Whether you want to train for a race or simply push yourself to improve beyond your current level, an Edge bicycle monitor is an invaluable tool.  Made by Garmin, long renowned for their superior GPS devices, these monitors can help you do everything from monitor your heart rate to improve your performance on long, arduous hills.  But what do you need as a cyclist?  Your particular needs are of the utmost importance when determining which Edge is right for you. 

Garmin first offered the 205 model, which is a GPS enabled cycle computer that acts as a compact personal trainer.  Besides the incredible positioning functions, the 205 offers cyclists continuous feedback during rides, including basics like speed, distance, altitude, and calories burned.  In addition, cyclists will find that they can select a virtual competitor to race against or be their own competitor.  The 205 can record a route so you can try to best your previous times.  A software tie-in allows you to create optimum training programs, plot and record courses, and create charts that analyze your latest performance.  The 205 is ideal for cyclists who want to improve their fitness and times and whose biggest competitor is themselves.

For those who are training for races may want to give themselves an extra edge with the 305.  This model features the same incredible training functions as the 205 but includes a heart monitor and/or a cadence sensor so you can continually strive to reach your best performance levels. An added feature that serious cyclists will appreciate is the elevation profile so you can know your elevation no matter where you're riding.  The barometric altimeter records changes in elevation so you can get the most precise data on your ascents and descents. 

The Edge 605 and 705 models are quite similar to the 205 and 305, but feature increased sensitivity and accuracy.  Of the two, the 705 model features the cadence sensor and heart monitor, so this may be the better option for those wanting to improve each course by seconds and get the most from every ride.  Real time data can be accessed with a touch of the finger, and you can download this information onto your computer in order to analyze it, share it, or use it to create training programs.  You can then program your training routes and goals into your Edge and be well-prepared for your next ride.

The newest addition to the line is the 500, which has all the functions you need for taking your performance to new heights.  Heart monitor, cadence sensor, accurate location and elevation maps, barometric altimeter, speed, distance, calories burned, ride analysis features, auto pause, auto lap, and more make this a model for serious cyclists. 

What do you need?  The models which feature more functions are more expensive, but they will help you tweak your training programs and performance levels so you can train smarter for races.  If you want to continually do better than yesterday, less expensive models will still help you track your courses and compare times.  If you are trying to lose weight or increase your fitness, you will find the heart monitor essential.

There is a model that will work for any goal and that will help you work towards achieving new levels of performance.  The question to ask yourself is what do you want to do and which tools can help you get there.  No matter what your answer, a Garmin will suit your needs.  To learn more about other options like the wireless Cateye computer, click here.

Read the next Bicycle Monitors article on The Wireless Cateye Computer Helps Training and Endurance