Achieving the best results from BestBikeSplit is dependent on having good elevation data for our math and physics model. Below is a guide to help you select the best GPX data to upload to the system. As always if you have any issues contact us and we will get back quickly.
*The Garmin 500 and 910xt can often collect accurate data, but have been shown to be prone to temperature drift and occasional drop outs.
Make sure you look at the elevation chart (preferably in Garmin) before uploaded to BestBikeSplit to see if there is drift in the data over time or any sharp drops/jumps (that don't actually exist) on the course. If these issues are present you may want to find a different data file or use our MapQuest elevation data lookup. A detailed look at several devices and common data sources are shown in the table below.
| Device | BestBikeSplit Upload Setting | Elevation Accuracy | Elevation Resolution | Data Collection Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garmin 800/10, 510 | File Elevation | +/- 10 feet from actual (when calibrated) | .2 meter steps | ~ 6 meters | Accuracy can be affected by temperature changes |
| Garmin 500 | File Elevation* or Lookup Elevation (US Only) | +/- 50 feet from actual (when calibrated) | .2 meter steps | ~ 8 meters | Prone to dropouts with old firmware |
| Garmin 910xt - (3.0 Firmware) | File Elevation or MapQuest Lookup Elevation | +/- 10 to +/- 100 feet depending on whether barometer is used | ~18-40 meters | If device is wet it will not use barometer for elevation enhancement | |
| Garmin 310xt | MapQuest Lookup Elevation | +/- 100 feet | No enhanced elevation | ||
| Typical GPS Watches | MapQuest Lookup Elevation | +/- 100 feet | Varies | Varies | No enhanced elevation |
| Device | Elevation Data Provided | Data Sampling Frequency | Elevation Setting Suggestion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garmin Connect | Yes | Device Dependent (see above) 6 meters - 40 meters | Device Dependent (see above) |
| MapMyRide | No | >35 meters (Heavily reduced data set) | MapQuest Lookup Elevation |
| RideWithGPS (Rides) | Yes | Device Dependent (see above) | Device Dependent (see above) |
| RideWithGPS (Routes Created In App) | Yes | Reduced Sample Set Steps based on elevation. | File Elevation or MapQuest Lookup Data (in US) |
| Strava GPX from your own Ride | Yes | Device Dependent (see above) | Device Dependent (see above) |
| Strava Activity GPX(Premium) | Yes | Device Dependent (see above) | Device Dependent (see above) |
| Strava Routes (Created in App) | No | Heavily Reduced Sample | MapQuest Lookup Elevation |
| Strava Segments API | Yes | Reduced Sample | MapQuest Lookup Elevation |
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We also have a YouTube Channel with several tutorials and instructional videos.
Didn't find what you were looking for? Don't hesitate to submit a request to our Customer Success Team and we'll help you out.
If you are a Premium Account holder and have a question about a specific race or feature, you can ask the BBS AI Assistant located on your Race Plan Details page.