– New gear tracking feature for Garmin Edge cycling computers tracks distance, hours, and days of use for items like shoes, bikes, and components.
– Automatic logging during activities with alerts when gear approaches end of lifespan to prevent injuries and costly repairs.
– Replacing components at regular intervals reduces risk of accidents from material fatigue (e.g., tires, drivetrain).
– Cost savings possible, especially for drivetrains: replacing a stretched chain early is cheaper than damaging an expensive cassette.
– Components are added and managed in Garmin Connect, where maintenance intervals can be set; some users report unclear instructions.
Garmin offers not only various smartwatches but also cycling computers. These Edge cycling computers support features such as navigation and can be used for real-time training management. Garmin is now rolling out a new feature to these cycling computers, namely gear tracking, which tracks the distance, hours and days of use of your gear, such as running shoes, bikes and individual components. Gear usage is automatically logged during activities, with alerts when items approach the end of their lifespan, helping users stay ahead of injuries and costly repairs.
Maintenance Benefits and Cost Factors
In the best-case scenario, this can even decrease the risk accidents if tires or drivetrain components are replaced or serviced at regular intervals, thus reducing the likelihood of component failure due to material fatigue. There is also a cost factor that can have a significant impact, particularly on the drivetrain: a stretched chain damages the cassette. On high-end derailleurs in particular, cassettes are considerably more expensive than a chain. With cheaper drivetrains, however, it can be acceptable to ride the entire drivetrain until it wears out.
How the Feature Works and User Feedback
The components can be simply added to Garmin Connect. Maintenance and replacement intervals can also be set there. According to user reports, the feature is already working, though one user has complained about the communication and lack of instructions.