Edge 500 or 800

[MrGrumpy]

Looking to upgrade my Edge 200 to something with a bit more nerdy detail Scouring the bay for second hand but geez the prices some are going for you can buy brand new nearly? Anyway think the only difference with the 800 over the 500 is maps ? Also HRM and speed sensors are there any other types that work with these Garmins if I was to just buy the head unit ??

 

[MikeW-71]

Anything ANT+ will connect to them and if you don't need the mapping, the 500 is spot-on. You can still program a breadcrumb trail into a 500 and follow that.

 

[MrGrumpy]

Just to add to this is the 810 worth the extra over an 800? Also being tempted in by mio cyclo spotted some in eBay !

 

[jamin100]

I got the 800 a few months back and it's fantastic..
I use the maps quite a lot as I plan rides on roads and in areas I didn't even know existed and then just follow them like a sat nav on the 800

Yes you can probably do similar with breadcrumb trails on the 500 but if your going to use the mapping then get one with proper maps..

Either way you can't go wrong

For me there were too many teething problems reported with the 810 that will probably get fixed eventually with firmware

 

[MrGrumpy]

I'm thinking not getting maps thus time around will mean spending more cash later! Anyways handtec have no stock of 800s dunno if they will come in soon or not? The price on eBay 2nd hand and new is very little so best buying new or refurb at least!

 

[jamin100]

The base maps that come with the 800 are a bit pants. The proper maps can be acquired or theres the open street maps for free

 

[andyfraser]

I'm thinking not getting maps thus time around will mean spending more cash later!

I think you're right. I had the Edge 200 with breadcrumb trails. They're useful but only if you have an idea of the route already or it's a simple road layout. I replaced the 200 with a Touring Plus and the maps and sat nav features are so much better than the breadcrumb trails. It's much more useful. IMHO if it comes down to a choice between the 500 and 800 and you can stretch to the 800 then go with the 800. You may not feel like you need maps now but you may in future.

 

[andyfraser]

The base maps that come with the 800 are a bit pants. The proper maps can be acquired or theres the open street maps for free

The OSM maps are supplied with the Touring Plus and are perfectly good maps.

 

[Debade]

Beyond the bread crumbs, the 500 has a cue sheet. You need to upload a TCX and I would recommend Ride With GPS to create your maps and then upload with TCX. That has been my most successful way to getting the cue sheet.
I have not upgraded my subscription in RwGPS. However, RwGPS with a subscription provides the benefit of an alert BEFORE arriving at an intersection where there is a turn. Right now, I get confirmation after I turn. (This late notice is a common complaint that I have seen online with Garmin users). Conclusion, I do not use the bread crumbs. I use the cue sheet and really like it. Having said all this, I have not tried the 800 or 810.

 

[bikeman66]

Bought a 510 a couple of months ago, and I have to say, I think it is an excellent bit of kit. Appreciate it is a bit more than the 500, but it really is worth the money in my opinion. I didn't buy the bundle, as a cadence sensor isn't important for me and I already had an ANT+ heart rate chest belt. Bought the unit from Wiggle for £195.00 and it's been worth every penny.

Occasionally have issues with Garmin Connect, but I guess that could happen whichever unit you have.

Although most are probably fine, I would steer clear of second hand, as these are quite high tech bits of kit and the peace of mind of a full warranty is worth having.

 

[Venod]

If you feel you need maps (or might in the future) get the 800, I have the 500 & the gsc10 cadence/speed sensor, the 500 can be bought a lot cheaper than the 800 and the unit is considerably smaller, but both are an excellent choice, If I had the cash & choice I would be having a real argument with myself on which to choose.

 

[MrGrumpy]

Hmm spotted a MIO Cyclo 505 HC for £260 brand new............. tempted, not a garmin but still a good unit I believe?

 

[uclown2002]

Hmm spotted a MIO Cyclo 505 HC for £260 brand new............. tempted, not a garmin but still a good unit I believe?

You answered your own question! It's not a garmin.

 

[Jerry Atrik]

Ive got a new, boxed, never used garmin 500 going for £110 if your interested . Blue and silver .

 

[MrGrumpy]

Also looking for the ant sensors hrm cadence as well?