Garmin's new edge 1030 cycling computer offers a larger screen and more app connectivity, while the new Vector pedals offer a svelte, simple power-meter option that's easy to switch between bikes.
Garmin has released two new products designed to help cyclists get the most out of their rides. The Edge 1030 computer provides a range of updated and enhanced features in a slim, newly designed package. In addition, Garmin has developed a completely redesigned power meter, the Vector 3/3S, which is a dual-sensing, pedal-mounted system. (Ready to take your training to the next level? Check out our Maximum Overload for Cyclists training plan, and get ready for your strongest season ever.)
The Vector 3/3S, Garmin’s new pedal-mounted power meter, departs from Garmin’s previous pod design. It installs like any other pedal, which makes it easy to transfer between bikes—as long as your shoes and pedals are compatible with a three-bolt road cleat. Its improved stack height gives the Vector 3/3S better ergonomics and pedaling efficiency, and improved cornering clearance compared to the Vector 2/2S.
Because the Vector 3/3S is housed in the pedals, it is a
direct-measurement power meter, which should provide reliable, accurate
data. Garmin’s new device measures total power, left-right balance, and
cadence. The left-right balance is especially useful for improving
pedaling efficiency. A lower-priced single-sensor version, the Vector
3S, reports cadence and total power.
The Vector 3/3S also tracks the amount of time cyclists spend seated
versus standing, which should help riders better gauge their climbing
efforts. The Platform Center Offset function shows where cyclists are
applying pressure to the pedal. This should help riders optimize cleat position
for power transfer. Garmin says the Vector 3/3S has a battery life of
up to 120 hours, and integrates with the the rest of Garmin’s cycling
ecosystem, and is both ANT+ and bluetooth-compatible for integration
with your favorite training apps. The Vector 3S will retail for $599.99,
while the dual-sided Vector 3 will run you $999.99. Check back for
availability on both.
With the Edge 1030, Garmin has added a bundle of new features to their already capable and popular cycling platform. The new Edge 1030 offers enhanced navigation, performance monitoring, and cycling feedback. It’s also designed to work seamlessly with Strava and other apps.
For cyclists who travel or who simply like to find new routes, the new Trendline routing system shows the most popular routes in their area. Trendline draws on the deep well of Garmin Connect data to provide riders with the best road, mountain, or gravel routes. Garmin Connect now has an updated Course Creator to generate more bike-friendly routes and share them with other riders.
The pre-loaded Garmin Cycle Map, meanwhile, features turn-by-turn navigation for up to three possible routes. The Edge 1030 will also guide riders back to the route, should they stray or decide to take a detour. Alerts will provide riders with information about upcoming hazards such as sharp curves. Elevation information, points of interest, and address searches are available on-screen; Garmin has built GPS, GLONASS, and altimeter capabilities into the Edge 1030.
The Edge 1030 also features app connectivity with the latest version of Strava Live Segments, as well as the new TrainingPeaks Connect IQ app, and the Best Split Race Sync app, among others, to help you get the most out of your training.
Garmin has wrapped the increased functionality of the Edge 1030 in a
lightweight design that sits even with the handlebars for a sleeker look
and more aerodynamic profile.
The 3.5-inch, high-resolution screen on the Edge 1030 features improved
touch-screen capabilities, which Garmin designed to work smoothly even
when wet or while wearing gloves. Light sensors adjust the screen’s
brightness to improve visibility and preserve battery power. Garmin says
the Edge 1030 has a 20-hour battery capacity, and it’s also compatible
with the Garmin Charge battery pack (pictured above), which allows
riders to charge their device while riding. By itself the Edge 1030 will
retail for $599.99, with a bundle option, including a heart rate strap
with speed and cadence sensors, for $699.99. Check back soon for
availability.
