Introduction
When you're cycling on your bicycle, it's extremely handy to have your phone within easy reach. You can use it to navigate, listen to music, or record your journey. So, it's no surprise that a lot of cyclists utilize a bicycle phone mount—a product that keeps your phone in a safe and viewable spot throughout the journey. But like any gadget, phone mounts don't last forever or don't deteriorate over time. If your mount is loose, difficult to operate, or exhibits signs of wear, it's endangering your phone, potentially even your safety.
Most cyclists do not realize that their mount is in disrepair until it is too late. Perhaps your phone drops during biking, or you're so busy trying to repair it. These are problems that can be avoided if you recognize the signs to look out for.
Here we’re going to cover five unmistakable signs that you need to replace your bicycle phone mount. Let’s help your ride be smooth and your phone be secure.
5 Warning Signs of Upgrading Your Bicycle Phone Mount
1. Your Phone Shakes or Wobbles While You Ride
Have you ever looked down and caught your phone shaking and wobbling around? That's a huge red flag. Your phone bike mount should be holding your phone securely in place, even over a rough road surface or during high speeds. In that case, if your phone is shaking, that's a good indicator that the mount is not doing its job.
It is not easy to read maps and look at your speed if your phone is vibrating. You may even look away from where you're driving to fix it, which is dangerous. Other than that, too much vibration may result in you dropping your phone. This may crack your screen or leave your phone in a serious state of damage.
Such a problem usually arises with age and looseness of the mount. This causes the rubber grip to weaken or the clamp not to hold as tightly as earlier. Therefore, you're required to check your mount from time to time.
If your phone is not holding steady, it's easier to swap mounts now than to wait and risk something happening later. There are tighter grips and anti-shake supports in the new mounts. They're designed to grip your phone so tightly that it won't budge regardless of the bumpy road conditions.
2. It Takes Too Long to Put Your Phone In or Take It Out
If you're in a hurry, the very thing you don't want to be doing is fighting with your bike mount to put in or take out your phone. Two-handed, taking too long to do so, and sticking too frequently are sure signs that it is time to upgrade or that it is not working properly.
Some of the mounts include stiff clips or finicky buttons that you struggle to use. This is annoying in itself if you need to stop temporarily or take a call. Too much force can also damage your phone or even render the mount useless.
More recent phone holders are simpler to use. All of them easily permit one-handed insertion and removal of the phone. Others even use magnets or click-lock mechanisms that allow you to accomplish this in seconds.
If you're spending every day wrestling with your mount, it's time to upgrade. Your mount has to be easy and convenient so that you can do more on your bike and less on your device. Your bike should be easy and fun to use, not annoying. Your mount upgrade can be a complete game-changer.
3. Your Mount Looks Old or Damaged
Examine your bicycle phone mount closely. Does it lack parts or show rust and cracking? That's a huge red flag. Just as worn-out shoes and busted backpacks fail you at the worst time, a worn phone mount will also fail you at the worst time.
Over time, the sun, rain, and dirt will damage your phone mount. Plastic parts can crack, metal parts rust, and the grip can loosen. You may never even notice it doing so—until something goes terribly wrong, like your phone slipping off it during a ride.
Even if your mount is functioning, if it feels flimsy to you, it probably is flimsy. It isn't really worth the risk, though. You don't want your phone to be on the rough surface of a road or, worse, in water because the mount could fail.
They also resist bad weather and normal wear and tear. They use improved materials and construction. Your mount is probably worn and broken if it shows that way. Please don't wait for it to fail. Having a replacement now will save you time, money, and hassle in the long run. It is a little upfront cost to protect something of great value—your phone.
4. Your Phone Doesn’t Fit Prop
erly Anymore
Did you acquire a new phone? Your original bicycle phone mounting may not fit it if you did so. Smartphones are thicker and bulkier now. Some of them even sport large camera bulges and rugged case options. Your original mounting may fail to securely hold your existing phone if it was designed with older phones in mind.
You may discover that your phone is constrictingly tight and you need to remove the case every time in order to get it to fit. In other situations, the mount tends to press against the sides of the phone's buttons and get in the way of the screen. It makes the phone less convenient and less safe to use during rides.
A decent phone mount will accommodate your phone with no trouble, even if you have a case on it. You'll also have no problem seeing the screen and reaching the buttons. Most of the newer mounts are also adjustable and will fit phones of varying sizes.
If your phone doesn't fit perfectly in the mount, you will need to replace it. Loose and tight fittings may both result in your phone slipping or getting scratched. Replacing the mount with a new one will save your phone from damage and also make your trip comfortable and hassle-free.
5. Your Mount Doesn’t Work Well in Tough Conditions
A good bicycle phone mount will function smoothly on any road and in any condition. Your mount malfunctions if it shifts during fast movement on the bike, jolts over rough roads, and loosens during rain showers. This is dangerous—not just to your phone, but to you.
Certain older models might be designed for use only on smooth urban roads. However, if you utilize hills, trails, or adverse weather conditions, you'll require a more stable and stronger mount. Your phone can fall off if your mount is not stable enough to withstand bumpy rides, or you'll be distracted while trying to adjust it. This can lead to a crash.
Also, some mounts lose their strength in water. They lose their grip and become slick. That is a significant problem on wet days and early morning rides that take place with dew on the trails.
They're now constructed from improved materials. They're waterproof, long-lasting, and specifically created to stay in place on rough roads. You may discover that your current mount vibrates, glides, or moves out of alignment on rough roads. It's time to replace it with a fresh one. You're owed a mount that will shield your phone wherever you go, and however you travel.
Why Upgrading Your Bicycle Phone Mount Is Important
A new bicycle phone mount is not about getting something new—it's about safety for you and your phone. Having a fresh and solidly constructed mount is a huge difference with every ride. Your phone is safely in place, regardless of road bumps and bad weather conditions. Your phone is not shaking, slipping, or falling—no need to think about that at all.
An additional new mount also allows for easier riding. You can easily grab and insert your phone with just one hand. Aside from that, newer mounts hold any phone size, even phones with larger and cuboid cases.
Delays in replacing a defective or worn-out mount can cause accidents or broken phones. Spending some money upfront can save you from losing an expensive phone in the long run.
If you've noticed any of those warning signs we've discussed, it's a good time to replace your mount and ride with confidence.
What to Look for in Your Next Bicycle Phone Mount
Once you're ready to go ahead and buy a new bicycle phone mount, you'll want to make sure you get the right one. Begin by looking for one that will accommodate all phone sizes. It should be easy to adjust to fit your phone if you use a thicker case. You'll want a sturdy mount that will be secure enough to handle bumps, rain, and high speeds without shifting your phone from side to side.
Select mounts that feature long-lasting and weather-resistant construction. Rubber grip or silicone pads work since they do not harm your phone and grip it firmly in place. An easy release mechanism is also preferable. It saves you time and effort since you can easily put on and remove your phone with only one hand.
A few mounts offer 360-degree rotation so that you can switch to landscape mode or portrait mode with a simple flip of a switch. Having such facilities in a mount will give you a safer and convenient experience with every trip you take.
Ready to Upgrade? Check Out GRxplore
You do not need to look far if you want to replace your bicycle phone mount. GRxplore products come with sturdy and easy-to-use mounts that fit all kinds of cyclists. GRxplore mounts can handle rough roads and rain, and your daily commute without causing you to lose your phone and suffer from rattling noises. GRxplore mounts fit different phone sizes and come with a quick release so you can go easily and safely on your ride.
Do not wait until your old mount breaks down in the middle of a ride. Visit GRxplore today and find the perfect mount for your next expedition!
FAQs About Bicycle Phone Mounts
1. How long do bicycle phone mounts typically last on average?
A good bicycle phone mount lasts about one to two years if you take good care of it. You can replace it earlier if you commute a lot in the rain or on rough roads. Your mount should be checked on a regular basis for cracks and loose parts.
2. Can I use my phone with a case on?
Yes, most of the newer mounts also fit phones with cases on them. You do not need to remove your case every time you use your mount. Just be sure to purchase one that is adjustable and sturdy enough to hold your phone securely in place.
3. Will my bike and/or phone be harmed by the mount?
A good mount has rubber or silicone grips. These will protect your bike's handlebars and your phone from scratches and damage. Ensure that you look out for soft padding in the mount prior to making a purchase.
4. Are all mounts waterproof?
No, they are principally water-resistant in that they will hold up to some rain. But they're not waterproof. Pedaling in the rain is best done with a case of the waterproof type.
5. Can the mount be readily moved to another bike?
Yes, most mounts are simple to install and take off. You can move them from one bike to another without specialized tools.
Conclusion
Your bicycle phone mount is doing a noble job of protecting your phone while you ride. If you notice vibration, frustratingly difficult-to-use clips, deterioration, or a poor fit, it's time to get a new one. To make every ride a safer and more pleasant experience, utilize a good and sturdy bicycle phone mount.
Buying a good new mount is a little cost that will save you a lot of hassle down the road. It's smart riding and being prepared.
If you're ready to upgrade to a higher-quality mount, GRxplore is here to help you out. We offer long-lasting, easy-to-use mounts that fit any bike and phone type. Feel free to contact us through our Contact Us page if you have any questions — we'd be happy to assist you. Safe rides!
