The Sigma BC 16.16 STS* has a lot of useful features and some snazzy ones too – plus it looks snazzy. In the Sigma BC 16.16 STS test you will learn everything you need to know about the Sigma bike computer.
First, a brief model overview. I will be happy to describe the differences between the individual variants in detail later:
✅ Sigma BC 16.16 - bike computer with cable*.
✅ Sigma BC 16.16 STS wireless - bike computer wireless*.
✅ Sigma BC 16.16 STS CAD - Bike computer with cadence (cadence sensor)*.
You’re in a hurry? Click here to go directly to the Sigma BC 16.16
- GESCHWINDIGKEIT - zeigt alle wichtigen Informationen zur Geschwindigkeit, wie aktuelle Geschwindigkeit, Maximalgeschwindigkeit und den Vergleich von durchschn./akt. Geschwindigkeit
- AUSWERTUNG - Alle Informationen zur Tour werden für Rad 1 und Rad 2 gespeichert und können via NFC oder mit Hilfe der Docking Station im Data Center eingesehen werden
- ETA - zeigt die Ankunftszeit, verbleibende Strecke oder verbleibende Fahrzeit zum Ziel
* Werbung - Aktualisierung am 2024-04-26, Preis kann gestiegen sein, Als Amazon-Partner verdiene ich an qualifizierten Verkäufen, Bild:Amazon
Sigma BC 16.16 STS Scope of delivery & unboxing
The following equipment is included with the Sigma BC 16.16 STS:
- Bike speedometer Sigma BC 16.16 STS wireless incl. installed battery
- Bike speedo mount
- Magnet for attachment to the spoke
- Metal sleeve for securing the magnet
- Wireless magnetic sensor
- Two rubber O-rings for the fixation of the bike speedo mount and the magnetic sensor
- Multilingual operating instructions (incl. German instructions)
- Quick start explanation of the setting functions
The Sigma BC 16.16 STS is waterproof according to IPX8. The bicycle speedometer therefore has “protection against permanent submersion”. Consequently, there is no need to worry during a heavy rain shower or in the cold season.
Sigma BC 16.16 STS bei Amazon kaufen*
Mounting and fastening of the Sigma BC 16.16 STS
The Sigma BC 16.16 STS mounting is done quickly. Just as easy as with any other Sigma wireless bike computer, e.g. the Sigma BC 16.16 STS, you can mount the Sigma bike speedometer.
Here’s what to do:
- Attach the bracket to the handlebar or stem
- Speed sensor i.e. attach magnet and magnetic sensor to front wheel spoke and fork
- Mount the cadence sensor, i.e. magnet and magnetic sensor, on the chain stay and on the pedal. Optional and only necessary if you want to use the Sigma BC 16.16 as a cycling computer with cadence
The bike computer mounts of most Sigma bike computers are also compatible with each other e.g. the Sigma BC 16.16 STS fits in the bike speedo mount of the entire Sigma bike computer BC series (exceptions: The mount from the BC 5.16 (test) is too small and the mount from the BC 23.16 STS is too large).
These are the assembly steps in detail – Sigma BC 16.16 Test
Mount the bracket on the handlebar or stem: The Sigma bike computer mount is attached to the handlebar or stem with a rubber O-ring. Within a few seconds this is done. Alternatively, you can also attach the bracket with cable ties but these are not included.
Mounting the speed sensor: The speed sensor consists of a magnet and the magnetic sensor. The magnet is simply clipped to one of the front wheel spokes. The magnetic sensor is then attached to the front fork with a rubber O-ring. Please note the following, so that the values can be read reliably, the magnet and the magnetic sensor must be at the same height. In addition, the two must not be more than 12 millimeters apart. This is very easy to implement and both the magnet and the magnetic sensor hold securely to the bike.
Mount cadence sensor – bike computer with cadence: To measure the cadence, a magnet and a sensor are also mounted. The assembly is also quick and easy here. The cadence sensor is attached to the chain stay with a rubber O-ring. The cadence magnet is attached to the back of the bicycle pedal. It is easily inserted into the Allen screw on the bicycle pedal and sits here very securely. Of course, you should again make sure that the distance between magnet and sensor does not exceed 12 millimeters. In addition, the magnet and the magnetic sensor must be at the same height.
Once you have installed the bike computer and the sensors on the bike, everything sits very securely: Even on fast descents over gravel, nothing slips. The bike computer holds securely on the handlebar and the values are read out reliably.
If you like, you can replace the rubber O-rings with cable ties. In practice, the rubber O-rings are very durable. However, sometimes thieves get a “kick” out of removing the mounts from the bike. If the rubber O-rings are replaced by cable ties, then you have the brackets and the sensor at least well protected against spontaneous theft.
The Sigma bike computer can be snapped into the bike speedo mount and removed again in a flash. A quick turn to the side and the bike computer is attached or removed. I had learned the movement in the Sigma BC 16.16 test immediately 🙂 This is of course convenient, because for example in the city when the bike is left for a long time I would always remove the bike speedometer.
While riding, the Sigma BC 16.16 STS holds bombproof in its mount: No matter if asphalt, gravel, cobblestones or even rooted trails! In terms of stability, the Sigma bike computer is therefore beyond reproach.
The following video shows the assembly steps also well understandable:
Setting up the Sigma BC 16.16 STS
The Sigma BC 16.16 STS wireless has a total of two large main buttons: one on the top and one on the bottom of the housing. The operation is very logical and therefore quickly learned:
The Sigma bike computer is switched on by pressing a button. You can also put it in the holder and then drive off. It then automatically comes to life. A long press on the menu button at the top takes you to the settings menu. Explanations of the settings menu can be found in detail in my Sigma BC 14.16 STS Test. If you want to know exactly, you can read all the details there at your leisure.
Here is an overview of the setting options of the Sigma BC 16.16 STS:
Device settings
- Language: Select between 7 languages incl. German and English
- Speed: kmh or mph
- Temperature: C or F
- Time: 12h or 24h
- Date: Date format and current date.
- Contrast: Set display contrast in three levels
- Cadence (bike computer with cadence): Switch cadence on and off (available with Sigma BC 16.16 STS wireless and Sigma BC 1.16 STS CAD)
- Power Save: On or Off – Turns display completely off when not in use.
- Light: Switches backlight on within a period of time e.g. from 6 to 9 p.m.
- NFC: On or Off – Wireless data transmission to the smartphone.
- Consumption: litres or gallons
Wheel settings
- Wheel circumference: Adjust the wheel circumference for a more accurate determination of the bike values such as speed and distance. The wheel circumference can be adjusted for 2 different bikes. So you can use the bike computer e.g. on the MTB and on the road bike – or on other bikes you have. The bike computer recognizes by itself on which bike it is currently mounted. Whether wheel1 or wheel2 is also shown in the display. You can see the common wheel sizes for pre-selection or you can also set your wheel circumference to the millimetre yourself. This article shows you how to accurately determine your wheel circumference: Bike Computer Adjustment with Chart and Calculator – Calculate & Accurately Adjust Wheel Circumference.
- ETA: Display of the arrival time in remaining kilometers or remaining time.
Total values Setting
In this menu the total values for distance, time, fuel saving total values for bike 1 or bike 2 can be changed or reset.
The functions of the Sigma BC 16.16 STS
Functions while riding – Sigma BC 16.16 STS CAD Test: The Sigma BC 16.16 STS offers many useful functions and thus ideally covers the needs of recreational cyclists: The current speed is permanently shown on the top right of the display. This means that you always have the most interesting function in view. A small arrow is displayed next to it: it points either upwards or downwards. This way you always know if you are going faster or slower than your average speed:
- If you cycle slower than your average speed, the arrow points downwards.
- If you cycle faster than your average speed, the arrow points upwards.
The Sigma BC 16.16 STS wireless has a button at the top and a button at the bottom. With the upper button you jump back one function and with the lower button you jump to the next function. The bike computer is activated automatically as soon as you start riding your bike.
Upper key:
- Route
- Travel time
- Speed: average and maximum
- Time
- Temperature
- ETA in kilometres or according to remaining time
- Savings in litres
- Cadence: Current and average
Looking for a bike computer with cadence function? The Sigma BC 16.16 STS also measures your cadence. For this you still need the STS Cadence Transmitter Kit* or you buy the Sigma BC 16.16 STS CAD* right away. CAD stands for Cadence and the cadence sensor is included with the CAD version.
In the following video, the functions of the Sigma BC 16.16 STS are explained in an understandable way:
Keys & Operation of the BC 16.16 STS
With the 2 large buttons the operation of the Sigma BC 16.16 STS is very easy. The buttons are ideally accessible and thus you can operate the bike computer well even with thick gloves in winter.
The bike button is located at the bottom of the bike computer: This takes you forward to the next function.
The menu button is located at the top of the BC 16.16: Pressing the button takes you to the previous function. A long press on the menu button at the top opens the settings.
The Sigma BC 16.16 STS wireless has exactly the functions you need as a recreational cyclist. Thanks to the well thought-out operation, you immediately get along with the bike computer and have internalized the handling immediately.
You scrolled one function too far in the menu? Very practical: As mentioned, there is a forward and a back button, so you can quickly select the desired point again. So you don’t have to go through the whole menu again.
Display and indication
The display is black and white and the information is shown large and clear. Because of the clear representation, functions are very clearly recognizable. Even in difficult situations, such as direct sunlight or changing light conditions, e.g. in the forest. Sometimes the display is a bit reflective but overall the readability is excellent. I judge the readability in the Sigma BC 16.16 STS CAD test as excellent.
The Sigma BC 16.16 STS wireless has an integrated backlight. You can switch the light mode on and off. With the backlight switched on, the Sigma bike computer is also easy to read in the dark.
Many of the Sigma BC 16.16 STS functions such as countdown, stopwatch, partial distance, etc., are displayed at the edge of the screen as small icons. Due to the many icons, the display then already seems somewhat confusing.
The bike computer is not switched off completely, but put into standby. Details about the battery life can be found below. So much in advance: he Sigma BC 16.16 STS is a real long runner. You don’t have to worry about standby. In any case, the bike computer model number is displayed in standby and the current time.
As already explained, the Sigma BC 16.16 STS stores bike profiles for up to two bikes. The bike to which the Sigma bike computer is connected is automatically detected. Wheel 1 or Wheel 2 will then be displayed. You don’t have to start an activity manually: The Sigma BC 16.16 STS automatically detects that you are setting off. So you can fully concentrate on cycling.
The display has a practical bluish backlight. You can switch the light mode on or off yourself. If the light mode is switched on, the display lights up as soon as you need the illumination. The functions on the display are easy to read even in the dark thanks to the backlight.
Battery life
According to Sigma, the battery lasts 1.5 years – with average use. Average use in this case means 20 kilometres a day or 7200 kilometres in total. The Sigma BC 16.16 STS is therefore a real endurance runner and even ultra athletes should be very satisfied with the battery life.
Don’t worry that the battery will eventually run out and the Sigma bike computer will then suddenly switch off. When the battery is running low, you will be warned by the BC 16.16 STS display.
Data evaluation
There are several options for data evaluation with the BC 16.16:
On the Sigma bike computer itself: In the statistics menu on the BC 16.16 itself, you can view total values such as distance and time for the individual activities.
On the smartphone (iOS and Android): The data is transferred from the Sigma bike computer to the smatphone simply via wireless NFC interface. This is not as comfortable as via Bluetooth: You have to hold the bike computer very close to the smartphone and have to keep both devices still during the data transfer – otherwise the connection breaks. With a little practice, the data transfer will also work. On the smartphone, you can view much more detailed evaluations of your own activities. Of course, the evaluation on the large smartphone touchscreen is also much more convenient. Sport portals like komoot and Strava are also connected and so the activities can be uploaded directly to the portals and shared. The Sigma apps have been successful and I’ve linked them to you here:
On the computer (Windows and Mac OS): For the computer, there is the Sigma Data Center application. You can download it for free on Sigma-download.com. The functions are similar to the Sigma Link app on the smartphone. Only the data transfer from the BC 16.16 to the computer works by cable: you need the Docking Station Topline 2016* for this.
The total values and settings are permanently stored by the BC 16.16 STS in the internal memory chip. The data is retained even if the battery is changed.
Comparison and difference: Current Sigma bike computers
Follows 😉
Sigma BC 16.16 Experience and Summary
Buy Sigma BC 16.16 STS – yes or no?
The Sigma Sport BC 16.16 has many exciting features and is ideal for recreational cyclists. The bike computer is easy to use and the wireless version is quick to install and set up.
Within a few minutes you can start cycling 😉 Thanks to the illuminated display, the bike computer can also be used at dusk or in the dark.
Features like the ETA timer and fuel savings are quite nice but not essential.
You want to use the BC 16.16 on two bikes and measure your cadence? It’s going beautifully. Please note: The cadence sensor and the second bike computer holder are available as accessories and neither is included. Altitude measurement and heart rate measurement is not possible with the BC 16.16 STS. You need these functions? Then check out the alternatives below.
The optics are chic and Sigma Sport states the battery life to be around 1.5 years. For recreational cyclists, the functions of the Sigma Sport BC 16.16 STS are ideally suited.
- GESCHWINDIGKEIT - zeigt alle wichtigen Informationen zur Geschwindigkeit, wie aktuelle Geschwindigkeit, Maximalgeschwindigkeit und den Vergleich von durchschn./akt. Geschwindigkeit
- AUSWERTUNG - Alle Informationen zur Tour werden für Rad 1 und Rad 2 gespeichert und können via NFC oder mit Hilfe der Docking Station im Data Center eingesehen werden
- ETA - zeigt die Ankunftszeit, verbleibende Strecke oder verbleibende Fahrzeit zum Ziel
* Werbung - Aktualisierung am 2024-04-26, Preis kann gestiegen sein, Als Amazon-Partner verdiene ich an qualifizierten Verkäufen, Bild:Amazon
Good
✅ Easy operation and quickly mounted
✅ Display perfectly readable even in the sun
✅ Convenient data evaluation on the smartphone but can also be used completely without app
✅ Activities can be shared to Strava and komoot.
Bad
❌ NFC data transfer to smartphone not very convenient.
❌ No altitude measurement and No heart rate measurement (note alternatives below).
Alternatives to the Sigma BC 16.16 STS
Sigma BC 14.16 STS
The Sigma BC 14.16 STS offers 14 useful functions and is a bike computer with altimeter. So it is the bike computer for all those who want to go high. The altimeter allows the display of an altitude profile and the altitude meters ridden. Of course, it also records all basic cycling data such as speed, distance, time, and so on. Comfort functions like a backlight are also built in and a cadence sensor can also be coupled. The functions are ideal for recreational cyclists and thanks to the altimeter, the bike computer is also well suited for mountain bikers.
- GESCHWINDIGKEIT - zeigt alle wichtigen Informationen zur Geschwindigkeit, wie aktuelle Geschwindigkeit, Maximalgeschwindigkeit und den Vergleich von durchschn./akt. Geschwindigkeit
- AUSWERTUNG - Alle Informationen zur Tour werden für Rad 1 und Rad 2 gespeichert und können via NFC oder mit Hilfe der Docking Station im Data Center eingesehen werden
- HÖHE - jeder gefahrene Höhenmeter, Steigung oder Gefälle und viele weitere Funktionen durch barometrische Höhenmessung
* Werbung - Aktualisierung am 2024-04-26, Preis kann gestiegen sein, Als Amazon-Partner verdiene ich an qualifizierten Verkäufen, Bild:Amazon
To the detailed Sigma BC 14.16 STS field test (test & experiences)
Sigma BC 23.16 STS
The flagship of the Sigma bike computer series! Extensive bike data is measured: Altitude, cadence and heart rate are all on board! This offers a complete range of functions and the bike computer is also suitable for performance-oriented road cyclists. Of course, the battery here also lasts a little more than 7000 kilometers. The activities are sent to the smartphone via NFC and can be extensively evaluated there with the Sigma Link app. Activities can of course also be shared on the most popular outdoor fitness portals like komoot and Strava. The BC 23.16 STS is one of the most powerful bike computers and worth buying.
- GHOST RACE - Aus den gespeicherten Datensätzen kann ein virtueller Gegner für ein Ghost Race gewählt werden
- AUSWERTUNG - Alle Informationen zur Tour werden für Rad 1 und Rad 2 gespeichert und können via NFC oder mit Hilfe der Docking Station im Data Center eingesehen werden
- SENSORIK - durch die mitgelieferten Sensoren können Höhen-, Trittfrequenz- und Pulsfunktionen überwacht und aufgezeichnet werden
* Werbung - Aktualisierung am 2024-04-26, Preis kann gestiegen sein, Als Amazon-Partner verdiene ich an qualifizierten Verkäufen, Bild:Amazon
To the detailed Sigma BC 23.16 STS field test (test & experiences)
What do you think of the Sigma BC 16.16 bike computer? Do you have any questions? Write me your comment, please.
The bike computer tested here doesn’t suit you? In the comprehensive Sigma bike computer test I have all the recommended bike computers and bike tachos clearly compared for you. I regularly update the test. Best check out the article now.
