I have loads of GPS bike computers and watches. I'm not proud of it, it's just a consequence of having a keen interest in retail therapy, and in gadgets.
Generally speaking I prefer a handlebar-mounted bike computer to track my ride. I just find it easier to glance down to see how many miles I've done. More on those later in the thread.
But my favourite GPS device is the Solar Garmin Instinct watch. It will track for about 40 hours (I did my 200 miler with one and it only used about half the juice). It's light, it's easy to transfer a track to Strava, it has a highly legible display and it's stylish and non-clunky enough to be used as a regular wristwatch.
https://www.garmin.com/en-GB/p/679335/pn/010-02293-09
Still love my Wahoo Bolt, simple and robust, as much or as little data as you need on screen, and I used the Route Planner for the first time properly at the weekend, and it was brilliant.
The associated app is very good too, lots of information, and preferit to strava (especially as its free!)
I still prefer the speed/distance and cadence reading from the onboard senors, rather than GS, but thats just a personal thing
I actually have three Garmin Instincts. I bought the standard model in "graphite" (dark grey of course), then when the solar model came out I bought the violet one - only because it was the cheapest option on Amazon. I really wanted a camo one but they were more expensive at the time.
Then a couple of months ago another violet Solar one came up for sale on another forum I frequent for £85. I couldn't resist!
Oh there's an Instinct 2 now! However the Instinct 1 does everything I need.
Quote from: Slim on May 04, 2022, 02:51:48 PMI actually have three Garmin Instincts. I bought the standard model in "graphite" (dark grey of course), then when the solar model came out I bought the violet one - only because it was the cheapest option on Amazon. I really wanted a camo one but they were more expensive at the time.
Then a couple of months ago another violet Solar one came up for sale on another forum I frequent for £85. I couldn't resist!
I have one of the solar Instincts, and the original one on velcro straps. A bit lighter, easier to put on / take off and very comfortable.
(https://i.ibb.co/9wzcT1x/threeinst.jpg)
And a new bit of kit from Garmin:
https://www.dcrainmaker.com/2022/06/garmin-edge-1040-with-solar-in-depth-review.html
While the idea of a solar-assisted bike computer does appeal to me, my existing stuff does everything I want. Can't really justify the expense. Probably. I don't actually know what it costs.
I just have the 2...
https://www.spuncycles-spunrun.ie/accessories/electronics/cateye-padrone-smart-bluetooth-computer-in-black__3623
This is ok, but effectively just a screen as it requires a bluetooth connection from an app on the phone for the data.
It is easy to transfer the data to Strava so it has that going for it.
I've had this watch for 2.5 years now and the battery life is still excellent so I'll stick with it. Again it is easy to upload trips to Strava so it does the job...
https://www.amazon.com/Amazfit-Stainless-Smartwatch-Activity-Tracking/dp/B07VN4WPT9?dplnkId=141a1a38-ea58-455d-b96b-c4b7f2220915
I just have a Garmin Edge 520. Probably getting to the end of its working life after six years, but I don't tend to replace things until they fail. Then I stomp around a bit.
One thing that always bugs me, and its related to GPS devices. My Wahoo device, and peripherals (HR, Cadence, speed) are all "on the bike" so are calibrated, relatively accurate, and not reliant on a GPS signal.
Then, when I finish my ride, Strava (which is like the Microsoft of cycling ie we all bloody use it ) then applies its own algorythm and changes my stats. Its very odd/frustrating
The Wahoo app doesnt.
wonder why
I don't use Microsoft actually, except for MS Teams. And even that's a Linux version :)
Quote from: Slim on June 08, 2022, 02:40:15 PMAnd a new bit of kit from Garmin:
https://www.dcrainmaker.com/2022/06/garmin-edge-1040-with-solar-in-depth-review.html
While the idea of a solar-assisted bike computer does appeal to me, my existing stuff does everything I want. Can't really justify the expense. Probably. I don't actually know what it costs.
£630. But unsurprisingly the cost of the 1030 has come down at Wiggle (to £400).