Garmin reveals the new Edge 530 and 830

The next generation of Garmin Edge cycling computers were released today by the Kansas-based American GPS manufacturer. The new Garmin Edge 530 and 830 offer recreational and competitive cyclists a host of features that includes GPS ride tracking, advanced performance metrics, new safety features, expanded navigation possibilities and compatibility with a variety of devices in a newly designed compact package. Garmin has also updated their sensors so cyclists can wirelessly track speed, distance and pedalling cadence more accurately with the Speed Sensor 2 and Cadence Sensor 2.

The new Edge 530 and 830 computers have updated bodies but have designs that will be familiar to users of Garmin’s previous generation cycling computers. The Edge 530 features a 2.6-inch display with seven buttons to operate the device while the Edge 830 offers a touchscreen that is designed to be quick and responsive in wet weather or when using it with gloves and has three buttons.

Training data and weather alerts

After rides, cyclists will have more tools at their disposal to analyze their training through the Edge 530 and 830 devices. The past four weeks of riding can be broken down in terms of low aerobic, high aerobic and anaerobic efforts to analyze how balanced your training is and provide insight to know where to focus additional training to address areas of weakness. Paired with a power meter, your power curve will be calculated and compared to where your fitness was in previous weeks and months to gauge progress.

Riders can also make use of the interesting new device features like ClimbPro which shows the remaining distance on a climb and the grade along the ascent when following a route or course to better gauge an effort. In changing or challenging conditions, the devices can track a riders heat and altitude acclimatization to understand how your bodies capabilities are affected in various conditions. While on big rides or in races, the Edge 530 and 830 can also notify you when it’s time to refuel and rehydrate, a useful reminder to help avoid a hunger knock.

The AccuWeather app can be downloaded onto the device providing timely weather updates so you know when the rain will begin or if the wind is going to pick-up mid-ride. The Yelp app can help you find good spots to stop for a bite to eat or a coffee.

New safety features

When you leave your bike unattended at a coffee stop, a new PIN-protected bike alarm can notify you on your smartphone if your bike has been moved giving you a chance to return to your bike before it’s gone.

The devices also have built-in accident detection which can notify emergency contacts of your location if an impact is detected. The 530 and 830 are also compatible with Garmin’s line of Varia lights including the radar enabled RTL510 rear light.

Like previous models of Edge devices, there is also group messaging so you can communicate with other Garmin users if you are running late or lost of the group you were riding with.

Speed Sensor 2 and Cadence Sensor 2

The new Speed Sensor 2 attaches onto the hub of either wheel and transmits data via ANT+ of BLE to your Garmin head unit. If you don’t have a head unit or the battery is dead, the data can still be synced with your mobile device via the Garmin Connect App. The Cadence Sensor 2 fastens to the crank arm and calculated your pedal strokes per minute. Both devices have batteries that can last up to one year.

The next generation of Garmin Edge

The new Edge 530 device alone will retail for $400 while the Edge 830 is $540. The  Edge 530 Sensor bundle which includes a speed sensor, a cadence sensor and heart rate monitor is listed at $540 while the Edge 830 sensor bundle carries a price tag of $680. 

A version of this article is available on the Canadian Cycling Magazine with mountain bike bundle.