Get ready to be blown away by the Garmin Edge 550, a GPS powerhouse that's packed with features and ready to revolutionize your riding experience!
The Ultimate Upgrade
Garmin, a veteran in the GPS game, has outdone itself with the Edge 550. This mid-range unit boasts an impressive build quality and a sleek, compact design that's perfect for riders of all levels. With a weight of just 110 grams, it's a lightweight companion that won't weigh you down.
First Glimpse, Lasting Impression
The moment you turn on the Edge 550, you'll be greeted by a stunning 420x600 pixel color screen, a massive upgrade from its predecessor. Garmin's claim of improved readability in all conditions, even bright sunlight, holds true. The device comes equipped with various mounts and adapters, ensuring a perfect fit for your bike.
A Feature-Rich Adventure
The Edge 550 is a treasure trove of features. From tracking your progress to receiving real-time weather alerts and smart fueling prompts, it's like having a personal coach on your handlebars. The ability to access free coaching plans via Garmin Connect adds a whole new dimension to your riding experience, adapting to your unique needs and goals.
But here's where it gets controversial...
While the Edge 550 offers an impressive array of features, some might argue that the battery life takes a hit. With its superior processor and graphics, it consumes more energy, resulting in shorter run times between charges. However, Garmin provides a 'battery saver' mode, extending the life to over 30 hours, albeit at the cost of reduced functionality.
A Smooth Setup
Setting up the Edge 550 is a breeze, especially if you're already a Garmin Connect user. Syncing your device is simple, and you can instantly transfer your data and preferences. The only potential hurdle is the initial map update, which can take a couple of hours. But trust me, it's worth the wait!
Navigation Made Easy
Finding your way with the Edge 550 is a breeze. Its multi-band GNSS receiver ensures ultra-accurate positioning, and the upgraded screen resolution provides exceptional map visibility. You can choose visual or audio navigation alerts, and with real-time rerouting, getting lost is a thing of the past. Syncing with your Garmin Connect account is seamless, allowing you to upload routes directly to your device in an instant.
And this is the part most people miss...
The Edge 550 offers enhanced map functionality thanks to its improved display and faster processor. It's like having a personal navigator guiding you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and stress-free riding experience.
The Bottom Line
The Garmin Edge 550 brings many of the premium features from the top-tier Edge 1050 to a more affordable and compact package. If you're a Garmin fan and in the market for a mid-sized head unit, this upgrade is a no-brainer. However, at $750 RRP, it might not be the most wallet-friendly option for those not loyal to the brand. But fear not, with a little shopping around, you can find a great deal and unlock a world of riding possibilities.
Specs at a Glance
- Size: 4.6 x 92.2 x 16.8mm
- Display: 2.7" diagonal
- Weight: 110 grams
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, ANT+
- Charging: USB-C (cable included)
- Waterproof Rating: IPX7
- Storage: 32GB
- RRP: $749.95
For more information, visit garmin.com/en-AU
Review by Peter Maniaty, Bicycling Australia's senior journalist and a highly respected figure in the cycling world.
