After my ride last night -where my HR randomly displayed between 60 and 219 bpm- I have decided to write a Garmin FAQ:
Q: How do I create a route with the EDGE without using my computer?
A: You don’t - our designers are shortsighted and didn’t feel the need to include such a feature.
Q: Why does my HR readings vary with no correlation to my actual HR?
A: Because, while the ANT+ protocol is indeed a very good one, our internal method for measuring HR is flawed - You could replace the battery and thighten the strap so that you are unable to breathe, but it would be better to just check your pulse with your finger!
Q: Why are there constant firmware upgrades available - none of which actually fix any of the fundamental problems with the unit?
A: Because the product was rushed to market and we are still running around like headless chickens - as a result, we just release updates to make it appear that problems will be fixed some day. It’s probably better to wait until Polar develop a similar model: they will at least wait until the unit works before releasing it.
Q: Why would I consider buying an EDGE 705?
A: The only reason is that there is no competing device - when there is it will most likely be better.
Q: Why is the software bundle so bad?
A: I can’t even imagine an answer for this!
Q: Why are there so many forums discussing various workarounds and tweaks for the device, yet nobody seems to actually come out and say: “The device shows no signs whatsoever of a design concept. It’s as if a standard GPS device was stripped down and a cycling interface was bundled on top.”
Q: I don’t know!
P.s. In case anyone assumes that I actually work for Garmin - I do not! This is just my impressions on the device from the perspective of someone who has been using it for a year and has worked in the s/w design/test industry for 13 years… I would be ashamed of my and my team if we had any involvement in this product.
Now I feel better!