Garmin is finally getting on board with e-bikes, with an update to its Garmin Edge 1040 cycling computer series offering “full e-bike support” – including brand new metrics.
You’ll be able to view custom data exclusive to e-bikes if you own a bike that can connect to the Edge 1040 via ANT or ANT+ wireless connectivity, which many of the best electric bikes are capable.
When you upload a course to Garmin Connect to view on the Edge, the cycling computer will not only show you your planned route of travel – as it would on a traditional bicycle, if you’re using a connected e-bike – but it will also tell you if your bike has enough battery to last the duration of the course.
Knowing how much battery life your bike has left means you can plan ahead of time to get to a charging station, whether that means shortening the route before you leave or turning around and heading home halfway through an overly ambitious weekend ride. It’s a very useful tool, and it’s a great start for Garmin’s e-bike integration.
You’ll also be able to adjust assistance levels on your bike using the Edge 1040 computer rather than manually.
Other non-e-bike-specific features of the update include music controls on the Edge 1040 series, a visible Intensity Minutes metric, and an updated Training Status, which will import your heart rate variability status and recent exercise history from your best Garmin watch and show your training status on the Edge.
To read our blog on “Government approval is sought for plastic-body bikes,” click here