Garmin Bike Computer Buying Guide: Best Models & Top Reviews for 2017
Created for a diverse array of cyclists including endurance riders and performance racers, GPS-integrated bike computers are the latest wave in the hottest biking accessories on the market, with sales steadily growing as these cutting-edge devices continue to develop a wildly popular fan base.
Used by cyclists for the main purposes of measuring riding distances and receiving turn-by-turn navigation and many are also taking advantage of the bike computer’s ability to track critically important information such as speed, maximum speed, average speed, time distance, speed cadence, and more as an astute method to gauge overall progress and gains.
Bike enthusiasts have quickly replaced their smartphones with bike computers as their device of choice during riding due to the newfound ability to quickly and effectively garner copious amounts of valuable data pertaining to performance and individual fitness.
In today’s modern times, the world of cycling has changed in myriad ways. With technology’s consistent advances, cyclists are presented with a multitude of equipment, devices, and options aimed at assisting them in becoming better athletes. Out of the plethora of choices available on the market, few if any have caught on with such ubiquitous popularity as the comprehensively favored bike computer.
With an extensive amount of detailed data at your fingertips, bike computers provide cyclists with more options than ever before to heighten their performance, gains, and ultimately, their level of fitness.
An exceptional tool for entry-level riders to up their cycling game, bike computers are equally appropriate for seasoned pros who use their device’s precise collection of data to push personal athletic boundaries, break individual records, and surpass previous levels of fitness.
If you are interested in learning more about bike computers, read on below for an easy-to-read primer on the device, its pros, and its cons to ultimately help you make the most educated and well-informed purchase decision possible.
Hungry for data? Garmin’s data-packed bike computer devices will satisfy even the most information-hungry fanatic. Even buyers purchasing Garmin’s entry-level Edge 25 bike computer will be amazed at the sheer amount of data and overall benefits the device provides, including but not limited to:
Edge 25
Amazing live tracking feature gives your family and friends the ability to track and view your ride’s progress in real time. | Includes powerful functions to capture a user's most important stats and includes valuable information such as ascent-related data, location, and heart rate measures that grow increasingly more accurate as you become fitter |
Offers social media options and ride planning capabilities through the Garmin Connect program | Users can receive smart notifications when the device is paired with a smartphone |
Water and weather-resistant | Records and tracks distance, time, speed, maximum speed, average speed, and user heart rate |
Integrated GPS with interconnectivity | Lightning-fast data upload |
Compact, small, powerful | Doesn’t drain the battery quickly like a cell phone; can be used for 8+ hours |
Edge 25 product details
Product price | Less than $150 |
Product dimensions | 1.6” x 1.6” x 0.7” |
Product Weight | 0.9 oz |
Display size | 0.9” x 0.9” |
The Edge 25 Bike Computer shown below is priced right near the starting point of Garmin’s pricing spectrum. In contrast, their Edge 1000 device is priced at the very top of the product range and features all of the features found in the Edge 25 with an incredible list of additions including, but not limited to the following:
Edge 1000
Over 200+ hours of stored history | 100 stored ride routes |
Wi-fi enabled | Users are able to add favorite maps |
Training and analysis features | Premium navigation and mapping functions |
Auto Pause and Auto Lap | Three preloaded round-trip ride options |
Virtual Partner | Weather alerts |
Expansive 3-inch, high-resolution screen | Includes “Vector” – Garmin’s own power meter that measures pedals to produce total power data |
Edge 1000 product details
Product price | Around $500 |
Product dimensions | 2.3" x 4.4" x 0.8" |
Product weight | 4.0 oz |
Display size | 1.5" x 2.6 |
Garmin’s full product range of bike computer includes nine different models featuring different price points, varying display screen sizes, and assorted integrated applications and accessories. Even the entry-level Edge 25 is a powerhouse device packed full of crucially important data that can serve to fundamentally transform the routines, workouts, and health of its users.
For those consumers who desire the creme de la creme, the Edge 1000 is the ultimate product choice. Brimming with all of Garmin’s most popular applications and accessories, the Edge 1000 is a dense 4-ounce device that exhibits the highest quality at every corner. Fitting snugly on bikes, the Edge 1000 is an essential component of the repertoire of the most dedicated of biking professionals seeking cutting-edge methods to surpass personal records and become athletes of even greater caliber.
To get started on making the right Garmin Bike Computer for yourself, consider the following questions:
What is your budget for a bike computer? Do you absolutely need the top of the line Garmin Edge 1000? Conversely, will a basic bike computer like the Edge 20 prove to be lackluster and inappropriate for your needs? Make your budget determination while taking into consideration your specific needs | What is your experience level? If you are new to the world of riding, an entry-level model like the Edge 20 or 25 will fit your needs perfectly by measuring your speed, distance, progress and much more. Seasoned riders will appreciate integrated functions that measure heart rate, output, elevation/ascension and cadence |
What types of data are important to you and how will you apply the data you receive? Do you require trip planning, wi-fi integration, or specific forms of analyses? | Have you looked into alternative devices such as a fitness monitor or using a cycling app on your smartphone? Would this be sufficient for your needs? Or do you require the highly specified information only a bike computer can provide? |
Cyclists of all skill levels are turning to Garmin Bike Computers as a way to enhance their athletic prowess and biking ability.
With their integrated GPS technology and abundance of tools measuring critically important information such as cadence, speed, duration, heart rate, ascension, and much more, Garmin Bike Computers are essential components for athletes to make point-by-point improvements in their performance based on the precision data they receive from their device.
With options ranging from around $100 to around $500, consumers can choose from nine different Garmin Bike Computer models to fit their highly specific and individual needs. With varying screen sizes, assorted applications and accessories, and a wide-range of training tools, Garmin's Bike Computers have the perfect option for every cyclist, from beginners to the sport, to seasoned professionals.
For more valuable information on the different kinds of Garmin Bike Computers available on the market today, visit us at bikingtribe.com.
With our crew of highly-trained specialists, we are among the leading sites online for information pertaining to bicycles, security, performance, and more.
