Even though it’s been out for a while now, Garmin’s Edge 1000 is still the unit to beat in the bike computer market if you’re after an all-singing GPS unit.

Some of the smarter features include incoming weather alerts that can warn you if the weather’s forecast to change mid-ride (though that, in reality, is something which is likely to be of more use to riders based in locations with more unpredictable/extreme weather than the UK), call and text alerts from your phone, and the ability to use the inbuilt maps and GPS to suggest routes once you select the distance you want to ride.

All this comes from Bluetooth Smart, ANT+ and Wi-Fi connectivity meaning the 1000 can talk to both your smartphone and power meter/sensors. Add on top of that a huge range of data fields and metrics, and there’s not much the Edge 1000 can’t do.

Five things to know about the Garmin Edge 1000

The larger screen makes navigation using the preloaded Garmin Cycle Maps even easier, and mapping includes what Garmin call ‘points of interest’ as well as the ability to navigate turn-by-turn.

Outside of the main functionality, the Edge 1000 also includes a few interesting little extras. One of these is the ability of the device to function in either portrait or landscape modes, something that doesn’t necessarily add functionality but it’s nice to have the choice. Another is LiveTrack. Basically, using the Edge 1000’s connectivity to your smartphone, you can let other people track your rides online in real time. Useful if you’re heading off into the wilderness)

The basic Edge 1000 package will set you back £440, but there are other options, with a range of optional extras, which you can check out on the Garmin website.