The Garmin Edge 1040 Solar uses the sun for 100 hours of stated operating time – CyclingTips

High-end cycling computers with GPS usually require a battery life of around 15-20 hours – more than enough for most everyday users. But if you’re an ultra-long-distance rider who needs more than that, the new Edge 1040 Solar from Garmin is said to run for up to 100 hours, thanks to built-in solar panels that help supply power to the on-board rechargeable battery. when you drive.

However, there are some reservations about this claim. Garmin says the Edge 1040 Solar must operate in battery saving mode, and this number assumes a certain level of sunlight intensity. However, even if Garmin’s claims are wildly inaccurate, there should still be more than enough running time for something like 350 miles of Unbound Gravel XL or even a brevet like Paris-Brest-Paris without having to engage the unit. on external power supply.

Don’t you need that much time? Garmin offers an identical unit without solar charging technology called the Edge 1040.

Both new Edge 1040 models also feature Garmin’s latest “multi-band GNSS” technology for more accurate positioning and coverage, which can prove especially useful when satellites are poorly visible in orbit, such as dense urban areas, mountains. or heavy tree growth. There are also more features specific to cycling, such as the built-in coaching feature, which offers suggestions based on entered strengths and weaknesses and recommended target performances.

As with other top Garmin units listed earlier, riders can also receive a variety of performance-oriented challenges on the screen, such as the VO2 Max, food and drink reminders, recovery time suggestions, and estimates of how well you are. re-adjustment to heat and / or altitude. And if you’re following a course, ClimbPro will provide visual data on the screen about the remaining ascent and slope.

As the largest cycling GPS model from Garmin, the Edge 1040 relies heavily on its navigation capabilities, with tracking by popularity (based on native Garmin Connect company data, not Food or another third-party provider) and integration with Trailforks for mountain biking.

And of course, Garmin’s new Edge 1040 models are compatible with existing Varia accessories (such as the new Varia RCT715 radar and camera unit) and provide on-screen notifications for things like calls, text messages and weather alerts.

Perhaps the most interesting thing is – finally! – Ability to transfer settings from another Edge device so you don’t have to reconfigure all your screens, sensors and trip types. Do you have your older Edge set up the way you want? Do not worry; the associated application will now copy these settings to your new Edge as well.

We don’t have any of the new Edge 1040 models on hand for testing yet, but we should have them every day. In the meantime, they are now available for sale. The retail price of the Edge 1040 Solar is $ 750, while the non-solar Edge 1040 is $ 600 (price for other regions will be confirmed).

For more information, visit www.garmin.com.