Which GPS to choose for gravel cycling?

Gravel riding opens the door to adventure: backroads, dirt paths, forests, mountains… But to fully enjoy this freedom, you need accurate navigation. A GPS designed for gravel quickly becomes your best ally. The problem? The market is crowded, and not all models are equal.

So, which GPS should you pick to ride with confidence in 2025?

The must-have features for gravel

Before diving into specific models, here are the key aspects every gravel rider should look for:

• Signal accuracy: in forests, canyons, or mountains, a multi-band GPS makes the difference by reducing tracking errors.

• Battery life: whether you ride for 4 hours or several days, endurance is critical. Some devices even offer solar charging.

• Durability: dust, rain, mud, and constant vibration—your GPS needs to be rugged and waterproof to survive gravel conditions.

• Readability and usability: a screen that’s visible in full sun, buttons you can press with gloves, and an intuitive interface.

• Mapping and navigation: GPX file import, turn-by-turn guidance, and “return to start” functions are essential when venturing off the beaten path.

• Connectivity: seamless syncing with Strava, Komoot, or RideWithGPS, plus compatibility with external sensors (cadence, power, heart rate).

Trends to watch in 2025

The GPS market is evolving quickly. Here are the big trends for 2025:

• Multi-band chips for improved GPS accuracy.

• Extended battery life with power-saving modes or solar charging.

• A balance between touchscreens and physical buttons—offering comfort and reliability in the rain.

• Smartphone-like interfaces for smoother navigation.

Recommended Models

• Garmin Edge 1040 Solar: The king of long distances. Its solar charging, accuracy, and full mapping make it the perfect tool for bikepacking. High investment, but worth it if you ride a lot.

• Garmin Edge 840 and 540 Solar: More compact, they retain most of the advanced features. A good compromise for those who want performance without a bulky device.

• Coros Dura: Designed for gravel riders and long-distance adventurers. With 120 hours of GPS battery life and solar charging, it handles extended rides effortlessly.

• Wahoo Elemnt Roam 3: Simple, practical physical buttons, clear mapping. Robust and reliable, ideal for those who want efficiency without getting lost in menus.

• Bryton Rider 750 SE: A smart choice for a tighter budget. Reliable, lightweight, and compatible with popular apps, perfect for beginners.

Which GPS suits your profile?

• Long-distance adventurer: Prioritize battery life and advanced mapping with the Garmin Edge 1040 Solar.

• Local explorer who likes off-the-beaten-path rides: Go for the Wahoo Roam 3.

• Gravel training with performance tracking: Choose the Garmin Edge 1050 (the newest model) or a Wahoo device focused on data.

• Beginner or looking for a simple, affordable GPS: Opt for the Bryton Rider 750 SE or the Garmin 840.

Bottom line

The best gravel GPS depends on your style: epic long rides, adventurous exploration, structured training, or casual discovery. What matters most is choosing a model that gives you accuracy, reliability, and peace of mind—so you can focus on what really counts: riding and enjoying the adventure.