Best GPS Bike Trackers: find and follow your stolen bike
Millions of bikes get stolen every year - these little devices can help you keep an eye on yours
A bike is stolen every three minutes in the US and around seven minutes in the UK, with as low as 5% ever returned to their owners. So, while having one of the best bike locks or even angle-grinder-resistant bike locks is a worthwhile investment, it's probably time we started thinking about alternatives. One of the best GPS bike trackers could be that solution.
Fortunately, GPS trackers are now widely available in a variety of shapes and sizes. To be clear, GPS trackers won't directly improve the security of your bike. To some extent, GPS trackers improve your chances of retrieving and recovering your stolen bike. It's still worth familiarising yourself with how to secure your bike correctly.
GPS trackers can be split into two categories:
The first of which is to use a Bluetooth connection to establish their location. These devices tend to be smaller, cheaper and don't require a subscription—like Apple's AirTags, for example.
Second, there are fully-fledged LTE GPS trackers, which provide location information wherever they are in the world, irrespective of how close the nearest cell phone or Bluetooth device is. These tend to be more expensive, larger, and require a subscription for network access. However, they can provide more accurate location data.
Of course, the type of GPS bike tracker you require depends on your location and budget. With this in mind, I have tried, tested and hand-picked the best bike GPS trackers from each of these categories. Plus, we also consider size, stealth and cost for each of these products.
Best rechargeable option
Knog uses Apple’s ‘FindMy’ technology, so you get all the benefits of tapping into that extensive network. However, the Knog Scout is USB-C rechargeable - which will be a deal clincher for some.
Super lightweight at just 11 grams, the AirTag makes it particularly easy to stash discreetly on your bike. Being an Apple product, the setup and integration are remarkably smooth and straightforward.
Tile has been in the Bluetooth location game for much longer than Apple - and the Tile app works on both Apple and Android devices, broadening its user base. The Tile network is well-established and continues to grow.
The Orbit x Velo tracker is a great example of third-party companies making great use of Apple's “Find My Network” technology. At just 80 grams, it's small, and the option to bolt it into your bottle cage bosses is a bonus.
The Invoxia tracker offers a slim design and alarm, but like most devices, it requires a subscription to reach its full potential. This is quite reasonable compared to the competition. It’s primarily let down by not being water resistant.
While a little more bulky at 82 grams, Land Air Sea’s tracker is both water- and dustproof. Although it can be a little tricky to find a good place to keep it on your bike, it is amongst the cheapest.
At a hefty 249 grams, the Cycloop tracker is something of a heavyweight - and it’s certainly not discreet. That said, it attaches nicely to a seatpost, and the battery can last for up to a year - making it a set-and-forget device.
While not specifically a tracker unit, if any Garmin Edge device is installed on your bike when it is stolen, using Garmin Live Track and the last known location features could help in the return of at least your device and possibly your bike as well.
The Knog Scout, uses a USB-C for recharging which will be music some people's ears
Our expert review:
The Scout Bike Alarm and Finder is a slim 25g rechargeable Bluetooth tracking device utilizing Apple’s “Find My” technology. It can be discreetly mounted under a water cage to help prevent theft and help locate your bike in the event of theft.
Features
The Knog Scout Bike Alarm can be linked up to Apple’s 'Find My' app and via Bluetooth to the Knog Scout app which will then let you 'Arm' and 'Disarm' the device and trigger an 85db audio alarm as well as send a notification to your phone when it detects motion both of which will grab the attention of anyone around.
In the case your bike goes missing with the Knog Scout Alarm system, you can hop on Apple’s 'Find My' app, similarly to the AirTag tracker, and see where the Knog trackers latest location is using Apple’s 'Find My Network”'of millions of Apple devices. Read my Apple AirTag breakdown at the beginning if you are unfamiliar with Apple’s Find My Network. It does all of this without any monthly subscriptions plans, all you need is a working compatible Apple device.
The Knog Scout includes anti-tamper screws to mount securely and an included optional neon yellow silicone cover to deter thieves. The device has a waterproof IP66 rating to keep it functioning during its lifetime. You can get two to six months out of the USB-C rechargeable battery in addition to the small LEDs showing alarm status and battery charge.
What we like
I really like the design of the Knog Scout as it's not super obvious when sitting under a water bottle cage. The app is super easy to use and makes alarming your bike super easy. If you own multiple bikes, you can connect them all to the Knog app and have full control of each one. I’m all for the rechargeable battery that can last up to six months, specially with an updated USB-C charging port. The loud 85 db audio alarm is something to like to help scare away anyone who dares touch your precious bike! It seems like KNOG might have the loudest alarm in this list of trackers and that's a plus in my books. Lastly the device can get firmware updates through the app meaning it will only improve over time.
What we don't like
There is not much to not like about the Knog Scout, but I would’ve liked to see a second tool to remove the anti-tamper screws as I seem to have misplaced the one it came with. My fault, I know. A quicker charge time would have been nice to see as it can currently take up to four hours to fully charge. I also believe a price could be lower, maybe $49.99. Lastly, this tracker has no real time GPS tracking built in as it is also relying on Apple’s Find My Network to help triangulate its location.
Verdict
Ever since Apple gave third party companies the ability to have their devices use Apple’s Find My Network, companies like Knog jumped at the opportunity to create a tracking device that also alarms to deter thieves away. If you are looking to step up from let's say an AirTag, the Knog Scout Alarm and Finder can be an excellent choice to add peace of mind when leaving your bike unattended for a bit without worrying about any monthly or yearly subscription plans.
Our expert review:
The Apple AirTag is the second smallest bluetooth tracker on this list. It is a quarter sized shiny 11 grams almost weightless tracker made by Apple. It’s meant to be used with Apple iPhone 6’s and up running their latest IOS software.
Features
The AirTag uses Apple’s “Find My Network”. This network is made up of hundreds of millions of Apple devices around the world. Thanks to these many Apple devices, the AirTag uses a secure Bluetooth signal that can be detected by nearby devices, for example, someone's iPad. Once that signal is detected, Apple’s advanced end-to-end encryption uses that iPad's location to then give you, the owner, a fairly accurate location of the AirTag.
If you were to safely place an AirTag somewhere in or on the bike - and I so happen to then steal your bike - then, when you stepped in to get your cappuccino at the coffee shop, a few things would happen depending on how you set up your AirTag.
You can be alerted if the AirTag has left your proximity. Once you realize your bike has been stolen, you open up Apple’s “Find My” app and tap on your AirTag (bike). While the thief is passing by buses, cars, pedestrians, and other cyclists, the chances of at least one of them having an Apple device that helps ping the location of your AirTag (bike) is highly probable, especially in big cities.
You then notice that the AirTag (bike) stops moving and is now idle at someone's house. You then quickly file a police report, show them the location, and attempt to retrieve it with them (depending on your local laws and ordinances). If the AirTag (bike) is within proximity, your iPhone will let you know and you'll be able to make the AirTag beep. At this point the chances of retrieving your bike are slim - but not zero, if compared to you not even having an AirTag tacker in or on your bike. There are many happy stories from AirTag owners able to retrieve their belongings online.
Now, the Apple AirTag must be linked to the user's iPhone, meaning you must have an active Apple ID (most iPhone users already have one, check your settings). This feature is critical because every AirTag you own must be linked up to one Apple ID user only.
For example, I now have four Airtags and each one is assigned to me. My wife has three Airtags assigned to her. Now, if a thief placed an AirTag on her bike without her knowing and she left for a solo ride, her iPhone would notify her that an unknown/unregistered Airtag has been detected and is tracking her location - in addition to the AirTag beeping to make you aware. At this point she would likely panic, and would head to a public safe space right away, look for the unregistered Airtag, find it and report it to the Police immediately.
What we like
What I like about the AirTag is the simple initial setup, Apple is really good at facilitating device set ups. I also really like the security feature which tells you if there is an unknown AirTag tracking your location. The small and light weight is, of course, a plus to help in putting one just about anywhere in your bike or bike bag. Apple made the battery replacement process easy as well. With a quick twist of the metal cap, you can use a standard coin-shaped CR2032 battery (included) which can last up to a year. AirTags are also water, splash, and dust resistant with a rating of IP67 up to a depth of 1 meter for 30 minutes.
What we don't like
I understand the small size of the AirTag can limit implementation of a rechargeable battery, but I hope maybe they offer a slightly bigger version with a rechargeable battery in the future. Also, the AirTag does not come with any adhesives, screws, mounts, or any accessory to help you mount it on your bike. You must buy those separately from third party sellers, which there are a lot of. There are lots of tricks and tips online on where to place your AirTag on your bike.
Verdict
AirTags were made to help keep track of your belongings by relying on Apple’s 'Find My Network'. At times the network can be unreliable and inaccurate as there is no actual GPS receiver on the AirTag itself since it is relying on nearby Apple devices built-in GPS. The Find My Network becomes more reliable in highly populated cities as opposed to rural areas, so that's something to keep in mind depending on where you live.
You can run into the issue of the battery running out when you most need it, although you'll get notified if the battery is low. Overall Apple’s AirTag is an easy investment into bike security and an entry-level way onto trackers. If you are in Apple's ecosystem of devices, adding a $29.99 AirTag to your bike is worth considering.
Our expert review:
Tile devices are Bluetooth non-GPS trackers utilizing their own large Tile Network. They are offered in different shapes and sizes that can be placed anywhere on a bike. Sizing ranges from 27mm x 7.8mm to 59mm x 34mm x 7.7mm, giving you options to choose from depending on your needs and budget. Below you will see the available Tile models.
Features
From what I can remember, Tile was in the Bluetooth game long before others and offered their own network to help find your belongings near and far away. When you buy a Tile, you must connect it to your phone through their free Tile App. There you can name it, add a photo of your bike, and change the tune of it - if you desire. You can then ping it to make a sound as you see the green rings on the app fill the closer you get.
Each Tile has a different Bluetooth range built-in between 250 ft and 400 ft, so as long as you are within that distance, you can ping your Tile. Now if your bike with a Tile tracker installed leaves your location, the Tile Network comes into play. On the app, you can view the Tiles' most recent location on a map. When you activate 'Notify When Found' on the app, the network will anonymously use every IOS, Android, FitBit, and Bose device running the app to give an updated location. Apparently Tile has partnered with Amazon Sidewalk to strengthen the network around cities utilizing devices such as Ring camera devices. That’s a big network!
All Tile devices are water-resistant with an IP67 rating and all offer an audible ring. While only the Tile Pro model lets you replace the CR 2032 battery, the Tile Mate, Slim, and Sticker, have a long lasting 3-year built-in non replaceable battery. Tile now has scannable QR codes on the back, to provide the finder with the info you enter.
What we like
I like the sizing of the Tiles because they are all small enough to place anywhere on a bike (though the Tile Sticker is the only one with an adhesive backing that’ll let you stick it to pretty much anywhere on your bike). The Tile app always runs smoothly and shows all of your Tile trackers connected to it, giving you quick access to ping them when necessary. Also their Tile Network is large and growing over time, consisting of IOS, Android, FitBit, Bose and Amazon Sidewalk. Whereas AirTags work only within their IOS network.
What we don't like
While all Tiles come with a Standard plan right out of the box, if you want to get smart alerts and 30-day location history, you will have to subscribe to their monthly Premium plan that costs $2.99 a month or $29.00 a year - with this plan you'll also be reimbursed up to $100.00 if Tile cannot find your item. Above that there is the Premium Protect plan for $99.99, which can reimburse you up to $1,000 if you Tile cannot find your item.
Remember you still have to rely on Tile's network to get a fairly accurate location that may not work in rural areas. Only real-time GPS devices can give you the best up to date accurate location.
Verdict
Tile has been in the Bluetooth tracker game for a long while and has grown a large network to help find lost items. They offer a good selection of devices at different price points that will surely fit somewhere on your bike. The Tile Network extension through Amazon Sidewalk is pretty interesting and means their Network is only getting stronger to help find, say, a lost bike.
The two non-obligatory Premium subscriptions hide two good features but are not needed for your Tiles to function. Tiles are a great way to get into Bluetooth-only base tracking devices and can help put some peace of mind when it comes to protecting your bike. Depending on your bike's value, throwing one of these along with an Apple Airtag and maybe a month by month GPS tracker can be an excellent combination to create the most peace of mind. You just can’t be too careful these days!
Our expert review:
The Orbit x Velo is a small 80g tracker designed to be placed on your bicycle via bolts, adhesive, and or zip ties.
Features
Orbit implements 'Apple Find My' technology inside the device just like the Apple AirTag allowing you to connect to millions of devices on Apples 'Find My Network'. This of, course, means this device can only be used with Apple Devices that are compatible with the 'Find My' app.
Once linked to your Apple device, you can track its current location, which will be based on surrounding Apple devices. There is no real-time tracking on the Orbit but all communications are anonymous and encrypted similarly to Apple's AirTag, meaning none of that info is stored on the Orbit.
The tracker has a specific bike friendly design with included security bolts and a special tool. The device has a IPX6 waterproof rating and comes with two replaceable CR2032 coin batteries with a three year battery life claim. You can also play a sound through the 'Find My' app to help find the tracker when it is within range of your connected Apple Device.
What we like
What I like about the Orbit x Velo is the simple set up both on the bike and on the app. There is no Orbit data plan subscription to pay as it uses Apples devices 'Find My Network'. If you prefer to not use the included water cage bolts, they include an adhesive and zip ties to attach the Orbit wherever you prefer, say, under the saddle?
What we don't like
Interestingly enough, Orbit offers its own iPhone app. I thought its app would let me link up the Orbit device and 'Alarm' it, which it won’t - though this was my mistake as they clearly don't advertise it to do such a thing. The Orbit App is only meant to connect to their non-compatible 'Find My' devices they sell.
Even though the Orbit Tracker plays a sound when in range, it may not be audible to some - especially through thick walls. This device doesn’t integrate Apple's U1 chip to help triangulate the tracker with more precision, say a specific storage unit your stolen tracker(bike) may be in.
Verdict
The Orbit x Velo tracker is a great example of third-party companies making great use of Apple's “Find My Network” technology to fit the needs of cyclists and other lifestyles. This gives consumers more options to choose from based on features and pricing. The Orbit gives you similar features to the AirTag but with a secure bicycle friendly design and longer battery life at competitive price.
Our expert review:
Invoxia is a 30g slim-sized rechargeable Cellular GPS tracker that fits in the palm of a hand. It offers outdoor positioning via low-power GPS, indoor and via Wi-Fi, as well as proximity positioning via Bluetooth technology. All of this to help track your most valuable belongings.
Features
The Invoxia will locate and track with updates every 2, 5, 10, or 30 minutes while it is in motion. You also get the option to activate “Real-Time Boost” in emergencies with updates every 30 seconds for 30 minutes. With the help of the integrated Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Positioning and GPS the device will transmit its position to their servers via 4G LTE-M cellular networks. It will first scan surrounding Wi-Fi networks to determine its location but default to GPS if not Wi-Fi networks are available nearby.
You can then see the tracker's position and position history through their simplified phone application. You can set the device to alert you in real-time if movement is detected after five minutes of it being stationary. This feature comes in handy when locking up your bikes outside a café, school, or work. Another nifty feature is the 'virtual fences', which allow the set up of geographic areas like home or school. The app can alert you if the Invoxia tracker(bike) has exited or entered the specific area you have set up.
So, if you're at work and the tracker(bike) left your home geo area, you'll know right away. Thankfully the app lets the user set up many zones, giving you that peace of mind.
Say your down-the-block neighbor took your bike out of your garage and then placed it in his. The GPS location should help you find which house it is - but the Bluetooth “hot/cold” proximity radar feature on the app will detect the Invoxia tracker and let you know how close you are to it. It can even ring with a press on the app, thereby helping to confirm that the tracker(bike) is in your neighbor's garage. This similar feature is something you’ll find in Apple AirTag and Tile Trackers.
What we like
What I like about the Invoxia Cellular GPS tracker is its simple setup, easy-to-use application for Apple and Android devices, up to four month battery with a 90 minute charge, and the integration of Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and GPS to give you the best location of the tracker.
But my most favorite thing about it is that it comes with a free one year subscription when you activate your new device. You can then renew and get six months for $29.95, one year for $49.95, or two years for $79.90. Pricing seems to be fair in my opinion.
What we don't like
I wish the radar “ringer” on the tracker was a bit louder to help find. The speaker is tiny yet useful, but could use more volume, especially for folks who may have hearing problems. Additionally, I would have liked the device itself to have some sort of waterproof and dust rating like many GPS trackers nowadays. The Invoxia tracker we got is the one being sold to the U.S. market and is advertised to be used on cars, mopeds, and motorcycles. But you can easily use it to help track your bike so long as you find a place to stash it. Interestingly, Invoxia makes a inconspicuous bike reflector design version that can be attached to your bike but it seems to be only available to the European market. Bummer.
Verdict
The Invoxia Cellular GPS tracker is not specifically designed to be integrated on bicycles but can surely be fitted somewhere on the bike(bike bag/ inside frame). Luckily it's slim and compact design allows it to be used on other valuables when not riding your bike. I throw mine in my car when going out into the city while the bike is at home. The retail price tag may have folks look elsewhere, but with the first year of network service included, fairly price renewals, and implementation of three geolocation technologies built with an up to four month rechargeable battery life, this tracker is worth looking into to throw on your bike, car, traveling bag full of gear, etc.
Our expert review:
The Land Air Sea 54 is a subscription based two inch puck-shaped real-time GPS device that fits in the palm of your hand that weighs about 82g.
Features
It uses 4G LTE and GPS tracking technology to get you the best possible real-time location of your belongings. You can choose from 3-second to 3-minute updates, depending on which plan subscription you select based on your needs. See the chart to see all options.
The LAS 54 gives you access to their phone app and website to check on your devices through a secure log-in. You can, of course, see the current location of the device, number of stops, and idle time. Additionally, you can create Geofence alerts, speed alerts, battery alerts, and turn on the ShareSpot feature, allowing you to share device location to friends and family. The historical playback is helpful to see where your property has been.
What we like
The device is waterproof and dustproof once you place the small rubber grommet on. There is also an internal magnet that allows you to stick on metal surfaces you may have on your bike, say a basket? There is an optional Hardware Kit available for purchase which may let you draw power from a power source, say an E-Bike. This I found pretty nifty and something no other tracker in this list offered.
From what I see, there may need to be some DIY work in order for this to happen if you happen to have a compatible E-Bike system that can accommodate the cable kit and GPS device inside. My initial thought is the Shimano EP8 motor system. But please check with your local bike shop or manufacturer manual first. Though you may not need to take this route as the LAS 54 rechargeable battery can last one to three weeks and up to six months on “Low Power Mode”. Plus, a micro-USB cable is included!
What we don't like
The device itself is small but for a bicycle it's a bit difficult to find a good hidden placement unless the bike has some sort of built in storage or you have a bike bag on your bike (bikepackers can take full advantage). There is no tamper or audible bike alarm on this device, so you will have to rely on geofencing to alert you the device(bike) has moved from your location.
Their month-to-month, six month, one year, and two year plans can get expensive depending on which tracking intervals you choose. Yet you can save up to 50% with the lengthier prepaid plan. Lastly you will need the included pinhole 'Power Key' to turn the device on or off. Their website states you will need to buy another one from them if you lose it.
Verdict
The LandAirSea 54 GPS offers a relatively entry level priced international real-time tracking device with various no contract subscription options to choose from. So long as you can find a place for it on your bike then you can take full advantage of its features. Lots of utilization possibilities like tracking a friend or loved one while they are out cycling, tracking your bike gear or bike travel bags when flying!
Setup is easy through the app, but you can also use their website to set up, view, and manage your device(s) if you happen to lose access to your phone. This company has been in the GPS technology game for 20 years, so it's definitely worth considering their GPS tracker.
Our expert review:
Cycloop is a 249g international anti-theft GPS system for your bike. The two piece design allows you to securely clamp it onto your seat tube via four specially designed screws. This anti-tamper design cannot be easily removed and in the attempt of tampering, Cycloop will alert you via App notification. The Cycloop comes with a key fob that is linked to the Cycloop itself, when the key fob is not near the bike, any movement the Cycloop detects will make it go into “Alarm mode” which will notify you via a phone call and send its location to the app.
Features
Cycloop takes an interesting approach when it comes to GPS tracking devices. The device implements GLONASS and GPS technology for better global tracking and accuracy along with LTE CAT-M1 connectivity (via built in eSIM card) to communicate to the network. What is a bit different about Cycloop is that it is not a 'real time' tracking device, as it does not have a constant connection to the LTE network.
But don’t skip on this device just yet, Cycloop does this purposefully to help save battery life - which is quite a smart move. When Cycloop goes into Alarm mode, at this point it will connect to the LTE network and start sending its location. If the Cycloop is at full charge and it were to go into 'Alarm Mode', the device will send up to 1,500 locations in five minute intervals giving you several days of tracking.
Cycloop is significantly larger than most GPS trackers on this list, but has a built in 1,930mAh rechargeable battery. This allowed Cycloop to integrate LED lights at each side of the device to make the rider more visible when around traffic. Using the LED lights can lower the battery duration to three months compared to 12 months when having the LED lights off. This is quite a neat integration in my opinion.
The battery can be recharged in two hours via USB C-type and the key fob uses a replaceable CR2032 battery. You will get a notification on your phone when the battery falls below 20%. The Cycloop itself is dust and water resistant with an IP65 rating. There are two rubber inserts to choose from depending on your bike frame tubes. You can fit Cycloop on circular or oval bike tubes that have a diameter of 25mm to 37mm.
What we like
What I like about the Cycloop is I feel like it is a 'set it and forget it' device. Once fully charged and correctly placed on your bike, all that needs to be done is to carry the Key Fob when going for a ride and charge the device when the app notifies you. It didn’t take long for me to install the device as the included instructions were pretty clear with images. The phone app set up was also pretty easy and can be downloaded on most up to date iPhones and Android phones.
I like that the app lets you adjust device motion sensitivity and key fob signal range. The app will also show the device battery and run a self diagnostic to make sure it's connected to the network and key fob. In addition there is an event log of every alarm trigger and reconnection to the key fob. The app is easy to navigate by keeping things simple and showing only necessary information.
What we don't like
The Cycloop is a pretty straight forward tracking device and although they do not have monthly subscription plans like many other GPS trackers do, they do have an annual fee of $49.00 for that GSM connectivity. A fee to allow you to connect to those cellular towers owned by AT&T and T-Mobile in the U.S.A., for example. To make up for that fee, you do get 2 months free when activating your device for the first time.
I am no designer myself, but the size and shape of the Cycloop can stand out a bit and make your nice pricey bike look not so sleek. A small price to pay for security, I suppose. I would also be careful to not overtighten the Cycloop on a carbon frame specially as some carbon frames can be oddly shaped, and measure your frame tubes to make sure the Cycloop will fit. The LED lights are pretty visible at night, but don't quite have the power to make you significantly visible during day time riding.
The device itself won't sound any loud alarm when stolen, which to me personally is something I would like to see to deter thieves during the act. Sometimes a loud alarm in a public place is enough to make the thieves ditch the bike and run off. Lastly, It would have been nice to see a USB-C cable included to charge the Cycloop, luckily I had a few at home.
Verdict
Cycloop makes bike security and tracking easy and straightforward by offering being simple to install and set up, and by doing most of the work for you once you are up and running. The GPS tracker and the anti tampering system helps to to notify you when an unwanted person is attempting to or steals your bike. The up to 12-month long battery life helps Cycloop always be ready when needed and keep the LED lights running when you want. The IP65 rating should keep the internals dry and dust free, hopefully past the two year warranty they offer. If you are looking for a subscription-free GPS LTE connected device designed for bikes, for $149.00 the Cycloop is worth considering.
Our expert review:
The Garmin Edge 840 is a cycling computer with GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, Barometric Altimeter, Gyroscope, and Accelerometer sensors, to name a few, that give the best positioning and tracking in urban and mountainous environments. All packed in a 93g package that fits in the palm of your hand.
Features
Garmin is well known in the industry for their GPS cycling computers used for training. The Garmin Edge 840 GPS has replaced the popular Edge 830 but still carries many well known features. Although the Edge 840 GPS is used to track and record bike fitness and route data, whether or not you own a Garmin Edge, there are some nifty features you may or may not know about.
Since the GPS trackers on this list may be used to track a stolen bike or just track a loved one while they are out on their ride. You may find it interesting that the Garmin Edge 840 and even other Edge models will come with a Livetrack, Group Livetrack, Incident Detection, Find my Edge, and Bike Alarm, which we will focus on.
With the purchase of a Garmin Edge 840 you will get what's called the Livetrack feature. This feature creates a real-time view of your location during a bike ride allowing friends and family to follow along. Once you’ve connected your Garmin Edge 840 to your phone via Garmin Connect app, you can set up which people (emails) will be notified when you begin a LiveTrack session.
Garmin Edge 840 GPS fitted to a stem-mounted mount, with the LiveTrack menu shown on the screen.
They can open the link that is sent to them and see your exact GPS location along with other detailed data pertaining to your ride, that way they are aware that you are on route and safe. Your phone must be with you during the LiveTrack session. Similarly, the GroupTrack feature allows those in your riding group to keep track of your location and vise-versa in real-time, which you can see on the Edge 840 screen.
The Incident Detection feature will send out a message to your app-selected emergency contacts in the case of an on- or off-road incident. If no crashes occur during your ride and you are able to get to your favorite coffee shop, lean your bike outside, and wait in line to order, then the Bike Alarm feature will allow you to set up a numbered PIN-protected alarm that will start to sound and send a notification to your phone if the bike(Garmin) is moved. Pretty nifty! If the bike thief manages to ride off with your bike and you happen to still be on LiveTrack or GroupTrack mode, you should be able to track the location of the bike with the help of family and friends.
I would probably keep LiveTrack running when stopping for coffee and throw the Garmin in my bike bag so the thief won’t see it. In addition, the Find My Edge feature will emit an audible beep only if the device is on and within Bluetooth reach of your phone. For good measure there is a feature called “Last Known Location” on the Garmin Connect app that will show you the device, well, last known location.
What we like
Many cyclists may already own a Garmin Edge or may be on the fence of buying one. Previous Edge computers may already have the mentioned features included in the Edge 840, and that's very worthwhile as you may not need to purchase another GPS tracker based on your needs. You’ll get the listed features along with many many other cycling related tracking features you may need in one device.
What we don't like
All of the listed features are great and suit a purpose when it comes to tracking family or friends. But these features will only work when the Garmin Edge 840 is powered on and connected to your phone via Garmin Connect app. If you happen to forget your phone at home, say goodbye to LiveTrack, GroupTrack, Incident Detection, and Find My Edge. Interestingly, though the audible alarm may help deter thieves, I believe it could have easily been much louder.
Verdict
The Garmin Edge 840 is an excellent cycling computer to help track your rides, share location, and even help deter unwanted movement of your bike. The discussed tracking features complement the devices ability to provide the best location information to friends and family but don't make it an all day/all night tracking device like others on this list.
If you like the added GPS tracking features the Garmin offers and are okay with the certain limitations, then the Garmin Edge 840 may suffice your tracking needs. However, if you are wanting a bit more constant tracking of your beloved bike even after the ride is done, then check out the other trackers on this list that can be an excellent accompaniment to the Garmin Edge 840.
Like all the products we test here at Cycling Weekly, we are first and foremost looking at the product's function. When it comes to the best GPS bike trackers, the key factors to consider are the ease of installation and setup, as well as the overall functionality of any additional apps and supporting software.
Testing GPS bike trackers for accuracy is not always simple, but the easiest way we have found is to use cross-referencing across several devices and Apps. This will mean placing the device next to a monument out in an open area. This could be a farmhouse or trig point, and by doing this several times, each time checking against other known-to-be-accurate devices. This will typically be a unit that combines GPS, GLONASS, and GALILEO positioning systems for maximum accuracy, similar to a Garmin Edge unit.
It's also beneficial to test multiple units at once, being able to check them against each other.
For more information on how we test, visit our comprehensive guide.
Daniel Palma's cycling interests span gravel and mountain biking, racing and long-distance adventures. Having tested a wide variety of GPS trackers in direct comparisons, he's got an in-depth and detailed knowledge of the current market and technology.
Once you’ve determined your budget, you’ll need to consider both the kind of bike you have and the features you deem important. A tracker needs to be discreet, so matching its mounting options to your bike is advisable.
If you keep your bike locked up outside or commute year-round, then waterproofing will need consideration. Look for trackers that have an IP (ingress protection) rating of 65 and above.
Connectivity is another feature you’ll need to consider. Cheaper options are likely to use Bluetooth to connect to your phone, which means a greatly reduced range compared to those that use GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System), which are typically far more expensive. Remember, trackers that use a SIM card that sends information straight to your phone require a subscription.
Let’s backtrack a bit and look into what a GPS actually is. Global Positioning System (GPS) technology has been around since the 1970’s and there are currently about 30 GPS satellites orbiting the earth at about 7,000 miles per hour, 12,000 miles above us.
A GPS tracker/receiver uses GPS satellite technology to track an object's current location and trip history. With a GPS receiver, users can quickly determine precise latitude, longitude, and at times altitude. “GLONASS” are additionally satellites offering GPS location and some devices implement it in many tracking devices for more accuracy based on location. Most GPS data can be sent to a computer, smartphone, or tablet and be shared with whomever you’d like.
There are several available styles of anti-theft tracker. The Apple AirTag uses Bluetooth, and relies upon an Apple user being within close proximity of the device. More expensive options use GPS tracking - this is more effective in remote areas, however, it still relies upon a wireless network covering the location of your missing steed.
The best location for a GPS tracker is one where it won't be found. Some come with fixings designed to 'blend in' with the bike, they may look like a standard bike light or bottle cage attachment, which will work provided the thief isn't aware of the brand. They may come with tamperproof bolts to make their removal difficult. Others can be hidden inside the frame, such as in the seat tube or bottom bracket shell.
Bike thieves have become adept at disabling trackers. This is why it's vital that you buy a tracker that you can hide discreetly on your bike. If you regularly lock your bike up in areas where bike theft is common then it's worth considering a tracker that's disguised as a component, such as Alterlock, which sits underneath your bottle cage, or Vodafone's Curve, which has the tech built into the bike light.
The team here at Cycling Weekly believe so, yes! Of course, they will never replace one of the best bike locks, and certainly not one certified by organisations like Sold Secure. It is also worth still considering some of the best bike insurance, just in case. However, as a way of potentially recovering your bike, especially if it holds a significant amount of sentimental value, you can pass that information to the police at the very least.
