Garmin’s Edge 205 and 305 are models in Garmin’s Edge range of GPS enabled personal trainer and cycle computers which integrate GPS technology and basic navigation. The units come with a mount for attaching to a bike stem or handlebars. Garmin have designed them to be suitably rugged and lightweight. Not requiring calibration, you simply need to snap the unit into its mount and head off. The SiRFStarIII high sensitivity GPS receiver is able to cope with weak GPS signal reception areas such as those with heavy tree cover.

Using data supplied by the GPS receiver the Edge units can automatically output speed, distance, time, calories burned, altitude, climb and descent. The Edge GPS units feature two customizable data screens to display up to 16 lines of data. Some training aid features are;

• Virtual Partner provides a virtual competitor to race over a specified distance and speed.
• Courses enable you race against a previously recorded workout, so you can compare your current and past performances over the same ride.
• Auto Pause pauses the timer when you slow down or stop and resumes when you speed up again, so you can focus on your ride.
• Auto Lap automatically starts a new lap each time you pass a specified location or travel a preset distance (you can record up to 1000 laps).

Training Performance Analysis Software and Online Applications

Once back at home base it’s possible to analyse and store uploaded workout data from your Edge unit. Garmin provide their free Garmin Training Center software which will graph your workout data such as speed, time, heart rate (if you have a heart rate monitor) and elevation. It’s an excellent way to get feedback on your performance under the varying conditions of your workouts. You also have the capability at hand to create and schedule custom workouts or use/adapt workout templates and download to your Edge unit.

Sportstracks is another training diary program similar to Garmin’s training center with some added features and uses Google Maps to display rides. It doesn’t however allow you to create courses or input laps.

There is also the web-based application at MotionBased.com that provides in-depth analysis of workouts, online mapping and the social based aspects of an online community such as route sharing.

If you happen to be serious about training for an event then Training Peaks provides numerous resources for cyclists (and runners) including trainer advice and downloadable workouts. There are also a number of Pro Cycling Team Microsites to pick up tips and techniques from.

Garmin Edge 305 and 205 Model Differences

The Garmin Edge 305 and 205 have an identical specification apart from the addition of the following features for the 305;

• heart rate monitor and Bike speed/cadence* sensor in some versions and
• barometric altimeter as opposed to GPS based one on 205 models.

* candence is rate at which you’re pedalling (turning the the bike’s crank shaft) expressed in revolutions per minute (RPM).

Garmin Edge 305 heart Rate Monitor and Speed/Cadence Sensor

Edge 305 can come packaged with a heart rate monitor, speed/cadence sensor, or both.

The heart rate monitor provides feedback of your heart rate enabling you to adjust your effort for the right heart rate zone for your training regime. Heart rate is monitored using a lightweight, comfortable heart rate strap.

The cadence monitor provides pedaling cadence and wheel speed as you ride. The unit is a self-calibrating unit which attaches securely to the front or rear wheel of your bike. Both wireless sensors use ANT technology to wirelessly send data to the Garmin Edge. ANT design their personal wireless network sensors to eliminate cross-talk and interference.

Garmin Edge 305 Barometric Altimeter Accuracy/Stability Advantage

GPS receivers not only provide a latitude and longitude position but a height as well which is what the Garmin Edge uses for its altitude output. The Garmin’s Edge 305 combines this GPS altitude with a barometric reading for a more accurate reading. If by chance you are in a weak GPS signal area (eg. under heavy tree cover) the barometric sensor will allow the 305 to still display your altitude. Garmin believe that the combination of GPS and barometric readings give more stable elevation readings.

Resources

Owner’s Manual Garmin Edge 305/201 (PDF 1.31MB)
Garmin Edge 305/201 Quick Start Guide (PDF 565KB)

Garmin Outdoors Handhelds Comparison Tool

Garmin Training Center Training tool for your computer that works with your compatible Garmin fitness device. With GTC, you can analyze and store workout data from your Garmin device on your computer, as well as plan and save future workouts.

Motion Based MotionBased is a web application that translates GPS data into functional analysis and online mapping for endurance and outdoor athletes.

User Reviews and Price Comparisons

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Amazon have Service Plans for Personal Electronicsand Replacement Plans for Electronic Products.

Edge 305 GPS (Outdooors)

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