Enabling turn-by-turn instructions on a Garmin Edge Explore bike computer generally involves a few key steps within the device's settings and when you're setting up a course. The exact menu names may vary slightly depending on your specific model (e.g., Edge Explore vs. Edge Explore 2), but the overall process is similar.
Here's a general guide:
1. Enabling Navigation Prompts
This is the primary setting to ensure you get visual or audible alerts for turns.
- Access Settings: Go to the main menu and look for the settings icon (usually a gear).
- Find Navigation: Select Activity Profiles (or a similar menu), then choose your profile (e.g., "Road" or "Mountain"). Look for a Navigation sub-menu.
- Turn on Prompts: Within the Navigation settings, you should see an option called Navigation Promptsor Guide Text. Make sure this is enabled. You may have an option to choose between displaying prompts as text or on the map.
2. Planning and Loading a Route
Turn-by-turn directions work by following a pre-planned course. You can't just start riding and expect the computer to know where you want to go.
- Use Garmin Connect: The most common way to get a route onto your device is to create or find one in the Garmin Connect app or website.
- Send to Device: Once you have a route you want to follow, you can send it to your Edge Explore computer wirelessly through Bluetooth or by connecting it to your computer with a USB cable.
3. Starting the Ride
Once your course is on the device, you need to select it before you start riding.
- Go to "Courses" or "Navigation": On your device's home screen, look for a "Courses" or "Navigation" option.
- Select Your Route: Find and select the course you want to follow from the list.
- Start Riding: The device will prompt you to "Ride" the course. Once you press start, the turn-by-turn prompts should begin as you approach intersections and turns.
Other Useful Settings to Check
- Routing Mode: Ensure your routing mode is set correctly for your activity (e.g., "Road Cycling" for paved roads). This helps the device choose appropriate roads and paths for your turns.
- Course Recalculation: You can usually set the device to automatically recalculate the route if you go off-course. This is a very helpful feature if you take a wrong turn.
- Sharp Bend Warnings: Some models have a setting to provide warnings for particularly sharp or difficult turns, which can be an added safety feature.