Garmin Edge 520

Garmin's compact cycling computer carries a backpack packed with a variety of functions. All of them together are aimed at collecting the maximum amount of information about cycling trips.

Colour screen

The front panel of the mini-computer is completely given over to a 2.3-inch colour display. Unlike older brothers (Garmin Edge 820 and Garmin Edge 1000), it is non-touch, but for many, push-button control is even preferable. The screen displays information on five lines, and a separate menu sub-item can display a map for navigating the area, which is achieved due to the GPS and GLONASS modules installed “under the hood”.

Advanced functionality

The full functionality of the model is revealed together with the binding of the bike computer to a smartphone with a pre-installed Garmin Connect application. It records all training indicators, including data from external sensors, and a number of branded "goodies" are also available, in particular, the Live Tracking function, which allows friends and family to watch your workouts in real time. Afterwards , the device works with Strava segments to compare its results with previous races, the results of friends and other cyclists who have completed the same segment.

Galaxy of sensors

When paired with a heart rate monitor, the cycling computer calculates VO2 max and makes recommendations for post-workout recovery. What's more, it's compatible with ANT+ sensors, including Varia radar and headlights, Vector power metre, speed and cadence sensor, remote control for VIRB action cameras, and select Garmin scales. As a result, even its high cost is unlikely to affect the decision on the expediency of buying a bike computer, because only a few direct competitors can compete on an equal footing with the Garmin Edge 520.