In test: The new Wahoo Elemnt Roam GPS bike computer

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It would be fair to assume that given my experience testing Bolt version 2.0, I was skeptical of the Elemnt Roam version 2.0’s capabilities.

However, my concerns were allayed on my first ride on the updated Roam. Like Wahoo’s other computers, this Roam is easy to set up via Wahoo’s Elemnt app and offers customizable panels across multiple screens. The display is customizable to the user’s preferences, easily adapting to eagle-eyed users or those who prefer larger fonts. Wahoo still uses an ambient light sensor screen, 2 rows of LEDs, customizable alerts, and various mounting options. In other words, they haven’t sacrificed any of the fan-favorite features that are sometimes destroyed when companies release an updated version.

Wahoo Element Roam Review: The Good

Let’s get that out of the way for now. The computer feels like it was built for adventure riders or gravel racing — and that’s no bad thing. Rather than getting back on my soapbox touting the benefits of gravel riding as off-season training and mental balance, and how more pro triathletes are racing at events like Unbound or the Belgian Waffle Ride (BWR) series, I’m going to point out these attributes that make this a great choice for triathletes. But if you have already taken my advice or decide to do so now, this computer is an excellent choice for off-road driving as well.

Keys

It’s just a tactile experience, right? The buttons on the updated Roam have been changed from indented to raised and textured. This update makes it easier to use when wearing gloves when riding in cold weather. As a bonus, these buttons are a lot easier to press with wet bare hands – think if you’re coming from T1.

Battery life

The battery life is an impressive 17 hours. No matter where you ride, you’ll likely get enough juice for the day. As a racing triathlete, the battery capacity is more than sufficient for an Ironman distance.

adjustment

The Elemnt Roam can be set up with custom alerts, e.g. B. Notifications to keep you up to date with your energy and fluid strategies.

As with the updated Bolt, there are color indicators in the heart rate and power zone panels. Through the Wahoo Elemnt app, your power zones and heart rate zones are automatically calculated and the display color in these data fields changes based on the zone you are in. I love this feature as it allows me to train/run based on zones just by looking at the screen to make sure I’m hitting my desired goals. Speaking of training within your limits, the updated Roam also displays Supersapiens for those monitoring blood sugar.

64 color display

All right, so that doesn’t make you any faster, but the improved color display makes using the navigation functions much easier to see.

Dual band GPS

Not a flashy upgrade, but an important feature to ensure consistent route connectivity and accuracy. Contrary to my experience testing the Bolt, I was impressed with the redirection when intentionally deviating from my preloaded route. When setting it up, I thought it was a bit of a novelty as I watched my Roam update the Maine maps (that’s where I’m currently testing the device). After all, what could this little entity know that I don’t? I then followed a specific detour as I was sure this was a cause for criticism. Having finished my crow meal, the Roam route is now one of my favorite (and previously undiscovered) roads.

storage

Storage space increased to 32GB provides plenty of space to store multiple routes and area maps. If you want to mess up your workout but are afraid of getting lost, put your concerns aside.

Preplanned workout

Will this feature make you faster? Yes – if you stick to it. Is this feature more fun? No – if you follow him. You can follow pre-planned or already saved structured workouts on your device. It’s a great training feature if you want to follow something structured.

security

This should become a “great” or “must have” feature on all bike computers. The Wahoo pairs with an ANT+ rear-view radar device and alerts you to oncoming cars via the device’s LEDs or, my personal choice, the dashboard display. On the left, a color line runs vertically, green is clear and red means a car is approaching. The coolest part is that you see a car driving up the screen as the vehicle approaches. Unfortunately, the Garmin Varia has now closed the market for rear radar in the US and has a corresponding price.

Wahoo Elemnt Roam Review: The Ok

integration

This isn’t a swipe at Wahoo specifically – rather the industry-standard attempt to generate revenue. To take full advantage of all features and maximize device usage, it’s best to leverage the entire Wahoo ecosystem: Wahoo X for a training subscription, Wahoo Rival multisport watch for handover to device (which is cool during a race ), all that Wahoo Kickr gear, Tickr heart rate monitors, pedals, and Wahoo nutrition. (Ok, the last one doesn’t exist – at least not yet.) They have/do everything. In order for everything to work smoothly with the Roam, you need to become a Wahoo converter. But in their defense, have you ever weighed yourself with the Garmin Smart Scale?

summit segments

This feature is best described as “How much pain is left?” The Summit Segment feature requires the use of pre-installed segments via 3rd party apps such as B. Strava to get the full experience. As you ride, your screen will show the vertical gradients in color-coded sections (how bad it’s getting) and the remaining distance to the summit – but only if you’re in a Strava section and are a subscribed member with your account associated with the Linked to the Elemnt app. It’s a great feature that can motivate you to the top or help you pick up your pace in a long event. It also keeps Wahoo up to date with similar features already found in Garmin and Hammerhead.

The disadvantage that occurs when using Summit can be found when leaving the pre-installed route. Although your directions will be redirected, the expected climbing doesn’t lead to the redirect patch. Additionally, Wahoo is currently only able to display information about climbing segments on preloaded routes, not off-route or when climbing free routes, which the new Hammerhead does. However, Wahoo is constantly updating its software, so I assume this feature will be a launch pad for more to come.

Wahoo Element Roam Review: Conclusions

The Elemnt Roam’s upgrades bring much-needed features into a device that’s been outperformed by competitors like Garmin and Hammerhead’s new Karoo. Considered as a standalone bike computer, the Roam is great, but not exceptional. However, as part of the Wahoo ecosystem, the new Elemnt Roam is a great addition to a comprehensive training and racing system. I’d argue that if you’re buying a new computer and you’re not bound by size/weight limitations (e.g. aerobar limitations when the Bolt would be your best option), the Roam is worth strong consideration.