After a 3-year wait, the American brand offers a revisited version of the Garmin Edge 1030: The Garmin Edge 1030 Plus.
Externally, the product remains very similar. The screen size is identical, as is its shape. The aesthetic has been slightly modified for a product that is matte black, understated, and discreet . In terms of weight, the Garmin Edge 1030 Plus is almost identical to the 1030 (within 1 gram) and adds a hefty 124 grams to our bike.
We also note the disappearance of the external flap that allowed for additional memory via a Micro SD card. The Plus version now offers a generous 32 GB capacity internally to store all your maps and favorite training programs.
Regarding the battery , the 1030 Plus offers 24 hours of autonomy, which can always be doubled with an external secondary battery.
Download all world maps
Beyond these rather anticipated improvements for electronics, Garmin has revised the possibilities offered by their highest-end navigation device.
They began by aligning with other companies like Wahoo or Sigma and offering detailed world maps for free . The 1030 Plus comes with the map of the region where you buy the product, as well as an additional region: If you buy your product in Canada, your Garmin will come with a map of North America as well as Europe. Once you have the product, you can download all world maps for free via your Garmin Connect account.
A big step forward
Navigation has also been completely overhauled. The Livetrack function now offers more precise tracking with data updates every 30 seconds. This is a big step forward for a feature that hadn't really evolved in the last 10 years.
The re-routing option is one of the device's major new features. Indeed, after leaving your route, the GPS will offer you several route choices according to your preferences:
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go back to rejoin your route where you left it
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rejoin your route a little further on
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get to the end of your route as quickly as possible
This option goes hand in hand with the new ability to pause your itinerary during your rides.
The 1030 Plus also takes a big step forward for mountain biking. It features integration of the Trailforks databases already found on the Edge 530 and 830, but which was sorely missed on the 1030.
Varied programs related to your workouts
Among the negative points that often came up for the Edge 1030 was a poorly performing user interface. The touchscreen quickly became a problem with gloves or simply a bit of rain. Garmin has changed the technology and replicated the one found on the Garmin Edge 830. Navigation becomes much more fluid despite rain or wearing gloves.
Finally, among the major new features of this Garmin 1030 Plus is the daily workout suggestion . Based on your recorded training programs, the device will suggest varied programs that are relevant to your already recorded workouts in the GPS.
In summary
The Garmin Edge 1030 Plus positions itself as the leader among smart GPS devices on the market. Maintaining the same data reading and recording capabilities as the Garmin Edge 1030, the Plus version adds daily workout suggestions. Its revised touchscreen, faster processor, and longer battery life make use more pleasant and fluid. Finally, all downloadable world maps freely available meet the needs of a greater number of cyclists, which no longer restricts this type of product to performance-seeking users.
