Niskyspy

Hello, I am looking to upgrade my CatEye V3 with some GPS and Data tracking computer. But I am stuck between the Edge 500 and Edge 705. I don't really care for the mapping features of 705 (even though its nice to have) but I always have my phone on me with GPS so I'll find my way back.

705 VS 500

Here is Garmin.com comparison between Edge 705 and Edge 500

I can get full version (Heart Rate, Speed-Cadence) Edge 500 (NEW) for $299 or Edge 705 (REFURB) for $387. The features that keep me from making my decision is Edge 705 has Advanced Workouts, Simple Workouts, Pace Alert, Interval training but Edge 500 doesn't. I never used any Edge series products so I am not sure if these features worth extra $88 dollars. Please let me know which one you would recommend.

Thank you very much.

Niskyspy

From rereading some Garmin Edge 500 reviews it seems that Workouts and Intervals will be added as firmware update in 1Q of 2010. So other than the maps Edge 500 and Edge 705 are very close. I will probably end up buying Edge 500 since its smalled and my phone can get me back home.

strop

You can get refurbished 705's on eBay for $323 (Use Bing to get 8% cashback and 2% eBay bucks). If you're going to get the HR monitor and Cadence sensor anyway it seems like the extra $23 is worth it for what is a more powerful device. That was they way I went and I'm very impressed with the 705.

Niskyspy

Now its a hard decision to make. I emailed Garmin about the features that will be added to Edge 500 to verify online review information. When I get the reply from them I'll have to do pro's con's on each unit to see what I'll buy.
Thank you

strop

Actually right now it's even better as Bing is up to 10% ... probably won't last long ... :-)

BetweenRides

I've used a 305 for the last 3 years and a cycling buddy has the 705 which he used for most of last season. I recently purchased the 500 based on his/my experience. My friend never uses the map feature, but does use the turn by turn notification. I felt this was a useless feature (for me, YMMV) because I am intimately aware of the roads all around our cycling area (I map out all our rides). I can see the map benefit if you are using the unit in an unfamiliar area or you travel a lot. I will say he has more of a tendency to be caught looking at the unit vs paying attention to his riding, whereas I focus on the ride and only refer to my computer when I need to.

So far I like the 500 with only a few minor reservations:
- Glare off screen from certain directions (wish they would come out with a matte screen cover like Apple iPhone)
- They took away Sunset/Sunrise Data Field - I used that a lot on the 305. Seems they could add it back in future firmware version.
- Max HR has to be set in Garmin Connect, then sent to device
- History is a little funky - you have to reset it to view history on the last ride. I think I'll get used to this - it's just different.

What I like better:
- The 500 is smaller, lighter (big woop) by about half
- It has better screen customization - 3 separate screens, up to 8 fields per screen. This is a fantastic feature.
- Better retention system. Anyone who has had a 305/705 will tell you the mounting was a weak point. They supply lots of spare bands with the unit, too, so you can carry a spare with you in your seat bag.
- I find the backlighting is better. Only important in low light, night riding or indoor computrainer classes.
- Battery life is fantastic, just like the 705 - you don't have to obsess about it like you do with the limited battery life of the 305.

Bottom line, if you don't need/want maps, the 500 is probably the better choice.

If you want an exhaustive review of the 500: https://dcrainmaker.blogspot.com/2009...th-review.html

Niskyspy

Ended up buying the Edge 705 refurbished from Ebay. Like strop said its a little bit more for a lot in return. Paid $359 and will get $35 ( 10% Bing cashback) so total is $324 and I gladly spent $24 for GPS and interval features.

SMH707

Just for reference: the Garmin Edge now has the training feature as of firmware V2.2 (added late Feb) so you can now program workout profiles and have the 500 step you through pre-programed workouts. This is a great feature when riding the rollers in orde to stick to a program...