Introduction
Cycling is no longer a mere means of transport; it has evolved into something else. To some, it is a way of life; it is exercising, dieting, or perhaps even a journey. No matter if you are riding a bike to go to work, for a trip around the mountains, or to count your calories, there is one thing that many cyclists couldn't live without – their smartphone. In every ride, your phone is of great importance as it includes GPS navigation, music, and fitness applications.
But there is always the problem of having your phone easily and safely within your grasp while cycling. That's where magnetic bike mounts come in. These tools come in handy when you want to hold your phone in place while you drive.
But not all bike mounts are the same. There are those that are designed for rough, tough usage, and there are those that are more suited for smooth, urban highways. Within this guide, we'll look at the differences between the two and how to choose the one that will work best for you.
What is a Magnetic Bike Mount?
A magnetic bike mount is a very practical and useful invention that allows cyclists to store and use their smartphones during cycling. It has strong magnets that keep your phone in place, and you don't have to worry about it falling off while in a car or on a rough surface. These are handlebar or stem-mounted and come with a metal plate that has to be stuck on the back of your phone or the case of your phone.
What makes magnetic bike mounts so great is that they are very simple to use. It is very easy to place or take your phone out of the mount with just one hand, and this is especially useful for cyclists. These mounts are also compatible with most of the phone types, thus making them easily usable for anyone.
It's not just about having a place to put your phone; it's about enhancing your cycling experience. You can listen to your GPS, look at your speed, or even answer your phone without having to reach for it in your pocket.
However, there is still a difference between the magnetic mounts that exist in the market. There are some that are constructed with strong build to withstand any terrain, while there are others that are designed for use on normal roads. It depends on your usage and preference and which factor is most important when using your bike.
Heavy-Duty vs. Everyday Magnetic Bike Mounts
Unfortunately, not all bike mounts are the same, and this holds especially true for magnetic bike mounts. There are some who need a mount that has been specially made for them to meet the conditions they ride in, while others only need a simple mount for their everyday cycling. Now, let's compare between heavy-duty magnetic bike mounts and those for everyday use.
What Are Heavy-Duty Magnetic Bike Mounts?
Heavy-duty bike mounts are designed for riders who want to get more out of their equipment. These mounts are made with PC+ABS, POM, silicone, and other higher-grade materials, which are tough, durable, and long-lasting. They are designed for surfaces such as rocks, trails, paths, and bumpy roads where an ordinary mount could falter.
A heavy-duty mount doesn't just hold a phone; it shields it. Most of them have additional features, such as shock absorbers, to enable them to cope with vibrations from irregular surfaces. They are also water and dust-resistant, which means you can take your phone out for a ride in the rain or through dusty terrains without having to worry about the phone or the mount getting damaged. They have super strong magnets to hold bigger and bulkier phones and can easily support them during a bumpy ride.
If you are a mountain biker, an adventurous rider, or someone who uses his bike to travel through tough terrains, then a heavy-duty magnetic bike mount would be the best option for you. It's designed to keep your phone safe no matter how tough the ride gets.
What Are Everyday Magnetic Bike Mounts?
Everyday bike mounts, on the other hand, are designed for the normal cyclist or the commuter. They work best for tarmac, cycleways, and urban cycling when conditions are flat and there are no humps, bumps, or ruts. These mounts are generally less bulky, less expensive, and less weighty than heavy-duty mounts.
Though the everyday mounts may not be as durable or as feature-packed, these are simple to use and can be carried around. They are made of very light materials, including common plastics or silicone, and they have the right magnetic force to hold most phones. They are perfect for those riders who want a basic and inexpensive option for short or average-distance riding.
Key Differences
The two types of mounts only have one major difference – how well they work in various situations. There are two styles of mounts: one is the heavy-duty mount that is made for toughness and to handle any conditions, and the other is for everyday use. There are heavy-duty mounts that are built to withstand shock, rain, and rough terrains, while the daily-use mount is suitable for smooth rides and light vibration.
One must understand one's riding style to get the right horse. Are you climbing the mountains or going to work? The answer will help you make decisions.
Applications of Heavy-Duty vs. Everyday Magnetic Bike Mounts
The magnetic bike mount you select can be determined by the way that you ride your bike or the places you ride in. Now, let's discuss how heavy-duty and everyday magnetic bike mounts are used so that you can decide which one is appropriate for you.
Applications of Heavy-Duty Magnetic Bike Mounts
The heavy-duty bike mounts are built to protect your phone while you are riding your bike in rough terrains or require your phone to be secured. If you are into mountain biking, these mounts are just right for handling the rough and rugged terrains of rocky roads. Their construction materials include PC+ABS and POM, and their designs incorporate shock protection to protect your phone during rough rides.
These mounts are also perfect for endurance cycling because they are stable, and you don't get easily exhausted. Whether you are riding on a dusty path, on an inclined surface, or in soggy weather, heavy-duty mounts will not disappoint you. More so, they are sealed to be waterproof; thus, they are ideal for use during any rough outdoor experience.
Applications of Everyday Magnetic Bike Mounts
Everyday mounts, however, are suitable for people who ride to work or for fun. They are also quite light and are ideal for use in city rides or any other smooth bike trails. These mounts are also useful for tracking fitness information or the GPS on leisurely rides for the weekend.
If you stay on the asphalt or other flat ground, you can find an everyday magnetic bike mount that is simple, reliable, and inexpensive.
Which One is Better and Why?
So the choice between a heavy-duty magnetic bike mount and an everyday one comes down to the type of rider you are and where you’ll be using it. Now, let’s see the differences between them to make the right decision.
Why Choose a Heavy-Duty Magnetic Bike Mount?
For the rider who will be using the phone on bumpy terrains such as mountain trails, gravel roads, or even uneven paths, then a heavy-duty magnetic bike mount is the best option. These mounts are designed to withstand the harshest environments. Thanks to the use of high-quality components such as PC+ABS, POM, and silicone, they are very durable and will last for a long time.
It is also important to note that heavy-duty mounts also have a feature of shock absorption. So that your phone does not drop while you are in a car or any other vehicle while in motion. They are waterproof, and therefore, they can be used in rain, mud, or even dirty environments. If you use a large or heavy phone or even a GPS device, then a heavy-duty mount has enough magnetic force to keep it in place.
However, they are usually larger and more costly than the standard mounts, but they provide optimum protection for your device, especially if you are an adventurous or a long-distance cyclist.
Why Choose an Everyday Magnetic Bike Mount?
Period riders, or people cycling to work, require a standard magnetic bike mount that is simple to install and quite cheap. These mounts are lightweight and can be easily carried along, intended for use on smooth terrains such as city roads and bike lanes. If you are a casual rider or a commuter, more specifically, a person who does not need a long and complicated mount, this type of mount is simple and effective and won’t cost you much.
Nevertheless, ordinary mounts can withstand vibrations and various conditions that are not as severe as those experienced by heavy-duty mounts. It is ideal for normal-sized phones and normal usage as well.
Which is Better?
Therefore, heavy-duty mounts are more suitable for those riders who require the highest degree of reliability, safety, and efficiency in the most challenging conditions. On the other hand, everyday mounts are good for people who do not want to spend much money on a more comfortable ride.
If you’re searching for durability and flexibility, you should opt for a mount made from PC+ABS, POM, and silicone, just like your product. It combines the strength of a heavy-duty mount with the convenience of daily riding; thus, it is ideal for most riders.
Repair and Maintenance Tips for Magnetic Bike Mounts
It is, therefore, important to ensure that you follow certain measures to ensure that your magnetic bike mount is as good as new. Not even the best mounts of the heavy-duty type or for ordinary use can be expected to last forever without some form of deterioration due to use. Below are some simple tips to ensure that your mount does not wear out quickly and your phone is well-secured.
1. Clean Regularly: This means that dust, dirt, and grime may accumulate on the magnets and affect their holding ability. Clean the magnets and the surface where the magnets are to be mounted with a soft cloth that has been slightly moistened with water after each few uses. It is recommended not to clean it with chemicals because they can harm the materials such as silicone or PC+ABS.
2. Inspect for Damage: Inspect your mount for any crevices, loose screws, or areas that may seem to be worn out. If any part of the strip, particularly the silicone grip, is often damaged, such part should be replaced to ensure that it does not pose any hazard.
3. Avoid Overloading: Ensure that the mount is not over-weighted than its recommended weight limit of 50 lbs. Some mounts are able to accommodate larger phones or GPS devices, while the average ones may not be able to take much weight.
4. Store Properly: When not in use, it is recommended to remove the mount from the bike and keep it in a dry, cool place. This minimizes rusting and ensures that the materials are in good condition at all times.
By following these simple tips, you can truly maximize the lifespan of your magnetic bike mount and ensure that your phone doesn’t move an inch while you ride.
Safety Precautions for Using Magnetic Bike Mounts
When using a magnetic bike mount, your ride can be safer and more convenient as long as you use it properly. To avoid accidents and protect your phone, here are some important safety tips every cyclist should follow:
1. Install It Securely: This is because you need to ensure that the mount is well fixed on the bike handlebar or stem. Ensure that it doesn’t shake or flex before you begin using it for your ride. A loose mount can make your phone fall off, especially when you are moving on a bumpy road.
2. Position It Properly: Put the mount in a place that is conspicuous but not in your line of sight or in front of the handlebars of your bike. This will assist you to concentrate on the riding safety measures.
3. Test the Grip: For every trip, it is recommended that you pull your phone to ensure that it is well plugged into the mount. This step is critical if you are to use a heavy-duty mount, especially when riding through rough terrain.
4. Be Weather-Aware: While heavy-duty mounts can still work in a rainy and dusty environment, everyday mounts cannot. Do not subject them to extreme weather conditions unless the product was specifically built for that.
5. Use a Protective Case: If your phone isn’t in a case, you are advised to use one that has a metal plate that is compatible with the magnetic mount. This makes your device stronger and safer than the previous models.
By implementing these measures, you will be able to enjoy safer and more trouble-free rides while keeping your phone secure.
Conclusion
This will help you determine the best magnetic bike mount when cycling because the type of mount you select will depend on how you ride your bike and your environment. For any cyclist who wants to take their bike on rough terrain or cover long distances, a heavy-duty magnetic bike mount is the best option for protecting your phone. On the other hand, everyday mounts are suitable and cheap for people who commute and ride bikes on tarmacked roads.
To ensure that you are getting a good product, make sure that the product is made from high-quality materials such as PC+ABS, POM, and silicone for use in any climate. These materials provide strength, stability, and performance, which a structure may require.
Are you tired of using ordinary bike mounts and looking for an upgrade? Here is our product for a magnetic bike mount that is built to last, easy to install, and stylish. Now, you can ride without worry and keep your phone safe in any condition!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much weight can a magnetic bike mount hold?
The capacity of a magnetic bike mount depends on the design of that bike mount. Standard smartphones should be easily held by everyday mounts as they support up to 1.5 lbs in weight. There are heavy-duty mounts that are intended for use with larger devices or for conditions and can support up to 3 lbs or more. Ensure you check on the weight limit before purchasing to ensure it can comfortably fit your phone.
2. Are magnetic bike mounts safe for my phone?
Yes, magnetic bike mounts are completely safe for phones. It comes with neodymium magnets, which are powerful but will not damage the phone’s parts, such as GPS, Wi-Fi, or the battery. The magnets are to hold the phone securely without affecting its functionality.
3. Can I use a heavy-duty mount for everyday use?
Absolutely! Heavy-duty mounts are handy for any ride, whether on the rough terrains of mountains or the smooth tarmac of the city. However, they may be slightly larger than everyday mounts and may, therefore, not occupy as much space, but they are more durable and secure.
4. How do I maintain the magnetic strength of my mount?
In order to maintain the magnet adhesive force, it is necessary to clean the mount and free it from dust or any dirt that could affect the grip. It is advisable not to put on the mount many devices that are too heavy for it.