Switching from Garmin to Wahoo (How & Why)

[@BrianDavisraces]

What do y'all use? Garmin or Wahoo? (something else?)

[@markleppy]

Wahoo Elemnt Bolt. When i started riding seriously about 3 years ago I read reviews that Wahoo was favored over Garmin by DCRainmaker. I went with it and have had no problems with it at all. I have never owned a Garmin so I can't compare, but i don't read too many good things about Garmins.

[@marccox7371]

Moved from Garmin to Wahoo about 3 years ago, no regrets, got sick of constant Garmin crashes, and sensors disconnecting for no reason, the Bluetooth connection was flaky at best. Tried 800, 830, 1030 - some better than others, - Wahoo has been faultless so far, never plan to revert.

[@trepidati0n533]

I just got hard into Triathlon this year (e.g. way to much $ in toys) and honestly surprised in general how good the tech is but at the same time how bad it is in many regards. It has given me a bit of whiplash in many cases. Guess this is the "hidden cost" of being a bit of an enthusiast. Right now I am "all in" on the Garmin camp but I can definitely see why people switch away after a while. I think the mental costs of dealing with multiple eco-systems is worth it for the technical benefits.

[@BrianDavisraces]

getting great insights from DC for many years myself. good stuff.

[@BrianDavisraces]

I'm with you 100%

[@lechprotean]

as others are saying - Garmin gives you a whole ecosystem - sometimes I use my watch, sometime the edge cycling computer, but the workouts and trainings are synced nicely either way. All ant+ sensors (power, cadence, smart trainer) and GPS work fine for me on 820, 830 and Fenix 5, no complaints so far.... even the temperature and altitude reading is ok

[@BrianDavisraces]

Yeah GARMIN is more robust that’s for sure

[@onebighoffy]

Ive only experienced garmin. Its taken me a long time to learn the device fully. But after feeling the power of the garmin IQ apps store, i cant see myself going anywhere else. I now have my stats minimized so i can use my map better, i have wind data, weather data, i can control all my lights, see what gear im in, and theres so much more. There are core temp sensors, blood oxygen sensors, dog trackers, even a beers earned app 😅. Also many mods on the IQ store work with garmins watches and/or bike computers.

[@pmb0001]

Totally agree and I have jumped from Deathstar Garmin to the Wahooligan universe and I couldn’t be happier - zero issues, no connection problems and it just works, each time every time. That plus ease of use and formatting screens and worldwide maps made the change a no brained.

[@BrianDavisraces]

I’m with ya. I just wonder what took me so long.

[@DaveCM]

I made the switch from Garmin to the Wahoo Bolt almost three years ago. I have absolutely no regrets. It has given me no issues so far and it is kind of nice to have what most people don't. I did have one glitch that was the result of my phone updating and I didn't catch the Wahoo had an update. Customer service was very responsive and professional.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Been hearing that more and more from the mtb world. I’m gonna have to test the trails in more detail on the wahoo. Thx for adding that

[@steveindorset]

Having lost my ride for the 4th time i got sick of my Garmin and bought a wahoo Elemnt. I’ve NEVER looked back! Love it. ❤️🤙👍

[@BrianDavisraces]

Good to hear. Thanks for adding your voice here.

[@potsiecyclist4474]

I'm right with you. I made the switch about 2 years ago from the Garmin Edge 520 to Wahoo Element Bolt. And have never regretted it. I was done after constant connection issues, drop outs, poor battery life, continuous upload issues. And final straw was when I contacted Garmin support and they basically in not so nice way told me that I was causing issue and had never heard of such a thing before with their equipment or app. Since getting Wahoo straight out of the box easy setup and zero issues.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Yeah my last interaction with GARMIN was pretty uninspiring (having been warrantied 2x for the 1000 unit - just got old)

[@christopherwatts1742]

Dumped my Garmin 1000 about a year ago and switched to elemnt, haven’t looked back. It just works seamlessly time after time. Syncs with TP, Strava and Komoot, smooth as silk.. it did freeze once after switching it on, but the reset is simultaneously holding on/off button and bottom right button, (took a google find that) but other than that, it’s been great... I love it.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Good tip thnk you!

[@pmb0001]

As many others (below) attest, I gave up on Garmin Head units, hoping that subsequent iterations would improve - they did not. So rather than be taken any further for a test dummy with cash fool, I jumped over to Wahoo. Currently run the Roam and the original Elemnt - no problems, no drop out, no mid ride failure or updating. The ease of use, simple pairing and incremental improvements to existing models, rather than rolling out a new model made me a Wahooligan too.

[@rodsfaria]

I always wanted to swap as well and after the recent Garmin problems with their website, I ordered the wahoo. After two weeks of problems after problems with connections, sync with strava, sync with iPhone etc I returned the wahoo and I am back to my Garmin

[@BrianDavisraces]

Maybe try Karoo next. Hope u find a winner. That junk gets really frustrating!

[@RGCastro7]

Welcome, Wahooligan! I've had the Elemnt Bolt for almost 3 years and I'm very happy with it. It's rarely given me any issues; when it has, they've been minor and easy to correct. Keep up the good work Brian.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Thx man. Nice to be unfrustrated! Lol.

[@QcK89]

hi, can bolt rebuild a route like roam?

[@benjaminlin8386]

Dumped my Edge 520 a year ago and switched to Wahoo Element, one of the complaint I have for 520 is for the long ride, 100, 150 miles, I always need to carry a small USB power bank and charge it at rest stop...it is such embarrassing and finally switching to Wahoo, happy ride forever!

[@BrianDavisraces]

Nice - I'm pretty pleased so far too, just so much more cycling friendly - I always thought the 1000 was a car GPS smashed into a small body.

[@waldietheron6040]

@@BrianDavisraces What is the battery life of the Bolt? The 520 has a really bad battery life.

[@NeilBolton101]

I turn the brightness down to 0% in full sunshine and 10% early mornings to solve the 520 battery life issue on long rides. Smashed 7 hour rides no problem in the past.

[@willemjdegraaf]

I have been so impressed with the Roam. All Garmin and Polar stuff out of the window. Also, using the Wahoo TicrX HRM, provides me with not only cadence but also RPM on my Roam. No extra sensor required. My 3rd Wahoo machine is the Kickr Core for Zwift. Lovely stuff. So, truly a Wahooliga.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Right on. I’m still loving the Roam but I do miss the ability to pan around the map.

[@SamReidland]

I just made the reverse switch. Had my Element Bolt for a few years, but due to a software bug it stopped working. It would track my entire ride except for speed and distance. Picked up a Garmin 530 as a replacement. A week after getting the 530, Wahoo released a patch that fixed my Bolt. Now I'm not sure which one I will continue to use, I like them both.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Well that’s an interesting pickle. Let us know how it shakes out Sam.

[@arlokkkk]

I'll buy one from you. The one you not going to use anymore

[@SamReidland]

@@arlokkkk After the Garmin breach fiasco, I switched back to my Wahoo. Nice to have a backup, so I'll keep both

[@garysmits]

I switched to the ROAM about 8 months ago and have really been happy. I had the Garmin 820 with many connection issues all the time. This unit is great. Only had a week when I could not upload my rides because of a software update. I truly hate those because there is always some kind of problem. I deleted all my apps and reinstalled and the problem when away.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Well now I know I did it right if that’s the unit you’re using Gary! Yes!

[@hestkjaer]

The Wahoo Roam is so easy to use, and routing - not least if you decide to make a new route when you are out on the road(meaning routing on your phone) is awesome, I use both Strava premium and Komoot. The thing you say is upload. But it's not uploading, it's syncing.. So as soon as you safe your route on either Komoot or Strava it's in the app.. And then you can choose it. I use the Garmin Varia as well, and the advantage with Wahoo is 1: It shows a green bar in the left side to show it's on and there is no one behind you. 2: It have audio signal both when someone is approaching, and not least when there is no more cars(Garmin don't do this). And furthermore, I have not had any connection problems or manually had to connect to any of my bikes(DI2), or powermeters(Quarq) - with my Edge 1030 plus I had to manually connect to the bike I was riding. The touchscreen is not anything I miss.. I can use my Roam with gloves, and in the summer, the sweat drops(more like waterfall) don't change screen. Honestly.. I realized the more I used my edge 1030 plus, the more frustrated I got. Integration of strava is IQ app on Garmin sucks(and crashed). And fifling with GPX files is cumbersome.. Wahoo can't brew coffee or other things.. But one thing I realized with Wahoo, what they do, they do simple and flawless.. ;)

[@BrianDavisraces]

Great re-cap, I think doing less, but better is really what I like about Wahoo...less fluff, better execution. I do really really really wish I could pan around the map easier on the head unit. That would be huge

[@ianrob4760]

I did the switch around two years ago to the element as frankly fed up of the mild quality and build of Garmin. Not regretted it all and the roam (now) works perfectly and just had one failure on GPS once which caused my unit to reboot and lose a ride. reported it to Wahoo and they put a fix out within a few weeks as a few reported it.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Right on Ian. Good to hear about their responsiveness

[@ianrob4760]

Brian Davis Races got to say far better than Garmin and though they got better just too many bugs. I have their wearables as for the price they are the best

[@CreRay]

Same here. I didn't have any super major issues with my Garmin Edge 705, it held up pretty decent considering its age. Recalculating routes took forever, but it was the battery life which made me switch to Wahoo. I needed 10+ hours on a charge and a few years ago that just wasn't possible plus I heard numerous complaints about stability issues with the then newer Garmin units(520/1000/Edge Explore). I bought the Elemnt and loved it ever since. Stellar battery life, and absolutely zero issues. I won't go back, but might upgrade to the Elemnt Roam at some point. I use Ridewithgps to create routes, works great. However, I do have the impression that the latest gen Garmin units (130/530/830) is much better, with much improved battery life.

[@BrianDavisraces]

10+ hours - BEAST!!! I hear the same things on the newer garmins and based on these comments, looks like they cleaned em up a good bit, but I just couldn't reward them based on my last experience with them by purchasing garmin again.

[@erinkconner]

Thanks for the share! my frustration with Garmin is growing - may join the ranks soon!

[@BrianDavisraces]

I’m happy. Not frustrated. Totally worth the effort of the switch. To be clear again I have no relationship with wahoo. Just really pleased with it

[@brakesforsnakes757]

Just do it and you will never look back.

[@fcnghkkc1]

Erin, switch immediately to Wahoo as is l it is dead reliable with no hiccups. 3 years with my Bolt and still going strong. Wahoo keeps updating the firmware and add new features as time goes on. 👍

[@jonlester326]

I went from the Garmin 1000 to the Garmin 1030. The 1030 is waaaayyyy better than the 1000. Phone pairing is improved and no rattling buttons!

[@BrianDavisraces]

Yeah I am perhaps a little unfair in the units compared here but dang I’m mad about how many problems the 1000 had compared to the costs. 😡

[@DEAR7340]

It was also fairly simple decision to switch forme; I had a Garmin 520 that stopped pairing with my Android phone. I tried other phones and also sent Garmin $100 to swap out the 520 - - but no joy. I invested WAY too much time and effort, trying to resolve the problem before bailing. I replaced it with the Wahoo Element Bolt and have been pleased with the change in reliability. This is just my experience.

[@BrianDavisraces]

This is almost exactly my experience. Just too much pain - too many times

[@raanyroad9110]

I have a Garmin Edge 1000. No issues other than battery life when doing centuries. A few times, I had to charge the Edge 1000 during the ride.

[@BrianDavisraces]

I never had significant battery problems. I guess cause they warrantied my unit 3x

[@Methodical2]

That's not good. Hell, even my old Garmin 800 lasted on century rides and you probably do you centuries much faster than me.

[@shaoranrch]

I have used Garmin for years, have used an 830 for months and a 1030 plus for little over a month. I really have had none of the issues you are mentioning, tbh I have never moved from Garmin due to how amazing and reliable it has always been for me. Wanted to try a wahoo but so far had no need for it.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Awesome. Seriously glad it works for you. Keep on trucking and thanks for adding your experience to the comments. I like balancing it out.

[@ryanS593]

I switched recently from garmin to wahoo. There’s no going back. I absolutely love the wahoo. It’s so easy to use and functional

[@mllndplayer]

What garmin unit did you change from?

[@NM-zi2zv]

You don't say what Garmin unit you had. I've got both Wahoo Bolt and Garmin 1030. Use the Garmin 1030 on my road bike and have never had any issues of any kind, connections, sensors, readability outdoors. And I love the touch screen too!

[@BrianDavisraces]

I had the 1000 I get that it’s apples/oranges but my experience led me to believe that tiger ain’t changing its stripes. Glad yours is working for ya. (Wish mine would have)

[@NM-zi2zv]

@@BrianDavisraces Your Wahoo unit should work with the Garmin Varia Radar Backlight too if you're into that.

[@BrianDavisraces]

NM yeah I read that they got that figured out. The Varia is on my list. People love that thing!

[@NM-zi2zv]

@@BrianDavisraces Worth every penny. Check out @GPLama, he shows you how.

[@mariop.4898]

Thanks Brian for the video, even if I understood very little linguistically. Unfortunately, my English is very bad. For weeks I have been thinking about getting a Garmin 830 or a Wahoo Roam. This video and the comments in the chat have now convinced me to buy a Wahoo Roam. Greetings from Baden near Vienna, Austria.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Sweet Mario! Glad it helped solidify things. You’ll love the ROAM! Tailwinds and thanks for tuning in (your English is far better than my Bavarian). Vielen Dank

[@cyclecheshire8164]

I made the switch from Garmin to wahoo then back to the garmin. The biggest reason was navigation. The wahoo was great for everything else but I struggled with the b&w screen. I know the roam has more colours but the new 830 beats it hands down. Plus the battery life is insanely good. Connectivity is a bit hit and miss but I do still prefer the Garmin.

[@BrianDavisraces]

I agree the roam is still very weak on color discernment vs. even my dated garmin, but I kinda like the ease of spotting only the important things. Over time I have found myself very very very much missing the ability to pan the map on the fly - you can pan in the ROAM but it is a very convulated process that you cannot do while riding. That's a bummer IMO

[@danielkennedy6330]

I have the Roam as well. I really like the computer. Does everything I need it to do and the Trainerroad outside workouts works great on it. If I had one gripe it would be that it's a little irritating having to cycle through all the screens to return back to the previous screen. Other than that I can't complain. Also noticed that it seemed to take a bit for it to connect to the app for you. I find personally that if I go to the setting screen on the computer that it connects much faster.

[@BrianDavisraces]

I noticed that cycling thing too, it is a lot to page through and that button is fierce! I'll try the setting screen - thanks!

[@wincrasher2007]

I guess I don't understand what this gets you over the Garmin. My 1030 plus has been flawless, and the integration with the Connect app, MyFitnessPal and Strava is terrific.

[@BrianDavisraces]

I had the 1000. So it was apples to oranges but I really made the decision after being let down by GARMIN products over the years. But. I am seriously happy you have a solution you love too!

[@tombuck]

Ordered a Wahoo today after Garmin bricked my 7 year old Edge 200 via a firmware update I didn’t ask for. Garmin makes great hardware with just the most frustrating software.

[@BrianDavisraces]

100% agree

[@dct1]

I'm a newbie to bicycle GPS computers so no bias, however you're swaying me to the Wahoo, even the bolt sounds like a good piece of kit.

[@DamianDodd]

So far love my Bolt

[@BrianDavisraces]

Its good stuff...I mean Garmin isn't bad, but I think Wahoo is just more laser focused on the stuff I actually care about, so I'm still quite happy with it. I don't think there is a significant difference in the Roam vs. the bolt depending on how often you need routing.

[@Elverfaderen]

I´m still with Garmin but have had the same thoughts as you. On the other hand I´m a quite sure, that I´m a indoorcyclist (like it much more then outdoor riding) so I don´t need a cycle-computer anymore

[@BrianDavisraces]

makes sense for sure. I still need to try controling my Saris H3 with the wahoo - that will free up my phone at the least, not sure if there is any other benefit to using a computer on the trainer...doubtful

[@wasupwitdat1mofiki94]

Glad to hear you found something that you like but Garmin does make good stuff too. I switched from a Wahoo Elemnt to the Garmin 830. I think the 830 works flawlessly because I've never had a problem. I have my head unit sync'd with Varia Radar and my Di2 system. For mapping I use Ride With GPS which is far better than any other. I also use Garmin IQ for some widgits and that works fine too. I get my messages when someone txts me because the head unit is sync with the phone. The Elemnt screwed me two times with the directions while riding a course and that was enough for me to can it. It's for sale but has been sitting in the box in the closet for months now.

[@BrianDavisraces]

So interesting how one system works so well for others and so badly for some. It’s super interesting to see the comments

[@AR-lz2br]

I've been using the Garmin Edge 1030 for half a year and the only thing I can say is that it's my best companion ever for my rides...just two minor bugs due to not updating the app. Come on guys, technology has never been perfect and possibly will never be and I won't change my mind just because someone uploaded a video giving his personal experience and point of view.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Andres - you dont have to change your mind buddy - glad you have something that works for you!

[@taavinen]

Nice one. I am about to switch as well. I’ve had to return nearly every single Garmin sports product I have had (810, 820, two running watches, numerous HR straps, cadence sensor etc) . Only product I never returned was an original 500 bike head unit.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Check back in if you make the leap, I like hearing how different everyones experience is on this stuff. So interesting .

[@taavinen]

Brian Davis Races will do. Next year we are taking a year off to cycle around Europe and possibly Asia (COVID restrictions dependent). I wanted to have one to log our ride so it will get a thorough workout

[@3goalex]

I never have try Wahoo so I have no opinion about it but I have Garmin for years. I have had the 810, 820, 1000 and now I have the 1030 and never have the problems about connectivity that you say. Before used a Samsung galaxy note 8 and now with one Huawei P30 Pro. My Garmin always works perfectly. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@Mowikan]

Alejandro Soto same here. No problems whatsoever. I use my fenix as a hear rate sensor. Works like a charm. I never use routing by the way.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Thats awesome Alejandro - stick with it if it's working for you!

[@nreamer]

I am totally with you on the feeling of being angry with Garmin. So much promise but so much suck and aggravation. I currently use a Garmin, but it sucked out of the box. Ditched the maps that came with it and it works for me now. I am more of a tourer / adventure rider, so use a Garmin ETrex. Replaceable vs rechargeable batteries are a plus for that, and don't need integration, just simple routing and tracking and it could not even do that properly. The training features of the Wahoo do entice me, as I do ride for fitness also. I was always afraid of spending big dollars on a Garmin that has those features and then have it suck like all the others - with less features - I have had . I could go on and on about my frustration with Garmin, but I will stop. Glad there is a company that gets it. Keep it up Wahoo!

[@BrianDavisraces]

Well said. Thx for adding your thoughts. Hopefully someone at GARMIN wakes up. It frightens me this same company keeps planes flying to and fro all day. Hmmmm

[@jasontieu3737]

I have too many garmin devices to consider Wahoo. I would hate to manually manage my workout data across multiple platforms. I guess the good news is that I haven't really had any big problems with my Garmin devices. LOVE Wahoo though

[@BrianDavisraces]

Garmin makes nice stuff that works for lots of people - I just wasn't one of them I guess LOL. Happy to have made the switch but I think over time there will be some things I miss about the Garmin - so far nothing, but it's coming I am sure.

[@HiddenDriveways]

I like both Garmin and Wahoo as brands, and I agree that technical hiccups are a frustrating part of being a Garmin user, but I'd like to bring some balance to this topic. I own a Wahoo KICKR Core and Wahoo Speed and Cadence sensors. The Core has had lots of well-publicized problems, my unit included. But in a way, even more frustratingly, my Wahoo Core stopped communicating with my Wahoo Cadence sensor after about a week of using them. I looked into resolving the issue, which you would think would be easy, and it turned out to be such a world of hurt that I never bothered wasting my time with it. Eventually Wahoo added native cadence to the Core, but still. Damage done. Again I still like Wahoo, but the story here shouldn't be "Garmin is flawed, Wahoo isn't."

[@BrianDavisraces]

Agree 100%. I tried to balance that but it helps to gather other perspectives. Thx!

[@lwpweb]

i made the switch 2 years ago. But my Wahoo HW was not reliable i had to replace it two times in one year. It was always affected by antistatic issues which stalled the system or destroyed the display by handling it fast. So i'm back at Garmin, my experience my Garmin HW never failed during 7 years using multiple devices. SW is another issue. :-)

[@BrianDavisraces]

Interesting! Never heard of that before. Good to learn about this issue.

[@pe3117]

I have for the last 6 months a Garmin 530 and works 100% perfect with my phone, hr monitor, remote control, cadence sensor...never had a issue

[@BrianDavisraces]

awesome! That's truly a great thing when stuff just works. Glad you found a good solution.

[@BluGiant14]

interesting...I'm having to return my Wahoo Elemnt Bolt because it stopped picking up a charge. They'll likely send me a new one but I'm likely picking up the Edge 530 anyway.

[@miguelmoreira5248]

@@BluGiant14 that was just an hardware failure that can happen to any unit in the world. Not a valid reason to change.

[@BluGiant14]

@@miguelmoreira5248 At some of these price points, and with the variety available...I'd have to disagree. Some products get one chance with me

[@miguelmoreira5248]

@@BluGiant14 It even happens with cars dude. Btw just got the 530 today: pure dog shit, 2010 screen, 2010 app, took me hours to setup and the time was still not correct. already packed to go straight back to the store

[@andreww3116]

Hi Brian. Interesting video. Question: Where did you get the Abus helmet? I wasn't aware of them selling in the USA, except perhaps the grey market. Lastly, regarding Garmin, I know their products can sometimes have issues but I maintain a bit of loyalty to them. My niece worked for them for quite a few years then developed MS, which evolved over several years. Garmin exceeded what any other company would have done to accommodate her and assure she received the best care while she chose to continue her job. Eventually, she had to leave on disability, yet they continued to make sure the transition was as easy as possible. Garmin obviously maintains a high level of corporate ethics towards their employees, something largely unheard of in today's economy. I feel a sense of gratitude and debt to Garmin as a result. Be safe.

[@BrianDavisraces]

The Abus helmet I think is available through QBP so really any bike shop should be able to get it. I know a bunch of folks locally have picked it up through specialized and trek dealers - so it must be available through a common distributor...good to hear about Garmin - I think they are in a superior position to solve a lot of problems for cyclists, but I also think they would benefit from more product testing and slowing the pace of new products (I know that drives sales, but the it might catch up to them someday with more people than just me). Anyway - always great to hear about a company treating people right - its a great investment!

[@kolitha1]

Liking the Weber kettle man.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Yes. Keep it simple!

[@majicafilms]

Love my Garmins and don't think I'll ever switch. But everything I use is Garmin. Used to have the Edge Touring, now have the Edge 1000+sensors. Also use the Virb Elite camera and Venu watch. Love how they all integrate with each other and work seamlessly. All my data in one place when making ride videos etc. I'm sure the Wahoo is great, but I don't see a reason to switch for myself.

[@BrianDavisraces]

That makes complete sense. I love my VIRB camera and they were WAY ahead of GoPro at the time. The software for overlay editing is way better than GoPro too. But I use the head unit daily and I can’t put up with the daily frustration thus the switch. But if I were deeper in on GARMIN products I’d be REAL hard to switch like your example. Thx!

[@pointbreak2811]

I'm happy for you. I think you'll get used to it as time goes on. Thanks for the review!

[@BrianDavisraces]

Yeah, I am adapting to it much faster than I was expecting which is a relief!

[@alpanian]

Everyone has their own experience, and it's rarely 100% perfect. Hope Wahoo works out for you. Nevertheless, there's plenty of people complaining online about isues with Wahoo too. I have used a Garmin Edge 510 for the last 8 years, and whilst it was buggy in the first couple years (frequent crashes when saving rides), it has been nothing but stellar since. Unfortunately it just died, and I'm really scared of getting something new after so many flawless years.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Well said. It’s so interesting how that goes in cycling. No other area of my life is tech so wishy-washy with personal experiences. Great comment!

[@sidewinder4718]

just bought one of these, it is an upgrade from the Bryton. Gr8 video thanx

[@BrianDavisraces]

Thx man! Very much appreciate that. You’ll love the Wahoo!

[@mathymaven7883]

I went from Garmin to Wahoo for all the same reasons. After a year with Wahoo I am a happy Wahooligan! (I still swear by my Saris H2 trainer though!)

[@BrianDavisraces]

Same. I’m also very happy with my H3

[@JakobThusgaard]

Plenty of comments agreeing with you. I have none - NONE - of the problems you're indicating. I've been with Garmin since 310XT and Edge 705. Have had several units and am now with an Edge 820 and a Fenix 5X. Almost everything I'd like this platform to be able to do, it does almost flawlessly. If I have any complaints then it is that routing can be improved - especially for running (but that really goes for any routing solution) and somehow the FTP test didn't work for me earlier today on the Edge 820.

[@BrianDavisraces]

That’s thing I think about a lot - these issues are so inconsistent. It’s hard to pin down the problems cause these gremlins are so unreliable in how they present. So weird. And frustrating. I’m glad your Garmins are working for ya. No hate for GARMIN I just need stuff to work for me. Thx for the comment Jakob!

[@wisskier]

We're/are those sunglasses polarized? If so that could be why the Garmin was difficult to see.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Not polarized. I recently discovered how much I dislike polarized.

[@wisskier]

@@BrianDavisraces yes for fishing they rock, but our head units I've noticed emit highly polarized light and polarized sunglasses may make them invisible.

[@sharky442]

I LOVE my Wahoo Elemnt Bolt... I don't have the ROAM, But Wahoo products are AWESOME, Links seamlessly to Strava and Komoot which are the 2 apps I use

[@BrianDavisraces]

Hey Kenneth. How would you describe what Kamoot does for you? I’m curious about it but not sure on how it would make my life better.

[@sharky442]

@BrianDavisRaces, I use Komoot for my GPS when I get on my bike instead of Google Maps because Komoot takes you directly to your destination whereas Google Maps takes you up all of the back roads or the long way.

[@stevengeuns]

I did the switch to the roam. Used it for 8months. As a mountainbiker I don’t like the roam. Navigating in the forest on singletracks, the wahoo is struggling with it. I’ll go back to the Garmin.

[@maximilianyuen]

i don't have Garmin bike computer but consider getting one. But i have all those disconnection issue on garmin watch so totally relatable .... so gonna give wahoo a try

[@BrianDavisraces]

You’ll love it. Very simple and just works. Tailwinds!

[@Dima-dc5mf]

Hey guy's. Don't know what to choose: Edge 1030 or Elemnt Roam. Any advices???

[@georgex5959]

Really good video and helpful for me as I’m about to buy my first bike computer. Also your roads look so smooth!!

[@BrianDavisraces]

Our roads are flat, straight and car-less but some folks think that’s boring. I think it’s heaven!

[@hongziyang]

Nice! I switched last year. Pretty happy with it.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Good to hear! (I'm very happy still)

[@soundZ]

"I can't forgive them (Garmin) for that" - I feel you! I spend so much money for garmin crap and I'm now super happy for years with my Whaoo Elmnt Bolt. It just does what I expect.

[@Dima-dc5mf]

I'm choosing between Elemnt Roam and Garmin edge 1030. What's so bad about Garmin? Can't really made up my mind with all of this...

[@TheVorst]

@@Dima-dc5mf Hi, I got a New Garmin 1030 plus since the end of May. I took me 1 Day to set it up. Then the days after that, I wanted to change some other settings. You have to go to a KZbin video to figure out what to do, it is so difficult. Garmin has so many smart Navigation things. Like for the nearest Cities and villages. Nice, but on my holiday, it couldn’t find a small city that is just 3 km away. The touch screen is nice, till you are on your bike. Even without gloves, it is quite dangerous to fiddle with the screen. I just ordered the Wahoo Bolt V2, I hope for a better user experience. Syncing my Garmin with new road data from my phone didn’t work,, when I was on the road. Very frustrating. The Garmin 1030 plus is soo expensive, very unhappy. I cross my fingers for my Wahoo Bolt when it arrives. I hope to give my experience on that unit.

[@Dima-dc5mf]

@@TheVorst I'm with Garmin Edge 830 for now. Seems fine, navigation and other stuff work's okay. Not great or outstanding but ok overall. If I would think about to change my Garmin for something else, that would be Hammerhead Karoo 2, just too try how this device work in comparison to edge 830.

[@mcsdst]

Wahoo all the way, i have the bolt and loving it.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Nice - I'm quite happy still with my ROAM.

[@manfredadams3252]

@@BrianDavisraces Roam seems just too damn big. Get rid of the screen space stealing bevel perhaps. Have a bolt see no reason to upgrade.

[@Volkmannx]

Thanks!

[@Jeff-bd4gg]

I went the other way. My wahoo was fabulous for my road bike, but was all headache when I started to ride single track. Garmin picks up my trail rides much better and is no worse for my road rides.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Heard that in a few other comments. I just picked up a mountain bike. Will be interesting!

[@10ktube]

I have wanted to do this, but I actually have so many rides in my Garmin (literally hundreds of thousands of miles), tons of workouts, etc etc, that I don’t want to recreate history. Garmin has an adequate web system for me, but their devices aren’t the best. I’m on my 4th Edge 1000, all due to warranty issues (sweat under the screen, breaking them). Other option is to just use TrainerRoad, however I don’t use pay stuff so it’s limited for free use.

[@BrianDavisraces]

I wonder if there is an automated way to export those rides over to another platform that is free - like Golden Cheetah?

[@10ktube]

@@BrianDavisraces if it was batchable, I'd consider it more. If it's one by one, that's going to be a whole lotta clicking.

[@wildsurfer12]

I’m just got my first bike computer, and after watching a number of you tube videos I decided to get a new element bolt.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Right on! You’ll love it. Having the data is great but every once in a while leave it at home.

[@BarryJHoffman]

Hi brian great video. Still using the roam?

[@BrianDavisraces]

Indeed I am. The screen cover has separated a teeeny bit from the screen which might cause water issues but 2 months since I noticed it and no issues so far. Still flawless

[@BarryJHoffman]

Just bought the roam. Got great price 225 no tax or ship. Giving up my 1030. Hope making correct move. Do you know if strava live segments work same?

[@BarryJHoffman]

Brian... Can i still do long press with di2 button to go right to show elevation screen like i can with garmin 1030?

[@BrianDavisraces]

@@BarryJHoffman hmmm. That I don’t know. Didn’t know GARMIN could do that - lmk if that works. That’d be cool Re: Strava. Yes the live segments work IF you’ve starred the segment on Strava and IF you’re a premium Strava member. There are a couple things I don’t care for on the live segment screen but overall it works great.

[@BarryJHoffman]

Yeah bri. Think its a di2 thing. In the settings. I have right di2 button swipe page rt... Left button mives pages left and long hold left jumps directly to elevation page, awesome

[@oceanfloor258]

I have a Garmin vivoactive 3 device and am on what was Strava Summit. Over the last week it seems to have almost completely malfunctioned, not connecting to GPS, therefore not recording any data apart from calories burned and heartrate. Its disappointing to get back from a ride feeling like you had done ok, possibly picked up some PR's, and then find nothing on the stupid device. I may be following your example and switching to Wahoo soon.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Yeah that is frustrating. Let me know if I can help in any way

[@danielcalderon142]

Garmin user without any issues here, I had the edge 520, and now 530, in my personal experience when I find somebody with problems with garmin I find user issues more often than garmin issues, all is in the manual, and the gps works better in my garmin than my friend’s wahoos.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Maybe. But I kinda focus on getting this stuff down pat for the videos and GARMIN just never lived up to its promises no matter how much I put into it. Also a user error is really a mfg error if you think about it. It should be hard to use - if it is - it’s a fail on their part too. Thx for the comment and I’m happy you have a winning set up. Ride on!

[@danielcalderon142]

@@BrianDavisraces ride on

[@johnbaker1732]

Thanks, Dude! Got some good added tips for using mine. Please do a show on a full Trainer Road outdoor workout on it.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Good idea. I’ll do that

[@mickelkobeck7376]

I switched a few months ago....got tired of Garmin doing "garmin" things....Wahoo bolt has worked perfectly and is much easier to upload routes and such.

[@BrianDavisraces]

GARMIN doing GARMIN things is a great way to put it. 🤪

[@platypushatstand]

Cateye Velo 7. Features: clock, ride time, current speed, average speed, max speed, trip distance travelled, odometer, auto start/stop, a pacer arrow (up = faster, down = slower) and a user replaceable battery of a common and easily obtainable size (CR2022). I’d like a device with the above features, plus gradient/elevation and colour mapping. However, I don’t need watts (power), hr (bpm), rpm, calories. I’ve never taken an FTP/VO2 test and never likely to, I don’t race, I just ride. So a lot of the features of the garmin/wahoo/bryton devices are superfluous and unnecessary (for me). And I always carry my iPhone SE (2016) so I’ve got mapping if I need it. Who knows, maybe one day the right Jesus-device (for me) will appear. But in the meantime I’ll keep watching every review,just in case.

[@aerofart]

When I bought my Wahoo I was tempted to buy the Garmin instead, but then I remembered all the times my other garmin gps devices from the past let me down so I opted to go with the Elemnt instead. Glad I did. Garmin too big for their own good.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Exactly. Good ideas but poor execution. Can’t support poor execution at my expense. No complaints for Wahoo 8 months later

[@jedisdad2265]

Been running a Garmin Bike Computer since 2018. No issues what do ever. I also use a Garmin Descent Mk1 and now MK2 Again never any issues. Guessing I have been lucky b

[@BrianDavisraces]

Glad it is working for you - I would not have switched if that were the case for me - keep on riding with em - cheers!

[@roadbikeman]

only £25 rebate here in the uk, for the Bolt and the Roam... thanks for the review looks like alot of toys inside to discover.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Thx for adding. Good addition!

[@maximiliano1761]

I’ll probably get used to whatever I have. I used to have a wahoo hrm that used to sync with my iPhone 4S which was the shit back then. After some months it started freezing and I started losing some of my rides. So i decided to go for a Garmin Edge. I’ve been using it probably 6-8 years now. And I never had a problem with it. It’s still going strong now but once it craps out I’ll probably get one of the newer Garmin or whatever i can afford. I’m not picky.

[@BrianDavisraces]

That works man. Keep on keeping on!

[@westcountrydivers3787]

Ive just gone the opposite way. Purchased a new roam last week and really dont like it at so have donated it to the wife. In my opinion the Wahoo has Poor screen resolution, no touch screen user interface a bit clanky, works great with my Wahoo Kickr though. Just ordered a new Garmin 830 so will see how I get on. I already have a Garmin Fenix 6 watch and thats a real beauty, so used to Garmin products.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Makes sense. Honestly I borrowed an Wahoo before buying and I wasn’t super impressed but after having it longer I really like it. Just one big flaw imo and that’s not having the ability to easily pan around the map screen. Glad you’re happy with GARMIN. Thx for the comment and sharing your experience

[@ChrisCapoccia]

i have the edge 530, haven't ever used routes and haven't had the problems you had. but i did have a lot of those problems with my old 510. but then one day i smashed the 510 with my trunk door :O immediately went out and bought the 530

[@BrianDavisraces]

HA - thats one way to upgrade - TRUNK SMASH! Glad you have a unit thats working for you, makes everything so much nicer when that side of our sport is working properly.

[@eddy_8232]

I too planned to switch but ended up returning to Garmin as I'm too invested in the Garmin ecosystem

[@BrianDavisraces]

It’s a big hurdle no doubt. Hope it’s all working for you!

[@GiulioZip]

fast question, how does it work the re-routing on the Roam? I do have the BOLT but thinking about to switch to the roam for this function mainly. If you take the wrong street or direction, and you pointing for example north, does it tell you to go back to the route where you took the wrong direction or does it recalculate still pointing north? I´m using it in the forest a lot and sometime is difficult to go back to the point where i took the wrong direction. Giu

[@BrianDavisraces]

I believe I experienced this scenario - it will re-route intelligently. I struggled for awhile on a re-route the secret was me just getting to the “map page” and then using some common sense to get back on track. But it was re-routing to get me back not just requiring me to backtrack which was generally my experience with the GARMIN. The GARMIN couldn’t figure out to re-route based on where I was going it got more locked into the route rather than the destination.

[@peterbee8892]

It seems the rest routing will use tracks or roads according to what you planned your route WA it's. Eg for mtb route it will find you alternate track. For road routes it will use only roads. It recognises being off route within seconds and Shows alternative in blue breadcrumbs until you regain original route.

[@Try_n_2Tri]

Ordered my ROAM yesterday... should have it by Monday!! Quick Q - Wahoo offers the Roam in a bundle with the HR strap (I get that), cadence sensor (ok yup) and a SPEED sensor?! Can you see any reason one would need a speed sensor with that unit?! For the price it better have darn accurate speed data!

[@BrianDavisraces]

I don’t have it and see no need for it. Maybe for mountain biking? Maybe

[@Try_n_2Tri]

@@BrianDavisraces Awesome thanks. Not sure.. seems like a waste $$. Love the channel - keep it up.

[@nickzaffino471]

I've had a Wahoo Elemnt Bolt for 3 years now. Still going strong, no issues at all. WAAAAAAY more reliable than Garmin.

[@BrianDavisraces]

That’s what I’ve found too

[@ronh4497]

I have a Garmin 820 and a Fenix 5 watch for running as well. I get that there are people on here who have had connectivity issues, but bluetooth or ANT + is never going to be perfect. Ask any one with an indoor smart trainer using Zwift, right? I get the frustration with Garmin, my wife, who is a runner only, has gone through far too many watches and has had many issue with software, BT etc. On the other hand, I havent had too many issues with the 820 and my speed and cadence sensors. I do question the battery life on the sensors but thats not a major issue. The Varia lights work very well with the 820 and as others have said... the rear light with the car alerts on the head unit is a game changer. I will certainly consider the Wahoo when it comes time to replace the 820 but Garmin is still continuing to add features as well.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Thank you adding this. It’s interesting to hear of the very different experiences in the comments on both sides

[@domxem5551]

You got a new subscriber just now

[@BrianDavisraces]

Thx Dom. Great to have your support!

[@jaywu4169]

Love the video, where did you get the cool yellow DDC glasses from ?

[@BrianDavisraces]

100%

[@dirkgross1603]

I've had the Elemnt Bolt for two years and it's worked perfectly. Never had a Garmin, I moved over from a wireless cateye that lost signal every time I used a headlight. I got the full sensor package in a bundle deal so the price was reasonable. Sometimes when starting a ride and pairing the unit to the phone it seems to delay, but if I just ignore it and turn off the phone screen it suddenly and always pairs. Not sure if it's a coincidence or causes something to happen.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Gotcha - yeah I am running smooth as butter now after a little more time with it. It just works!

[@andru533]

A lot speaks for the Wahoo. But I have a Garmin watch... this is the only thing making me hesitate. What u think?

[@BrianDavisraces]

If you love the watch I’d stick with GARMIN. Wahoo now has a watch. Not sure if it’s awesome or not. I never had a watch so switching was a much easier decision. If u got something that works - stick with it.

[@andru533]

@@BrianDavisraces Thank you Brian! Have a great day!

[@channul4887]

What phone did you have issues connecting Garmin to? I find that this is phone dependent (but am not 100% sure if it's phone's fault), one can work flawlessly another can be as you say.

[@BrianDavisraces]

iPhones of various vintages over the years.

[@channul4887]

@@BrianDavisraces interesting, I had good experience with iPhones, Android was iffy. That said other bluetooth accessories of all sorts never caused any trouble. Which just shows that something ain't right with Garmin hardware.

[@leethurgood9602]

Cheers for this vid. I'm just looking in to getting a bike computer and almost everything I'm seeing is leading me towards Wahoo. Now just wondering whether I need the Roam or should just get the Bolt.

[@LouieBaLLz]

The Bolt just got a v2 today. It's a Roam in the Bolt body.

[@leethurgood9602]

@@LouieBaLLz Yea I noticed that and have bought the new Bolt v2. Seemed perfect for me and can't wait to try it out when it arrives tomorrow. Cheers!

[@BrianDavisraces]

I'd love to hear what you think...I still love the roam, not seeing a ton of reasons to upgrade to the new one, but all the bolt users make it a solid choice for upgrading.

[@LouieBaLLz]

@@BrianDavisraces I switched from the Garmin Edge 830 and so far I love the Wahoo so much more. I tried using a friends roam and the only thing it has over the Bolt is the larger screen. I think the Bolt screen has better contrast and the colors are great too. I would probably hold on to the roam for now and see what they have in store for it down the line.

[@gabrielmarias972]

Hi i found with the roam a problem with auto pause, its possible to customize the speed for the pause? In case from the app? And how can choose the satelite roam use? GPS, Glonaglass etc I found big problem in a ride i cant move into the map, just zoom it, and sometimes just dont like to take the phone Thx

[@adamsteineke4661]

Brian, you still on Wahoo? Thinking about a swap... about to demo a bolt v2 coming from Garmin 520.

[@BrianDavisraces]

I am indeed. Still happy. Same unit from this video. No issues

[@tri-mak1752]

you leave near cemetery? must be very quite neighborhood

[@Redridge07]

@Anak Dalita ... we like to describe the neighborhood as quite dead.

[@BrianDavisraces]

LULZ - yeah very quiet - except around the end of october....

[@philc9305]

I have wahoo element and the garmin 520 plus. Both about the same price point. The wahoo is much easier to see and the seems a bit more intuitive. The garmin has the connect app that I really like and along with my garmin watch does a great job of tracking my activities. If wahoo were to have those things it would win hands down.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Yeah the watch issue is the only thing that locks in a lot of GARMIN users I think (guessing)

[@MajikSo]

@Brian Davis Races Great review! Can you also tell what Garmin did you use?

[@BrianDavisraces]

I have been using the GARMIN 1000. I know the 1030 would be more up to date but the vibe of overpromising and underdelivering is deep at GARMIN so we broke up.

[@Galaxieguy428]

I'm want a GPS that integrates music. Thinking about a Karoo that I can sideload something in. Got rid of my Wahoo Bolt and use my Garmin watch for tracking and an old iPhone on the bars for music. Rokform stem mount is pretty good.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Nice. I like the Karoo I’m curious about it.

[@troymitchell900]

I had a Wahoo that I loved and then 6 months ago after 2 years it bricked. Bought a new one, it had a bunch of problems and then bricked in a week also. Returned it bought another and guess what it Bricked also. I switched back to Garmin, didn’t want to but I ride over 8,000 miles a year much of which is on routes that are 50-120 so I need reliability. Wahoo was great until it wasn’t. Heard a bunch of similar stories from others who are also grudgingly switching back to Garmin.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Interesting experience - I'm always just so surprised that both companies seem to experience so much inconsistency with QC...it's fascinating (and not cool)

[@simonmoran6009]

Which garmin do you recommend ?!

[@peterbee8892]

I never switched I just found wahoo first after chatting to my bike chums. The Garmin device worth adding is the Varia radar which gives early warning of fast or slow approaching vehicles. The same varia signal can be picked up be several riders. Better safe than squished. Excellent integration with Komoot for ride prep both on and off road routes.

[@BrianDavisraces]

yeah people LOVE the varia, I am going to do a video in a bit comparing the Varia to the rear camera - they are apples and oranges, but I think it will be a nice comparison

[@johnpoulter2224]

Thanks Brian, I am leaning towards the wahoo.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Happy to help John.

[@dubaigeek1988]

Interesting insight

[@neildalton8756]

Switch to wahoo a few years ago, can’t see me going back. Plus looks bad ass when paired with a k edge mount

[@BrianDavisraces]

I do like the look when they are all integrated in and looking all pretty

[@harukananami6615]

I use garmin and never had the issues you mentioned

[@Roger101Watson]

I have an 830 and they are vastly superior to the older units in many ways I've certainly not had any problems you mention apart from the terrible routing..It's soo bad! I'm tempted to try the Wahoo I do think using the Strava routing is not a comparison because that requires an extra subscription that many don't have.

[@BrianDavisraces]

Awesome glad you got a good fit for your needs! But...yeah the routing is just befuddling since they are a freaking navigation company! LOL - google is a everything company and I highly prefer googles "bike routes" to almost anything I have used that is cycling specific. Agree on the Strava routes, the subscription thing I think was neccessary but lost a bunch of people there.

[@Roger101Watson]

@@BrianDavisraces I pre-ordered the Hammerhead Karoo 2 in the end. It looks like the future of biking GPS, I'm excited to try one come February. The Wahoo just looks too dated and those deep pushbuttons frustrating to use.

[@RichardMigneron]

Great video, tnx. I'm looking to go for a Bolt myself. My only question left, which sensor(s) are you using with it ? I saw that you have a Power meter, I suppose you don't use a cadence sensor (might be integrated with the power meter ???), what about a Speed sensor ? Or do you rely only on the GPS ? I'm thinking, at least the TickrX (Heart rate sensor), and since I don't have a power meter (Expensive beasts they are), a Cadence sensor.

[@BrianDavisraces]

I only have a hr monitor. Speed is gps. Cadence and power come from the crank arm (stages type) PM. So easy and clean. For power I got the Specialized crank power. It’s pretty affordable and works great.

[@peterbee8892]

With my Wahoo the gps can loose signal under trees so a speed sensor is key to a steady flow of data to the head unit. If you loose gps for a few seconds the head unit shows you slowing then the speed jumps to very high as it recomputes the now location when you are out form under the trees. I have the heart rate monitor and cadence and speed so I can gauge my efforts uphill with the colours on the wahoo .

[@RichardMigneron]

Peter Bee I have a power meter (that includes cadence), the speed is not of much use when training with a power meter anymore. Just missing a HR sensor now.

[@linesided]

How's the ride data? Am ready to switch - my Garmin 520 is really letting me down with inaccurate elevation and speed data on almost every ride.

[@BrianDavisraces]

I've never really focused on that to be honest, funny...seems like the most important thing when you read that comment, but I never have compared it with a friend to see. It all seems very accurate though...good comment, I might have to dig deeper on that