Garmin Edge 705 and Edge 605 for Cyclists

Garmin, now the #1 personal navigation device seller in the US, announced two new devices in its Onto Fitness series for cyclists. The Garmin Edge 705 (left) and Edge 605 (right) both feature a 2.2" color screen and offer turn-by-turn directions. The usual add-ons include detailed street maps and topography of the region. Both devices can display climb/descent, altitude, speed, distance and time. With the recent Garmin ANT+Sport technology incorporated into the Edge navigation devices, they can seamlessly interface with other fitness devices such as a heart rate monitor or even other Edge units. This lets cyclists share courses, workout data and saved rides.

The Edge 705 improves upon the 605 by incorporating a barometric altimeter to accurately record altitude data, letting cyclists match their altitude profile with their speed/heart rate for a etter post-ride analysis. It also features a heart rate monitor that uses new wireless technology to eliminate cross talk and interference and delivers real-time heart rate data onto the user's device.

By pairing your Garmin Edge 605 or 705 with Garmin Connect, an online training site, you can network with other cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts, log their workouts and share yours.

The Edge 605 carries a price tag of US $399.99 while the Edge 705 starts from US $499.99. Add on a heart rate monitor and speed/cadence sensor to bring it to US $549.99. Throw in an ANT+Sport bundle for $649.99. Everything will be available in December 2007.