The all-new Garmin Edge 1040 Solar bike computer runs for up to 100 hours by recharging with sunlight on the go, according to the brand.
The new model appears to be broadly similar to the outgoing Garmin Edge 1030 Plus, one of the best bike computers we’ve tested, but is claimed to offer improved GPS and more data analytics while riding.
Garmin has also ditched the old-school micro-USB charging port in favour of the now commonplace USB-C standard.
The top-of-the-range Garmin Edge 1040 Solar costs £629.99 / €749.99 / $749.99 / AU$1,299.
The Garmin Edge 1040 has the same features apart from solar charging. This model will set you back £519.99 / €599.99 / $599.99 / AU$999.99.
Solar charging and improved GPS connectivity
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Describing the Edge 1040 Solar as the “pinnacle of GPS bike computers”, Garmin says the new device is “ready for any adventure – from remote gravel trails to epic climbs”.
Solar charging on the new Edge 1040 Solar is delivered by Power Glass, which integrates photovoltaic charging into the screen of the bike computer. The same technology is used in some of Garmin’s top-end smartwatches.
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The new computer also gets Multi-GNSS GPS connectivity. This system is a combination of three of the main global navigating systems – GPS, GLONASS and Galileo. Garmin claims this provides more reliable tracking than GPS alone.
Garmin has been rolling out GNSS to all of its new devices, including the Garmin Fenix 7, which launched in January 2022.
App-based configuration
The settings on the new Edge 1040 can now be adjusted via the Garmin Connect app. Wahoo has had equivalent functionality on its computers since launch, and it has long been a feature requested by Garmin users.
We have asked Garmin to confirm whether this will be rolled out to existing computers in the brand’s range.
In addition, Garmin’s new Cycling Ability features suggest how to improve your riding to tackle a target race or event.
Subtle aesthetic updates
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The overall form factor of the new Edge 1040 series appears to be very similar (if not identical) to the outgoing Edge 1030 Plus, though no specific dimensions have been shared by Garmin.
A silver band now runs around the outside of the computer and concentric bands are moulded into the back of the case.
The Edge 1040 features the same-sized 3.5in touchscreen as the brand’s former flagship computer. However, Garmin claims the new head unit has a more customisable homepage and enhanced ride summary page.
USB-C charging
In a move that will be welcomed by many, the new Garmin Edge 1040 does away with the micro-USB port seen on the 1030 Plus in favour of a USB-C charging port.
Besides the addition of solar charging, the USB-C charging port and GNSS-compatibility, a spokesperson for Garmin confirmed to BikeRadar that the hardware used in the new Edge 1040 is the same as the outgoing 1030 Plus.
The Garmin Edge 1040 retains the brand’s existing safety features, including LiveTrack, and is compatible with the brand’s Varia RCT715 tail light.
As with the Edge 1030 Plus, the Garmin Connect app will transfer all ride and user profiles, and connected sensors from any existing Edge computers.