Impressive … and that Garmin unit looks pretty handy as well! Methinks this would just about be the perfect bicycle GPS if Garmin would add “find nearest Orangina” to the search menu!
Winter time is challenging for battery - not solar part - (as long as it is not below 0C) So don't be fooled by "it is Supper Sunny & hot - i will gain 100%". Too many factor that impact solar gain, or i should rather say battery level gain from solar. Wondering what is actual [not advertised] solar gain that is measured by Garmin - whether it is actual insolation measurement or charged by solar - as if you consume less (unit off or minimal use) than you get (irradiance) = your gain might be higher than when you consume more with same amount of irradiance. Standard tests for PV panels are in 25C condition - anything above that impact overall efficiency of converting precious irradiance to power. I am impressed too with this unit performance for now (as subject to change - knowing Garmin for it's issues with software [whether intentionally or not]) Hi Katie, Only based on your Audience reach - Would be cool if you could do tests on same level of "so called solar gain" with sensors and without sensors. (measured in time) Or if you not that bothered - maybe even simpler test - to see if solar gain is higher with or without sleeve. - in fairly similar conditions.
It’s had/having its issues but it’s definitely a step in the right direction for long rides. I use mine everyday and on a sunny 40 minute commute I can gain around 15 minutes extra time.
The 1040 Solar is an excellent unit. The satellite signal with GNSS on is excellent and I am yet to loss signal, which has included going through a few tunnels. Yes, it is expensive but I love mine
The non solar 1040 gets over 40 hour run time and I think is $150 cheaper. 40 hours is more than enough for the majority of riders. Plus the solar version has a slightly darker screen.
Unfortunately, the Edge 1040 Solar model has one bug, if it is in the strong sun for a long time and becomes overheated, the display shows information about the high temperature and turns off the solar charging. I use the old 1030 Plus and new 1040 solarless at the same time (I like the display of 2 displays, map + telemetry and Di2 switches telemetry only), the backlights are always on, and after 15 hours of driving, the 1030 was at 40% and the 1040 at 68%. Personally, I think that for trips up to 24 - 48 hours, charging from a power bank is sufficient, and for longer backpacking trips, it is advantageous to purchase a SON-24 dynamo in the front hub for continuous charging of several electronic devices while driving (watch, Edge, phone, front light, rear light + radar) Stamina doesn't work reliably on the Edge 1040, unfortunately. It gradually decreases for about 10 hours and then jumps to 90% and remains there until the end of the ride. At this point, the numerical value of the Stain changes to a permanent inscription "Calculating". This happens over and over again. I keep Edge updated. I use a Garmin Rally 200 power meter + a Garmin HR yellow chest strap.
I have tested this regarding the cut off of solar harvesting, I can also confirm that solar cuts of when unit reached about 44/45 degrees Celsius, I have been told that it is a safety cut off. It will resume when the unit cools off.
That was a great test, Katie 👏🏻 giving us a right perspective of the Solar Power gain on a GPS device! (at this time, I own a 830 series, but my Fenix 6 watch has the Solar cell) Also, the comparison with a cloudy day helps a lot. See ya, blue skies 🤙🏻🚲🍀 take care
That's really cool. I hope you're keeping it for a long term review. It'd be interesting to hear your thoughts on it after a season or two (fall/winter) of use.
If they would offer an LCD (or even e-ink) version with a slightly less tall screen and solar panels along the bezel, it would be a winner. They could cut the price and have a display that is always on and easily readable in bright sunlight, while being more power efficient. Perhaps it would even be able to sustain a BT connection and never need to be plugged in. It is impressive though that this unit lasted so long without a charge. But at its current price it's just too expensive in addition to being too big. Most impressive is that you were able to ride those lengthy and hilly segments back to back without a rest day.
A regular LCD screen will consume far more power, because the backlight would have to counter bright sunlight. The transflective memory-in-pixel screens used by Garmin, while not the most impressive visually, are optimised for power efficiency and don't need the backlight at all in bright sunlight. E-ink would be interesting, but the refresh rates are currently too slow for navigation purposed. Nobody wants a screen that refreshes once a second and you can see building up.
It looks fantastic though I think I'll be getting many more years out of my 1030+ before I consider upgrading and who knows what will be available then.
Been using mine for a few weeks now (no 8 day epic rides, but a few centuries). Very pleased with the unit and the UI improvements over the 1030 are much nicer. I'd be curious if you found the 'stamina' screen helpful over the day long rides.
Stamina doesn't work reliably on the Edge 1040, unfortunately. It gradually decreases for about 10 hours and then jumps to 90% and remains there until the end of the ride. At this point, the numerical value of the Stain changes to a permanent inscription "Calculating". This happens over and over again. I keep Edge updated. I use a Garmin Rally 200 SPD power meter + Garmin HR yellow chest strap.
@@lubistro I've done quite a few rides (admittedly not >10 hours) with it and it's worked fine for me on my unit. It's not brilliantly accurate, and I still managed to ride another 2 hours after it was almost at zero, but I wasn't at my best for those 2 hours. But used on shorter 100km rides where I've gone all out it's been a pretty good gauge of what's left in the tank.
@@deanwaller1029 After inquiry by, amongst others, DC Rainmaker, Garmin explained that 0% stamina doesn't mean you can't cycle, just that you won't be able to perform at your usual level
Personally, I think that for trips up to 24 - 48 hours, charging from a power bank is sufficient, and for longer backpacking trips, it is advantageous to purchase a SON-24 dynamo in the front hub for continuous charging of several electronic devices while driving (watch, Edge, phone, front light, rear light + radar)
Brilliant review and a great trip to do it on . I was looking at the solar but feel it may only be required for the backpackers/endurance riders. Garmin battery life is fantastic on all models
Great test, thanks for that. I was thinking this version will be replacement for my 1030 for next season (which is always drained at the end of day unless re-charged, however ususally not use energy saving mode unless battery already very low), I'm convinced now:)
Try energy save mode on your 1030... it's phenomenal! Might save you needing to replace but the 1040 Solar is just next level. Let me know how you get on with battery saver mode...
Far more impressive than the garmin solar watches…I find the solar aspect of my watch makes essentially no difference to battery life. I own the 1030 plus and now I’ve seen the 1040 solar i will likely upgrade to that when the time comes….unless Garmin would like to treat me to a free one of course 😂
Get bloody Garmin to give you the Varia 515 radar for trial, you won’t give it back I’m telling you! Because it’s a safety device, that’s why I want my favourite TH-cam blogger to be safe!
Failing to see a personal benefit over the 1030plus, for me. A week ago I did two solo 14hr elapsed time cycling days back to back, navigating (brilliantly I have to say) the whole way, 135miles on day one and still had 55% left. I never pause my Garmin, so during all stops the device was left recording, I charged it overnight as I don't do camping, and wasn't sure what the battery capacity would be like, so had a plug and lead with me. It didn't need the weather to be sunny for me to get this reliable and confidence inspiring performance. It was paired with my phone - another useful function - the whole time and I was able to do device to device transfers of the routes to my spare Garmins (I didn't leave anything to chance) it is my understanding that this feature has been removed on the Solar powered device.
Yeah the 1030 Plus is AWESOME - love it! Glad you got on with it also. And also. Mega rides them! I think for those who are touring, doing a long distance race / ride it’s just amazing as it’s one less thing to think about.
I nearly said in the comments to that video that you should have asked for the new Garmin as that 'Cade' bloke 🤣 had been given one to test recently and it looked great. I think I'll be getting one when I finally manage to kill my current Garmin
@@KatieKookaburra I live in Nowra south of Sydney. Near Kangaroo Valley and Southern Highlands. We having our wettest year, so strange. Hopefully a normal summer.
I’m encouraged to see that it has been working well. I currently use a Wahoo for audax (I rode The Three Coasts 600km in June) and backpacking trips. I know you know that a Wahoo can be a bit unreliable after 200km and I was thinking about replacing it. Primarily because I’m planning a 1300km ish bike packing trip in a few weeks time where I plan to camp. I have seen comments from you where you speak highly of the 1030+ and I can get one of those for quite a bit cheaper than a 1040/1040 Solar. Apart from the solar, which I obviously know is a marked improvement, are there are only features of the new 1040 which you think are worth having over the 1030+? I think I’d have a 1040S already by now but I’m a bit put off by the complaints of bugs etc at the moment. I sort of need it to be reliable as I will be riding the 1300km on my own without any other GPS. Presumably/clearly you got on fine though so that makes me think the problems aren’t as bad as they’re made out to be.
I think the 1040S has multi band so GPS and others that help with locations specifically off road. I really do love the 1030+ also and the battery is also great on that and very reliable. I did a really hilly 600km and also a 1100km on that device and was flawless.
Yes, but ... BUT ... most ppl would like to see with: Multi-band turned on, with map, and with sensors: speed - actually this would be better idea, as I know that such sensors gave speed more accurate and that may help GPS to track and use less energy - power meters, and of course - HR sensor connected. GPS check once 10s and once 1s makes a lot of difference.
I’ve never used multi band before and I predominantly ride road so for me this was a test of how I use it in the real world. I turned maps on and off as I rode also.
How does it go without any of the battery saver modes? For say a 200-250km ride. Say a max 1 day ride (for me) with nighttime charging. I like to see the map distance etc full time when riding.
Hi Katie, love the vids. I am on the verge of getting a ribble sl disc and just wondering are you still loving yours? is it really comfortable on long rides and doesn't beat you up .cheers
I LOVE mine, I have rim brake version and really love it. I just asked them not to cut the fork so I could choose the height I wanted for the bars. I have a few spacers on mine. But super comfy, lovely bike to ride!
I’m after a new garmin, only got a 1000 edge which is obsolete now. So looked at the 1040 solar as the new one out, but very expensive. I know Katie had it free, lucky lady. But if you was in the market for a new garmin,would you commit to buy it over other edges?
I also had the Edge 1000. I think it depends if you ride off road (the 1040 Solar has multi band so better accuracy off road), long distance (the solar does give that extra battery life without having to do anything). Both are excellent! But the amount of endurance I do, any extra battery life would be worth it for me. Climb Pro has also been upgraded. But have a look at some comparisons and see which will work best for you :)
@@KatieKookaburra Thanks for the advice. Your a good'un getting back to me. Thought you had the 1030 edge Katie? May go for the standard 1040 as cheaper and the battery life is still plenty for me. Plus its future proof for a good while.
I do wonder if the benefit is slightly lost if you then leave the device plugged into the mains all night to recharge to 100%. Don't think I'd trust it and would still take a charger, especially if on an epic ride you do not want to lose.
Personally, I think that for trips up to 24 - 48 hours, charging from a power bank is sufficient, and for longer backpacking trips, it is advantageous to purchase a SON-24 dynamo in the front hub for continuous charging of several electronic devices while driving (watch, Edge, phone, front light, rear light + radar)
To be completely honest, I thought it would give a little extra time but not anywhere near as much as it did. I used the Edge 1000 years ago and comparing the two... it's like night and day how the progression of these things has gone! Super impressed!!!
I mean, this solar-powered Garmin is cool, but I'm struggling to see a real-world application. You certainly had access to outlet charging at the end of each day's ride? No day's ride would even come close to discharging the battery of the regular 1030, right? Beyond a very few unlikely edge cases, it feels like the 1040 Solar is a bit gimmicky. Or am I missing a practical application involving the vast majority of rides performed by an average endurance cyclist?
I agree. There might be a case for it if you leave it out in the sun while you are drinking orangina inside all day. In that case it may never need charging. How much does solar help in full (normal) mode? Is the presumably higher cost worth it? Not for me. I can't afford any of these things anyway. I use either my phone or garmin 645 watch. I used to use an Avocet computer for speed and distance only. Until it broke.
@@johnsmithers389 Oh, I'm sure it would be a benefit there, but this one one of those "unlikely edge cases" I referred to earlier. On the other hand, if you're cycle camping, wouldn't you be carrying a charger of some kind for other devices, including a phone?
@@whizler The more self sufficient you can be while cycle touring/camping the better. Some tourers go days without the opportunity to top up a powerbank.
So for me, as an endurance rider / bike packer any extra battery life is worth it for me. That's why on endurance races / events people use dynamos / power packs. So to not have to worry about charging is great. But equally it's not for everyone which is why Garmin has such a great line up of alternatives :)
Don't leave it attached, keep that unit close to you. Even if I pop into a shop I ALWAYS take it off. Thieves will take anything that isn't screwed to the floor!
I Appreciate that you are upfront about supported products
It’s a great unit! I did 12+ hours the other day, all screens on, only got down to 61%. Especially good if you have lots of sun!
best advert ive seen for garmin solar. Garmin should be pleased as you did a really helpful review and really showed it off well
Thanks, but would have showed my experience either way - so it’s on Garmin for making a cracking product! :)
Impressive … and that Garmin unit looks pretty handy as well! Methinks this would just about be the perfect bicycle GPS if Garmin would add “find nearest Orangina” to the search menu!
Make sure that's Orangina in a glass bottle 😆
YASSSSS! Will speak to the Garmin team.... ;)
Hi Katie, can you do another test in the wintertime? It would be great to see how it performs overall.
Absolutely!
Winter time is challenging for battery - not solar part - (as long as it is not below 0C)
So don't be fooled by "it is Supper Sunny & hot - i will gain 100%". Too many factor that impact solar gain, or i should rather say battery level gain from solar.
Wondering what is actual [not advertised] solar gain that is measured by Garmin - whether it is actual insolation measurement or charged by solar - as if you consume less (unit off or minimal use) than you get (irradiance) = your gain might be higher than when you consume more with same amount of irradiance.
Standard tests for PV panels are in 25C condition - anything above that impact overall efficiency of converting precious irradiance to power.
I am impressed too with this unit performance for now (as subject to change - knowing Garmin for it's issues with software [whether intentionally or not])
Hi Katie,
Only based on your Audience reach - Would be cool if you could do tests on same level of "so called solar gain" with sensors and without sensors. (measured in time)
Or if you not that bothered - maybe even simpler test - to see if solar gain is higher with or without sleeve. - in fairly similar conditions.
It’s had/having its issues but it’s definitely a step in the right direction for long rides. I use mine everyday and on a sunny 40 minute commute I can gain around 15 minutes extra time.
The 1040 Solar is an excellent unit. The satellite signal with GNSS on is excellent and I am yet to loss signal, which has included going through a few tunnels. Yes, it is expensive but I love mine
The non solar 1040 gets over 40 hour run time and I think is $150 cheaper. 40 hours is more than enough for the majority of riders. Plus the solar version has a slightly darker screen.
I got the solar although I don’t ride for too long in one ride (80-100km) and I only charge it once every 2-3 weeks.
Very impressive for summer long distance rides, perfect for LEL/ PBP
Unfortunately, the Edge 1040 Solar model has one bug, if it is in the strong sun for a long time and becomes overheated, the display shows information about the high temperature and turns off the solar charging.
I use the old 1030 Plus and new 1040 solarless at the same time (I like the display of 2 displays, map + telemetry and Di2 switches telemetry only), the backlights are always on, and after 15 hours of driving, the 1030 was at 40% and the 1040 at 68%.
Personally, I think that for trips up to 24 - 48 hours, charging from a power bank is sufficient, and for longer backpacking trips, it is advantageous to purchase a SON-24 dynamo in the front hub for continuous charging of several electronic devices while driving (watch, Edge, phone, front light, rear light + radar)
Stamina doesn't work reliably on the Edge 1040, unfortunately.
It gradually decreases for about 10 hours and then jumps to 90% and remains there until the end of the ride. At this point, the numerical value of the Stain changes to a permanent inscription "Calculating". This happens over and over again. I keep Edge updated.
I use a Garmin Rally 200 power meter + a Garmin HR yellow chest strap.
I have tested this regarding the cut off of solar harvesting, I can also confirm that solar cuts of when unit reached about 44/45 degrees Celsius, I have been told that it is a safety cut off. It will resume when the unit cools off.
That was a great test, Katie 👏🏻 giving us a right perspective of the Solar Power gain on a GPS device! (at this time, I own a 830 series, but my Fenix 6 watch has the Solar cell) Also, the comparison with a cloudy day helps a lot. See ya, blue skies 🤙🏻🚲🍀 take care
That's really cool.
I hope you're keeping it for a long term review. It'd be interesting to hear your thoughts on it after a season or two (fall/winter) of use.
Merci encore pour ces explications. Je pense que je vais l'acheter .Et merci encore d'être venu en France .👍🙏😘
I have an old school gps computer. The battery life is brilliant- I suspect because it has a simple b/w display
If they would offer an LCD (or even e-ink) version with a slightly less tall screen and solar panels along the bezel, it would be a winner. They could cut the price and have a display that is always on and easily readable in bright sunlight, while being more power efficient. Perhaps it would even be able to sustain a BT connection and never need to be plugged in.
It is impressive though that this unit lasted so long without a charge. But at its current price it's just too expensive in addition to being too big.
Most impressive is that you were able to ride those lengthy and hilly segments back to back without a rest day.
A regular LCD screen will consume far more power, because the backlight would have to counter bright sunlight. The transflective memory-in-pixel screens used by Garmin, while not the most impressive visually, are optimised for power efficiency and don't need the backlight at all in bright sunlight. E-ink would be interesting, but the refresh rates are currently too slow for navigation purposed. Nobody wants a screen that refreshes once a second and you can see building up.
It looks fantastic though I think I'll be getting many more years out of my 1030+ before I consider upgrading and who knows what will be available then.
Been using mine for a few weeks now (no 8 day epic rides, but a few centuries). Very pleased with the unit and the UI improvements over the 1030 are much nicer. I'd be curious if you found the 'stamina' screen helpful over the day long rides.
Awesome you're enjoying it! I haven't actually used that screen yet... ha! Will be a good one to try though!
Stamina doesn't work reliably on the Edge 1040, unfortunately.
It gradually decreases for about 10 hours and then jumps to 90% and remains there until the end of the ride. At this point, the numerical value of the Stain changes to a permanent inscription "Calculating". This happens over and over again. I keep Edge updated.
I use a Garmin Rally 200 SPD power meter + Garmin HR yellow chest strap.
@@lubistro I've done quite a few rides (admittedly not >10 hours) with it and it's worked fine for me on my unit. It's not brilliantly accurate, and I still managed to ride another 2 hours after it was almost at zero, but I wasn't at my best for those 2 hours. But used on shorter 100km rides where I've gone all out it's been a pretty good gauge of what's left in the tank.
@@deanwaller1029 After inquiry by, amongst others, DC Rainmaker, Garmin explained that 0% stamina doesn't mean you can't cycle, just that you won't be able to perform at your usual level
How can you ride so long and stay looking so fresh.. When I ride half that distance i look like trash.. Keep on going... love your videos..
Haha it must be the lighting :)
Personally, I think that for trips up to 24 - 48 hours, charging from a power bank is sufficient, and for longer backpacking trips, it is advantageous to purchase a SON-24 dynamo in the front hub for continuous charging of several electronic devices while driving (watch, Edge, phone, front light, rear light + radar)
I would use dynamo solely for lights. Then can use solar for charging Garmin 👌🏼
Brilliant review and a great trip to do it on . I was looking at the solar but feel it may only be required for the backpackers/endurance riders.
Garmin battery life is fantastic on all models
Yeah I didn't think much could be improved from the 1030 Plus as the battery on that is INSANELY good, but this tops it! :)
@@KatieKookaburra really is amazing 🤩
Intrested to see how good this is in the winter ... great video 👍
Thank you for the video. And finally a review with real statistics! GCN, C Weekly can learn something here.
Great effort and riding. Thank you for the super real life review.
Great test, thanks for that. I was thinking this version will be replacement for my 1030 for next season (which is always drained at the end of day unless re-charged, however ususally not use energy saving mode unless battery already very low), I'm convinced now:)
Try energy save mode on your 1030... it's phenomenal! Might save you needing to replace but the 1040 Solar is just next level. Let me know how you get on with battery saver mode...
Far more impressive than the garmin solar watches…I find the solar aspect of my watch makes essentially no difference to battery life. I own the 1030 plus and now I’ve seen the 1040 solar i will likely upgrade to that when the time comes….unless Garmin would like to treat me to a free one of course 😂
Guys in the background say “we’re going to be on TV”
Get bloody Garmin to give you the Varia 515 radar for trial, you won’t give it back I’m telling you! Because it’s a safety device, that’s why I want my favourite TH-cam blogger to be safe!
Great vlog u do like ur tech have a great weekend has ur ftp grown
Failing to see a personal benefit over the 1030plus, for me. A week ago I did two solo 14hr elapsed time cycling days back to back, navigating (brilliantly I have to say) the whole way, 135miles on day one and still had 55% left. I never pause my Garmin, so during all stops the device was left recording, I charged it overnight as I don't do camping, and wasn't sure what the battery capacity would be like, so had a plug and lead with me. It didn't need the weather to be sunny for me to get this reliable and confidence inspiring performance. It was paired with my phone - another useful function - the whole time and I was able to do device to device transfers of the routes to my spare Garmins (I didn't leave anything to chance) it is my understanding that this feature has been removed on the Solar powered device.
Yeah the 1030 Plus is AWESOME - love it! Glad you got on with it also. And also. Mega rides them! I think for those who are touring, doing a long distance race / ride it’s just amazing as it’s one less thing to think about.
I nearly said in the comments to that video that you should have asked for the new Garmin as that 'Cade' bloke 🤣 had been given one to test recently and it looked great. I think I'll be getting one when I finally manage to kill my current Garmin
It looks a great bit of kit, my old edge 800 is failing so this will replace it ready for tours abroad.
I would love to have one but I will have to wait until my bolt breaks first . What is the price. Hats off to you Katie for long rides every day. 👍
over £600 for the solar one.
Hi Katie good video might get one take care
Nice, i have been looking at that solar thinngy :D now i got some prime data from the legend :D
Too kind :)
Thank you very much for your review of this. I live in Australia, so could work well.
Lucky you!!! Where in Aus? Love it there!!
@@KatieKookaburra I live in Nowra south of Sydney. Near Kangaroo Valley and Southern Highlands. We having our wettest year, so strange. Hopefully a normal summer.
Very impressive performance!
Would be interesting to see how well it works in UK winter.
I’m in Scotland and thought the same.
Look at the end of the video where it's tested in darker weather
@@KatieKookaburra there’s darker weather and then there’s Scotland!
I’m encouraged to see that it has been working well. I currently use a Wahoo for audax (I rode The Three Coasts 600km in June) and backpacking trips. I know you know that a Wahoo can be a bit unreliable after 200km and I was thinking about replacing it. Primarily because I’m planning a 1300km ish bike packing trip in a few weeks time where I plan to camp. I have seen comments from you where you speak highly of the 1030+ and I can get one of those for quite a bit cheaper than a 1040/1040 Solar. Apart from the solar, which I obviously know is a marked improvement, are there are only features of the new 1040 which you think are worth having over the 1030+? I think I’d have a 1040S already by now but I’m a bit put off by the complaints of bugs etc at the moment. I sort of need it to be reliable as I will be riding the 1300km on my own without any other GPS. Presumably/clearly you got on fine though so that makes me think the problems aren’t as bad as they’re made out to be.
I think the 1040S has multi band so GPS and others that help with locations specifically off road. I really do love the 1030+ also and the battery is also great on that and very reliable. I did a really hilly 600km and also a 1100km on that device and was flawless.
STOP IT 🙈 I can see another upgrade incoming lol. I love the size of the screen and the solar just makes it a perfect companion for my bike
Wahoo needs to catch up.
Yes, but ... BUT ... most ppl would like to see with: Multi-band turned on, with map, and with sensors: speed - actually this would be better idea, as I know that such sensors gave speed more accurate and that may help GPS to track and use less energy - power meters, and of course - HR sensor connected. GPS check once 10s and once 1s makes a lot of difference.
I’ve never used multi band before and I predominantly ride road so for me this was a test of how I use it in the real world. I turned maps on and off as I rode also.
And I don’t wear a HR on road rides so for me that wouldn’t come into it.
If Garmin can get me to Paris I'm totally getting one!
Where are you starting from?
Yeah, where are you starting from?
@@KatieKookaburra Washington DC. That whole ocean thing might be a challenge.
How does it go without any of the battery saver modes? For say a 200-250km ride. Say a max 1 day ride (for me) with nighttime charging.
I like to see the map distance etc full time when riding.
I will try this out...
Fenix 6x pro solar helps like 5%. Wonder if Edge unit better
I used a solar calculator in school, great battery life.
Great ! Did you use heart rate sensor or power meter sensor?
I didn't, I do say that in the vid :)
Hi Katie, love the vids. I am on the verge of getting a ribble sl disc and just wondering are you still loving yours? is it really comfortable on long rides and doesn't beat you up .cheers
I LOVE mine, I have rim brake version and really love it. I just asked them not to cut the fork so I could choose the height I wanted for the bars. I have a few spacers on mine. But super comfy, lovely bike to ride!
@@KatieKookaburra thanks Katie, going to push button today , September delivery. Thanks again.
Thought this looked good until I saw the price !!
Great unit, blooming expensive though
It is an investment, for sure.
I’m after a new garmin, only got a 1000 edge which is obsolete now. So looked at the 1040 solar as the new one out, but very expensive. I know Katie had it free, lucky lady. But if you was in the market for a new garmin,would you commit to buy it over other edges?
I also had the Edge 1000. I think it depends if you ride off road (the 1040 Solar has multi band so better accuracy off road), long distance (the solar does give that extra battery life without having to do anything). Both are excellent! But the amount of endurance I do, any extra battery life would be worth it for me. Climb Pro has also been upgraded. But have a look at some comparisons and see which will work best for you :)
@@KatieKookaburra Thanks for the advice. Your a good'un getting back to me. Thought you had the 1030 edge Katie?
May go for the standard 1040 as cheaper and the battery life is still plenty for me. Plus its future proof for a good while.
I think what's even more impressive is how you didn't get sun burnt.
Factor 50 🔥😎
Had the best sun cream I've ever used! will include in my next video!
I do wonder if the benefit is slightly lost if you then leave the device plugged into the mains all night to recharge to 100%. Don't think I'd trust it and would still take a charger, especially if on an epic ride you do not want to lose.
I took a charger cable but honestly didn't need it - even for 1500km! I do trust this beast! :)
Personally, I think that for trips up to 24 - 48 hours, charging from a power bank is sufficient, and for longer backpacking trips, it is advantageous to purchase a SON-24 dynamo in the front hub for continuous charging of several electronic devices while driving (watch, Edge, phone, front light, rear light + radar)
Do you wear a chest strap heart rate monitor, does it pair with your 1040 solar?
It does pair but I don’t generally wear a HR outside
I viewed these as a bit gimmicky until I watched this. Pretty impressive 👍 . One question: does it also solar charge whilst not in use?
To be completely honest, I thought it would give a little extra time but not anywhere near as much as it did. I used the Edge 1000 years ago and comparing the two... it's like night and day how the progression of these things has gone! Super impressed!!!
Also, yes it charges when not in use. It shows you at the end of the day how much gain was used from non-ride use.
@@KatieKookaburra Cool. It could be left in a window on those non-cycling, and shorter days to keep it always topped up then. Brill 🥳
I love you katie
I mean, this solar-powered Garmin is cool, but I'm struggling to see a real-world application. You certainly had access to outlet charging at the end of each day's ride? No day's ride would even come close to discharging the battery of the regular 1030, right? Beyond a very few unlikely edge cases, it feels like the 1040 Solar is a bit gimmicky. Or am I missing a practical application involving the vast majority of rides performed by an average endurance cyclist?
I agree. There might be a case for it if you leave it out in the sun while you are drinking orangina inside all day. In that case it may never need charging. How much does solar help in full (normal) mode? Is the presumably higher cost worth it?
Not for me. I can't afford any of these things anyway. I use either my phone or garmin 645 watch. I used to use an Avocet computer for speed and distance only. Until it broke.
Maybe if your are cycle camping and don’t have access to charge points regularly then would be of benefit
@@johnsmithers389 Oh, I'm sure it would be a benefit there, but this one one of those "unlikely edge cases" I referred to earlier. On the other hand, if you're cycle camping, wouldn't you be carrying a charger of some kind for other devices, including a phone?
@@whizler The more self sufficient you can be while cycle touring/camping the better. Some tourers go days without the opportunity to top up a powerbank.
So for me, as an endurance rider / bike packer any extra battery life is worth it for me. That's why on endurance races / events people use dynamos / power packs. So to not have to worry about charging is great. But equally it's not for everyone which is why Garmin has such a great line up of alternatives :)
They should use Citizen Eco-drive watch technology, never have to charge it again.
I have the Garmin 830, just can't see spending over $700 bucks on a bicycle computer.
If yours works for what you need it to, no need to :)
Dang, a bit pricey, but I would probably never have to charge it because I could leave it on my bike outside every day while I'm at work.
Don't leave it attached, keep that unit close to you. Even if I pop into a shop I ALWAYS take it off. Thieves will take anything that isn't screwed to the floor!
so it charges while you ride?
Yup
Wahoo roam all day long
Sadly, not for all day and all night.