Phone Size

Each of our models has a stated phone size range based on the diagonal inch size of the screen. As new phones have very small bezels, we have tried to keep our measurements in accordance with this. This isn't a perfect science, but should give you an indication of which model will be suitable for your phone size.

FaceID/TouchID

If you have an Apple or Android phone that uses face recognition, or has swipe up gestures from the bottom to unlock (or other functionality), then our 2 series onwards (Bike Tie 2, Pro 2) will be preferable.

Handlebar or Stem Mount

This is determined by:

1. Handlebar / stem design

If you have a very short stem, or it has a high raised section where the stem meets the head of the forks, then a stem mount will likely not fit. In that case a handlebar mount (eg. "Bike Tie 4") is your only option.

Tapered handlebars do NOT like phone mounts. It is too hard for the handlebar to evenly grip firmly. In which case a stem mount (eg. "Pro 4") is your best option.

If you have a fairly standard stem, but have a lot of gear already on your handlebars (lights, bike computer, etc) then a stem mount may be best.

2. Phone use

For everyday general use, such as commuting, a handlebar mount is most common. This is great for maps, or listening to music/podcasts during your ride.

If you use your phone in place of a dedicated bike computer on a road bike, then a stem mount will be a good replacement for a computer extender arm. Extenders are much heavier than our Bike Tie Pro series models.

If you want to have your phone in landscape mode, then mounting our handlebar models on the stem will rotate the orientation 90 degrees.

Road Surface

Some of our models, such as the Pro 2 are very low profile. These work great on road/race bikes, but don't like bumpy surfaces. We highly recommend using the Pro 2 model with a phone case to protect against any possible contact with the phone on the stem. Our Pro 4 holds the phone higher from the stem, and adds more vibration damping to mitigate problems with bumpy roads.

For off-road riding, we suggest using handlebar mounts. Our Bike Tie 2 and Bike Tie 4 models, use our propriety non-slip coating on the handlebar strap.

Depending on the type of handlebar and phone, our handlebar series may work for mountain biking. The bigger the phone, the more the rotational force on the mount, and the more likely it may slip. This is where your mileage may vary. We don't recommend any of our mounts for dedicated mountain biking.

Battery

Smartphones have a lot of advantages over bicycle computers. Your phone already exceeds in functionality. And with a nice big, clear screen, a smartphone can do almost everything better than a cycle computer. The main drawback is the battery. This is where a phone mount with an integrated power pack holder comes in handy. And for long distance cycling with map apps, it is a necessity. The Bike Tie Power Pack can be used with or without a power pack, and is perfect for such uses.