Pimp your bike! The best GPS mounts
Many might wonder why we’d feel the need to buy a standalone mount for a GPS device when said devices already come supplied with standard mounts from their manufacturers.
The reasons are simple: standard mounts are often either too heavy or just not built very well. So whether you’re a weight-weenie looking to shave off grams or one of those compulsive accessory-hoarders who wants to integrate an action camera or a light onto your bars, one of the many third-party accessory suppliers may have the perfect solution for you.
Here you can find the best gps computer for your road bike: Which GPS computer is the best? – 9 models in test
Alpitude Stelvio Mount
Alpitude is a subsidiary of Italian custom frame builder Werking, which specialises in fine carbon components. Built in the heart of the Dolomites, the Stelvio mount is compatible with all Garmin Edge devices and is currently the lightest GPS mount on the market with a featherlike weight of 15 g.
The installation of the bracket is super easy and you’ll only have to replace one of the original stem screws with the special bolt included in the box. The bracket allows for great integration of your device and seriously tidy bars. It’s let down somewhat by its below-par finish.
Pros
– Extremely light
– Fast and easy to mount
– Good integration
Cons
– The substandard finish
For more information head to: alpitude.cc
Tune Porteur
High-end manufacturer Tune is well-known for its exclusively high quality components and the 26g Tune Porteur GPS mount from the Black Forest-based company is no exception. The highly functional aluminium mount is compatible with all Garmin Edge models. For an extra € 35 you have the option of adding a lightweight GoPro adapter (15 g) which can be attached directly to the bottom of the Tune Porteur. Here you can attach action cameras, lights and a number of other accessories.
If you don’t fancy using the GoPro adapter, you could also attach a Shimano Di2 Junction Box to the bottom of the Porteur. While Tune recommends using the bracket in combination with their in-house Geiles Teil 4.0 stem (€ 179.00), they also list other system-compatible stems so the choice is yours.
Pros
– Light
– Multi-functional
– High quality
Cons
– Very expensive
For more information head to: tune.de
Quad Lock Bike Kit iPhone 7 Plus / 8 Plus
Thanks to their great practicality for easy everyday use, smartphone navigation systems are becoming increasingly popular. With their aptly named Bike Kit, the people at Quad Lock are offering a practical solution costing € 69.95 which is compatible with various smartphones models. The Quad Lock bracket weighs 91 g and sits right in the centre of the stem.
The box includes a waterproof case designed to protect your smartphone from water splash and rain. It relies on a twist-lock system that snaps in easily and holds your smartphone securely in place. A smart design but we’d question the durability and protective qualities of the Quad Lock in the event of low temperatures and strong winds.
Pros
– Great for everyday use
– Simple attachment system
Cons
– Not suitable for harsh weather conditions
– Lacks the style factor
For more information head to: quadlockcase.com
K-EDGE Combo Mount
The high quality aluminium GPS holders from American manufacturer K-EDGE might not be the lightest on the market but they’re extremely robust and functional. The brand have a selection of models to choose from, including the Garmin XL and Wahoo ELEMNT devices. Weighing in at 60 g, the Garmin XL Combo Mount retails for € 74.99 and is compatible with all Garmin Edge models. The equivalent holder for Wahoo ELEMNT devices weighs just 50 g but costs the same.
Before ordering your holder make sure you select the right stem diameter – the Combo Mount comes in both 31.8 mm and 35 mm sizes. The additional mount on the bottom of the bracket can be used to attach action cameras, lights or similar accessories and is included in the package of the K-EDGE Garmin XL Combo Mount.
Pros
– High quality
– Functional
– Extensive scope of supply
Cons
– Not exactly light
For more information head to: k-edge.com
Raceware Direct Bar Mounts
Raceware Direct’s affordable and lightweight GPS holders are manufactured using 3D printing technology, which gives you the option of customing the lettering on your mount. The only downside is the industrial-looking, edgy design, which might not appeal to everyone – probably just those with razor-sharp purist aesthetics.
At 14 g (Garmin) and 17 g (Wahoo) respectively, the holders are considerably lighter than most standard GPS mounts while their shape is not too far off the originals. Raceware Direct offers mounts for all popular devices.
Pros
– Compatibility
– Very light
Cons
– Finish
For more information head to: racewaredirect.co
Here you can find the best gps computer for your road bike: Which GPS computer is the best? – 9 models in test
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Words: Marco Hinzer Photos: Noah Haxel
