Garmin announces Edge 1000 cycling GPS, with big screen size and Wi-Fi

GPS company Garmin has announced the Edge 1000 cycling GPS unit, featuring new technologies to appease cyclists with deeper pockets. The device has a full-color 3" touchscreen providing 240x400 resolution, and a reported battery life up to 15 hours.

Although running GPS units from Garmin have greatly advanced, some in the cycling industry think enough wasn't being done to promote new bike-centric GPS units. However, Garmin pulled out all of the stops with the Edge 1000, including built-in Wi-Fi so map data can be downloaded faster - and GPS-based turn-by-turn directions while out in the saddle.

Cyclists can also use ANT+ sensors to connect the Edge 1000 to a heart rate monitor, power meters, or cadence sensors, Garmin said in the press release.

The Garmin Edge 1000 will be available later this spring with a $599.99 MSRP price tag, or $699.99 for the GPS unit bundled with HRM3 and new speed/cadence sensors.

"The Edge 1000 combines the essential legacy features cyclists love from the Edge Touring and Edge 810, with exciting new features including a high-resolution color touchscreen display, advanced smartphone connectivity, and challenging segment features that will take cyclists of any ability's training to the next level," said Dan Bartel, Garmin VP of sales.