If you want the advanced version of Garmin's most accessible Edge GPS cycling computer, this compact Edge 130 Plus shows how far and how fast you rode and does much, much more. For those who need an HRM sensor set-up, the Edge 1030 Plus GPS Bundle is the way to go. Sync structured workouts right to your device, and pair to an indoor trainer to bring your outdoor rides indoors (coming soon via firmware update). The Edge 130 Plus even helps you gauge your effort during the remainder of a hilly ride by using the advanced ClimbPro feature, which keeps track of the remaining ascent. And because it’s GPS, you’ll always know where you’re headed and how to get back with reliable navigation tools. The Edge 130 Plus even has incident detection and assistance features to send your real-time location to emergency contacts(When paired with a compatible smartphone)should you need help.

It is compact, powerful, with solid features, ANT+ and Bluetooth BLE communication, and has the ability to load courses and set turn-by turn directions. The Edge 130 Plus has configurable screens (5, with up to 8 fields each), but not unlimited options, which actually makes it more manageable for most non-training cyclists. You get 12 hours of battery run time, compatibility with Garmin's Varia radar and lighting units, and connectivity to get notifications via Bluetooth off your smartphone. Is this the Edge serious training cyclists and racers are looking for? Perhaps not, but there are plenty of other Edge family members for those purposes. To be fair we have already heard from TT and triathlon folks who want a lighter, more compact, and simpler unit for events only. And yes, you can still run a powermeter and get data, but not the full Cycling Dynamics options, so if just monitoring and tracking basic power data is good enough for you, so is the Edge 130 Plus.

Garmin equips the unit with GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo capability for increased overall positioning accuracy. The Edge 130 Plus allows you to select from a couple of combination options, but keep in mind that when using GPS with either GLONASS or Galileo, you will use more battery power, so you may want to limit usage to areas you know will be a problem (woods, tall buildings, certain geographical locations). It is equipped with an accelerometer, and of course you get a barometric altimeter as well so the unit tracks how long and how far you have ridden, it also tracks altitude. Although there are no base maps or the ability to download maps, the location system works well with the turn by turn instructions for courses, and return trips. You can only load courses via the Course Creator feature in Garmin Connect™ online community, but it has gotten more flexible and is relatively easy to use. Once loaded, you can also race against Strava Live Segments.

Garmin has invested heavily in safety, building up its Varia line of cycling awareness devices. Pairing these radar and light units with your Edge bike computer, you can get alerts to approaching cars, right on your Edge display, as well as help drivers see you. With the new Varia models, size and functionality as all improved, and the price points are more accessible. Other connected features, when using a compatible device, include smart notifications, weather and more, as well as LiveTrack and assistance features that make it easy to share your location. While not a full-on, elite training bike computer, the Edge 130 will still get the job done, and it easily connects with powermeters and other sensors via either Bluetooth or ANT+.

Garmin's website and support structure provide complete details and with direct contact and forum support, virtually any question can asked and answered. Data transfer is via the USB cable or Bluetooth, so you have flexibility in that way. We recommend the USB cable for firmware updates, and as you will see in the start-up manual, updating your firmware at installation is a best practice. While the Edge 130 Plus may have some limits, Garmin will continue to deliver new features, fix bugs and add functionality via the firmware. On the Garmin site, there is a Compare tool that allows you to select units to identify which features and capabilities are the best match for your needs. We believe the Edge 130 Plus is as well executed an Edge unit that has been released, and if it suits your requirements, we highly recommend it, especially if you already work within the Garmin family of products or are also interested in the safety of compatible Varia cycling awareness products. This bundle supplies you with the highly regarded HRM-Dual heart rate strap.