Garmin Edge 500 GPS Bicycle Unit Review

The Garmin Edge 500 a GPS enabled cycling performance computer to aid training. The Edge 500 itself tracks distance, speed, location and elevation using a high sensitivity GPS receiver. For faster position determination the Edge 500 comes with Garmin’s HotFix satellite position predictor. The Edge 500′s performance analysis capabilities improve with the the addition of an ANT+ (wireless) compatible heart rate monitor and/or speed/cadence sensor. Garmin has a quarter-turn mount for simple attachment of the Edge 500 to one’s bike.

Garmin Edge 500 Bike GPS

The Edge 500 will also work with third-party power meters to display output watts while riding. Power output and calories burned (requires a heart rate sensor) in effect turn you bike into a clone of the instrumented training bikes found in a gym. Unlike the gym bike though you have the open road and a Courses feature which makes it possible to train over the same circuit and compare performance between laps. The unit can store up to 1,000 laps for comparison and automatically starts new laps. While a GPS receiver can determine elevation, the Edge 500 has a more accurate barometric altimeter. Read our article on GPS III to see how future GPS accuracy may obviate the need for barometric altimeter. You can also check out BlueSkyFun for other GPS related products.

An optional heart rate monitor will help in comparing fitness levels and provide the feedback required for training within a certain heart rate range. A built-in temperature monitor helps ensure that you train within the limits of the environmental conditions.

Battery life for the Garmin Edge 500 is 18 hours which is more than adequate for a full days training. As the unit is exposed to the elements including rain Garmin have given the Edge 500 an IPX7 waterproof casing. There is a backlight for early starts or late finishes.

Data Display Screens - Garmin Edge 500 Bike GPS

For goal based training there is a time/distance alarm for the set limit. While riding the Edge 500 can be set to cycle through the various data screens like a slideshow. The various data displays are customisable to the individuals preferences. Garmin have done a good job with the usability of the Edge 500 as the menus are intuitive. Customer reviews from online retailers back this opinion.

Performance analysis doesn’t have to all be done while on your ride as the Edge 500 can be connected to a PC using the included USB cable for performance analysis using Garmin Connect. Garmin Connect also provides the opportunity to share with other cycling enthusiasts.

Garmin Edge 500 Review Summary

Garmin’s edge is a GPS enabled cycling assistant which performs well, has the basic functionality expected and can be readily upgraded with optional heart rate meters, cadence sensor and power meters. The menus and functionality are intuitive to use. Installation is simple and the ANT+ capability means no wires are necessary. If you don’t require a GPS bicycle unit equipped with maps or software for navigation then the Garmin Edge 500 is an excellent choice.