Over the years, Garmin computers have become extremely popular and as the computers have evolved, so have the mounting options available. The Bar Fly series from Tate Labs have helped to provide mounting and color options to fit everyone’s preferences.
The original Gamin mounts for models like the 305, gave two options, stem or bar. When mounting on the stem, you also had an option to add a slight angle to the mount to try and level the computer. When they evolved to the quarter turn mount though, this option was lost.
The next option was the forward mount, reminiscent of the SRM head units, and the Bar Fly was one of the first on the market. These mounts put the Garmin out front of the stem and handlebars, where it could be mounted level, and gave a much more racy look. For the road, this isn’t much of an issue. The likelihood of bumping the computer while riding was minimal. For cyclocross and mountain biking though, it could be a problem with close quarters racing and dismounting/mounting. The plastic wings on the back of the Garmin could easily be snapped off if the computer was hit during a crash or even bumped with your arm while shouldering your bike.
Tate Labs developed the Bar Fly 3.0 with off road and cyclocross in mind. The 3.0 mounts to the right of the stem on your handlebars, and places the Garmin right above the stem. The viewing angle adjustment is only limited by the contact of the mount on your stem. The Bar Fly 3.0 is made from Derlin, a very high quality plastic. Other brands use aluminum, but harder materials could start to wear down the plastic on the Garmin over time. Tate Labs is so confident in its durability, if you break a Bar Fly, they will send you a new one, no questions asked.
Besides the unique placement over the stem, the engagement of the computer also sets the Bar Fly 3.0 apart from the competitors. Even Garmin’s own forward mount doesn’t seem to engage the computer as solidly as the Bar Fly. There is a distinctively stronger “click” when rotated into position. The computer is held in place well so you can be confident your expensive investment won’t be lost in the weeds.
The 3.0 is offered in black, which will match just about any bike, or red to add a touch of flare. Other models are available in a wider array of colors. At just 17 grams, this mount will easily find a spot on your bars, and won’t put a dent in your wallet.
http://www.barflybike.com/
Bar Fly 3.0 – $24.95
Based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Scott joined Bike World News as the Cyclocross Editor in 2012 before taking over as Tech Editor in 2016. He has also worked as a photographer for various pro teams and shoot races along the east coast of the US, including the 2012 US MTB National Championships, 2013 UCI Cyclocross World Championships, and 2016 UCI Road World Championships. Scott has a passion for performance and technology, with 35 years of riding and mechanic experience. He also enjoys soccer, running, teaching group fitness classes, and is the founder of Lancaster Beard Company.
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