Whether you’re a roadie, gravel grinder, commuter or training for a triathlon, choosing the best Apple Watch for cycling means evaluating features that cater to your needs.
This guide goes deep into the different Apple Watch models and cycling features that make them a must-have for every kind of rider.
We’ll cover the important stuff like Apple Watch GPS accuracy, cycling heart-rate, battery life, app compatibility and more so you can make an informed decision.
Why the Apple Watch is a cyclist’s favourite
The Apple Watch has gone far beyond being just a fashion accessory. For cyclists, it’s become a powerful training tool that suits everyone from casual weekend warriors to dedicated endurance athletes. With each new generation, Apple refines and improves the cycling experience, adding new features that enhance performance tracking, safety and convenience on road or trail. Whether you’re commuting through the city, riding for fitness or training for your next big event, there’s an Apple Watch for your cycling lifestyle.
One of the big improvements in recent models is dual-frequency GPS. This means more accurate location tracking even in tough environments like city streets or forest trails. Cyclists can rely on the Apple Watch for route mapping and pace monitoring without needing a separate device. Battery life has also been extended so you can go longer and all day. These updates bring the Apple Watch closer to matching – and in some cases replacing – traditional cycling computers.
Apple has also focused on safety and ease of use. Features like fall detection will alert your emergency contacts if you crash, while automatic workout detection will track your rides even if you forget to start the session manually. The built-in compass and turn-by-turn navigation are super helpful for exploring new routes, and elevation tracking gives you a better picture of climbing and terrain.
In addition to safety and performance, the Apple Watch has health and fitness tracking. You can monitor heart rate, calorie burn, training load and recovery all within the Health and Fitness apps. Plus seamless syncing to third party platforms and smart notifications, the Apple Watch is a full featured ride companion. It’s more than just a smartwatch; for many cyclists it’s become an all in one device for training, navigation and staying connected on the go.
Benefits of Using an Apple Watch for Cycling
Using an Apple Watch for cycling offers numerous benefits that cater to both casual riders and serious athletes. One of the standout features is its ability to track a wide range of fitness and performance metrics, such as heart rate, distance, speed, and calories burned. This real-time feedback allows cyclists to monitor their progress and make informed decisions during their rides.
Additionally, the Apple Watch keeps you connected with your iPhone, ensuring you never miss important calls or messages, even while on the go. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to access all these features without interrupting your ride, making it an ideal companion for cyclists of all levels.
A Safer Riding Experience: An Apple Watch can significantly enhance your riding experience by providing a safer way to track your metrics and stay connected. With its built-in GPS and Bluetooth connectivity, you can receive turn-by-turn directions directly on your wrist, eliminating the need to constantly glance at your phone. This feature is particularly beneficial for cyclists navigating through heavy traffic or complex routes, as it allows you to keep your eyes on the road. The watch also offers emergency SOS and fall detection, adding an extra layer of safety for those long solo rides.
Convenience And Ease Of Use: The Apple Watch’s intuitive interface allows you to quickly access your fitness and performance metrics, including heart rate, cadence, and power output. You can also customize your watch face to display the metrics that matter most to you, making it easy to stay focused on your ride. The ability to start and stop workouts with a simple tap, along with automatic workout detection, ensures that you never miss tracking a ride.
Apple Watch models for cyclists: An overview
Apple Watch Ultra 2: If you’re a serious cyclist or multisport athlete looking for the pinnacle of performance, the Apple Watch Ultra for cycling is in a league of its own. Designed with endurance sports in mind, the Ultra 2 boasts a rugged titanium case, a flat sapphire crystal display, and water resistance up to 100 metres. Its larger, 49mm display is easier to read during fast-paced rides or in harsh lighting conditions.
What really sets the Ultra 2 apart is its impressive battery life for cycling; up to 36 hours on a single charge and up to 72 hours in Low Power Mode. This extended endurance makes it ideal for long-distance riders, bikepackers, and triathletes. Its dual-frequency GPS (L1 and L5) provides enhanced Apple Watch GPS accuracy, especially in dense urban or mountainous terrain.
Apple Watch Series 9: For everyday cyclists and fitness enthusiasts, the Apple Watch Series 9 delivers a perfect blend of performance, style, and affordability. Equipped with the new S9 chip, the Series 9 offers smoother performance and enhanced health-tracking features. It supports the full suite of Apple Watch cycling features, including fall detection, heart-rate zones, and cycling-specific workout views. Additionally, the Series 9 excels as a versatile fitness tracker, capable of monitoring multiple sports and supporting training efficiency.
The Apple Watch fitness tracking system in the Series 9 integrates seamlessly with Apple Health and third-party Apple Watch cycling apps, such as Strava, Komoot, and TrainingPeaks. Battery life is sufficient for most cyclists, with around 18 hours of use or up to 36 hours in Low Power Mode.
Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen): For cyclists on a budget or those new to wearable tech, the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) offers essential functionality without the premium price tag. While it lacks some of the advanced health sensors found in the Series 9 or Ultra, it still supports Apple Watch cycling features such as heart-rate monitoring, and third-party app integration.
The SE doesn’t offer the same GPS precision or rugged build quality, but its lightweight design and affordability make it an appealing option for recreational cyclists or younger riders.
Key features to consider for cycling
GPS Accuracy And Mapping: One of the most important features for any cycling watch is GPS accuracy. Apple Watch GPS varies by model, with the Ultra 2 standing out with its dual-frequency GPS, which locks in tricky environments like cities and forests.
Cyclists can use native Apple Maps for basic navigation or third-party Apple Watch cycling apps like Komoot and Ride with GPS for turn by turn navigation, route planning and real-time elevation tracking. Accurate mapping is key for performance tracking and safety, especially for solo rides in unknown areas.
Battery Life For Long Rides: Cyclists who do long multi-hour or multi-day rides need to consider battery life. The Ultra 2 is the clear winner in this category, it has enough endurance for ultra distance events, endurance gravel rides or IRONMAN triathlons.
The Series 9 and SE can handle shorter rides, no problem, but battery management becomes critical for rides over 5-6 hours. Both models have a Low Power Mode which disables non essential features to preserve battery life – a must have for riders pushing their limits.
Durability And Build: Outdoor cycling requires a watch that can withstand rough conditions. The Apple Watch Ultra is built for rough terrain, extreme weather and high impact activities. Its titanium body and sapphire glass display is scratch resistant and shockproof.
The Series 9 and SE have aluminum or stainless steel casings and Ion-X glass which is good enough for casual cyclists but may not be enough for off-road or extreme adventures. Riders who crash or ride in bad weather will appreciate the extra toughness of the Ultra.
Health And Performance: Heart-rate monitoring is key for training in specific zones, assessing intensity and avoiding over training. All Apple Watch models have optical heart-rate sensors, the Series 9 and Ultra 2 have additional sensors for blood oxygen, ECG and skin temperature tracking.
The Apple Watch also supports cadence tracking when paired with external Bluetooth sensors and integrates with power meters via third-party apps – essential tools for cyclists training with precision. The Ultra 2 with its Action Button also allows for quicker workout controls during rides, minimizing distractions.
Connectivity And Apps: The Apple Watch ecosystem is seamless when it comes to connectivity. Cyclists can pair their watches with iPhones, AirPods, Bluetooth sensors and more. ANT+ is not natively supported but many Apple Watch cycling accessories like heart-rate straps and power meters now have dual Bluetooth/ANT+ compatibility.
Software: Strava, TrainerRoad and Wahoo are all supported. With watchOS 10 Apple added cycling-specific workout views and automatic bike workout detection so the Apple Watch is even more powerful for road, indoor and mountain bikers.
Design And Durability: The Apple Watch is designed to be a tough and rugged companion for cyclists with a water resistant design and scratch resistant screen. The watch’s titanium and ceramic construction makes it the perfect choice for riders who need a watch that can take a beating. Whether you’re riding in the rain, mud or rough terrain the Apple Watch is built to take it. And with its sleek design you’ll look good on and off the bike and stay on top of your fitness goals.
How to set up an Apple Watch for cycling
Setting up your Apple Watch for cycling is key to getting the most out of your rides. Here’s how:
Pairing With Bluetooth Power Meters & Cadence Sensors: Apple Watch (watchOS 10 and later) can now pair directly with Bluetooth-enabled cycling sensors. This means you can track power output and cadence natively in the Workout app without needing your iPhone.
Optimizing Battery Life For Long-Distance Rides: For endurance rides, the battery life of an Apple Watch is especially critical. To conserve battery power, use Low Power Mode, disable the always-on display (Series 9), reduce screen wake, and turn off background app refresh.
Install top Apple Watch cycling apps to elevate your ride: Cyclists can sync their rides, workouts, and training plans with Strava via an Apple Watch. By using the Strava app on your Apple Watch, you can record your cycling activities and have them automatically uploaded to Strava. Additionally, if you’re using a training plan on platforms like ROUVY, you can sync your workouts by connecting your accounts with Strava. This integration allows for seamless tracking of progress, giving you the ability to view your data across both apps, providing a comprehensive overview of your performance and training history.
Syncing your Apple Watch with the Komoot app offers cyclists several key benefits. First, it enables seamless navigation, providing turn-by-turn directions directly on your wrist, so you can stay focused on the road. It also tracks important metrics such as heart rate, speed, and distance, giving you real-time data to monitor your performance. Additionally, syncing with Komoot allows you to access pre-planned routes and customize your rides based on terrain, difficulty, and other factors.
Cyclists with an Apple Watch can monitor and track their heart rate in ROUVY by using the HeartCast third-party app. This app syncs the Apple Watch with the ROUVY platform, allowing users to seamlessly view real-time heart-rate data during their indoor cycling sessions. To use HeartCast, simply install it on your Apple Watch, pair it with ROUVY, and start cycling. This integration ensures accurate heart-rate tracking, enhancing performance insights and optimizing training efficiency.
Additionally, the Apple Watch Ultra offers specific functions like the Pacer and Race Route functions, which are designed to enhance the cycling experience by helping users set and achieve speed or performance goals during workouts. These functions add competitive elements and track metrics to make solo training more engaging.
Performance And Metrics: The Apple Watch provides a range of performance and metrics tracking features that are essential for serious cyclists. It includes heart-rate monitoring, cadence tracking, and power output measurement, giving you a comprehensive view of your performance. The watch can also estimate your Functional Threshold Power (FTP) and provide personalized training recommendations based on your fitness level and goals. With its Bluetooth connectivity, you can connect to external devices such as cadence sensors and power meters, enhancing the accuracy and depth of your data.
Accessories to improve the Apple Watch cycling experience
To enhance comfort and functionality, a few well-chosen Apple Watch cycling accessories can go a long way.
While Apple doesn’t make official handlebar mounts, third-party options like the Lamicall Bike Phone/Watch Mount or SwitchEasy Orbit allow you to securely attach your Apple Watch to your handlebars. This is useful for seeing stats at a glance without raising your wrist.
For the most accurate heart-rate monitoring, pair your watch with a Bluetooth chest strap like the Polar H10 or Wahoo TICKR. Wrist-based readings can be spotty during intense or bumpy rides, and chest straps provide more consistent data. Additionally, syncing the Apple Watch with other devices and applications can enhance usability and functionality during rides, making it easier to track and analyze your performance.
Protecting your device – especially if you ride gravel or mountain bike trails where bumps and debris are common – is essential. It makes sense to invest in screen protectors and rugged cases. The Spigen Rugged Armor Case or amFilm Tempered Glass Screen Protector come highly recommended.
Which Apple Watch for cycling should you buy?
For cyclists, choosing the best Apple Watch depends on your riding style and budget. Here’s a look at the top models for serious cyclists, triathletes, and adventurers; for fitness-focused riders and commuters; and for casual riders or those on a tight budget.
- For Serious Cyclists, Triathletes & Adventurers (Apple Watch Ultra 2):
Its unmatched battery life, rugged durability, and advanced features make the Apple Watch Ultra 2 the ultimate cycling watch, whether you’re an ultra-distance cyclist, gravel grinder, or bikepacking adventurer. Designed with rugged outdoor activities in mind, it’s built with a titanium case, flat sapphire crystal face, and water resistance to 100 metres. The dual-frequency GPS system is the most accurate ever in an Apple Watch, ensuring you stay on course even in remote areas or dense forests. This makes Apple Watch GPS accuracy a non-issue, even in the most challenging environments.
Perhaps the most crucial feature for endurance athletes is the battery life: the Ultra 2 offers up to 36 hours of use, extending to 72 hours in Low Power Mode. That’s unmatched in the Apple Watch lineup. It also includes advanced cycling workout views, power-zone training, and native support for cycling accessories like Bluetooth cadence sensors and power meters. Additionally, the default data screens provide plenty of configurable data, making them highly useful for users during workouts.
- For Fitness-Focused Riders & Commuters (Apple Watch Series 9):
The Apple Watch Series 9 provides an ideal blend of smart features, tracking, and affordability, striking a balance between functionality and value. It’s ideal for cyclists who prioritize Apple Watch fitness tracking features, ride frequently for health or commuting, and want seamless integration with their iPhone and apps like Strava, Komoot, ROUVY, or Apple Fitness+.
With a fast S9 chip, always-on Retina display, and all-day battery life (up to 18 hours), the Series 9 supports cycling apps and includes new cycling workout views, elevation-gain tracking, and route navigation. While it doesn’t match the Ultra 2’s durability or GPS fidelity, it still delivers excellent performance and supports pairing with Bluetooth-enabled accessories for speed and cadence.
- For Casual Riders Or Those On A Tight Budget (Apple Watch SE, 2nd Gen):
For an affordable option that covers all the cycling basics without skimping on quality, consider the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen). If you’re just getting started with fitness tracking or want a cycling-friendly smartwatch without breaking the bank, this is the best entry point. It offers core features like GPS tracking, heart-rate monitoring, crash detection, and workout tracking at a much lower price point.
While the Apple Watch SE, 2nd Gen) lacks the always-on display and advanced health sensors of the Series 9 or Ultra 2, it still runs the latest watchOS and supports all major cycling apps. It’s perfect for riders who want to track casual rides, stay safe on the road, and close their fitness rings.
Apple Watch for triathlon
For triathletes, the Apple Watch must handle swimming, cycling, and running in one seamless session.
The Ultra 2 is the best fit here, offering multisport workout modes, precision dual-frequency GPS, and water resistance up to 100 metres. Its rugged design and extended battery make it an excellent training and racing tool for triathletes of all levels, from beginner to IRONMAN competitor. It also provides the chance for triathletes to enjoy different terrains and experiences, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced athletes.
While the Series 9 and SE can technically be used for triathlons by manually switching activities, they lack the streamlined triathlon-tracking modes found in the Ultra 2, making them less convenient for multisport athletes.
Conclusion: Which Apple Watch Should You Buy?
As technology continues to evolve, Apple is clearly committed to supporting and enhancing the cyclist’s experience. Whether you’re aiming for a personal best, climbing the French Alps virtually on ROUVY, or commuting across town, there’s an Apple Watch that’s ready to ride with you.
Regardless of the model you choose, the Apple Watch offers an exceptional toolkit for cyclists, combining health tracking, GPS accuracy, app integration, and smart features into one powerful device. Pairing your watch with the right apps and accessories can transform your rides, track your progress, and help you nail your cycling goals.
