Garmin

Edge 530 Bike Computer

We're always a little amazed when Garmin launches a new computer. The amount of information that's available at our fingertips during a ride and afterward to analyze is simply astounding. Nowadays, route planning and mapping, ability to pair with various sensors, and keeping connected with groups of riders as well and friends and family at home are par for the course. These features let us find rides in places we've never been before, allows us to train more effectively, and potentially ride safer. So if you are in the market for a new computer and want the most up to the date features, have a look at the Edge 530 Bike Computer.

This Edge 530 is pre-loaded with the Garmin Cycle Map with popularity routing. Using its Garmin Connect database, Garmin finds well-ridden routes in your current location and even recommends the direction that's most popular. Additionally, it provides off-course recalculation assistance to quickly get you back to the start if needed.

Returning features include group messaging and tracking letting you communicate with the pack without having to pull out the phone from your back pocket. So if the group takes a wrong turn or someone has a mechanical, if you're paired with GroupTrack, it's easy to regroup. It also receives assistance and compatibility with Varia rearview radar and lights (sold separately) so you can see and be seen, while a new bike alarm rounds out the list of cycling safety features. The 530 is compatible with ANT+ and Bluetooth sensors including speed, cadence, power, heart rate monitors, and others, providing real-time metrics that you can view on the ride and analyze later. By paring with compatible sensors, the 530 provides insights on your VO2 max, advises recovery time, training balance, heat and altitude acclimation, nutrition, hydration, and more.

Once connected to Garmin's Connect IQ store which you can do over Wi-Fi, you can easily customize the Edge 530 with free apps, widgets, and data fields. For instance, a weather app can keep you aware of changing conditions, while training apps let you, and your coach, know if you are doing the workouts correctly. Every data field is easily customizable letting you put important information exactly where you want on the easy to read screen.

Water resistance gets an IPX7 rating which is plenty of protection for rainy rides and 'cross conditions. One area that really impressed us was its 20-hour claimed battery life and the ability to work with the Garmin Charge power pack for up to 40 hours of additional battery life, plenty of juice for ultra epic races. Included with the computer is a flush out-front mount, standard mount, USB cable, and manual.