Full Breakdown
Garmin Launches Edge 1060 Flagship Bike Computer with Voice Control, Expands Edge Explore Lineup and Tacx Nera Trainer
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Product Launch
Garmin introduced the Edge 1060, replacing the Edge 1050 as its top-of-range bike computer. It adds a built-in microphone and speaker for hands-free voice commands activated by “Okay, Garmin,” allowing riders to request data, change screens, report hazards, request routes, or send messages via Garmin Messenger without removing their hands from the handlebars.
Expanded Edge Explore Range
Garmin also launched two navigation-focused models: the Edge Explore 3 and Edge Explore 3 Plus. Both retain GPS and turn-by-turn navigation; the Plus adds the Edge 1060’s microphone and speaker for voice control. The Explore units have larger bezels and slightly smaller screens, emphasizing simplicity over the full performance suite of the flagship.
Key Features Across the Lineup
- Voice-Enabled Interaction – Edge 1060 and Explore 3 Plus support voice commands for data read-outs, route requests, hazard reporting, and messaging; the Edge 1060’s speaker can also act as a bike bell.
- Enhanced Navigation – New “Route Options” suggest alternatives based on time, elevation and bike type; “Route Previews” show distance, ETA, traffic and hazards; “Up Ahead” highlights points of interest; “Free Flow Routing” seeks routes with fewer stops. Pin-drop navigation lets riders send a location from a phone map to the unit.
- Safety and Connectivity – LiveTrack sharing, incident detection, real-time weather and road-closure alerts are integrated, and the devices can reverse-charge accessories in emergencies.
- Training Integration – Existing Garmin training metrics, adaptive plans and automatic syncing with TrainingPeaks remain; GroupRide updates now include live locations, in-ride messaging, incident alerts and competition awards.
- e-Bike and Smartwatch Compatibility – The computers display e-bike battery status when paired with Bosch or Shimano systems and sync with Garmin smartwatches for expanded data capture.
- Carbon-Saving Estimates – The Explore 3 can calculate commuter carbon savings versus car travel.
Tacx Nera Smart Trainer
Garmin’s Tacx division released the Nera indoor smart trainer, joining the Neo 3M and Neo 2T line. It features multidirectional motion pods for forward, backward and side-to-side movement, power and cadence accuracy within ±1 %, gradient simulation up to 20 %, and a sprint capacity of 2,200 W. Two configurations are offered: a standard version with a pre-installed cassette and a “Zwift Cog and Click” version that enables virtual shifting in Zwift and Rouvy. A “race mode” boosts data-transfer rates for smoother virtual racing. The trainer integrates with Garmin Edge computers and smartwatches and works with Tacx’s Alpine hill-climb and steering simulators.
Pricing and Availability
All three Edge computers and the Tacx Nera are available now. The Edge 1060 retails for £699.99 / €799.99 (US $799.99). The Edge Explore 3 starts at £349.99 / €399.99, while the Plus variant costs £429.99 / €499.99 (US $399.99 and $499.99 respectively). The Tacx Nera is priced at £859.99 / €999.99 (US $999.99). No U.S. price was confirmed for the Edge 1060 at launch.
Battery Life and Power Management
Garmin states the Edge 1060 delivers up to 20 hours in demanding use and up to 60 hours in battery-saver mode. The Edge Explore 3 offers up to 16 hours (standard) or 14 hours (Plus) under heavy load, extending to 48 hours in saver mode. The Tacx Nera’s specifications focus on performance rather than battery endurance, as it is a stationary trainer.