Tag: bike

Tern GSD water bottle bike mount for Apple AirTag

I’ve recently tested an under-saddle mount. On its own, it is an easy target and it can be easily found if the thief knows where to look. To make the most out of AirTags, I also have one inside my Storm Box.

To complement the two, I am now also using this AirTag mount, which can either sit between your water bottle and the bike frame. Alternatively, if you do not have a bottle, it can sit directly on the frame secured using the bottle holder bolts.

Mounted using the “too-easy-to-spot” water bottle bolts
Let’s unzoom to put its size into perspective

Let’s play hide and seek!

Here is where the GSD comes to the rescue. It has a couple of other mounting options with the exact same distance between the bolts as the water bottle bolts.

Can you spot the AirTag?
What about now? Look between the pedal and battery.

Note the two silver bolts inside the triangle on the right hand side. They can be used for this AirTag mount.

Assembly and installation

It is super easy to install. The original Tern screws are too short. So, let’s replace them with the 2 bolts supplied with the mount. The only tool you need is a standard hex head 3 mm screwdriver bit.

On Tern GSD Generation 2, you can choose between the upper or lower position. Personally, I prefer the upper one.

Installed in the upper position
Installed in the lower position
It is not much thicker than the AirTag itself

Where can I buy one?

I am in the UK and I purchased one on eBay. Here is the link if you want to check it out and get yours.

What other mounts are available?

I’ve also tested an under-saddle mount. You can see more photos of it and read more about it here.

Comparison of the under-saddle and water bottle mounts

Tern GSD under-saddle bike mount for Apple AirTag

If you ever experienced the helpless feeling of returning to an empty spot at the bike rack, you know how it feels when you realise that your bike has been stolen. I’ve been there twice. When Apple introduced AirTags, I thought that I should attach a couple to my bike and see how well they work. Here is my real-life test from iPhone SE user’s perspective if you are interested in the user experience and location accuracy.

AirTag does not come with any mount, let alone one suitable for bikes. So, I purchased a few and tested them.

This under-saddle mount caught my eye, and became my favourite.

It is practically invisible
The rear handle on the saddle remains fully accessible
Only a very close look allows you to spot it
Bottom of the saddle

Why/why not this mount?

  • Compact size
  • Easy to install under your saddle – I tested it on Tern GSD Generation 2
  • You won’t notice it, unless you know what you are looking for
  • Ideal placement from Bluetooth radio perspective with not too many metal parts around it
  • Very affordable
  • It is 3D printed, which means that its surface is not 100% smooth. This is expected and nothing to worry about, considering the mount spends most of its life under the saddle.

Assembly and installation

Bolts are supplied with the mount. The only tool you need is a standard hex head 3 mm screwdriver bit.

All it takes is 3 bolts
Assembled mount

Here is a tip for you: Remove the saddle from the bike, put it in between your thighs and install the mount. This makes it really easy with no bolts flying around.

Saddle before
Saddle with the AirTag mount
I can’t see it, can you?
A very close look

Where can I buy one?

I am in the UK and I purchased it on eBay. Here is the link if you want to check it out and get yours.

Summary

As I mentioned, this mount is my favourite. Having said that, I recommend attaching another AirTag or two to your bike. I am testing a couple of other mounts and I will share the links here. Stay tuned, please.