart rate sensor
- Strong battery life
- Advanced technology: Gym
- Calorie counter capabilities
Best for Sleep: Fitbit Charge 4 Heart Rate Monitor
Pros
- It comes with a sleek and attractive appearance
- This model is ideal for Android operating systems
- You can set your fitness goal easier with Active Zone Minutes
- It could help you understand your sleeping quality
Cons
- The patterns on the wristband are quite bulky
The first thing that sets this Fitbit Charge 4 version apart from other counterparts is the SpO2 feature equipped.
Thanks to that, you will know your average SpO2 per night. With this feature, you can monitor your periods of sleep and find ways to enhance your sleeping quality.
Another unique feature of this device is that it can measure your skin temperature and monitor its change. You’ll only find this useful feature on the Fitbit app.
Moreover, this device comes with a built-in GPS. This feature is an improvement in the Charge 4 version. Thanks to the high-quality GPS, you can manage your distance and pace via a screen.
Product Specs
| Item Weight | 0.441 pounds |
| Connectivity Technology | NFC |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphone |
| Type of Battery | Lithium Metal |
| Materials | Hard plastic |
Key Features:
- Built-in GPS
- Active Zone Minutes
- Track workouts in real-time
- Multi-day battery lasts up to 7 days
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best Heart Rate Monitor For Cycling In 2021
Heart rate monitor is not that easy to select, one can cost you from 20 bucks to over a few hundred. Therefore, these are the facts and information that you must know before getting a monitor for your cycling:
Type
Basically, there are three types of heart rate monitors for cycling: chest strap, touching wrist-watch, and continuous-reading wrist-watch. The two latter kinds look quite the same, only different about the way they read the figure.
The chest-strap heart rate monitor for cycling is worn on your chest and directly read your heartbeat to transfer the data to another watch, or your phone is connected. The reading will be continuous, and the device is small and meticulous, you will feel a lot more comfortable with it. However, to see your heart rate, you have to get your phone or at least a smartwatch to display, which means double the amount of device.
The touch-type wristwatch heart rate monitor is much more common and of course, cheaper, it resembles an ordinary watch. When you need to get the reading, you have to touch and wait a few seconds for the device to work. However, this may be inconvenient for bike riders, since it can be a bit distracting during cycling.
Lastly, the continuous-reading watch is the newest and most upgraded among those three. It will provide real-time reading instantly whenever you need it, and the device is compact too. However, the price of this type is also the highest of all three.
Feature
The most fundamental purpose of a heart rate monitor for cycling is for measuring your heart rate, but you can opt for some other features too. If you are training under bad weather frequently, getting a water-proof or at least splash-proof one is ideal. A heart rate monitor can also count calories or take the role of a sports clock too, so you should make use of these features.
FAQs
What is the best heart rate monitor for cycling?
In my opinion, the best heart rate monitor for biking is the Fitbit Charge 3 Heart Rate Monitor. This device comes with all the bells and whistles that a professional cyclist needs. Besides, its price is truly affordable.
Is a heart rate monitor worth it for cycling?
Yes, it is. A typical heart rate monitor has a lower price compared to other devices like power meters. Also, it could help you enhance your productivity and endurance during cycling.
What is a good average heart rate when cycling?
I believe the target heart rate is the best average heart rate when you ride a bike. The various age ranges will have a different suitable average heart rate. For example, a heart rate of 85 beats/minute is ideal for 50-year-old cyclists.
Are heart rate monitors accurate?
There are two common types of heart rate monitors, including fitness trackers and chest strap monitors. If you prefer better accuracy, chest strap monitors will be the best way to go.
Is my heart rate monitor water-resistant?
In general, almost all heart rate monitors on the market are waterproof, so you can use them for swimming as well. Some brands that offer water-resistant heart rate monitors include Polar, Garmin, Fitbit, etc.
How do I keep my heart rate monitor clean?
You can wash it by hand to clean and maintain it. Also, you will need some warm water and mild detergent to clean your heart rate monitor. Regular cleaning will help a heart rate monitor to work more accurately.
What are the benefits of using heart rate monitors?
Heart rate monitors will help you know and manage your workouts depending on your health conditions. Moreover, this device will help you monitor heartbeats. Thanks to that, you can adjust the intensity of activities more effectively.
How old can I use a heart rate monitor?
Anyone can use a heart rate monitor during vigorous exercise. In other words, there is no age limit for operating a heart rate monitor. Thus, no matter how old you are, if you need to improve the quality of your outdoor activities, use a heart rate monitor.
My Top Pick
Personally, I believe the Fitbit Charge 3 Heart Rate Monitor is the best heart rate monitor for my cycling since it integrates a wide range of beneficial functions that help me achieve my fitness goals easier.
So what is your favorite option after reading this article? If you have any questions about these heart rate monitors, don’t hesitate to let me know. I will answer your questions as quickly as possible.
