Garmin intros Edge cycling trackers with GPS, fitness

Garmin on Wednesday doubled the size of its Edge line of cycling devices with the 605 and 705. Each adds a 2.2-inch color LCD with support for true navigation over GPS rather than just coordinates; but unlike automotive units, riders can set the unit to adapt to previous routes or record shortcuts that might not register on traditional maps. The 605 also uses GPS to track altitude, Garmin says. Either system also stores information on speed, inclines, and any connected fitness trackers for heart rates as well as pedal power and rhythm. Cyclists can use most of these to set targets for an upcoming ride and upload the data through Garmin Connect, a web-based utility that stores and compares exercise information over time.

The 705 builds on the features of the 605 by including an ANT+Sport wireless transmitter, according to the company; the adapter allows for a cordless link between multiple sensors on a bike and also serves as a means of sharing both ride stats and favorite routes between other cyclists. The 705's altitude calculations are also more precise through a dedicated barometric altimeter.

Both devices store data on microSD, upload data to computers through USB, and will be available in December of this year. The Edge 605 ships with just a bike mount at $400, while the 705 comes in bundles ranging from a heart-rate-only model for $500 to a $650 pack that adds a speed sensor and detailed urban maps. Garmin Connect initially supports only Windows PCs but will support visitors using MacOS X by November.