Garmin Edge 705 GPS Enabled Cycling Computer Review

The Garmin Edge 705 is the premium model in its Edge range of GPS-enabled cycle computers. It is equipped with a high-sensitivity GPS receiver that for the best signal holding capability in weak GPS signal areas such as under tree cover and near tall buildings. The Edge 705 automatically measures and records speed, distance, time, calories burned, altitude, climb and descent as does the recently reviewed Edge 605. What distinguishes the Edge 705 is a barometric altimeter for more accurate altitude reading and the provision to add ANT+ (wireless) a compatible heart rate monitor, speed/cadence sensor and/or third-party power meters to display output watts while riding.

Garmin Edge 705 Bike GPS Computer

Garmin Edge 705 Versions

Garmin has 3 versions of the Edge 705 available:

Heart rate monitor or;
Heart rate monitor and speed/cadence sensor or
Heart rate monitor, speed/cadence sensor and data card preloaded with City Navigator for U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico street maps (maps on a preloaded data card cannot be copied or viewed on a computer)

Having heart rate monitor allows for more accurate calculation of calories burned, heart rate display and heart rate training zone alarms as well as the ability to gauge fitness over time.

A speed/cadence sensor provides the ability to monitor your pedaling cadence and wheel speed while riding.

Third-party ANT+ enabled power meters such as iBike Pro Wireless power meter, PowerTap and SRAM S975 Quarq GXP Wireless Powermeter are compatible with the Edge 705 and when paired will allow power output to be displayed and recorded while riding.

For more details of other features including data display and analysis read our review of the Garmin Edge 605.

In the Box – Garmin Edge 705

One of the options below:

Heart rate monitor or
Heart rate monitor and speed/cadence sensor or
Heart rate monitor, speed/cadence sensor and data card preloaded with City Navigator for U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico street maps (maps on a preloaded data card cannot be copied or viewed on a computer)

Bike mounts
AC charger
USB cable
Owner’s manual on disk
Quick reference guide

Review Summary – Garmin Edge 705

The Edge 705 is Garmin’s premium GPS enabled cycling assistant which can also support topographic maps and navigation. The unit performs well and has an intuitive menu and display system. As well as providing the basic performance data expected the device either comes with, or can be extended with, an ANT+ heart rate meter, cadence sensor and/or power meter. If topographic maps, navigation assistance and a color screen are not required/important then the Garmin Edge 500 is well worth a look.