Garmin Edge 705: GPS Cycle Computer at the Cutting Edge

The addition of GPS to a cycle computer gives you a range of powerful features not found in conventional units. Here are some examples:

• Set a waypoint (your home, for example, or any starting point) and use the GPS map and the 705's turn-by-turn directions to find your way back, complete audible turn alerts and distance remaining readout. Simply choose menu, where-to, back to start.
• Save any ride in your history file and re-ride it later by calling it up from the history file. If you call up a stored ride, the Edge will even calculate a route from your current position and show you how to get to the start of the stored ride.
• Navigate to an address or point of interest (nearest restaurant, for example).
• Save any location as a favorite (trailhead? coffee shop?) and select it to navigate back to it at any time.

You can set custom data fields to display, or even have multiple custom settings (bike 1, bike 2)... kind of like pushing the automatic seat and mirror adjust button in a Lexus. You can place up to eight separate data fields in the big display (yes, they are all easily visible) including elapsed time, current speed, trip distance, time of day, calories burned, heading, accuracy (in feet), and elevation. Or, you can take it down to two fields, such as elapsed time and current speed, and the numerals get larger to take up the screen.

I especially like keeping the heading display (tells you which direction you're going, i.e. north or northeast, etc.) up as one of the readouts when riding in unfamiliar territory.

The addition of a heart rate monitor and pedaling cadence sensor are two major features differentiating the Garmin Edge 705 from the Edge 605 model. Heart rate and cadence round out an already robust data set, and those dedicated to heart rate training will appreciate the ability to display, capture, log, and graph heart rate. You may also set beep-alarmed target zones for heart rate and cadence. I noted, as have others online, that the heart rate monitor may give false-high readings when you first start to ride, until the monitor strap becomes moist with sweat. For accuracy from the start, use electrode gel (available in pharmacies) or moisten with saline solution before you start.

Few cyclists have power-sensing meters installed on their bikes, but those who do will appreciate that the Edge 705 works with third-party ANT+Sport-enabled power meters to display and capture power meter output. This is another feature found on the Edge 705, but not the Edge 605.

The Garmin Edge 705 comes with very sturdy and simple nylon mounting brackets that let you mount the unit on the bike's stem or handlebar. Just select your location, snug down the included zip ties, and you are ready to clip in the 705 and go. It literally took about 30 seconds. Garmin uses very sturdy composite nylons for the Edge 705 body and the mounting brackets, so they promise to hold up to even hard mountain bike use. Built-in rubberized backing prevents the mount from slipping.

What are the differences between the Edge 705 and the Edge 605?
The 605 comes in one version, while the 705 comes in three versions, per below:
-Edge 705 with wireless heart rate feature and wireless heart rate transmitter chest strap: $542 suggested retail.
-Edge 705 with heart rate and cadence sensor: $596 suggested retail.
-Edge 705 with heart rate, cadence and micro SD card with Street Maps USA: $709 suggested retail.

The Edge 705 also has a barometric altimeter (more accurate than relying on GPS data alone).

More Edge 705 Specifications:
-Weight: 3.7 oz (104.9 g).
-Battery: rechargeable li-polymer, charge life, 15 hours.
-Water resistant.
-Maps: Simple basemap included. Map options vary per model comparison above.
-Virtual partner: train against a digital opponent.
-Courses (compete against previous workouts).
-Auto-pause.
-Pace alert.
-Time/distance alert.