We find ourselves investigating bike computers with greater skepticism as our smartphones get smarter by the day. With cycling apps capable of capturing data, providing turn-by-turn directions, and connecting us with fellow riders, the bike computer is becoming a redundant piece of equipment for professional and amateur riders alike, hogging valuable real estate on our handlebars where other components could sooner find a suitable home. Or at least, it was becoming redundant until we mounted the Lezyne Mega XL GPS Pro Loaded Bike Computer and remembered once again how efficient and effective a bike computer can be. The Mega XL embraces all the features we could ever want in a bike computer, and those features begin with the rugged frame that locks in place with the included x-lock standard mount. Once secured to your stem, the Mega XL can be positioned in landscape or portrait mode, though we prefer portrait mode because it displays a bit more map as you follow your route. Physical buttons on the side of the frame serve a variety of functions, from shuffling through data screens to turning on the backlight. The LCD display is crisp and easy to read, even on sunny days in the saddle. Though the frame be but mighty, it's the built-in capability of the Mega XL that blows us away. Up to five data screens display ten fields of data each, for a grand total of over 50 different metrics, from ride time to electronic drivetrain data. Pair the computer with your phone via bluetooth or ANT+, and the Lezyne app allows you to toggle through the different data screens with ease, or see all the data screens on one page. And if the endless data becomes overwhelming, simply change the settings on the computer to display what matters to you most. Aside from the plethora of data captured by the Mega XL, most riders will use it for GPS navigation. Downloading maps and uploading them to the device can be performed on a desktop computer, or with the Lezyne app. The desktop uploading f...
