Getting a Garmin Edge 520 – Here Is What To Expect

The Garmin Edge 520 is a very functional cycle computer that delivers a great number of features packed into a reasonable sized unit.

I’ve recently purchased a Garmin Edge 520 from Kiwi Multisport and in this series of posts I will take you through it’s key features and how to set it up and operate it. As part of this series I’ve filmed a series of video’s on YouTube.

Kiwi Multisport have a very quick and efficient delivery service, nationally within NZ. I picked up my Garmin in store, but another client of mine got his delivered in 3 days.

The Edge 520 is very functional and due to both ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart connectivity can connect to a wide range of both Garmin and 3rd party products on the market. Mine will be used to connect with sensors on three different bikes with the following sensors:

• Garmin Premium Heart Rate Strap (one strap but used on all three bikes);
• PowerTap hub based power meters (on my TT & road bikes);
• Garmin GSC-10 Speed Cadence sensors (on my TT & road bikes); and
• Garmin magnet-less Speed and Cadence sensors (on my MtB).

This was easy to set up and establish and I’ll be posting how to do this in a few days.

The Garmin Edge 520 will track a range of metrics that you can then download to Garmin Connect (and then automatically connect with both Strava and Training Peaks). Key metrics include:

• Speed based data including GPS track;
• Cadence data when paired with a cadence meter;
• Power data when paired with a power meter;
• Display incoming text and other messages from your phone (when paired with a blue tooth smart phone);
• Garmin Live Track (when paired with a blue tooth smart phone) which can be reassuring for family and friends when out training;
• Strava live segments (when paired with a blue tooth smart phone);
• Gradient and altitude data; and
• Many other features.

It is available in two bundles. The first is the device only, which is what I got as I’ve already got my bikes set up with the sensors and already have a premium HR monitor. The other option is a bundle that comes with a premium HR monitor as well as speed and cadence sensors.

I was pleasantly surprised to see the solid mount for ‘off the front’ mounting of the Garmin Edge 520 in the box along with the other mounts.

Here is a video of me unboxing the product for the first time, so you can see what is included.

Over the rest of the week I’ll be posting a range of articles in relation to setting up your Garmin Edge 520.

If you would like further advice feel free to contact Coach Ray.

Coach Ray is the Head Coach & Director of Qwik Kiwi – Endurance Sports Consultant.

Coach Ray is a triathlon coach who specialises in coaching beginner and recreational athletes to achieve their sporting goals. He can be contacted at coachray@coachray.nz and 021 348 729. Make sure you sign up to his monthly informative newsletter.

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For great workouts of this nature check out my eBook Top 10 Cycle Workouts from Coach Ray.