Posted at: Jul. 20, 2021
A thorough comparison of Wahoo's cycle computers, which are very popular for their high performance and high cost performance compared to other cycling computers. Here is a summary of the differences in features and performance between the new and old models.
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The latest model of Wahoo’s cyclocomputer for 2021. This model is an evolution of the old and popular ELEMNT BOLT (WFCC3) model, which is one of Wahoo’s most popular cyclocomputers, into a color LCD.
Not only does it have a color screen, but it also has a new reroute (BACK ON TRACK) function that was previously only available on the ELEMNT ROAM, and a “TAKE ME TO” function that allows you to set a destination and create a route on the ELEMNT ROAM. In terms of functions, it is almost the same as the ELEMNT ROAM, making it a standalone cycling controller that can be completed completely.
This is the latest model released in 2019. While it has the same large 2.7-inch LCD as the older ELEMNT (WFCC1) model, the ELEMNT ROAM has evolved to a color LCD.
What has evolved even further is the navigation function. In addition to the basic turn-by-turn navigation and reroute (BACK ON TRACK) functions, the ELEMNT ROAM also features a “TAKE ME TO” function that allows users to set a destination and create a route on the ELEMNT ROAM, making it possible to complete a route using only the ELEMNT ROAM.
Map data is pre-installed in the main unit, but depending on the country of use, map data may need to be downloaded via Wifi.
The ELEMNT BOLT is a smaller and lighter version of the previous model ELEMNT (WFCC1), with a more aerodynamic design. “The ELEMNT BOLT is an evolution of the Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT.
Compared to the ELEMNT ROAM, which is a later and higher-end model, the navigation function that can be completed only by the main unit is weaker, but the functions as a basic cycling controller are sufficient.
In 2021, a color version of the new ELEMENT BOLT (WFCC5) will be released under the same name, so it is expected that the old monochrome BOLT will gradually be replaced by the new version and sold.
Wahoo’s first GPS cyclocomputer was the ELEMNT (WFCC1), which shocked the world with its 2.7-inch screen and features that were included in the top models of cyclocomputers, such as integration with various applications and sensors such as Bluetooth and ANT+, at a price of $300.
Although it is now an end-of-life model, its functions have been firmly inherited and evolved in its successors, ELEMENT BOLT and ELEMENT ROAM.
| Specifications/Features | ELEMNT ROAM | ELEMNT BOLT (Color, 2021) |
|---|---|---|
| Release year | 2019 | 2021 |
| LCD size | 2.7 inches | 2.2 inches |
| LCD Resolution | 240x400 pixels | 240x320 pixels |
| LCD Type | Color | Color |
| Notification LED | top and left side | top |
| Size | 89mm x 54.4mm x 17.8mm | |
| Weight | 93.6g | 68.9g |
| BACK ON TRACK | ○ | ○ |
| route to start | ○ | ○ |
| GET ME STARTED | ○ | ○ |
| TAKE ME TO | ○ | ○ |
The color LCD and advanced stand-alone navigation and mapping functions are the same for both models. The major difference is the LCD screen size and notification LED, which is 2.7 inches for the ELEMNT ROAM and 2.2 inches for the ELEMNT BOLT (color, 2021). Although the size is different, the resolution of both models is the same in terms of horizontal pixels, and the ELEMNT BOLT (color 2021) is only 80 pixels less in vertical length, so the amount of information is not that different.
Also, the programmable LED notifications, which are a feature of the Wahoo ELEMENT series, are only on the top of the ELEMNT BOLT (color 2021), while the ELEMNT ROAM has two on the left and top.
| Specifications/Features | ELEMNT BOLT (Monochrome/2017) | ELEMNT BOLT (Color, 2021) |
|---|---|---|
| Release year | 2017 | 2021 |
| LCD size | 2.2 inches | 2.2 inches |
| LCD Resolution | 240x320 pixels | 240x320 pixels |
| LCD Type | Monochrome | Color |
| Notification LED | top | top |
| Size | 74.6mm x 47.3mm x 22.1mm | |
| Weight | 60.0g | 68.9g |
| BACK ON TRACK | - | ○ |
| route to start | - | ○ |
| GET ME STARTED | - | ○ |
| TAKE ME TO | from app only | - |
The ELEMNT BOLT series is popular as a high-end GPS cyclocomputer that can be obtained for $3 in actual sales.
The 2021 version, released four years after its debut in 2017, is a good enough reason to replace the monochrome original ELEMENT BOLT, as it has evolved navigation features as well as colorization.
However, the screen size and the number of LED notifications are the same as the old ELEMENT BOLT, so if the colorization and the navigation function do not appeal to you, you may want to spend a little more and choose the ELEMNT ROAM with a larger screen.
| Specifications & Features | ELEMNT ROAM | ELEMNT BOLT (Monochrome/2017) |
|---|---|---|
| Release year | 2019 | 2017 |
| LCD size | 2.7 inches | 2.2 inches |
| LCD Resolution | 240x400 pixels | 240x320 pixels |
| LCD Type | Color | Monochrome |
| Notification LED | top and left side | top |
| Size | 89mm x 54.4mm x 17.8mm | |
| Weight | 93.6g | 60.0g |
| BACK ON TRACK | ○ | - |
| route to start | ○ | - |
| GET ME STARTED | ○ | - |
| take me to | - | only from app |
For the past few years, the question I’ve been asking myself about Wahoo cyclocomputers is, “Should I go with the ELEMNT ROAM or the ELEMNT BOLT (monochrome/2017)?” The difference between the two is the LCD.
The difference between the two is the LCD, the navigation function, and the LED notification function. That’s the only difference in words, but it’s enough to make up for the 15,000 yen difference in price.
In particular, the navigation function of the ELEMNT ROAM can be completed only with the cyclocomputer itself, so for those who use the navigation function frequently, the price difference will be more than worth it. On the other hand, if you just want to acquire basic ride data, the compact and lightweight ELEMNT BOLT (monochrome/2017) is a good option.
However, since the color version of the ELEMNT BOLT was released in 2021, unless the price has been reduced too much, it is better to [compare ELEMNT BOLT (monochrome/2017) and ELEMNT ROAM](#elemnt-roam and elemnt-bolt color 2021) It will be good.
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