The Garmin Edge 520 is the cycling computer favored by the majority of cyclists. It adds a few exciting features and contains a few design changes compared to the Edge 510 that it replaces. Right off the bat, you will notice the 520 is smaller than the 510 and closer in size to the 500 of years past. A generous 2.3 inch display features high-resolution color. Garmin maximized the display so you get the most live area in relation to the compact size of the 520. Screen clarity is outstanding in all lighting conditions. Another key difference is the 520 uses buttons in lieu of the touchscreen on the 510.

Strava fanatics will be excited to learn the Edge 520 is the first device with Strava live segment challenges. Live segments lets you know your leaderboard placing in real time. Your starred Strava segments and a curated group of Strava's most popular segments automatically sync with Edge 520 for live feedback during your ride. The 520 provides an announcement when your starred Strava segment is about to begin, up-to-the-second updates of your PR attempt, then instant results once the segment is complete.

Other additions include rudimentary base maps and the ability to download detailed maps of a localized region from free, third party sites. Edge 520 delivers a host of training capabilities when paired with compatible ANT+ indoor trainers. You can have compatible trainers mimic yesterday's outside ride for example. Pair it with a power meter and Edge 520 offers an additional set of features, like FTP and watts/kg tracking, so you can compare yourself to others, as well as cycling dynamics (with the Vector 2 Powermeter). A built-in FTP test helps you establish your baseline either on the trainer or on the road. Add heart rate and the 520 can derive your VO2 max estimate and post-ride recovery time, which indicates how long before you should attempt another hard effort. The 520 also displays time in each training zone with a graphic.... Read More