Garmin Edge Explore 2 GPS Computer

I was looking for a GPS that was easy to use, would map rides, load courses, and handle phone and music. No interest in other input devices but may add radar taillight. So far, the Garmin Edge Explore 2 has worked flawlessly and with very good battery life.

I chose to buy the Garmin Edge Explorer 2 because I wanted a bike computer that can display maps for navigation and that integrates with a Garmin Varia rearview radar, but that doesn't need to include the advanced training features that the more expensive Garmin units do (as I personally don't care about that).

So, for those purposes, this bike computer works well enough.

I wouldn't say it's perfect, though. The user experience is a little clunky. It kind of reminds me of cheap Android smartphones from 15 years ago, which is a little disappointing considering the Edge Explore 2's price.

On my second ride, the elevation stopped updating. I contacted Garmin, and they pointed out the software on revision on the device was old. When I tried from my iphone, Garmin connect indicated no updates were available. It also has a manual button to check for updates which I clicked and it then tried to update via bluetooth and failed. I then connected to my PC and was able to update the software. The original problem with elevation went away. After a few weeks, It would no longer update the ride history in Garmin Connect via my iphone. The phone reported a bluetooth connection, but Garmin Connect showed the device was not connected. Plugging into the PC, garmin express says there is an update but throws an error when I click install. After much messing around having my phone and the Edge explore 2 forget the other, and restarting both, they connected again via bluetooth. However, either there is a massive amount of data being transfered, or the Connect App has hung.

My bottom line is the software is a bug infested mess.

I'm not a racer, so I don't need a lot of training aids in my computer. I am a recreational rider so I need the basic info all computers supply. I need turn by turn navigation. I need the ability to sync with my rear radar unit and I need long battery life for all day rides. This Garmin gives me all that at a reasonable price!

I swear this thing is like a moody teenager. When it works, it works well, and is a very good value.

Then there are the days it works like a teenager after an ugly break-up. Sensors? Nah, don't feel like it, so it doesn't connect. Turn it off (for example, to stop for lunch), and there's an 80% chance your sensors won't show up for the rest of the ride. Go to re-pair the sensors, and one or more will show "Connecting." For hours. Instead of alerting you to an upcoming turn, the unit decides you should have been watching the map. Alert volume is either a mumbling kid or a screaming teen, depending on how it feels at the time.

Good water resistance. But if you start dripping sweat or it starts raining, make sure you hit the power button (while it's running) to lock the screen, or you'll find yourself deep in a menu changing things you never wanted to touch.

Honestly, I'd spend the money for an 800 series if I had it to do over again. But if you're fiscally constrained, it may be a good buy.

Nice upgrade from the 520...bigger screen, color, better screen options and monitors more metrics. Not to mention, near the end of my 520's life 1 charge wouldn't make a 50 mile ride anymore. With the Edge Explore 2, battery life is significantly better...now I can do five 50 mile rides, and still 15% battery life left! Love the touch screen too!

I've had three Garmin computers. 130 plus, 530, now the Explore 2. The screen is large and bright. Touch screen is sensitive enough to use full finger gloves. It connects to the radar tail light. Has multiple screen options as others too.

I use the Garmin Edge Explore 2 mainly for bike touring and don't need the race-centric metrics the other Garmin computers provide. I like the fact that you can change and send courses from your phone to the Garmin. The touch screen is intuitive once you understand how swiping menus works. Some settings can be buried and hard to find, but once I set them I don't go back to that setting very often. I do wish it was smarter at rerouting a course. It often wants you to go back several miles to where you missed a turn instead of finding a new route ahead to connect with the course. Makes no sense. Battery life is good. I highly suggest pairing this with the Garmin RLT515 light/radar. It makes an awesome combination and much safer riding on roads with a lot of traffic. Good computer for the price.

The large screen size allows for more data fields or a larger map area to be displayed, and the touch screen is handy for certain operations. In addition, it has an all-day battery life and usb-c charging. and I've found the on-device location search to be pretty handy.

It's the least expensive of all the Garmin Edge computers released over the last year, but the value is a little deceptive. Due to its larger size, I was unable to use it with the included mount. Instead, I had to purchase a separate out-front mount, which is included with the 540, 840, and 1040. The Explore 2 lacks the training features of the other Edge units, and will not display structured workouts or pacing during a ride. However, all the data is recorded and can be analyzed with Garmin Connect. Overall, the Edge Explore 2 is a great device for navigation and ride tracking, but not as effective for training or racing.

Bought this to replace a Garmin 530. The reason I did this is that although the 530 offers more information, using the menu can be confusing- especially considering the lack of a touchscreen. The Explore 2, on the other hand, with a simpler interface and touchscreen, is much easier to use for the casual rider.

The features of this computer are perfect for me. I'm mostly interested in routing, climbs, and some typical stats. I can send a route/map from my phone right to the computer. The maps loads within a few seconds which is a nice upgrade over gen 1. At the end of my ride, it uploads to my phone right away. I love the screen size and ease of use.

Used to have a Garmin 800 for a few years and decided to go with this model since it's more budget friendly but still has a good amount of features that the 800 doesn't. Still trying to learn the device but so far, the live time data tracking have been accurate and the battery lasts a long time (for reference, only drained 40% on a 12hr bike ride).

Thought I'd have to drop double this $$ and get a flagship Garmin Edge with features I don't need. My buddy showed me his Edge Explore 2 and I ordered mine. I can easily navigate new routes while still tracking a wide array of typical cycling data. Skip the esoteric functions on the top Edge models and get everything a sport cyclist needs while saving tons of $$. I highly recommend the Edge Explore II.

Twice the speed, features, battery life and stability of the first generation Explore. This device seems to report on everything salient and is well beyond basic. It won't report on things like your friend's current metabolic rate while they are riding in different continent, for example (I made that up). If you do have that first generation give it to someone you really don't like then trade up to this one. Do read the manual twice if pairing with the Garmin RTLxxx rear light/radar thingy.

This is a great cycling computer that has all the functions I need for touring and general road/gravel riding.

Very easy design to use. Works great, mainly use it for road riding. I had hoped it would connect to my Trek e-bike and give me bike information. Not able to connect through sensors.

I bought this so my wife could monitor my rides. I also got the duel heart monitor. I am happy with both products & they provide everything I need.

Great computer, super easy to use. My GARMIN watch crapped out on me and I needed a replacement. This was perfect and way less than a watch.

Great features for the prices. Ships fast too

I haven't had a bike computer before but I really like the detailed stats for ascent. The Connect Garmin app provides even more detail on the ride. I haven't used the navigation yet.