Garmin Edge 820 bike computer review

Garmin’s latest cycling-specific GPS computer is effectively its flagship Edge 1000 in the body of the popular performance-focused Garmin Edge 520.

Among other performance metrics, the Edge 820 will estimate your VO2 max, suggest your recovery time and state your condition at the start of your next ride (it doesn’t take into account any of your sessions without the Edge 820). It’s compatible with ANT+ sensors and, in truth, to get the most out of performance functions you need a heart rate monitor and ideally a power meter.

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The navigation features are similar to the Garmin Edge 1000, meaning you can create your own routes and use the round trip option if you’re in an unfamiliar area. The display is easy to read in all conditions, the screen’s brightness adjusts quickly to changing light, and the turn-by-turn navigation is easy to follow.

The unit’s touch screen is impressive. It didn’t freeze and swiping through the screens is easy in the dry and the wet. But on occasion, heavy rain caused the screen to scroll to the next page.

With Garmin’s new GroupTrack feature when out on the road you can follow your riding mates that are also connections on Garmin Connect. Lastly, if you like logging big miles, be aware the claimed battery life of 15 hours is optimistic.

Verdict: Impressive. But why would you buy the heavier and more expensive Edge 1000? 85%

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Contact: www.garmin.com

Debbie Graham Senior digital editor

About

Debbie Graham is the senior digital editor for YourHomeStyle, and is passionate about vintage interiors. In her free time she loves nothing better than scouring second-hand and vintage shops for bargains and upcycling projects. Her home is a Victorian house that is a bit of a project and when she's not putting buckets under leaks you can find her painting and patching