First look: Garmin adds solar charging to Edge 840 and 540 overhaul

Less than one year after Garmin’s Power Glass made its cycling debut on the Edge 1040, the solar-charging display is arriving on the brand’s core cycling computers. The new Garmin Edge 840 and Edge 540 are both now available in solar and standard versions.

The non-solar versions get the new name too because this update is more than just a new display material. Garmin improves most areas of both head units, including significantly increased battery life, more performance metrics, an improved interface and easier setup.

Garmin Edge 540 Solar and Edge 840 Solar: Powered by the sun

One main story for all four new models is substantially improved battery life. Where the outgoing 830 and 530 had about 20 hours, the new units can fun for a full 26 hours of full-function use. Turn on battery save mode and these Edge models get a whopping 42 hours of run time.

The two Edge Solar models will go even longer. In the right conditions (daytime riding), Garmin claims the 540 Solar and 840 Solar can gain an extra 25 minutes of battery life per hour. That brings the Solar model’s maximum run-time to a huge 32 hours of full-function use and 60 hours in battery save mode. Obviously, Power Glass requires sunlight to do its work recharging the Edge units. On a hot, clear day of road riding we got a lot back from the Power Glass than on an overcast day on mountain bike trails where the temperatures hovered just above zero. And, for Canadian readers, it’s worth noting that Power Glass only works to add to your battery life above zero degrees Celsius. For the 840 Solar, the touchscreen still works, but the unit is no longer re-charging as you ride if the mercury dips below zero.

Setting up the Edge 840 is quick and easy with most information – like different ride profiles for gravel, road, mtb and more – transferring over automatically.

Connecting to HR and power is quicker than previous generation Edge devices

You can control music and your phone directly from the Edge

Full colour maps

Not just Power Glass: Garmin functions, connectivity

Garmin isn’t just improving battery life on the new 840 and 540 ranges. The units also improve function, and address some existing issues, across the platform. That starts from the moment you turn your new device on, with a much easier set-up process. If you’re already using a Garmin device almost all data and settings transfer over in a few minutes.

Connecting to devices and accessories is also easier. The 840 I…