Smartphone holders for road bikes put to the test: A comparison of six models

The results in a nutshell: The Quad Lock Out Front Mount + Mag Case receives the highest overall rating and impresses with its very secure grip, high-quality build and a smartphone case suitable for everyday use. The more affordable SP Connect Micro Bike Mount is just behind it. Those looking to minimise the weight on their handlebars will find the Fidlock Vacuum an interesting alternative. Price-conscious cyclists are well served by the Topeak Omni RideCase II.

The six test participants

• Topeak Omni RideCase II, Price: 30 euros >> available here
• SP Connect Micro Bike Mount, Price: 60 euros >> available here
• SKS Smartgrab 360, Price: 25 euros >> available here
• Quad Lock Out Front Mount + Mag Case, Price: 90 euros >> available here*
• Fidlock Vacuum Handlebar Base plus Pad, Price: 45 euros >> available here
• Acid Mobile Phone Holder HPA, Price: 39.95 euros >> available here

Grade Overview

A comparison of two designs

This test pits two fundamentally different designs against each other. SKS, Acid and Topeak secure the smartphone directly using mounting arms or elastic straps. These solutions are universally applicable and work with many different smartphones. A special case is not strictly necessary.

Quad Lock and SP Connect, on the other hand, rely on a model-specific smartphone case. This attaches to the mount via a bayonet lock. As a result, the smartphone sits very securely, whilst the screen, buttons and edges of the case remain fully accessible. The downside is that a suitable case is required for each smartphone model.

Fidlock combines an adhesive pad with magnetic and vacuum technology. The smartphone docks almost automatically and can be quickly detached again. The system thus combines ease of use with a lightweight design.

Quad Lock: The test winner

The Quad Lock Out Front Mount + Mag Case* Achieved the best result in the comparison with a score of 1.2. The key factors are the very secure grip, the high-quality finish and the perfectly fitting smartphone case.

The smartphone is positioned in front of the stem and attached to the mount via a bayonet lock. A little force is required to lock it in place, but the connection clicks firmly into place. The device remains securely in place even on uneven terrain. The case also protects the smartphone in everyday use and leaves all the key controls accessible.

The drawbacks are the high price and the slightly more complicated installation, which requires an Allen key. For cyclists who use their smartphone as their permanent navigation and training hub, Quad Lock is nevertheless the most compelling all-round solution.

The test conclusion is: very safe, high-quality and versatile, but also the most expensive option in the comparison.

SP Connect: Great value for money

SP Connect works on a similar principle to Quad Lock, but the combination of mount and case we tested costs around 30 euros less. The Micro Bike Mount attaches to the handlebars without tools using a screw strap. The smartphone is securely attached to the mount via the bayonet lock.

The custom-fit case is slim, robust and can also be used effectively when the bike is not in use. It is intuitive to use, and all controls remain accessible. Compared to Quad Lock, however, the plastic mount seems slightly less resistant to twisting.

With an overall mark of 1.3, SP Connect A strong alternative to the test winner. The system is particularly suitable for riders who want a fixed connection with a protective cover but would prefer to spend less.

The test verdict is: excellent handling, a high-quality case and easy assembly, with slight shortcomings in terms of the mount’s rigidity.

Topeak Omni RideCase II: The best value for money choice

The Topeak Omni RideCase II At 29.95 euros, it is one of the cheapest holders in the test. It works without a special smartphone case and secures the device using elastic silicone straps at the corners.

The system can be fitted to the handlebars or stem without the need for tools and can be used flexibly on a variety of bikes. Weighing just 55 grams, the Topeak is also one of the lightest mounts in the comparison. It is straightforward to use, and all buttons remain easily accessible.

The Velcro strap may slip slightly on very smooth surfaces. Overall, however, the Omni RideCase II impresses with its high flexibility, light weight and ease of use.

The test conclusion is: an affordable and flexible holder that sits securely on the non-slip surface, although the strap may slip on smooth surfaces.

Acid HPA: Stable, but heavy

The Acid Mobile Phone Holder HPA features a solid metal construction and side-mounted clamping arms. The smartphone is secured in place with a large knurled screw. This allows the clamping force to be precisely adjusted to suit different devices.

When riding, the mount impresses with its very secure and wobble-free hold. The smartphone can be positioned precisely in the centre of the stem. However, tools are required for installation and adjusting the angle.

The biggest drawback is the weight. Weighing 170 grams, the Acid mount is the heaviest model in the comparison. Furthermore, depending on the smartphone, the side clips may cover some of the control buttons.

The test verdict is: a very sturdy, robust mount with good build quality and a secure hold, but it is heavy and access to individual buttons is restricted.

Fidlock Vacuum: Particularly light and comfortable

The Fidlock Vacuum Handlebar Base plus Pad Weighing 51 grams, it is the lightest mount in the test. The smartphone is attached to the mount via an adhesive pad. Magnetic force guides the device into the correct position, after which the vacuum system secures it in place.

Docking is quick and intuitive. To remove the device, simply press the retaining ring downwards. The controls on the sides of the smartphone also remain fully accessible.

On rough terrain, the smartphone wobbles slightly more than with Quad Lock or SP Connect. The connection we tested also seems less resistant to twisting. On the other hand, the Fidlock is very small, light and unobtrusive. A custom-fit smartphone case is available as an optional extra.

The verdict of the test is: extremely light, compact and easy to use, with slight drawbacks in terms of grip on uneven terrain.

SKS Smartgrab 360: The most affordable mount

The SKS Smartgrab 360 costs 24.99 euros, making it the cheapest model in the test. The universal mount holds various smartphones in place using side clamps. A special case is not required.

The mount is compatible with many standard handlebar diameters. The smartphone can be used in portrait or landscape orientation. The self-closing arms hold the device securely in place, but must be operated with both hands.

The design is quite bulky and, at 160 grams, relatively heavy. Depending on the smartphone, the clips may cover the side buttons. The device also wobbles slightly on uneven ground.

The test verdict is: the most affordable mount with a sturdy design and broad compatibility, but less user-friendly operation, a heavy weight and some wobble on rough terrain.

Overall conclusion

The Quad Lock Out Front Mount + Mag Case* is the best smartphone holder in the comparison. It combines the most secure hold with a high-quality protective case suitable for everyday use. Anyone who regularly uses their smartphone for navigation and workout tracking, and is prepared to spend a little more on it, will get a particularly well-designed and durable system.

SP Connect offers virtually the same core benefits and is around 30 euros cheaper. The mount is slightly less rigid, but impresses with its excellent usability, easy installation and a high-quality smartphone case. This makes SP Connect the most interesting alternative to the test winner.

The Topeak Omni RideCase II is ideal for budget-conscious cyclists. It is lightweight, flexible and easy to fit. If you don’t want a special smartphone case and are looking for a straightforward solution for several bikes, this offers great value for money.

Fidlock is particularly appealing to cyclists who want to save weight and attach their smartphone quickly. The vacuum-magnetic technology is convenient to use, but does not match the torsional rigidity of mechanical systems.

Acid and SKS also hold the smartphone securely, but add significantly more weight to the cockpit. The Acid is particularly sturdy and well-made, whilst the SKS stands out for its low price. Both are functional for regular navigation on a road bike, but in terms of handling and weight, they fall short of lighter or more integrated solutions.