Compact dimensions measure 57.8mm wide by 85.1mm long by 19.6mm deep, fitting stem mounts or out-front positions without dominating handlebar space. The 2.6-inch screen displays 246x322 pixels across a 66mm diagonal, balancing readability with the portable profile that distinguishes mid-size computers from larger flagship models. Solar components add 4 grams compared to the standard Edge 840, bringing total weight to 88.9 grams against the non-solar version's 84.9 grams.

Multi-band GNSS tracks satellite signals across dual frequency bands from GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo systems, maintaining position accuracy in environments where single-frequency GPS typically fails. Tree-covered trails, urban navigation between tall buildings, and canyon riding all benefit from enhanced signal processing that prevents the position drift and track wandering common to traditional GPS systems in challenging terrain.

Adaptive coaching generates daily workout suggestions based on upcoming events, current training load, and recovery state when paired with a power meter and heart rate monitor. The system adjusts recommendations automatically, reducing intensity if sleep tracking from a connected Garmin watch indicates poor rest or modifying targets based on accumulated fatigue. Training prompts appear on-screen during workouts, guiding intervals and recovery periods without requiring constant attention to time or power.

Power Guide recommends wattage targets throughout a course, breaking routes into segments based on terrain and calculating sustainable efforts for each section. Stamina tracking estimates remaining capacity in real-time, showing how much harder you can push before exhausting energy reserves. Cycling Ability analysis evaluates fitness across different terrain types, comparing capabilities to course demands and identifying training focus areas for specific routes or events.

ClimbPro activates automatically on any ascent without requiring pre-loaded routes, displaying gradient breakdowns color-coded by steepness, current grade, and remaining elevation to the summit. This free-ride mode extends ClimbPro beyond its original course-following limitation, providing climb data on spontaneous route changes or unplanned explorations. Mountain bikers access Grit scores quantifying trail difficulty using GPS, elevation change, and ride dynamics, plus Flow measurements evaluating descent smoothness based on line choice and momentum maintenance.

The 32GB internal memory stores maps for two regions with room for additional routes, courses, and ride data. Maps highlight popular roads and trails based on aggregated ride data showing routes other cyclists actually use rather than generic navigation suggestions. On-device address search locates specific destinations by street address or GPS coordinates without requiring smartphone connectivity. Trailforks integration comes pre-activated with routable mountain bike trail data and automatic fork preview showing upcoming junctions.

USB-C charging supports faster charge rates than older micro-USB connections. The computer connects via ANT+, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi to pair with power meters, heart rate monitors, electronic shifting, Varia radar units, lights, and the full ecosystem of cycling sensors. Training plans sync from Garmin Connect, TrainingPeaks, and third-party platforms, displaying structured workouts with target zones. Ride data uploads automatically to connected apps including Strava and Komoot. On-device workout builder creates multi-step structured intervals using the touchscreen, programming custom training sessions without computer or smartphone access. The computer carries IPX7 water resistance for protection during rain and washing.