Looking to get started with Zwift but need the right speed tracking data to represent your speed on-screen?
I’m sure you’ll want something that shows accurate data
Something that is easy to setup and get going with.
Well, look no further.
Here I’m going to break down 6 of the best cadence sensors you can get that will track your speed with the upmost accuracy.
So What Is Zwift Exactly?
So, if you’re not too clued in about Zwift yet
It’s basically an online virtual reality software that is designed for keen cyclists and newbies alike.
It offers multiplayer online physical training through cycling in where it allows its users to train and take part in virtual competitions from anywhere in the world.
It allows its users to form into an online community that interacts on different aspects of training as well as take part in the simulated cycling sessions.
Zwift is all about jumping on your bike and taking part in fun-filled free riding.
At the same time, it’s a great workout plan where structured training modules keep you focused and disciplined about your own personal fitness needs and help you take it to the next level.
Zwift has a wide range of training programs but they all work around your current level of fitness.
A typical program is an hour long and it keeps you working at the maximum average power you can output, or what’s called Functional Threshold Power (FTP).
This is the measurement used to determine your power output into the bike so Zwift can see how much effort you are using which will be displayed on-screen in front of you.
It’s a great interactive training game and program!
I’ve actually done a review on it – You can check out my full review of it here.
If you’re interested in what I use for my indoor cycling, check out my recommended gear page.
Quick Cadence Sensors Buying Guide
ANT+ Or Bluetooth (BLE)
ANT+ is a multicast wireless sensor that allows you to connect multiple devices together at the same time.
Bluetooth will only allow you to connect one device at a time.
So, if you wanted to connect to Zwift & a heart rate monitor – it has to be one or the other.
Now, both types of sensors are excellent at picking up and transmitting your data to Zwift.
However, it seems that with ANT+ the connection can drop for a second or two every now and again.
This could be down to the fact that you may have multiple devices connected at the same time.
Check out what Ben thinks at BikeRadar.
Bluetooth seems to have a much better connection at holding and maintaining that connection throughout your full cycle.
Types of Cadence Sensor
In earlier days, speed sensors were made by fixing a piece of magnet somewhere on the spoke and a corresponding sensor on the fork frame that would record exercise bike data.
For a more accurate reading, cadence sensors came into being.
Though there can be 3 different kinds of cycling sensors, they can collect and provide a wide array of important information about the users.
- Speed-only sensors
- Cadence-only sensors
- Speed & cadence combo sensors
Sensors both as standalone separate attachments and integrated units with bikes are available on the market.
Design of the Cadence Sensor
A cadence sensor is usually a set of 2-3 devices that can be easily mounted on the bike.
There are two magnets, one for the speed and the other for cadence. These are placed on the two sides of the electronics pod mounted on the bike frame.
The pod, too, has two magnet sensors that record speed and cadence. As you cycle at your normal speed, the magnet passes through the magnetic field of the pod, which the pod registers as a rotation.
This is how the cadence or speed sensor works.
The CooSpo
The Wahoo BlueSC
Best Cadence Sensors You Can Buy
Wahoo BlueSC
Connectivity: ANT+ & Bluetooth
Using your iPhone or Android phone you are able to work the Wahoo BlueSC as your training app for your indoor cycling, recording every second of speed.
Now with Wahoo BlueSC, you simply download the app to your phone and connect it up to the cadence device via ANT+ or Bluetooth.
This will read all of your cycling data. If you wanted to view this on your phone and Zwift. You’re best using the ANT+ connection.
It is lightweight, easy to set up and comes with a universal model that can fit on most bikes and frame designs.
It comes with ANT+ and Bluetooth setup.
The cadence sensor connects to bike computers, smartphones, and tablets.
It’s actually compatible with over 50 apps including Wahoo Fitness, MapMyRide and of course Zwift.
JetBlack JBT-102
Connectivity: ANT+ & Bluetooth
The JetBlack JBT-102 promises precise speed & cadence details when you are training on the bike.
It comes in a user-friendly design that is slim, compact, and waterproof.
It has a universal fit model that allows it to sit perfectly on any bike or bike frame.
It is enabled to connect ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart.
It is compatible with most smartphones, watches, apps, and computers and can efficiently track and record cycling speed as well as cadence on the device it is linked to.
Simple and easy to install and maintain and as an added bonus it has a waterproof design so it gives it added safety while your pedalling through difficult and sweaty sessions.
Garmin Bike Speed
Connectivity: ANT+ & Bluetooth
The Garmin Bike Speed & Cadence Sensor 2 Bundle is a great buy for monitoring your cadence. These are easy to set up wireless sensors that that accurately monitor your cadence with ANT+ & Bluetooth.
There is no exposed component such as a magnet in these sensors.
They are easy to uninstall and move to any other bike.
The sensors are installed on the hub of one of the wheels and they self-calibrate with the cycling computer itself, Garmin ConnectTM or Zwift.
The Garmin cadence sensor 2 works well with a crank arm of any size and measures accurately pedal revolution per minute.
Polar
Connectivity: Bluetooth
Polar is well-known for the fitness tracking equipment and now they have their own speed and cadence sensors set.
They have Bluetooth connectivity which will guarantee a great connection up to Zwift.
Simply attach them onto the spoke and pedal gear – connect it up to Zwift and it should pair automatically.
It’ll provide a reliable and consistent connection so your speed never drops out.
CooSpo
Connectivity: ANT+ & Bluetooth
The CooSpo is a great cadence sensor that connects with ANT+ & Bluetooth.
You can change it between both settings – Blue for cadence and red for speed.
Simply attach it onto the pedal arm or on the spokes of your rear wheel and off you go.
Connect it to Zwift and it will start picking up your real-time data and deliver on-screen in front of you.
Wahoo Speed and Cadence
Connectivity: ANT+ & Bluetooth
Another great cadence sensor in Wahoo’s range.
This is their RPM Cadence sensor.
Smaller than BlueSC – this compact sensor can be attached onto the bike crank, pedal or shoe.
It’s integrated with ANT+ & Bluetooth – choose what you feel is better for you.
Not only can it connect up to Zwift but also supported byWahoo Fitness itself, RideWithGPS, Trainerroad, Sufferfest, MapMyRide, Komoot, Peloton, Rouvy, Fulgaz, Cyclemeter, Kinomap.
Perfect for measuring your speed on-screen when ‘Zwifting’
Final thoughts
Cadence sensors have came a long way and a far more accurate compared to what they used to be.
They are a great way of measuring and recording the amount of energy output during your workouts in your cycle training, especially when you are training indoors on Zwift.
However, finding the right cadence sensor is not easy.
With ANT+ and Bluetooth technology today though, connectivity is a breeze and it one of the most accurate ways to record your data.
All of these cadence sensors reviewed are perfect at what they do but I feel the Wahoo BlueSC is at the top of the pack.
It’s mostly because of it’s two ways of connectivity through both ANT+ & Bluetooth.
It’s easy to install on your bike and train online at home or even if you fancy going outside biking.
Whatever way you train, the Wahoo BlueSC will record your cadence perfectly.
