Garmin has two new Edge cycling computers out today. Well, four really. The new Edge 840 and 540 stand in where the 830 and 530 used to be at the core of Garmin’s cycling line. Both computers also come in a Solar version, using Garmin’s Power Glass to charge while you ride.
Our full first look at the new Edge line is already up with all the details. But, for mountain bikers specifically, there are a few interesting new updates. Garmin’s tried to appeal to mountain bikers before, introducing new metrics like jump count, flow and grit. Those remain, but the changes to the -40 line are more practical.
Clear edges to the Edge’s buttons make them easier to operate on-trail.
Plastic tabs on the back of the 840
Edge 540/840: a lighter touch and little details
Garmin has updated the button shapes for both new Edge models. While this is a small change, it’s a significant one. The 530 buttons were rounded and smooth. While this looked sleek it made finding the right button harder, especially while wearing gloves.
On the 840, the touch screen seems to work fine with gloves. In a few weeks with the new 840, the touch screen responded consistently in cool weather and light rain and while wearing two different pairs of gloves. Both were Chromag (one ultralight, one winter glove) and both work better than some other mitts with touch screens, so I won’t say that all gloves will have the same results.
What doesn’t change is the plastic tabs on the Edge 540/840 mount. Garmin moved the Edge 1040 to metal tabs last year and it would be nice to see the smaller computers follow that direction. The new computers do move to a USB-C connection, though. So you only need one charging cable if you’re travelling with your GoPro and Edge.
Solar goes further
Even without Solar, the new Edge line has significantly better battery life. It’s up from 20 hours of full-function use on the 530/830 to 26 hours of full-function use on the 540/840 and a huge 42 hours in battery save mode. That means you can now get a big back country mission or an entire 24-hour race in on one charge.
The 540/840 Solar models get even better battery life. Under ideal conditions (clear skies, bright sun), the new Edges will get 32 hours of full function use and 60 hours in battery save mode.
Full colour maps
Connecting to HR and power is quicker than previous generation Edge devices
You can control music while your…
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