Best in test – Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT
The Garmin Edge 1030 is the latest flagship product of the US navigation specialists, and at a price of € 599 it should be the ultimate GPS computer featuring navigation as well as online functionality. Does it really have the edge?
The Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT is the smaller, aerodynamically optimized counterpart to the ELEMNT and with a price tag of € 239.99 also the more affordable alternative. With its 2.2-inch display, the BOLT inconspicuously integrates into your cockpit and is easy to read while riding in both sun and rain.
The buttons on the front and on the side have been redesigned with regards to the pressure point, and are significantly more responsive than on the ELEMNT. By scanning a barcode, the ELEMNT Companion app recognizes the GPS computer and guides the user through the intuitively designed interface in no time.
Less is more- the Whaoo ELEMNT BOLT applies this principle offering the best package in the group test
You quickly notice that Wahoo must have invested a lot of time and money in developing smooth and seamless connectivity. Planned or already ridden routes can easily be imported in the form of gpx files, straight from an e-mail into the Wahoo app for example, and then sent to the BOLT via Bluetooth. Device settings are not made via the GPS computer, but directly in the ELEMNT Companion App, making the smartphone an indispensable companion of the BOLT. The ELEMNT BOLT automatically uploads recorded activities to selected third-party platforms via wireless connectivity. Whether Strava, Ride With GPS or others, you have the freedom of choice, as Wahoo supports the use of most of the popular and common platforms.
Using the ELEMNT Companion app, the BOLT can only be used for simple start–finish navigation, which is practical for short distances from A to B or, for example, for the fastest way home. Wahoo leaves detailed tour planning to specialists such as Komoot, which seems sensible given the wide range of compatibility with third-party apps.
When navigating, Wahoo does away with an overly detailed map, which is simply not necessary on a road bike. According to the principle ‘less is more’ the rider is given a good overview of the map in every situation, guided by precise and early turning instructions, in combination with simultaneously flashing LED lights. Thanks to a pre-installed map based on OpenStreetMap data, the map is always kept up to date.
As with the ELEMNT, we encounter a minor issue with the software of the ELEMNT BOLT during our test ride around Girona. The route shown on the display disappeared from one moment to the next, but reappeared after a short restart of the route. A little annoying, but certainly not a problem that Wahoo can’t solve with a software update.
GPX-transfer: 6 Klicks
GPS accuracy:
Navigation:
Battery runtime:
Price: € 239.99
Route calculation time: 5 Sek.
Usability:
Value for money:
Design:
Weight: 61 g
More info: u.wahoofitness.com
Due to the identical software, the Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT doesn’t differ from the ELEMNT in its functionality, but triumphs in direct comparison with its sporty, aerodynamic design and the improved feel of the buttons. No other GPS computer in the test field can match the ELEMNT BOLT in terms of value for money and coherence of the overall concept. Clearly: Best in test and Best Value!
