The Lab: SP Connect mount phone to bike

Like to keep all your information right at your fingertips? We might just have the answer. SP Connect are known for their versatile, smartly integrated phone mounts. We’ve been testing their latest power couple, the Phone Case SPC+ and Wireless Powerbank SPC+, to see if they can keep it together on the trails.

Phone Case SPC+

The new SPC+ case is a significant step up from its predecessor – according to SP Connect, it’s significantly lighter, 40% slimmer, and they think it’s more stylish too. The refined, thinner design means it’s now officially MagSafe compatible, which means you can wirelessly charge your smartphone while it’s magnetically attached. That said, we found that our smartphone got rather hot while charging this way.

Despite its new lighter package, the phone case displays SP Connect’s familiar sturdiness and protection. Side buttons on your phone are fully protected but still easy to use, while other critical points, like your camera, feature reinforced shock-absorbing inserts for added protection.

SP Connect have retained their patented 90° twist-to-lock mechanism, which securely attaches phones onto the handlebar mount. The mechanical locking system is backed up by magnets, which hold the phone in place. The magnet in the smartphone’s case also grips onto metal surfaces, which can be an added bonus for some. If you’ve previously dabbled in SP Connect products, you’ll be pleased to hear you don’t have to purchase everything brand new as the latest SPC+ comes with an adapter that works with all their earlier mount models. There’s the option to use their Velcro-fixed Universal Mount (€ 29.99) on your bars or stem, or switch out your conventional top cap for their Micro Stem Mount (€ 9.99). Our quick verdict for both options: Subtle designs and most likely within budget. Check out our in-depth test of the industry’s best smartphone mounts here.

Wireless Powerbank SPC+

We’ve probably all been there… An ever-dwindling battery and the sinking realisation that you’re still pretty far from home. Fortunately, the new SPC+ wireless power bank with its capacity of 5,000 mAh keeps your phone topped up through its case throughout your ride. Typical nominal capacities for smartphones are between 2,500 and 5,000 mAh, but in our experience, wireless charging often falls a little short on the stated 5,000 mAh capacity.

If you’re known as the route master who drains their phone battery on navigation apps, you’ll now be able to keep the battery boosted as SP Connect allow you to slot the SPC+ power bank directly between your phone and mount without any real penalties. As for other bits of gear that need charging? Use the USB-C port freely for pretty much everything else.

SP Connect obviously know what they’re doing when it comes to keeping phones secure while riding and batteries topped up, and the Phone Case SPC+ and Wireless Powerbank SPC+ are valid additions to their current ecosystem of mounts. By keeping their proven twist-to-lock mechanism and enabling slick integration of the powerbank into your handlebar setup, they’ve introduced a low-priced power couple that we’d invite on our next long ride.

More information can be found at sp-connect.co.uk

---

Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of E-MOUNTAINBIKE, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality cycling journalism. Click here to learn more.

Words: Susanne Feddersen / Erik Bötzle Photos: Antonia Feder