The 9 Best Bike Phone Mounts of 2023
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Roam Universal Premium Bike Phone Mount is our top pick.
Travel + Leisure / Sabrina Jiang
While biking will always tap into the simple joy of that first time you were able to pedal your way through your childhood, the modern cyclist has also embraced the more complex arsenal of smartphone apps that compliment any two-wheeled excursion, everything from mapping and navigation tools to more robust performance- and health-tracking apps. And the best way to put that functionality front and center is to find the best bike phone mount that suits both your bike and the many ways you want to use your phone while biking. The best ones offer a secure, low-profile solution that lets you shift from landscape to portrait displays, providing an unencumbered view of your entire screen and easy access to touch commands, as well as an easy release should you want to stop and take a photo or field a call.
In exploring the different types of bike phone mounts, functionality was the key consideration — how securely the mount holds your phone, how quickly it attaches to the bike, and how easily it is to get your phone on and off — as well as the overall price-to-value ratio. Some riders, particularly those who ride dirt, mountain, and gravel bikes, may want to invest in a higher-tech solution that typically includes a proprietary phone case, while more casual cyclists can go with a less expensive model that still delivers on the key features to provide easy access to your phone's screen while cycling. Overall, we like the Roam Universal Premium Bike Phone Mount. But there are plenty of other great options.
Roam Universal Premium Bike Phone Mount
Best Overall
Why We Love It: Compatible with most smartphones, modest in price, and offering full rotation, the Roam Universal Bike Mount proves to be versititle enough for most bikers.
What to Consider: Compared to some other more expensive models, the Roam is fairly bulky, which may bother the more aesthetically-conscious cyclist. And that assured mounting system makes it a multi-step process to remove your device.
Using both a premium plastic grip on the sides as well as a four-point silicone net, the Roam Universal Premium Bike Phone Mount will secure any smart device that measures up to 3.5 inches wide, attaching to handlebars from 0.875- all the way up to 1.25-inch diameters. The mounting system employs an easy-to-use screw that sandwiches the mount to the handlebar stem before locking the device in place. Once the phone is set, you have 360 degrees of device rotation in case you need to shift from landscape to portrait display, and the netting that wraps around the four points on your phone provides an unencumbered view of the screen and won't interfere with touch controls.
Price at time of publish: $25
Weight: 3.4 ounces | Rotation Ability: Yes | Dimensions: 2.5 x 5.5 x 1 inches | Attachment Type: Clamp
Delta Cycle & Home XMount Pro Bike Stem Phone Mount
Best Budget
Why We Love It: Despite its modest price point, the X Mount Bike Phone Holder offers a reliable way to secure your phone to your handlebars, works with your existing phone case, and is compatible with most smartphones.
What to Consider: There's no rotation, so you're locked into viewing the portrait display.
Compatible with most smartphones – and the bulkiest of cases – the Delta Cycle X Mount Bike Phone Holder secures to the bike's frame or handlebars via a simple twist knob that tightens the clamp; it also comes with both handlebar and stem cap mounts so you can position your phone in your preferred placement. Four silicone bumpers sit on the mount itself to provide a bit of extra protection and shock absorption, while the proprietary silicon web wraps around the corners of your device to secure the phone in place. The screen is easily accessible for easy viewing and quick interaction. The stretchy attachment points also make it easy to remove your phone, but a lack of rotation means you can only view your device in the portrait display.
Price at time of publish: $35
Weight: 1.7 ounces | Rotation Ability: No | Dimensions: 7.75 x 3.15 x 1.4 inches | Attachment Type: Stem cap mount
Nite Ize Wraptor Rotating Smartphone Bar Mount
Best Inexpensive Rotating Mount
Why We Love It: Fully rotating models that provide quick release of your device tend to be a bit costly, but this one provides all the key features you need without requiring a hefty investment.
What to Consider: The stretchy straps that attach to the bike secure easily, but they may not handle really bumpy terrain compared to options that clamp down on the bike frame.
A mount that provides 360-degree rotation lets you position the phone in either landscape or portrait display and gives you the ability to swap configurations easily. The Nite Ize Wraptor Rotating Smartphone Bar Mount delivers both well. Built to work with both standard and plus-sized devices (with or without a case), the tool-free mounting strap system works on both handlebars and stems of various dimensions — and can be used on other things like a stroller or shopping cart. The stretchy webbing secures your phone at its corners without obstructing the screen, and removing or attaching your device is simple. It's also easy to remove the mount itself via the stretchy strap, rather than fussing with a twist knob.
Price at time of publish: $20
Weight: 1.8 ounces | Rotation Ability: Yes | Dimensions: 7.87 x 3.74 x 0.63 inches | Attachment Type: Silicone harness
Related:The 10 Best Most Comfortable Bike Seats of 2023
Peak Design Out Front Bike Mount
Best for Mountain Biking
Why We Love It: Sleek in appearance and easy in terms of securing your device, it's one of the most robust and secure options around.
What to Consider: The top-of-the-line functionality comes at a price and may be overkill for more casual cyclists. You have to have the Peak Design Phone Case or a universal adapter, each sold separately.
If you tend to gravitate toward singletrack, gravel, or pothole-strewn road biking, go with the Peak Design Front Bike Mount, one of the most attractive and secure options available. Secure the mount via the triangular screw (or the included hex screw) to the handlebar, stem, or frame. You can configure it to your desired angle — flat for viewing while cycling, or at an angle if you want to use your phone to film your ride POV-style — and then simply attach your device via the brand's ultra-strong magnetic/mechanical mounting technology that intuitively locks the Peak Design Phone Case (or a universal adaptor attached to another case) to the machined/anodized aluminum mount. Thumbscrews let you configure the position of the device on the fly, and while it doesn't rotate, you can position your device to either landscape or portrait modes. It comes with a GoPro-style accessory mount to attach a light or an action camera below the phone as well as sizing collars for three bar diameters: 0.875-, 1-, and 1.25- inch options. But note it's not compatible with tapered or non-round bars.
Price at time of publish: $70
Weight: 3.1 to 3.3 ounces depending on collar size and screw mounting | Rotation Ability: No, but it can be locked into place in either portrait or landscape | Dimensions: 2.7 x 3.7 x 2.5 inches | Attachment Type: Hex screw mount
Otterbox RAM Mounts Tough Claw Case
Best for iPhones
Why We Love It: Compatible with the brand's award-winning iPhone cases, it provides nearly limitless configuration options thanks to a ball-and-socket arm.
What to Consider: It is pricey and only works with the Universe iPhone cases from Otterbox.
If you already have one of Otterbox's iPhone Universe phone cases, it only makes sense to go with their RAM Mounts Tough Claw Module, which uses a mount compatible with bars that range from 0.625- to 1.5-inch diameters, and flat surfaces up to 1.15 inches, tightening down with an easy-to-use thumb screw. The mounting system for the phone itself sits on a knob-tightened ball-and-socket system, which helps cut vibrations and allows for an infinite number of mounting configurations, including portrait and landscape displays as well as front-pointing options to film your ride POV-style.
Price at time of publish: $63
Weight: 12.5 ounces | Rotation Ability: Yes | Dimensions: 10 x 2.5 x 3 inches | Attachment Type: Ball and socket mount
ROCKBROS Bike Phone Bag
Best with Bag
Why We Love It: It provides ample storage for your bike essentials along with waterproof protection and easy access to the touch screen.
What to Consider: It only supports portrait view, access to your device is a bit of a pain compared to other mounting systems, and it's only compatible with a handful of iPhone, Samsung, and Huawei devices.
Marry the convenience of seeing your phone mid-ride with the necessity of carrying tools and a tire repair kit with the Rock Bros Bike Phone Bag Pouch. It uses three velcro mounting straps to attach to your bike frame, just behind the stem of the handlebars, and will work with dirt, gravel, mountain, and road bikes; the bag boasts 1.5 liters of storage accessible with a waterproof zipper. The phone, meanwhile, gets locked into place on the bag's lid with a wide Velcro strap. A 0.3-millimeter TPU clear film lines the outside of the bag, so you can see the screen and control the touch screen, and a sun visor has been integrated to cover the top third of the device to make it easier to see on bright outings. Opening ports at the bottom allow some audio to bleed through, so you can take calls hands-free or listen to music, and the 6.5-inch-wide bag sits flush against the bike frame so that it won't interfere with your pedaling.
Price at time of publish: $19
Weight: 9.5 ounces | Rotation Ability: No | Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.2 x 4.4 inches | Attachment Type: Ball and socket mount
Related:The 10 Best Padded Bike Shorts of 2023
Quad Lock Universal Bike Mount Kit - Black
Best Inexpensive Quick Release
Why We Love It: Their device-specific cycle kits come with a phone case and mounting system in one (relatively) inexpensive package.
What to Consider: Similar mounting systems offer more versatile ways to mount and position your phone; this system is all about easy access to controls and an unobstructed view of your screen.
Most robust, higher-end quick-release mounts are more expensive than the kind that use straps or netting to secure your device, and they require a proprietary phone case or a mounting accessory, which makes the cost climb higher. But Quad Lock offers device-specific packages — a mounting system plus a proprietary case — for the same price as most solo high-quality mounts. After finding the optimal case, go with their Handlebar/Stem Mount, a sleek device that secures itself to the bike with two stretchy nylon zip ties that'll hold fast. Then the phone itself attaches with the brand's two-stage lock, which clicks the device into place that'll hold strong in even the most rugged terrain. Removing the phone happens with a simple twist, so you can change configurations (from portrait to landscape), snap photos, or answer a call quickly. And if you want to use a non-Quad Lock case, you can go with the option that comes with a 3M VHB adhesive to stick to your existing case.
Price at time of publish: $40
Weight: 2.1 ounces | Rotation Ability: No, but it can be locked into place in either landscape or portrait mode | Dimensions: 5.59 x 2.4 x 1.3 inches | Attachment Type: Quad lock mount
Related:The 9 Best Bike Locks of 2023
VUP Bike Phone Mount
Easiest Mounting
Why We Love It: It's a universal holder with 360-degree rotation.
What to Consider: Because it's made of stretchy silicone, it may warp or tear over time.
Not only is this phone mount compatible with all phone types, but it's also compatible with all handlebar sizes. Simply adjust the anti-slip band around your bike, stroller, or exercise machine handle for a durable grip that will last until you choose to remove it. The wide silicone band then stretches over any size phone, hugging it tightly into place. Because the straps are so slim, this phone mount allows you to fully rotate your phone and the wide screen access is even compatible with face ID technology. While it's easy to install, the mount is still sturdy and durable enough to last even long mountainous rides. The silicone grip holds phones securely in place while the locking mechanism keeps your phone in the position you choose.
Price at time of publish: $27
Weight: 1.06 ounces | Rotation Ability: Yes | Dimensions: 5.12 x 2.36 x 1.77 inches | Attachment Type: Silicone straps
Belkin Fitness Mount
Best for Stationary Bikes
Why We Love It: The magnetic mount is super convenient.
What to Consider: The attachment band may be too small for some machines.
For indoor fitness needs, the Belkin Fitness Mount is a great, secure option that can stand up to exercises on stationery bikes, ellipticals, treadmills, and more. While it's only compatible with iPhones 12 and higher, the mount's dual attachments are compatible with just about any indoor exercise equipment. Because this mount is magnetic, you can securely attach your phone with just one hand, making mid-ride adjustments a breeze. The MagSafe technology even works through your phone case up to 3 millimeters in thickness for added security while you ride. It also works as a stand, so you can easily move from mounting on a machine to standing upright for floor exercises. The internal balljoint also helps with 360-degree rotation, so you can set your screen for an optimal view whether you're taking a call, listening to music, or watching an exercise video.
Price at time of publish: $35
Weight: 1.92 ounces | Rotation Ability: Yes | Dimensions: 5.75 x 2.36 x 1 inches | Attachment Type: Magnet or strap
Tips for Buying a Bike Phone Mount
Prioritize phone stability
Nothing spells disaster more than losing your phone to the unforgiving pavement or packed earth mid-pedal, so phone stability is paramount. Lower-cost cases typically use stretchy webbing that wraps around the corners of your device to secure it to the mount, which is itself secured to the bike (typically the handlebars or stem) with either a twist knob that tightens around the bar or with a stretchy strap that compresses the mount to the bike. More expensive models work with mounting systems integrated into a proprietary phone case (or use a stick-on accessory) that directly attaches to the mounting plate, offering the most secure attachment possible.
Look for ease of setup
This comprises two elements: the ability to attach the mount to your bike, and the ability to to attach your phone to the mount. For the former, most use tool-free solutions like twisting knobs or flexible material to secure the mount to the handlebar or stem, and some come with various-sized collars that sit inside the hard plastic outer, which compresses as you tighten things down. Some models also offer the option of using a hex wrench rather than a knob, which makes them slightly more resistant to thieves. The ease of attaching the phone is controlled by the way the mount secures the device; the easiest (and more expensive) solutions come with quick-release tech that lets you pop or twist the device off, while less expensive models employ stretch netting and twist-tightened grips that you pull over your device's corners and/or clamp down at the sides.
Think about getting your phone in and out of the mount
The level of complexity in getting your phone in and out of the mount can be broken down to the following: The more attachment points, the more time it'll take. If you plan on accessing your device for things like taking photos, easy access to the device is essential, so go with a quick-release mount that typically has an intuitive release mechanism that releases the phone when you twist the device. Those with stretchy nets (which wrap around the device's corners) make it relatively easy to get the phone out: Just release two of the four attachments, and slide it out. If it has additional contact points (like side clamps), that also adds another layer of complexity.
Look for rotation
Some mounts provide 360-degree rotation, making it easy to swivel the phone to sit in any position, while one-touch mounting systems allow you to lock in the device in either landscape or portrait displays. Some of the lower-cost models only work in portrait. So if you want the flexibility of both or use apps that work better in landscape, go with one that supports both configurations.
Know your phone visibility needs
All phone mountain systems are designed to provide an unencumbered view of your device's screen, both to make it easy to read things like navigation or performance metrics, and to let you easily use the touch screen. Mounts that attach to a phone case provide 100 percent viewability, but even those with stretch netting at the corners still allow almost all of the screen to be visible. All mounts allow you to access the touch controls easily regardless of how the device is configured on the bike. But some of the higher-end mounts add versatility to let you do things like positioning the phone to shoot a POV video.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I install a bike phone mount?
<p>Almost all bike mounts can be attached to your bike frame, handlebar, or stem without tools. Some use rubber collars of various sizes that sit inside the plastic ring or clamp, which gets compressed as you tighten the twist dial on the mount to provide a secure fit. Some of the higher-end models also give you the option to tighten the device with a small hex wrench, and they are more difficult to steal than those tightened only with a knob or strap. And some use elastic materials that stretch to tighten over the bars. These models are also easy to remove when you're not using the mount.</p>
Is it safe to mount a phone on a bike?
<p>When it comes to bike safety, you should never text, watch videos, or use your phone while riding. That said, mounting your phone to use for directions, or for quick access, can be perfectly safe if mounted properly and securely. You should make sure that the mount itself is tightly attached to your handle bar and the phone inside the case is secure so you don't run the risk of losing any equipment, causing distractions, on the road.</p>
Are bike phone mounts magnetic?
<p>Some of the more expensive models offer reliable magnetic solutions or attach via a proprietary locking mechanism or clamp, but most use stretchable materials like nylon or silicone to secure your phone to the mount.</p>
Are most bike phone mounts universal?
<p>Most <em>claim</em> to be universal, and many are. But it's always a good idea to check that the mount can handle both the dimensions of your phone <em>and</em> case, as well as the diameters of your handlebar, stem, or bike frame, depending on where you plan to mount the device.</p>
Is it legal for cyclists to use phones?
<p>Cycling laws vary state by state; however, it's generally legal to use your phone while riding a bike. Still, if taking a call, you should utilize hands-free options like headphones to minimize distractions. You should also avoid using your phone as much as possible while cycling to keep yourself and others safe.</p>
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
Nathan Borchelt has been rating, testing, and reviewing outdoor and travel products for decades, and has been an avid cyclist for even longer. In considering each product, the functionality, reliability, and cost were all weighed, as were other applications like the speed at which you can release or mount your phone, the different set-ups allowed by the device (portrait or landscape display, the ability to use the mount to shoot video with your camera) and the level of difficulty in modifying those configurations.
Related:The 8 Best Car Phone Mounts of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
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