Garmin  Edge 540 Bike Computer Bundle

Just bought the Edge 540 to replace my 530 which replaced my 520. I've liked each of them but find they reach a point where the battery is lacking and isn't easily replaceable. Setting up the 540 was easy due to the ability to simply scan a code and virtually all my data was saved to the new unit. As with the 530, this unit connects to my Orbea Rise E mountain bike which provides precise info about battery range and usage. There are new screen layout options, the unit reacts more quickly and GPS is more accurate. Battery life is expected to be much improved as well. Aside from that, I've always appreciated the size and appearance of these units.

I had to replace my 530 (which I loved and worked perfectly well - I just lost it somehow) and found the 540 at discounted price. I preferred the old menu in the 530 - it was simple to navigate - but now that I've had the 540 for a while I'm happy with it. It's faster to turn on and off, and it's easy to connect to the other sensors and phone. It's slightly wider than the 530 but overall comfortable (it sits in between my hands as I ride exclusively in a tribike). I really like the non-touchscreen design, with side buttons, as the touchscreens tend to change page inadvertently. it happens with the side buttons as well, but not as often.

Unit pairing no issue with Iphone however can not get the 540 to upload my ride( ride only visible on the 540 under rides) using garmin connect( it sync with the green circle and everything but no ride is transferred), using wifi (wifi test shows connected but when syncing it gives wifi error) even Garmin express it sync but ride is just not uploading. Exchanged the unit - still same problem on the new unit, used both android and iphone to test garmin connect - same problem. Never had this problem with 510, 520 or 530!!! Really disappointing!!!!!

The battery life on my Edge 520 had started to degrade over the past couple of years. It's not terrible, but I have a long ride (8+ hours) coming up in July. So, I upgraded to the Edge 540. I'm pleased with the new computer. I really like some of the additional metrics that the new computer tracks, and even though the display is only slightly larger than the 520, the additional size is quite noticeable and impressive. With the ability to transfer many of my settings from the 520, the set up was quick and easy. Overall, I'm very happy with the upgrade to the new computer, and the old 520 has found a new home on my son's bike. It's truly a win, win!

I bought the 540 non solar to replace my Edge 520 not because of a lack of ride metrics but rather, the battery life. With Rally pedals, RTL515, hr, it put too much demand on it and battery life was basically 1 ride. Edge 540 battery is quite strong and addresses the 520 shortcoming well. Besides that, the climb pro is pretty cool and the suggested workouts and other performance bits are pretty good as well. User teething issues were the button sequence isn't identical to 520 and it takes some practice to nail the sequence. Once learned, you're good. Lastly if you're already a Garmin user, the set up could not have been easier.

I upgraded to the 540 and appreciate its additional software features for training. The GPS is improved, as well as the menu navigation and setup. The battery definitely lasts longer and I love the new "main menu". You can set it up with as much or as little data fields and info as you want to see. I do have two complaints. The font on the menus is on the small side compared to the font size of the 530. The other issue is that the backlight is much too dark!! That is a definite problem. 90% on the 540 is still not as bright as 60% on the Edge 530! That is not cool. Overall, it's a good unit for a good price.

I've always heard and read nothing but good about the Garmin brand and the great products the company makes. I was shopping around for my first cycling computer and kept seeing this item pop up after countless review online and by a group of friends I decided to give it a try and I will say this the 540 GPS won't disappoint. It's got so many features and easy to use makes me feel like an elite cyclist being able to look back at my ride stats and has helped me grow as an avid cyclist. Great battery life and sleek design. I'm so glad I purchased the bundle it has all that you need. I would recommend this item to any of my friends or family looking for a cycling computer.

Upgraded from Edge 530 and many improvements, starting with the set up that allows the one-click transfer of all the sensors to the new bike. 540 has an even better display (great for viewing the maps) than earlier models and the auto-dimming is improved. The "Climb Pro" feature is amazing but can be distracting if you're doing a climb you know, but it's one click to turn it off. The 540 does a great job of presenting the vast array of cycling metrics available. Not so good: my device goes blank every 30 minutes or so, stopping all metrics. Garmin support has been pleasant to work with but no fix so far. So if your rides are less than 30 minutes this is a really good device.

The hardware itself seems well made, even cutting edge, and the multi-band GPS works very well. However, the firmware in the device and all the software needed to configure it is from the dark ages. I'm a firmware engineer working on embedded systems since they came into existence and I still have LOTS of trouble setting this thing up. In the end it's often impossible to get the hardware to do what you want despite it being completely capable. In my opinion, it's just not worth the hassle for the vast majority of cyclists to bother with Garmin Edge cycling computers. Just get a Wahoo and save yourself an immense amount of frustration. That time is better spent enjoying your rides.

It's truly amazing how much data this bike computer can provide you. Not only helpful on the trail, but also very helpful for ride analytics after you get back home. The 540 interface takes a little getting used to how to navigate for some, but it's very similar to the button configuration on Garmin's Instinct series of watches and since I've been using those for years this was pretty intuitive for me to figure out. If it's new to you, take a little time learning how to navigate and it will quickly become second nature. You don't need more than what this computer provides. It's a great value.