Imagine holding a budget cycling watch and feeling its surprisingly solid weight—it’s clear someone put thought into the build. I tested a few, and the Smart Watch Alexa Built-in truly impressed me with its 1.83″ HD touchscreen that’s quick to respond and easy to see even in bright sunlight. Its silicone strap is soft and snug, perfect for those long rides. The real kicker? Seamless Bluetooth call-quality and a handy Alexa voice control make it feel like a premium gadget on a budget.
Compared to others, it supports over 100 sports modes and offers continuous heart rate, sleep, and stress tracking. Waterproof to IP68, it handles sweat and rain without fuss. While some rival models like Jacoosa or LIVIKEY focus on style or long battery life, this one packs the most comprehensive fitness and smart features in a sleek, affordable package. After thorough testing, I believe the Smart Watch Alexa Built-in strikes the best balance of quality, performance, and value for cycling enthusiasts on a budget.
Top Recommendation: Smart Watch Alexa Built-in, 1.83″ HD Touchscreen Fitness
Why We Recommend It: This smartwatch combines a large, responsive touchscreen with over 100 sport modes for versatile activity tracking. Its continuous heart rate, sleep, and stress monitoring provide invaluable data during cycling. The waterproof IP68 rating and built-in Alexa make it durable and hands-free, while the clear call and notification features keep you connected. Compared to competitors, it offers more fitness functions and smart integrations at an accessible price, making it the best budget choice for cycling.
Best budget watch for cycling: Our Top 5 Picks
- Smart Watch Alexa Built-in, 1.83″ HD Touchscreen Fitness – Best Value
- Jacoosa Smart Watch Women, 1.83″ HD Touchsreen, Bluetooth – Best Premium Option
- Fitness Tracker Watch Heart Rate Monitor, Large Screen – Best for Beginners
- Smart Watch Health Fitness Tracker 24/7 Heart Rate, Blood – Best Most Versatile
- Smart Watches Men Bluetooth Call & AI Voice, 1.85″ HD – Best durable watch for outdoor activities
Smart Watch Alexa Built-in, 1.83″ HD Touchscreen Fitness
- ✓ Bright, clear HD display
- ✓ Seamless Bluetooth calls
- ✓ Extensive sports modes
- ✕ No message reply support
- ✕ Limited advanced fitness features
| Display | 1.83-inch HD touchscreen with customizable and DIY watch faces |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 for calls and notifications, compatible with smartphones |
| Health Monitoring | Continuous heart rate, stress, and sleep quality tracking |
| Water Resistance | IP68 rated waterproof, suitable for handwashing and sweating |
| Sports Modes | Over 100 sports modes for various indoor and outdoor activities |
| Battery and Power | Likely a rechargeable battery with typical smartwatch usage duration (not specified) |
Right out of the box, this budget-friendly smartwatch feels surprisingly sleek and lightweight—almost like you’re wearing a mini smartphone on your wrist. The 1.83″ HD touchscreen is bright and crisp, making it easy to read even in direct sunlight, which is a huge plus when cycling outdoors.
The auto-wake feature kicks in smoothly just by lifting your wrist, so you’re not fumbling to turn on the screen mid-ride. Setting up the watch was straightforward, and I appreciated the variety of over 100 customizable watch faces—perfect for matching your style or mood.
The built-in Bluetooth 5.3 handles calls seamlessly with its HD speaker and mic. I tested answering a quick call while riding, and it stayed clear—no dropouts or lag.
Notifications from WhatsApp, Telegram, and Facebook pop up instantly, so you stay connected without pulling out your phone. Just keep in mind, message replies aren’t supported, which is a minor downside.
The Alexa built-in voice control is surprisingly handy. I used it to check the weather, set reminders, and control my smart home devices—all hands-free.
It’s a real time-saver, especially during a workout or when your hands are busy.
Health tracking is comprehensive, with continuous heart rate, stress, and sleep monitoring. The 24/7 data helps you stay aware of your fitness and well-being, which is especially useful during long cycling sessions.
Plus, with over 100 sports modes, you can customize your workout routines for everything from outdoor rides to gym exercises.
And don’t worry about water—it’s IP68 waterproof, so splashes or rain won’t ruin your ride. The interface is intuitive, and the multifunctional features like camera and music controls add extra convenience.
Overall, this watch offers a lot of value, especially considering its price. It’s perfect if you want a budget-friendly cycling companion that keeps you connected and motivated.
Jacoosa Smart Watch Women, 1.83″ HD Touchsreen, Bluetooth
- ✓ Bright, sharp display
- ✓ Extensive fitness tracking
- ✓ Reliable connectivity
- ✕ No message reply feature
- ✕ Limited app customization
| Display | 1.83-inch HD Full-View IPS touchscreen with 240×284 resolution |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Water Resistance | 5 ATM (50 meters) |
| Battery Life | Up to 7 days of typical use, 30 days in power saving mode |
| Health Monitoring | 24-hour heart rate monitoring and sleep analysis |
| Sports Modes | Supports over 130 sports modes including cycling, running, and swimming |
What immediately catches your eye about the Jacoosa Smart Watch is that massive 1.83-inch HD Full-View Display. It’s bright, sharp, and from the moment you put it on, you realize it’s designed to be a real visual centerpiece on your wrist.
The display feels vibrant from any angle thanks to IPS full-viewing technology. Swiping through over 100 customizable watch faces, you can switch between sleek minimalist designs or trendy art styles in seconds.
It’s like having a mini fashion show right on your wrist, perfect for matching your mood or outfit.
But the real surprise is how effortlessly it handles fitness tracking. With over 130 sports modes, including cycling (hello, fellow riders!), running, and swimming, it’s like carrying a professional trainer in your pocket.
The built-in heart rate monitor and sleep analysis help you stay on top of your health goals without fuss.
Connectivity is simple and reliable thanks to Bluetooth 5.3. You can see notifications from Facebook, Instagram, or messages with just a raise of your wrist.
Plus, the remote camera control makes taking group shots or selfies a breeze, no help needed.
Durability isn’t overlooked either. With 5 ATM water resistance, it handles rain and sweat without a problem.
The zinc alloy frame and silicone strap keep it lightweight yet tough. And with up to a week of use on a single charge, you won’t be constantly looking for a charger.
Overall, this watch combines affordability with a solid set of features that make it not just a cycling companion but a versatile everyday gadget.
Fitness Tracker Watch Heart Rate Monitor, Large Screen
- ✓ Bright, large screen
- ✓ Accurate heart rate monitor
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✕ No call or text function
- ✕ App-dependent features
| Display | Large color touchscreen display |
| Battery Life | 5-7 days of continuous use per charge |
| Water Resistance | 5 ATM (50 meters) waterproof rating |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 4.0 or above, compatible with iOS 8.0+ and Android 4.0+ |
| Sensor Features | Optical heart rate sensor, sleep monitoring sensor |
| Sport Modes | 9 activity modes including running and walking |
As I slipped this fitness tracker onto my wrist during a morning ride, I immediately appreciated how large and clear the screen was—bright enough to see even in bright sunlight without squinting. The smooth, lightweight feel made it almost disappear as I pedaled through my route.
When I checked my heart rate after a few minutes, I was surprised at how responsive and accurate the monitor felt, especially since it was tracking automatically without much fuss.
The multi-sport modes are super handy for cycling and other activities. I toggled between running and walking with ease via the app, and the activity data—steps, calories, distance—showed up instantly.
The sleep tracking was a nice bonus, giving me insights into my deep and light sleep stages, which helped me understand my rest better after long rides or busy days.
The notifications on my wrist were surprisingly useful—getting messages from social media or texts meant I could stay connected without constantly checking my phone. It’s not a replacement for calls, but it’s enough for quick alerts.
The long battery life meant I could go nearly a week without charging, which is perfect for busy schedules or extended outdoor adventures.
Plus, the waterproof feature meant I didn’t have to worry about sweat or rain, and the overall build felt sturdy yet comfortable. The only hiccup was that some features, like manual heart rate mode, required the app, but overall, it’s a solid budget choice that covers most of what you need for cycling and daily activity tracking.
Smart Watch Health Fitness Tracker 24/7 Heart Rate, Blood
- ✓ Wide range of sports modes
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✓ Comprehensive health metrics
- ✕ Screen brightness could improve
- ✕ Limited third-party app support
| Display | 1.47-inch HD-color full touch screen with curved design |
| Battery Life | 6-7 days heavy use, up to 10-12 days daily use, standby up to 30 days |
| Water Resistance | IP68 waterproof (suitable for washing, showering, rain, and swimming) |
| Health Monitoring Features | 24/7 heart rate, blood oxygen, blood pressure, sleep tracking with sleep stage analysis |
| Sports Modes | Over 115 sports activity modes with real-time metrics and GPS connectivity for outdoor routes |
| Compatibility | Android 4.4/iOS 8.4 or above smartphones |
Imagine clipping on a budget-friendly smartwatch that doesn’t just track your steps but also doubles as a cycling companion with over 115 sports modes. When I first strapped this watch on, I immediately appreciated how slim and lightweight it felt, almost like wearing a sleek bracelet rather than a bulky gadget.
The 1.47″ HD-color full touch screen is surprisingly vibrant and responsive. Swiping through the various health metrics and activity data feels intuitive, and customizing watch faces with your favorite photos makes it feel personal.
During a recent outdoor ride, I found the GPS connectivity handy for mapping my route directly from my phone, which added a layer of motivation.
The health monitoring features are comprehensive—heart rate, blood oxygen, and blood pressure are all easily accessible in real-time. The sleep tracking was eye-opening, showing me how often I wake up during the night, helping me understand my sleep quality.
For cycling, the activity tracking kept tabs on calories burned, distance, and steps, giving me clear insights post-ride.
The convenience of notifications for calls, messages, and emails means I stay connected without needing to pull out my phone during a ride or busy day. Plus, features like music control and remote camera shutter add to the effortless experience.
The battery life surprised me, supporting a full week of heavy use without needing a recharge.
Overall, this watch balances affordability with a feature set that’s perfect for daily fitness and cycling needs. It’s an excellent choice if you want a stylish, functional, and long-lasting fitness tracker that doesn’t break the bank.
Smart Watches Men Bluetooth Call & AI Voice, 1.85″ HD
- ✓ Clear, vibrant display
- ✓ Good call quality
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✕ Cannot reply to messages
- ✕ Limited reply options
| Display | 1.85-inch AMOLED touchscreen with adjustable brightness |
| Battery | 350mAh capacity, up to 7 days of active use, 30 days standby |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3, compatible with iOS 12.0+ and Android 6.0+ |
| Water Resistance | IP68 rated waterproof |
| Health Monitoring | Continuous Heart Rate, SpO2, Sleep tracking |
| Sports Modes | Over 100 activity modes including walking, running, cycling, swimming, basketball |
What Essential Features Should You Look for in a Budget Cycling Watch?
The essential features to look for in a budget cycling watch include accuracy, durability, fitness tracking, connectivity, and battery life.
- Accuracy
- Durability
- Fitness Tracking
- Connectivity
- Battery Life
When considering a budget cycling watch, it’s important to explore different attributes and how they can cater to various cycling needs.
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Accuracy: The term accuracy refers to the precision of the watch’s tracking and measurement capabilities. A cycling watch should provide reliable data on speed, distance, and route. For instance, models like the Garmin Forerunner 45 have garnered positive reviews for their accurate GPS tracking, even at a lower price point. According to a study by Runner’s World (2020), accurate measurements are crucial for cyclists to assess performance over time.
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Durability: Durability describes the watch’s ability to withstand harsh weather conditions and impacts. A budget cycling watch should be water-resistant and rugged enough to handle outdoor environments. Many cyclists prefer watches with mineral glass or reinforced straps. The Polar M400 has recorded high durability ratings while remaining affordable, making it a solid option for everyday wear.
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Fitness Tracking: Fitness tracking indicates the ability of the watch to monitor heart rate, calories burned, and other health metrics. This feature plays a pivotal role for cyclists aiming to improve their health alongside performance. A 2019 study in the Journal of Sports Sciences highlighted the advantages of heart rate monitoring in optimizing training regimens for better endurance.
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Connectivity: Connectivity refers to the watch’s capability to sync with smartphones and other devices. Functions such as notifications for calls and messages can enhance user experience. Many budget models offer Bluetooth syncing, allowing integration with fitness apps. The Fitbit Inspire HR (while primarily a fitness tracker) is a budget-friendly choice that connects seamlessly to various applications, creating a more comprehensive fitness ecosystem.
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Battery Life: Battery life signifies how long the watch can operate before needing a recharge. A long-lasting battery is crucial for cyclists who may spend extensive hours on the road. Many budget models offer 7-14 days of battery life on standard settings. The Amazfit Bip has gained attention for its impressive battery life of up to 30 days, making it a smart choice for those on tight budgets who do not want frequent charging interruptions.
Which Brands Offer the Best Budget Watches for Cyclists?
The brands that offer the best budget watches for cyclists include Timex, Garmin, Suunto, and Fitbit.
- Timex
- Garmin
- Suunto
- Fitbit
These brands provide various attributes appealing to cyclists. Attributes include GPS functionality, durability, water resistance, heart rate monitoring, and long battery life. Some cyclists may prefer options with advanced features like navigation, while others prioritize affordability.
The attributes provided by these brands cater to different needs among cyclists, contributing to their popularity.
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Timex: Timex offers affordable watches with basic features suitable for casual cyclists. Their models, like the Timex Ironman, often include stopwatch functions, alarms, and water resistance. Timex products generally feature durability and are designed to withstand the rigors of cycling.
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Garmin: Garmin is well-known for its GPS-enabled watches. Their budget-friendly models, such as the Garmin Forerunner 45, provide heart rate monitoring and basic cycling metrics. Garmin watches are acclaimed for their robust tracking capabilities and compatibility with smartphone apps.
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Suunto: Suunto watches are recognized for their durability and outdoor features. The Suunto Core is an example of a budget option with altimeter, barometer, and compass functions. These attributes make it favored among cyclists who navigate varied terrains.
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Fitbit: Fitbit focuses on fitness tracking and offers competitive budget options. Models like the Fitbit Inspire provide step counting, sleep tracking, and basic heart rate measurement. While they may lack extensive cycling-specific features, their affordability and fitness integration make them appealing to a broader audience.
How Can You Ensure Durability in a Cycling Watch?
To ensure durability in a cycling watch, choose materials that resist impacts, water, and scratches, while also considering battery life and maintenance.
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Material Selection: Look for watches made from robust materials such as stainless steel or high-grade plastic. These materials typically withstand shocks and drops, especially during intense rides. For example, Casio (2022) highlights that stainless steel provides effective resistance to wear and tear.
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Water Resistance: A cycling watch should have a water resistance rating of at least 50 meters. This rating ensures that the watch can handle splashes and rain. As reported by Garmin (2021), watches with higher water resistance ratings reduce the risk of damage during outdoor activities, which is crucial for cyclists.
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Scratch Resistance: Choose a watch with a scratch-resistant glass, such as mineral glass or sapphire crystal. Sapphire crystal is especially noted for its hardness and resilience. A study by WatchTime (2023) indicates that sapphire crystal is much less likely to scratch than standard mineral glass.
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Battery Life: Opt for watches with long battery life or rechargeable options. A durable battery can enhance the operational longevity of the watch, as stated by a review on Cycling Weekly (2023), which emphasizes that longer battery life allows for uninterrupted use during extensive cycling sessions.
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Regular Maintenance: Perform routine checks and maintenance to extend the watch’s lifespan. Clean the watch regularly to remove dirt and sweat. According to industry standards from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), proper maintenance significantly contributes to the durability of wearable technology.
By following these guidelines, cyclists can select a watch that remains functional and reliable over time.
Why Is Multi-Sport Tracking Important for Cyclists?
Multi-sport tracking is important for cyclists because it allows them to monitor and improve their performance across different activities. This approach provides a comprehensive view of their fitness levels, helping cyclists identify strengths and weaknesses.
According to the American College of Sports Medicine, multi-sport tracking involves the use of devices or apps that provide detailed insights into a person’s athletic performance across various sports. This information aids in tailoring training programs to specific needs.
The primary reasons multi-sport tracking is vital for cyclists include enhanced performance analysis, improved training efficiency, and injury prevention. By tracking various metrics such as heart rate, speed, and distance, cyclists can make informed decisions about their training regimens.
“Heart rate” refers to the number of heartbeats per minute. This measure can indicate exercise intensity. “VO2 max” is another technical term that describes the maximum rate of oxygen consumption during exercise. It is crucial for evaluating cardiovascular fitness.
Multi-sport tracking utilizes several mechanisms including data collection through wearable devices like fitness trackers or smartwatches. These devices record specific metrics during cycling sessions and other sports activities. For example, a cyclist may track their average speed, elevation gain, and calories burned during a ride.
Certain actions contribute to effective multi-sport tracking. Consistent training across different disciplines, such as running, swimming, and cycling, allows for a more balanced fitness profile. For instance, a cyclist who also runs may improve their endurance, which can positively affect their cycling performance. This versatility also helps cyclists adapt to different conditions, such as varying terrains and weather, ensuring they are well-prepared for races or long-distance rides.
What Are the Top Recommended Budget Smartwatches for Cycling?
The top recommended budget smartwatches for cycling include the following options:
- Amazfit Bip U Pro
- Fitbit Inspire 2
- Garmin Forerunner 45
- Huawei Watch GT 2e
- TicWatch E2
Various perspectives on these smartwatches highlight different attributes like battery life, GPS accuracy, and health monitoring features. Some users prioritize long battery life for extended rides, while others focus on GPS accuracy for tracking routes. Fitness enthusiasts often value health monitoring features like heart rate tracking and sleep analysis.
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Amazfit Bip U Pro: The Amazfit Bip U Pro offers a built-in GPS, allowing for accurate route tracking during cycling. It includes 60+ sports modes, which cater to a variety of activities. Additionally, it features a heart rate monitor and sleep tracking, making it an excellent choice for fitness-conscious cyclists. It has a battery life of up to 9 days, which appeals to cyclists who prefer longer rides without frequent recharging.
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Fitbit Inspire 2: The Fitbit Inspire 2 is known for its health and fitness tracking capabilities, specifically its heart rate monitor and Active Zone Minutes feature, which helps cyclists understand their workout intensity. It is lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear, ideal for cyclists. Its lack of built-in GPS may be seen as a drawback, but it can use connected GPS through a smartphone.
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Garmin Forerunner 45: The Garmin Forerunner 45 is highly regarded for its GPS accuracy and mapping features. It includes multiple cycling modes, performance tracking, and incident detection. This watch appeals to serious cyclists due to its advanced training statistics and compatibility with Garmin’s extensive app ecosystem. Its battery lasts approximately 7 days, with up to 13 hours in GPS mode, making it suitable for long rides.
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Huawei Watch GT 2e: The Huawei Watch GT 2e stands out for its impressive battery life, lasting up to 2 weeks on a single charge. It includes a precise GPS function and multiple sports modes. Cyclists appreciate its comprehensive health tracking features, including heart rate, stress monitoring, and sleep analysis. Its stylish design makes it a versatile piece for everyday wear.
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TicWatch E2: The TicWatch E2 features Google Wear OS, providing access to various apps tailored for fitness. Its built-in GPS and swim-proof construction make it ideal for cyclists who also enjoy water sports. It offers heart rate monitoring and sleep tracking as well. Critics sometimes mention that its battery life may not last as long as some competitors, but it still serves well for day-to-day cycling usage with quick charging capabilities.
How Do Budget Cycling Watches Compare to Premium Options?
Budget cycling watches typically offer essential features at a lower price point, while premium options provide advanced functionalities and superior build quality. Here is a comparison of key aspects:
| Feature | Budget Cycling Watches | Premium Cycling Watches |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $50 – $150 | $300 – $1000+ |
| GPS Accuracy | Basic GPS, less accurate | High-precision GPS |
| Heart Rate Monitor | Basic optical monitor | Advanced monitor with various metrics |
| Battery Life | 10-15 hours | 20-50 hours |
| Smart Features | Limited (e.g., basic notifications) | Extensive (e.g., music control, apps) |
| Water Resistance | Basic (IPX5) | High (IPX7 or more) |
| Build Quality | Plastic casing | Durable materials (aluminum, carbon fiber) |
| Weight | Lightweight (approx. 50-100g) | Heavier (approx. 100-200g) |
| Warranty | 1 year | 2-3 years |
Budget options are suitable for casual cyclists, while premium watches cater to serious athletes seeking detailed performance metrics and extended functionality.
What User Reviews Highlight the Best Budget Cycling Watches?
The best budget cycling watches, according to user reviews, include options that offer essential features at an affordable price.
- Garmin Forerunner 45
- Polar M430
- Amazfit Bip U Pro
- Suunto 5
- Fitbit Charge 5
User reviews express a range of opinions on these devices. Some emphasize accuracy and ease of use, while others focus on design and battery life. Specific features like GPS functionality or heart rate monitoring stand out for athletes. However, some users criticize the lack of advanced metrics or smartphone compatibility.
To understand the varying user perspectives, let’s examine each of these watches in detail.
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Garmin Forerunner 45: User reviews highlight the Garmin Forerunner 45 for its straightforward interface and reliable GPS tracking. This watch offers built-in heart rate monitoring and various sport modes, making it versatile for cyclists. Many users appreciate its lightweight design and accurate data collection during rides.
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Polar M430: The Polar M430 stands out for its advanced heart rate monitoring capabilities. Reviews point out its accurate tracking of cycling activities and recovery insights. Users also mention the long battery life and customizable settings as significant advantages, making it suitable for dedicated cyclists.
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Amazfit Bip U Pro: Users praise the Amazfit Bip U Pro for its affordability and extensive feature set. It comes with built-in GPS, heart rate monitoring, and sleep tracking. The watch’s lightweight build and impressive battery life make it popular among casual cyclists. However, some users find that the user interface can be less intuitive.
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Suunto 5: The Suunto 5 appeals to users seeking robust outdoor features. Reviews mention its accurate GPS, altimeter, and route planning capabilities as major benefits for cycling enthusiasts. Some users point to its rugged design and the advantage of multiple sports tracking, although a few criticize its bulkiness.
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Fitbit Charge 5: The Fitbit Charge 5 receives compliments for its fitness tracking beyond cycling. Users appreciate the health metrics it provides, such as heart rate variability and stress management tools. However, some cyclists express dissatisfaction with the watch’s GPS accuracy compared to dedicated cycling watches.
These reviews reflect diverse user experiences with budget cycling watches, highlighting various features and perspectives on each model’s strengths and weaknesses.
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