10 Best Smartwatch For Cycling 2025 in the United States

The Apple Watch Series 10 GPS 42mm is a strong option for cyclists who want a feature-rich smartwatch. It offers very precise GPS tracking using multiple satellite systems, which is crucial for accurate cycling routes and distance measurement. The always-on Retina display is bright and large, making it easy to glance at stats while riding, even in sunlight. Its heart rate monitoring is advanced, with ECG support and notifications for abnormal rhythms, helping cyclists keep a close eye on their health.

Battery life covers a full day (up to 18 hours) under normal use, which should handle most cycling sessions, though longer rides may require charging. The watch is durable with water resistance to 50 meters and dust resistance, so it can handle sweat, rain, and rough outdoor conditions. Connectivity is seamless with iPhones, allowing calls, messages, and music controls on the go, but compatibility is limited to newer iPhone models. Navigation features like compass, altimeter, and route tracking are built-in, supporting effective ride planning and safety.

Training metrics cover a broad range of activities, including cycling, and provide detailed insights such as workout intensity and recovery. The battery life might be insufficient for extended multi-day cycling trips without access to charging. This watch serves as a comfortable, durable, and smart companion for recreational and serious cyclists who want sophisticated health tracking and navigation wrapped in an easy-to-use, stylish design, especially for users within the Apple ecosystem.

The Apple Watch Series 10 stands out as a versatile fitness tracker, especially appealing for cycling enthusiasts. Featuring built-in GPS, it offers accurate tracking of your rides, which is essential for monitoring distance and routes. The battery life is decent, with up to 18 hours on regular use, but it may fall short for longer rides unless you switch to Low Power Mode, which can extend it to 36 hours. This should be noted if you plan to use it for extended tours.

One of the key strengths of this smartwatch is its advanced health monitoring capabilities. The heart rate sensor provides real-time data, and the ECG app can give insights into your heart health, making it a great companion for fitness tracking. The always-on display is a bonus, ensuring you can easily check your stats while cycling without the need to raise your wrist.

Durability is another highlight, with a water resistance rating of 50 meters, meaning a little rain won’t stop you, and the IP6X dust resistance is a plus for outdoor cycling. It’s also designed to connect seamlessly with your iPhone and other Apple devices, allowing you to receive notifications and control your music while on the go. The watch's reliance on being paired with an iPhone can be a drawback for those who use Android devices. Additionally, while the display is bright and legible, it may be challenging to read in direct sunlight at certain angles. The additional features, such as the customizable bands and safety features like fall detection, enhance its usability but may not be crucial for all cyclists. The Apple Watch Series 10 represents a solid choice for cycling enthusiasts looking for a reliable smartwatch packed with health features, while also considering the need for regular charging and its compatibility limitations.

The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is a solid choice for cyclists looking for a smartwatch that combines fitness tracking with connectivity. One of its standout features is the built-in GPS, which offers decent accuracy for tracking your routes, crucial for outdoor cycling. Battery life is impressive, typically lasting around 18 hours, meaning you can rely on it for most rides without needing a recharge mid-ride.

Heart rate monitoring is another strong aspect, providing valuable insights into your fitness levels while cycling. The watch can send alerts for irregular heart rhythms, which enhances safety during workouts. Durability is a plus as well; with a water resistance rating of up to 50 meters, it handles rainy rides without any issues.

On the connectivity front, the Apple Watch SE integrates seamlessly with iPhones, allowing you to receive calls, texts, and music playback right on your wrist, which is convenient and keeps you connected while cycling. Additionally, features like Fall Detection and Crash Detection add a layer of safety, notifying emergency services if you're in trouble. However, for serious cyclists, the lack of advanced cycling metrics such as power output or detailed performance analytics may be a limitation. The watch does offer basic workout tracking, but those seeking in-depth cycling stats might need a more specialized device. While its Retina display is bright and readable, some may find it slightly small for detailed navigation, especially in direct sunlight.

If you're looking for a smartwatch that balances fitness tracking with connectivity and safety features, the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) can be a great companion for cycling. Just keep in mind its limitations in advanced cycling metrics.