Garmin just released a new version of the popular Edge range of GPS computers. The new Garmin Edge 520, which will be available late summer, will be the first on-bike computer to feature Strava Live Segments, where riders can get real-time feedback on how they are doing on a Strava segment compared to their personal best, or the time of the current King or Queen of the Mountain.
The black Edge 520 boasts a high-resolution colour display and is compatible with a range of existing devices including Shimano Di2 electronic shifting systems, ANT+ sensors, the new Varia bike radar devices and the VIRB action camera. Garmin claims 15 hours of life on a full battery charge.
Related: Garmin Edge 520 review
Garmin edge 520
Features: Edge 510 plus Strava Live Segments
The Edge 520 has, as you’d expect, all the features of the 510 and then some. Users can upload ride data directly to Garmin Connect or social media if the computer is connected via a Bluetooth device, get real-time observation of their ride with Live Tracking, and also receive notifications of texts and calls.
But one of the main new features for the Edge 520 is the addition of Strava Live Segments, where users can track their in-segment performance in relation to personal best or the time of the current King or Queen of the Mountain holders. When active, the Edge 520 will give riders a countdown to the segment start and then continuous live feedback throughout the segment, showing whether they are ahead or behind.
Only available to paying 'Premium' members, Strava Live Segments will also be available on the Edge 510, 810 and 1000 via a software update later this year.
Other metrics available on the Garmin Edge 520 include time in zone, functional threshold power, watts per kilogram tracking, a VO2 max estimate, a recovery advisor, plus Garmin's "cycling dynamics", which give feedback on seated versus standing position and pedaling form.
For the majority of these features, you’ll need to pair the Garmin Edge 520 with a heart rate monitor and/or a power meter, and particularly Garmin's Vector power meter for the cycling dynamics features.
The new Garmin Edge 520 will be available later this year for US$299. UK and Australian pricing has yet to be announced.
