Have this since 2009. I don't use the training center software at all, just the Garmin connect site. I use MapSource for adding tracks and POIs, and a routable version of OpenStreetMap. Really easy, I just pick a map for my area of interest and upload it onto the MicroSD (2GB). If you keep the map small, even the routing works! Survived a couple of crashes, only damage is a slight scratch at the side of the display, which doesn't interfere at all!
Pros Great as bike computer and GPS, easy to use, robust, waterproof, great display!
Cons The price and the annoying flap that covers the USB port (and falls off all the time).
Don't waste your money. Don't get an 800 either - they haven't gotten the bugs worked out of the 705 yet!
Pros Great idea. Navigation would be nice if it worked. Database of places is a cool idea. It does tell the time, cadence, heart rate etc. when it is working.
Cons Very unreliable. Locks up often. Looses data. I am on my 3rd warranty unit. Sometimes only the grade % and elevation does not work. Its very odd.
A powerful GPS is a rugged, cycling specific form factor. This is the mac-daddy of mountain bike GPS units but for most casual riders it could be overkill.
Pros Color screen is beautiful, even in sunny conditions. Navigation features rock and the interface is improved over earlier Edge models.
Cons Expensive. Still not completely intuitive process for transferring and loading maps. Internal memory is a bit limited.
Having used a bike computer and a GPS with no mapping for 2 years I upgraded to combine in the 705 and go the local 1:50,000 maps. So much easier to find new routes to ride.
Expensive but if you can buy it you should. You won't be disappointed. Don't get the cadence unit for MTB.
You can grab one used for $50-$100, and they're easy to find. Get it!
Pros
Great features and battery life
Cons
| ThankRubber USB cover breaks easily, connector is still waterproof, I just used an electronics putty to keep the dust out.
Have this since 2009. I don't use the training center software at all, just the Garmin connect site. I use MapSource for adding tracks and POIs, and a routable version of OpenStreetMap. Really easy, I just pick a map for my area of interest and upload it onto the MicroSD (2GB). If you keep the map small, even the routing works! Survived a couple of crashes, only damage is a slight scratch at the side of the display, which doesn't interfere at all!
Pros
Great as bike computer and GPS, easy to use, robust, waterproof, great display!
Cons
| ThankThe price and the annoying flap that covers the USB port (and falls off all the time).
Don't waste your money. Don't get an 800 either - they haven't gotten the bugs worked out of the 705 yet!
Pros
Great idea. Navigation would be nice if it worked. Database of places is a cool idea. It does tell the time, cadence, heart rate etc. when it is working.
Cons
| ThankVery unreliable. Locks up often. Looses data. I am on my 3rd warranty unit. Sometimes only the grade % and elevation does not work. Its very odd.
I love the unit so far, even though it's high priced it will pay for itself.
Pros
Amount of features, waterproof, light, mounting.
Cons
| Thankfor the price the unit needs to come with unlimited maps and updates.
Definitely worth it, but buy one on eBay where it will be cheaper.
Pros
Fairly easy to use, very accurate, light and sturdy. Garmin Connect site is well done.
Cons
| ThankWish I could edit my maps before uploading them to the Garmin site, especially when I accidentally log two different rides together.
A powerful GPS is a rugged, cycling specific form factor. This is the mac-daddy of mountain bike GPS units but for most casual riders it could be overkill.
Pros
Color screen is beautiful, even in sunny conditions. Navigation features rock and the interface is improved over earlier Edge models.
Cons
| ThankExpensive. Still not completely intuitive process for transferring and loading maps. Internal memory is a bit limited.
I would probably purchase this unit again.
Pros
Size, Mounting location, ease of use, water resistant
Cons
| ThankExpensive
Having used a bike computer and a GPS with no mapping for 2 years I upgraded to combine in the 705 and go the local 1:50,000 maps. So much easier to find new routes to ride.
Expensive but if you can buy it you should. You won't be disappointed. Don't get the cadence unit for MTB.
Pros
Easy to use and set up
Cons
| ThankNot cheap and then you need the maps