Garmin Edge 1060: Voice control on the new high-end GPS cycle computer

Editor’s CONCLUSION

The latest version of Garmin’s top-of-the-range model introduces voice control, an exciting new feature for these popular GPS devices. Being able to change or refine your navigation route using voice commands can be a massive advantage in practice. We’re keen to see how this feature performs in real-world riding conditions and are looking forward to testing the new Edge 1060.

Start a recording, view ride data or set a navigation destination without tapping the screen: the Garmin Edge 1060 is designed to let you do all this via voice commands. Alongside the microphone and voice control, a more compact casing and additional route-planning options are among the key changes compared to the Edge 1050.

“OK Garmin”: Voice commands instead of reaching for the screen

Voice control is activated by saying “Okay Garmin”. This allows you, amongst other things, to call up and have performance data read out, select pre-loaded routes and search for points of interest along the route. It is also said that hazard points can be announced on command.

For text and voice messages, however, the Edge 1060 requires a paired, compatible smartphone and the Garmin Messenger app. The cycle computer is therefore not a standalone mobile messaging device. The built-in speaker also provides navigation and training instructions and acts as a digital bell.

For mountain bikers, the main point of interest is whether the device can be operated reliably even in the wind and on rough trails. Garmin points out that the performance of the voice control depends on riding conditions. Furthermore, it is only available in selected languages. A practical test will have to show just how well this works off-road.

Same display, smaller casing

The LCD touchscreen still measures 3.5 inches and has a resolution of 480 × 800 pixels. However, Garmin has housed it in a shorter and slightly narrower casing: the Edge 1060 measures 58.5 × 107.0 × 16.3 millimetres and is said to weigh 142 grams. Compared to the Edge 1050, that’s 11.5 millimetres shorter and 19 grams lighter. Both touchscreen and button controls are available.

The stated battery life figures remain unchanged: Garmin quotes up to 20 hours during intensive use with navigation and paired sensors, and up to 60 hours in power-saving mode. Actual battery life depends on usage and settings. Our review shows how the previous model performs off-road: Hands-on review of the Garmin Edge 1050.

Navigation with more options

When calculating a route, drivers can choose between popular routes, the quickest route, the route with the least elevation gain, or a route with few stops and junctions. Several suggestions can be compared in advance. A route preview provides information on, amongst other things, distance, estimated journey time and reported hazards.

“Up Ahead” displays selected waypoints along the route, including distances, such as drinking water points, cafés or public toilets. Routes can also be planned directly on the device without a smartphone or an internet connection. Pre-installed cycle maps, ClimbPro and community reports on obstacles complement the navigation features.

MTB features are not all new

For off-road use, the Edge 1060 offers Enduro and Downhill profiles, split times and GPS tracking with five data points per second in both of these profiles. It also includes Trailforks maps, ForkSight with information on upcoming trails, and MTB Dynamics with Grit, Flow and Jump analyses.

However, this feature is not unique to the new top-of-the-range model. Similar MTB functions are also available on the Garmin Edge 550 and 850. Garmin lists several of these as software updates for the Edge 1050 in the product specifications. Anyone who already owns a 1050 should therefore consider voice control, the case design and the new navigation features in particular as possible reasons for upgrading.

Reverse charging only when stationary

A new feature is the ability to charge other devices using the Edge’s battery, such as a smartphone or compatible lights. A suitable USB-C cable is required for this. Important: According to Garmin, this function is expressly not intended for charging whilst cycling.

Training features such as Stamina, Power Guide and Garmin Coach remain available. Additional sensors may be required, depending on the feature. GroupRide has been enhanced to include, amongst other things, the ability to compare your own performance data with the group average; connected features require a compatible smartphone.

Price and availability

According to the manufacturer, the Garmin Edge 1060 is available now for €799.99. The package includes a standard mount and an aero mount, a strap and a charging and data cable.