Bicycle steering columns. Bicycle speakers: main differences, how to choose A holder for a portable speaker for a bicycle

Portable speakers or portable acoustic system are a type of acoustics characterized by small dimensions. The system is connected using Bluetooth or AUX cable. The popularity of a portable speaker system arose as a result of the massive appearance and availability of gadgets.

Speakers for cycling include all the capabilities of conventional speakers, but in addition they must have a durable and reliable case with a protective device against the penetration of foreign objects into the device.

Bicycle speakers are also distinguished by increased battery power, the ability to work in autonomous mode and a high volume level, since when riding fast, the music will not be heard well with weak speakers.

And one of the important components of excellent speakers is reliable fastening to the frame, steering wheel, etc.

Types and features of the gadget

A portable speaker for a bicycle differs from a conventional speaker system primarily in its small size. The device is easy to use and has many advantages compared to headphones.

Waterproof and durable;
Possibility of installation in a special mount for bicycle handlebars;
Bluetooth function, standard memory card slots, charging connectors.

Band format and frequency

The speaker format is responsible for the quality of the reproduced sound. Portable bicycle speakers usually come in three formats:

1:0 – speaker format with mono mode, implying single-channel sound even with several speakers. They are characterized by low power and unexpressed sound.
2:0 – this format works in stereo mode with high-power surround sound and characteristic sound.
3:0 is the highest quality sound transmission format; the stereo system is equipped with a subwoofer that enhances low-frequency and emphasizes high-frequency sound.

The sound quality and radius width are determined by the number of frequency bands.

Speakers that support one frequency in mono mode are marked with one band, dual-frequency speakers with two, and for music lovers, three-band speakers that support all frequencies of the range.

Offline mode

One of the main indicators of any portable equipment is the ability to operate autonomously, which is provided in various ways.

Some speakers are powered by AA batteries or rechargeable batteries, while others are equipped with their own battery, which is charged using a charger.

Interface and connector

These parameters are considered additional functions, but popular models include the maximum functionality of the gadget.

For bicycle speakers, there are two main ways to connect to the media: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, as well as AUX, with which you can connect to the playlist of any smartphone, tablet or laptop computer.

Appie has limited capabilities in this sense and connecting speakers is only possible using Wi-Fi or AUX.

The best cycling speakers

So, when choosing a portable speaker with a bicycle mount, you need to rely on the following criteria:

Volume and sound range;
Column dimensions;
Battery;
Mounting options;
Remote control system;
Without a control system with forced stops to select a playlist.

“Venstar-Sport” is in first place:

The speakers are firmly fixed to or;
There is a device for a water bottle holder;
The system is easy to control from a distance;
Compact, transportable;
Has high-quality, powerful sound;
Reliable and durable gadget.

“Goal-Zero” is optimal for cyclists: the battery can work online without interruption for 5 hours.

One of the main advantages of the system is that it can be charged using sunlight. The sound of the speakers is top class, the gadget is compact and securely fixed on the bike.

The best ratio of quality and cost. A small drawback is the lack of a remote control system.

"Ivation BikeBeacon" - mini speakers with two amplified speakers and high-quality sound. The speakers support radio wave reception and the ability to use a memory card. The kit includes mounts for fixing on the handlebars of a bicycle.

The gadget has a built-in battery; online operation time varies from 4 to 5 hours. Additional features include a flashlight and a built-in alarm.

Homemade bike speakers

It will not be difficult for cyclists to assemble a high-quality speaker from purchased parts. To do this, you need to connect the elements correctly to get a simple, wired audio system. A homemade structure is installed on the steering bar.

Required parts:

Mini-speakers with a USB input in the amount of 2 pcs., for a bicycle system, mini-speakers can be purchased at any computer store;
Battery pack and USB connectors (purchased from radio products);
MP3 system with 4 volt batteries;
Standard clamps for mounting speakers (you can use regular clamps for bells and mirrors).
Glue.

Collection technique:

Glue a clamp to the columns, and after complete drying, attach them to the steering part of the bike.
Connect USB connectors to the battery.
Pull the wire from the speaker to the unit and connect them via USB.
Connect the battery pack to the MP3 player.
The system can also be equipped with a speaker switch, but this is not a mandatory function; you can simply remove the wiring from the system.

Today it is very difficult to imagine a car without a car radio. Music occupies an important place in our lives, no matter where we are or what we do. It helps us in work, in school, in everyday affairs, lifting our spirits, invigorating us, or, on the contrary, plunging us into the world of romantic dreams.

This is why very often cyclists do not have enough music while walking, especially when it comes to long journeys. Riding with music is much more fun and interesting; it can add a couple of horsepower to both the cyclist and his iron friend. Any bulky audio system on the road is not an option, which is why the popularity of portable wireless speakers is rapidly growing. This device is compact and mobile. There are no unnecessary constantly tangled wires that only cause inconvenience. The portable speaker is small enough both in size and weight, so it will not load the bike and will not interfere with its owner.

Why portable speakers and not headphones?

Firstly, for his own safety, it is very important for a cyclist to hear everything that is happening around him: cars, people or other road users who are out of sight may give various signals. With speakers you can hear everything.

Secondly, the speakers will not interfere with communication with companions (friends, family, a child on the trunk) during bike rides.

The portable speaker can connect to:

phone (smartphone). This is the most commonly used pairing. Just turn on the Bluetooth module on your phone (smartphone) and turn on the speaker, then, finding it among the available devices, connect;
tablet;
laptop.

It is worth noting that today almost all portable speakers can have a flash card installed. Therefore, if you don’t want to drain your phone, you can use the function of playing music from a flash card.

Different speaker models may differ in both shape and design. They can be square, spherical, oval, in the form of a helmet, a can, etc.

The speakers can be powered either from rechargeable batteries or from batteries.

Today, manufacturers are actively improving this device, and such functions as a microphone or FM radio will not surprise anyone.

There is a huge selection of portable speaker systems on the market, but, unfortunately, there are not many speakers adapted for cycling. Therefore, cyclists quite often buy simple portable speakers and wonder how to attach them to their bike. However, if the shape and dimensions of the device allow it, simply place the speaker in the bottle holder.

The segment of special speakers for bicycles today is mainly represented by representatives from China. As a rule, such speakers have wide functionality, but the sound and power leave much to be desired.

Although in fairness it is worth noting that among the Chinese “consumer goods” there are representatives worthy of attention (Nyne Cruiser, Sport Music, Osell MA-861, Nizhi, Partner Rebel). I would like to draw your attention to a full-featured bicycle speaker - Nizhi.

Using a special mount, this device can be fixed on the handlebars of your two-wheeled friend (bicycle, moped or scooter). You can also use it as a regular portable speaker or attach it to your hand (there is an additional convenient mount) and listen to it while running. The speaker has excellent acoustic characteristics, ease of use and a large number of additional functions.

Another worthwhile representative in the segment of special speakers for bicycles is a device from the American company - Monoprice High Performance Bike, made in the shape of a bicycle helmet with an expanding resonant chamber that increases sound and bass.

The advantages of this column include:

Due to the fact that there are not many offers on the market, some cyclists successfully solve the problem with acoustics on their own, that is, they assemble it with their own hands.

Most often, mini computer speakers are used as a basis. It is desirable that they are moisture resistant, durable and easy to install. Bicycle mounts can be very different (bottle mounts, bicycle bell holders, etc.). You can use either batteries or rechargeable batteries for power. Wires from the speakers run along the frame to a subframe bag, where, as a rule, a homemade power supply, as well as a player or radio, are placed.

Driving long distances can feel tiring, especially on flat highways or through wooded areas. To somehow add some variety to the road, your imagination throws up your favorite tracks. However, such “silent music” can only be compared with real music with a stretch.

Many cyclists choose the simplest option – headphones. Yes, your favorite compositions sound in reality, but they have a number of disadvantages when driving a bicycle, and a little later we will look at them in more detail. Bicycle acoustics - a small audio system built into the design of the bike - allow you to listen to music and at the same time control the sound environment around you. Let's find out what advantages it has in comparison with headphones, its varieties and, of course, how to make it yourself.

Why are speakers better than headphones?

Why choose headphones? Mainly due to simplicity and accessibility. To play your favorite tracks while traveling, all you need is a mobile phone and a regular headset. Then it’s just a matter of small things – connect it to the phone and open the playlist. However, in terms of security, this option is very risky. For example, when driving in a dense stream of cars or along an unfamiliar mountainous route, headphones are generally contraindicated, since concentration of attention decreases, and external sounds are not always heard, by which the lion's share of the situation on the roads is determined.

Alternatively, you can listen to music through one earphone, leaving the other ear free. True, the sound quality will be much worse, and attention will also be distracted due to cacophony - road sounds will interrupt the music, and vice versa.

The sound is transmitted outside through the speaker system. Both the cyclist and those around him can hear it. This maintains a balance between listening to songs for the soul and focusing on control.

Advantages of audio speakers on a bicycle:

realistic musical accompaniment;
the speakers do not interfere with monitoring the road situation: determining distances to other vehicles by sound, hearing surrounding people, cyclists, danger signals, etc.;
comfortable communication in a column of cyclists.

Portable audio system for bicycle

The portable speaker is an independent device with a built-in battery, has outputs for a flash card, headphones and a USB socket for recharging. This type of device greatly facilitates operation - there are no wires that always get in the way, neat attachment to the handlebars of a bicycle, and, of course, small dimensions.

Let's look at the New Angel CX as an example of what bicycle speakers should be and what to strive for. Main advantages of the model:

versatility;
connecting devices;
all audio player functions;
radio;
two powerful speakers on the sides;
convenient control panel;
reliable fastening to the steering wheel + strap and latch.

Key Features of a Bicycle Portable

The column can be used not only on a bicycle, but also on the handlebars of a moped or scooter. Separately from the bike, it can be used to listen to music while running, walking or at home on your desktop.

The portable audio system has outputs:

for Flash cards and micro SD;
USB socket for recharging from a PC, laptop or USB network charger;
standard headphone output;
connecting a phone and using it as an amplifier.

Powerful acoustics and bass are achieved thanks to the placement of the speakers on the sides. In principle, in terms of sound quality, devices with one speaker can easily compete with them, but across the entire front surface. In the second case, the sound is directed directly at the cyclist.

Audio system with all-round speaker

The portable bicycle player includes all the basic player options - managing folders and files, stopping, rewinding, equalizer settings, etc. There is also a clock and an alarm clock. The control panel is located at the top, which will allow you to switch through the playlist without being distracted from the road. Tired of listening to music from a flash drive? An FM radio is available to the cyclist - we can tune in the desired wave.

Mounts included with the New Angel CX speaker:

on the steering wheel with adjustment for pipe diameters;
rubberized belt for running or walking;
plastic belt clip.

It is worth noting that portable speakers work without recharging the battery for 3 to 5 hours, which fits within the standard time of cycling. On longer trips you will have to save the charge and give the device a rest.

Bicycle speakers with Bluetooth technology

This option differs from a standard portable audio system in that the music files are transferred not from a memory storage device, but via a wireless connection. The data source-transmitter is a mobile phone, smartphone or player with Bluetooth functionality.

Bicycle speakers with wireless data transmission are powerful, compact and long-lasting devices. Let's look at their main advantages using the example of the Monoprice High Performance bike model:

compact dimensions and weight – 120 g, which will not cause inconvenience when driving a road bike;
retractable corrugated column;
control buttons on the front panel;
high transmission speed via Bluetooth, on this model – 24 Mbit/s;
stable connection over a distance of up to 8 m;
powerful acoustics;
Long battery life – 7-8 hours.

Despite its modest size, the speaker transmits a wide (from 16 kHz to 220 GHz) frequency range, making the sound more rich and spacious. The maximum pressure reaches 80 dB, which can be compared to the noise of a busy road. Thus, the music will be heard even in dense traffic.

Kit: bluetooth speaker, mount, USB charger, cable for mobile phone

Moving in the wind, rain and mud - all this is not a novelty for a cyclist. But for attachments this can be sad. Fortunately, the Performance bike's audio system is completely sealed from external negative factors.

Installation on the bike is very simple: the device is inserted into a durable plastic socket and fixed to the handlebar with a screw clamp.

Other models from the manufacturer Moonprice:

– compact Bluetooth player of medium power. Works continuously for up to 6 hours, has a lower battery capacity. However, a significant drawback is the lack of moisture protection of the case. The transfer speed via Bluetooth is lower, but through it you can listen to music from a micro-card. Of course, the cost of this model will be lower compared to the Performance bike.

Parther Rebel with vertical control panel

- “column-headlight”. It is shaped like a bicycle light. The direction is adjustable, like previous models. This player is cheaper due to the low battery capacity and, accordingly, short continuous operation time - up to 3 hours. However, for short rides this option will be quite acceptable.

Bluetooth speaker Osell Ma-861

Installing a ready-made device and enjoying music on the road is today no longer a dream, but a reality, especially since the prices for portable devices are quite reasonable. However, amateur craftsmen will find this option too simple, and they will prefer to assemble the audio system themselves. We'll find out how to do this further.

How to put music on a bicycle with your own hands

At school, those who attended radio classes were required to assemble a simple receiver or tape recorder. By analogy, you can assemble a turntable for a bicycle, if you have all the necessary parts and, of course, skill.

Of course, it's great to be able to assemble all sorts of things, but it's not always possible to find the right parts. Therefore, let's consider a simpler and more universal method - a wired bicycle audio system.

So, to work you will need:

small speakers with USB output – 2 pieces for high-quality sound;
battery pack;
mp3 player;
USB connectors – 3 pcs;
clamps for fixing the speakers on the steering wheel – 2 pcs;
glue "Moment".

Computer speakers can be purchased at any specialized department. We choose the smallest ones that would not interfere with control. The speakers are installed on the steering wheel on both sides.

This is what the finished acoustics on a bicycle will look like

Fastening - standard plastic clamps, which are usually used to hold reflectors, bells, mirrors, etc. They are sold separately in stores in limited quantities, but they are available on the Internet or, as an option, removed from a bell or lantern.

A battery pack can be purchased from Radio Supplies. In our case, we will need a 4-battery 5V system. We also buy USB connectors there.

How to assemble an audio system for a bicycle with your own hands:

Place the speakers on the clamps using “Torque” and tighten the holders on the steering wheel. Check how firmly they fit.
Attach USB connectors to the battery pack - two for speakers and one for the player.
Stretch the wires from the speakers to the batteries, connect them through the USB outputs.
Connect the battery to the mp3 player via a wire.

Launch the player and check the system's functionality. Additionally, you can make a switch - a relay in the area between the speakers and the battery pack. In principle, this is not necessary, since it is enough to remove the player's wire from the battery.

Conclusion

A music system for your bike, whether it’s a Bluetooth player or homemade wired speakers, will undoubtedly give you a new riding experience and add energy and vivacity on long runs.

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