This page explains how Haiku Bike evaluates cycling technology and accessories, what our scores mean, and where our information comes from.
Our research process
- Define the rider and the job. We start with who the product is for (commuter, road rider, gravel rider, indoor trainer user) and what it needs to do well.
- Build a shortlist. We look at current models from established brands and newer challengers that are widely available in the United States.
- Gather the facts. We compare official specifications, manuals, compatibility lists, firmware notes, and warranty terms from manufacturers.
- Study owner experience. We analyze long-term owner feedback, recurring complaints, and support issues to understand how products hold up after the first ride.
- Compare and score. We rate every product in a category against the same criteria, then write up the strengths, the trade-offs, and who should skip it.
The Haiku Ride Score
Products in a roundup receive a Haiku Ride Score from 1 to 10. The score is a weighted average of five criteria:
| Criterion | Weight | What we look at |
|---|---|---|
| Core performance | 30% | How well the product does its main job, such as navigation accuracy, light output, or trainer resistance. |
| Build and weather resistance | 20% | Materials, mounting security, and published water and dust ratings. |
| Ease of use | 20% | Setup, controls, companion apps, and day-to-day convenience. |
| Compatibility and battery | 15% | Sensor and app support, charging, and published battery life. |
| Value | 15% | What you get for the typical price compared with close alternatives. |
Scores compare products within the same category. A 9 for a bike light and a 9 for a smart trainer are not comparable.
What we do not do
- We do not invent specifications, measurements, or performance figures. When data is not available, we say so.
- We do not accept payment for reviews, rankings, or scores.
- We do not let affiliate commission rates influence which products we recommend.
Keeping articles current
Cycling tech changes quickly. We revisit buying guides when new models launch, when products are discontinued, or when firmware updates change how a product works. Each article shows the date it was last updated.
Questions about a score
If you disagree with a rating or have experience with a product that we should consider, contact us.