Test Wahoo Elemnt Bolt: A GPS computer as a constant companion on the bike should have many functions, be reliable and yet easy to use. However, one or the other GPS computer lacks handling and ease of use in particular. So our in-house computer scientist looked at the Wahoo Elemnt Bolt, which aims to be just that—a device that packs a lot of features while remaining easy to use.
First about me and why the Wahoo Elemnt Bolt test landed on my desk in the first place: I've been up to mischief at Velomotion since 2014, but my tasks usually don't involve the creation of new content, but concern everything that has to do with IT. So I wanted to look at the product from the perspective of a person who doesn't sit on the bike all day, but in front of a screen, as one would expect from a hard-working computer scientist.
Unboxing Wahoo Elemnt Bolt: an experience
The Elemnt Bolt comes in a chic little box that can be opened elegantly with its magnetic top. When the box is open, the first thing you see is the device, and there are configuration instructions on the inside of the box. The instructions state that configuring the Elemnt Bolt requires the Elemnt smartphone app. Under the shell in which the device is located - similar to the packaging of a smartphone - there is a quick start guide, a charging cable and two brackets with which you can attach the computer to the bike. More on the brackets later - first we want to devote ourselves to setting up the device.
When you switch it on for the first time, a QR code appears on the display of the Elemnt Bolt, which must be scanned with the app. The Wahoo Elemnt App can be downloaded for free from the App or Play Store. As soon as you have scanned the QR code with the app, the devices are connected to each other via Bluetooth in a few seconds and the configuration can begin. First you will be asked for a Wahoo account, but this is only optional. The next step is to choose the WiFi network to which the GPS computer should connect; The Elemnt Bolt can later use this to set up its own Internet connection in order to connect to various services. These services can be set up next. In addition to Strava and Komoot, the GPS computer can also be coupled with a number of other providers, so nothing should be left to be desired. A connection with the Apple Health app is also possible under iOS, whereby the collected data is stored in the central health system, which many iPhone users use.
Test Wahoo Elemnt Bolt: Easy to configure
In the next steps, your own measurements are queried and it is possible to link the Elemnt Bolt to your social media accounts such as Strava. After this manageable configuration, the GPS computer restarts; the app shows you a small tutorial. After the devices have been paired and configured within a few minutes, the Elemnt Bolt is theoretically ready for use. Individualizations can still be made: the number and sequence of the data fields on the screen can be freely selected and configured via the app; if you use a power meter, you can set up an additional page (more on that in a moment) with performance data. All of this is fairly easy to do, even if you're not an IT guy.
Good keeper, mediocre keeper
Before you can start riding the Wahoo, the computer first has to be attached to the bike. Two brackets are included with the Element Bolt for attachment. On the one hand there is a very chic aerodynamic mount called "Out-front Mount": a small arm that can be attached to the handlebars. This makes the GPS computer look like it has always been part of the bike by extending the handlebar stem. A small screw is also included with the support arm, which allows you to lock the twist lock between the computer and the support; however, the element holds very well in the holder even without it. The second bracket, the "Stem Mount", is a round attachment that can be attached to the GPS computer on one side and anywhere on the bike using cable ties on the other side. Most will probably prefer the out-front mount, although the stem mount gives you more flexibility in positioning and is less dependent on the thickness of the handlebar tube. The sticking point is of course the cable ties, which are difficult to tighten and then have to be whipped through with pliers. Fastening with rubber rings, as provided by many manufacturers, would be better.
But now to the Element Bolt himself and how he performs. Until now, we were dependent on the smartphone to configure the device, which is no longer needed on the road. When you turn on the Bolt, it takes a few seconds before it's ready, or to put it in the words of the Bolt: "It warms up briefly." almost out of date, but it guarantees very good readability in all lighting conditions. Operation is simple: at the bottom of the display are three buttons; the current function of the keys is always shown at the bottom edge of the display, i.e. above the keys. There are also directional buttons on the right side that are used to scroll through menus or to zoom in on views. Of course there is still the on and off switch. A short press opens "Settings", a longer press turns the device off or on. Otherwise, the operating concept is based on "pages", so there are different views or functions on different pages. You navigate between the pages with the help of the lower right button, which is also how it is instructed. So the condition of the device is very easy even without a touchscreen, although it has become unfamiliar. In addition, the keys naturally offer the advantage that they can also be operated very well with gloves. Furthermore, operation is also possible without looking at the display, and last but not least, drops of water cannot impair the function of the touchscreen.
Critical map view
With a screen size of 56 mm, the display is not very large, and this is noticeable when the map is displayed. This is inevitably rough, and it is also noticeable that the map cannot be moved. So navigation professionals will have to pull out their smartphones if they want to know more about it. At least you can zoom in on the map.
Small details attracted positive attention: for example, that the first option in the settings is for the device's backlight. If it is already too dark to operate the device, this can be rectified without detours. The device also displays incoming calls and messages in case the smartphone is carried with you while driving. On the other hand, what is a bit annoying is that the battery indicator can only be found in the settings and it can therefore happen that you do not recognize a low battery level right away.
Practical feature: the LEDs
Another feature of the Elemnt Bolt is a bar of seven colored LEDs above the display. In the settings you can specify what the LEDs should display. There you can select speed, power and heart rate. The heart rate is then queried via a heart rate monitor connected to the GPS computer. It's a shame that most heart rate monitors can be used for this, but not, for example, the Apple Watch with its integrated heart rate measurement, even though the connection to the Apple system is otherwise quite good.
The functions of the Bolt naturally include recording a tour and displaying the current values, as well as the option of navigating and transmitting the current positions while driving. For the latter, the smartphone has to be carried along in order to pass on the position data to the network.
As soon as we return home after a trip, it can be analyzed after it has been automatically loaded into the app. The app collects all trips and presents them very clearly with all the information collected. With the help of the app it is also possible to Planning tours and choosing routes for them. Furthermore, ready-made training units can be called up and loaded onto the Bolt.
The Wahoo Elemnt Bolt costs around 220 euros - rather little for a GPS bike computer that offers a wide range of functions without being overloaded. If that's important to you and if you're happy with a simple set-up, you should shortlist this device. Sure, the touchscreen and color display are cool - but if you don't primarily want to navigate, but want to ride a bike, you'll soon be enthusiastic about the relative newcomer.
