Heads up – Massive Black Friday Deals List is Live!!! The Garmin Fenix 8 is $250 off (even the Fenix 8 Pro is $100 off!), the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is on sale, the Garmin inReach Mini 2 is $249, the GoPro Hero 13 Black, DJI NEO, and a ton of other brands/deals, including Wahoo, Oura, Whoop, Polar, Samsung, Google, and more than 100 sports tech deals here!
Here’s your complete list of sports tech deals for the 2023 holiday season~!
The biggest deals from the list below include:
Garmin Epix for $449: Seriously, this is insane. Mainly because it’s getting the same firmware (thus far) as the Garmin Epix Pro. All the same software features. Note: This deal seems to be flickering on/off, so keep checking back as they release new stock.
Tacx NEO 2T for $899: This is an incredibly strong deal for their top-end trainer that’s normally $1,400 (albeit lately a bit lower occasionally)
With that, onto the deals! And thanks for supporting the site via the links below. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Enjoy!
Watches & Wearables:
This covers anything you can wear that’s watch-like or activity band-like, including sensors. Generally speaking, you’ll mostly find deals here that are on things I’ve written about in the past. So you won’t find a deal on some random non-sports tech watch here, or on socks. Unless the socks have some crazy sensor or something in them.
We did see lower just back in July, at $199. So I'd probably hold out a bit more here. Assuming that happens, you can't beat this watch at this price point (heck,not even at $226 either).
Perhaps this deal will get better, but right now at $20 off...nah. Given the price of the Garmin Epix Pro has flirted into the $429 range a bit over the past few days (and is a vastly better watch), this needs to drop down closer to $299 to be worth picking up during Black Friday pricing.
These are the just-released AirPod Pro 3, with optical heart rate sensors in them. These are my daily-driver headphones these days, and even more notably, the heart rate accuracy is incredibly good in these.
This is the first major sale for the Apple Watch SE 3, which came out just 2 months ago. It's essentially Apple's 'budget' offering, yet it still has all the same software features as a higher-end Apple Watch Series 11, as long as the hardware permits.
This is the first time we've seen the Apple Watch Ultra 3 on sale, and given it's $100 off, that tends to be the typical sale price for the holidays/Black Friday for the current/just-released version.
This is a great price for this watch. Note though that technically speaking, this is a price reduction (took effect Nov 14th following the launch of the Pace 4). Most companies would first call it a sale, then make that sale price the new price as a price reduction. But COROS often beats to a different drum. Kudos on being upfront about the reduction though!
This is a great price for this watch. Note though that technically speaking, this is a price reduction (took effect Nov 14th following the launch of the Pace 4). Most companies would first call it a sale, then make that sale price the new price as a price reduction. But COROS often beats to a different drum. Kudos on being upfront about the reduction though!
These is the new model just released this past summer with stronger anti-scratch resistance (I even dragged it down a textured concrete pool desk, lens-down, to show this).
⚡ This is (by far) the lowest price we've seen on this watch to date. This is their first full smartwatch focused on kids activity tracking and gamification.
⚡ This is the go-to sale price for the Fitbit Charge 6. It happens often, but it still doesn't take away from the fast that it's argueably the best bang for your buck fitness tracker out there.
If you're looking for a simple and inexpensive activity tracker, you won't go wrong with a Fitbit (or this Inspire 3). It's got literally all the same software features in the Fitbit app as a higher-end Google Pixel Watch or other Fitbit device, except...just tiny.
⚡ This is Garmin's newest kids-focused and LTE connected smart watch. Our three daughters have been using it for about two months now, after using the original Bounce 1 for years. This is a *massive* upgrade over the Bounce 1, both in features/hardware, but frankly also battery life. My review should be up next week, but if you've got any questions drop them in the comments below.
This is the activity tracker that both of our oldest daughters have used for years (age 8 & 9), as well as most of their friends now. They/we all like it. Check out my full in-depth review for all my thoughts. That said, the new Bounce 2 came out two months ago, and while my review isn't out yet, it's a far better product. But, quite a bit more too. The TLDR on that review will be that it's the best kids smartwatch/tracker to date (for both parents and kids), but obviously will cost you $100 more.
This is Garmin's premier line of diving watches, which is based on the Fenix 7 seies, rather than the Fenix 8 series. Still, it's by far one of the most capable dive+everything else watches on the market.
Garmin Descent MK3i (Dive watch with air integration) - $250 off!
This is Garmin's premier line of diving watches, which is based on the Fenix 7 seies, rather than the Fenix 8 series. Still, it's by far one of the most capable dive+everything else watches on the market. The 'i' version (MK3i) means that you can connect it to an air tank monitor transmitter pod.
This is the lowest price we've seen on this to date. The Enduro 3 is simply the Fenix 8 with a MIP/Solar display (but without the scuba or voice calling features). It gets all the Fenix 8 features and updates otherwise.
⚡⚡⚡ This is a fantastic deal. By far the lowest price we've seen this! The Epix Pro has a flashlight which the regular Epix lacks, plus the newer Garmin Elevate Gen5 optical HR sensor with ECG support.
⚡⚡⚡ This is a fantastic deal. By far the lowest price we've seen this! The Epix Pro has a flashlight which the regular Epix lacks, plus the newer Garmin Elevate Gen5 optical HR sensor with ECG support. Note: Availability on this deal fluctuates, just keep checking back, I'm sure it'll pop back again (it always does).
⚡⚡ If you wanted the battery life of a Fenix MIP series without the cost of a Fenix 8, this is basically your best deal. Plus, unlike the base Fenix 7 series, the Pro series includes the flashlight and Gen5 HR sensor with ECG.
⚡ If you wanted the battery life of a Fenix MIP series without the cost of a Fenix 8, this is basically your best deal. Plus, unlike the base Fenix 7 series, the Pro series includes the flashlight and Gen5 HR sensor with ECG.
⚡⚡ This is very unexpected, and is an Amazon-specific deal, not a Garmin-supported one. Thus, I expect it won't last more than minutes/hours. Grab it while you can! [Update: This keeps fluttering back and forth, just keep checking!]
⚡ The Fenix 8 keeps getting all the new software features of the Fenix 8 Pro that was launched two months ago. Setting aside that Fenix 8 Pro which gained LTE & Satellite Messaging, this is otherwise the most capable sports watch on the market.
⚡ The Fenix 8 keeps getting all the new software features of the Fenix 8 Pro that was launched two months ago. Setting aside that Fenix 8 Pro which gained LTE & Satellite Messaging, this is otherwise the most capable sports watch on the market.
As a general rule, the Fenix E is the watch that literally nobody is buying, and makes no sense at higher prices. The hardware is simply the Epix Gen 2 with Fenix stamped on it. That watch is going for $400, though I expect we'll see it down to $300 over Black Friday. However, one *KEY* difference with the Fenix E, is that it includes all of the software features of the newer Fenix 8, whereas the Epix Gen 2 doesn't get all the new software features. Otherwise, save your $200.
⚡ This is (by far) the lowest price on the Forerunner 265, which was recently replaced by the Forerunner 570 (but at nearly twice this price). What's fascinating about this sale price, is it's well beyond the usual sale prices for Garmin for this product. This pricing is 100% an Kansas-themed 'Hello!' to COROS and their just released COROS Pace 4 at $249.
The Foreurnner 55 is a great option if you simply don't want to spend a ton, but still want a super-capable runners watch (and general activity/sleep tracking watch). I've heard a lot of you get it for teenagers that run, as a great/inexpensive way to track their runs, and still be a good everyday watch.
⚡ This is the lowest price to date on the Forerunner 965, which is logical given the Forerunner 970 came out this past spring (which essentialy adds a flashlight and some other running metrics/features).
⚡ This is a very unexpected sale, just launched, on this very new watch, which is Garmin's top of the line Forerunner watch with virtually all the same software features as the Fenix 8 (but in a plastic case and without the diving features).
The Instinct 3 series came out earlier this year, with both an AMOLED and Solar variants. The big upgrade over the previous editions is the inclusion of the flashlight in all sizes, and a massive ugprade of sports features.
The Instinct 3 series came out earlier this year, and the Solar edition in particular has 'unlimited' battery life in certain scenarios. The big upgrade over the previous editions is the inclusion of the flashlight in all sizes, and a massive ugprade of sports features.
⚡ The Garmin Venu 4 just came out two months ago, and one of the big ticket features is the LED flashlight built-in. However, it's also got a ton of other new features, as Garmin merged the codebase with the Forerunner/Fenix series, resulting in a boatload of added things like Training Readiness, Acute Load, and more.
⚡ This is the lowest price we've seen on the newest product in the entire Garmin Holiday 2025 sale lineup. This is basically a blend of a Forerunner 970, Venu 4, and Fenix 8...but super thin. It's argueably one of the best deals here at $599, though, Garmin is still clearly trying to figure out the right pricing to drive purchases.
⚡ This is the first time we've seen the Vivoactive 6 on sale, which is essentially a Venu 4, but without the voice/calling/ECG features (and a few other tidbits). It's probably one of the best deals in Garmin's lineup (sale or otherwise).
The newer Pixel Watch 4 came out back in October. I see the Pixel Watch 4 as a pretty substantial hardware upgrade over the Pixel Watch 3, notably due to satellite SOS, as well as a user-replaceable battery.
⚡The Pixel Watch 4 LTE includes satellite SOS connectivity, even if you don't activate a cellular plan on it. I'd strongly recommend getting the LTE version for $50 more, to future-proof you a bit there (or, to save your bacon in the woods).
This is a great dual ANT+/Bluetooth Smart (with two Bluetooth Smart connections) chest strap that you'll often find me using as a reference strap in heart rate sensor testing. We only tend to see deals on it around Black Friday, always topping out around 20%.
If you're looking for a good solid high-quality strap, that does both ANT+ & Bluetooth Smart, for a reasonable price...look no further than the Polar H9
This is a very solid deal. It's got virtually all the software features of Suunto's higher-end watches (minus the app store), and just came out this past May.
While the new Suunto Vertical 2 just came out a month ago, if you wanted to stock-up on MIP-based display watches before they disappear, here's your chance. This is also the lowest price we've ever seen on the Vertical 1, which is otherwise still a very soild watch.
Got a bike? Then this section is for you. Everything from bike computers to bike lights to trainers, it’s all here. I won’t generally be adding things like brake cables or bike seats here, but if I find a good deal on a cassette to stack on that new direct drive trainer you just bought, I’ll probably list it here.
⚡The Favero Assioma Pro MX dual-sided power meter pedals deal is a no brainer. I use them in my testing constantly along with the PRO RS pedals. Note for US folks: Favero does include all taxes and tarrifs in the price.
⚡The Favero Assioma Pro RS dual-sided power meter pedals having their first sale yet. This deal is a no brainer. I use them in my testing, and will likely pick up another set in this sale. Note for US folks: Favero does include all taxes and tarrifs in the price.
⚡This is a very solid deal, and is still one of the best bike computers Garmin has ever made, especially when you look at the battery side of things (it lasts far longer than the Edge 1050).
⚡At $249, it's pretty much impossible to beat this deal in terms of bike computers. There's no competitive option that beats it on features/battery/etc at this price, or frankly anywhere near it. Sure, it doesn't have a touchscreen, but it's not as bad as it used to be (I did a stint on it this winter for a week or so, and was fine).
⚡⚡This is the lowest price we've seen on the Garmin Edge 540 Solar to date, which has gained virtually all of the new Garmin Edge 1050 features as well. And notably, lower than the Edge 540 without solar (which is kinda silly, but hey, win for us!).
This is Garmin's radar without the light, so it's a bit smaller as a result. Same radar tech though, and compatible with Garmin/COROS/Hammerhead/Wahoo bike computers.
This is Garmin's standalone radar+taillight option, and $149 is pretty much the standard sale-price. Even despite all the new radars out there, this remains the most accurate option on the market. Now, only if Garmin would just re-release it with USB-C. C'Mon Garmin...maybe next year?
This is the first time this product has been on sale, since launching last spring. I'd argue it could have used a $100 off sale...but hey...they don't consult me.
This is Elite's previous-gen trainer, but it's still a reliable workhorse. This bundle is paired with the Zwift Cog/Click, though, you can also buy it without a cassette for the same price.
This is one of the most popular indoor trainer fan companies out there, which rivals the Wahoo Headwind fan but cost a fraction of the price. Of course, it lacks ANT+/Bluetooth integration, but realistically if you really want that you can add a smart outlet for $10 to toggle it on/off from your phone if need be. It's one of the ones in my rotation.
This is the go-to sales price for the NEO 2T, though has become more frequent over the past year. It's still an incredible trainer, and is the top-end non-moving trainer from Garmin/Tacx.
⚡ This is the lowest price we've seen to date on the Tacx NEO 3M, and finally takes it down to a semi-logical price (compared to it's competitors). This is a good buy, and obviously, given it's only a year old, I definitely don't expectany sort of new version of this anytime soon (the last NEO series unit was about 5 years between versions).
This is another very popular fan that people use for indoor training/cycling, especially due to inclusion of the remote and remote holder to clasp on your handlebars.
This simulates the up and down motion on Wahoo KICKR trainers moving your bike up and down. Also, there's virtually no product except SNAP, that Wahoo likes to put on sale more. Wouldn't be a sale around here unless this thing was discounted.
⚡ This is a very solid deal for this bike, and the lowest price to date. I actually like the KICKR BIKE SHIFT more than the higher-end KICKR BIKE V2/Pro, mainly because it's both quiter, and seems to be more resillient to issues (less complex design).
⚡ ⚡ This is a very very good deal, for the KICKR CORE 2 that just came out two months ago. My full review was just published last week after an absolute boatlod of riding, and even buying an extra unit to validate things. This model is the one with the Zwift Cog/Click, whereas the 11sp cassette model is also the same price.
⚡ ⚡ This is a very very good deal, for the KICKR CORE 2 that just came out two months ago. My full review was just published last week after an absolute boatlod of riding, and even buying an extra unit to validate things. This model is the one with the Zwift Cog/Click, whereas the 11sp cassette model is also the same price.
⚡This is actually the lowest price we've ever seen on the KICKR V6. Wahoo says we won't see a new top-end KICKR this fall, with them instead focusing on the new KICKR Bike Pro, KICKR CORE 2, and all their new bike computers/radar/etc...
Action Cameras & Drones:
Wanna record it? No better way than an action camera. Anything that’s action camera-related or drone-related you’ll find here. That’s especially true of action camera mounts, which are often found for great deals around the holidays. Same goes with drones and drone accessories. Usually a great time to pick up an extra battery or extra props.
This is last year's model. And sure, the Action 6 came out 48 hours ago, but honestly, the initial rection hasn't been kind there. I just started testing it, so more to come very shortly.
Look, don't buy this drone. This is the drone that never should have left the napkin at the lunch table at DJI's HQ. The unit breaks easily (as I, and many others found out), and doesn't really do anything super well. Literally, buy any other DJI drone except htis one...you're welcome.
⚡ This is a great little drone as your first drone, especially for sports usage, where it'll do an astonishing job following you (running, cycling, etc...). And, you can crash it a gazillion times without any problem.
NOTE: This is not sold by DJI directly via Amazon. DJI itself is NOT selling the OSMO 360 in the US, and WILL NOT support/repair it in the US. That said, it's a solid deal if you're ok with those risks.
This is GoPro's budget option, which includes a full color touchscreen on the back as well. The main benefit is it's super small, but note it's not quite in the same quality ballpark as their higher-end cameras. If you want size and GoPro ecosystem on a budget, this is an option. But with the DJI Action 4 just $20 more than $199, that offers notably better quality.
This has become one of my favorite drones, given it's tiny size (fits in my running shorts pockets) and ease of use. Plus, you can crash the crap out of it (hundreds of times for me and my wife) without any issues. This combo includes an extra battery and fast charger.
⚡ This is a solid deal on a solid drone, and one of the two main ones I use when taking videos of myself hiking or running. This includes the two extra batteries as well as the fast charger (so 3 batteries total).
⚡ This just came out this past August, and is a great little unit. The pod isn't quite as tiny as the Go 3S, but the features and quality are a huge step up (especially the removable MicroSD card).
This is one of the best 360 action cams on the market, alongside the GoPro Max 2 (both have their pros and cons, check out my full comparison guide linked).
Other Sports & Fitness:
Anything else that’s sports and fitness related that I think is interesting will be here. It may not be super techy – but it’s stuff that most readers will be using in pursuit of their running/cycling/swimming/hiking/whatever.
Product
Sale Price
Amazon
Other site
Sale Notes
FeedBack Sports Pro Mechanic Bike Repair Stand - $50 Off
We use this stand for both any of the work we do on any of our bikes (well, except the cargo bike). Super quick and easy to take out when we need it. Note: Feedback Sports is a DC Rainmaker Partner
FeedBack Sports Pro Mechanic HD Bike Repair Stand - $55 Off
I've got this setup, andit's basically got almost everything I need for regular/daily bike maintenance across virtually all of my bikes. Plus, in theory I can keep things tidy in that carrying case....I mean, if I were to actually put all the tools back in it. Note: Feedback Sports is a DC Rainmaker Partner
The Garmin Inded BPM is Garmin's medically certified blood pressure monitor. It integrates directly into your Garmin Connect account. I use it on occasion as a comparison for wearables, and it works just fine (obviously it's already medically certified by the FDA, so I say 'works' here in the sense of usability/functionality/etc...).
⚡ This is the lowest price we've ever seen for this. This is my defacto satellite communicator when out of coverage area, and I've used it on a number of major treks over the past two years when well outside of cellular service, both in a 24x7 tracking mode for friends and family, but also there in case of emergency. Would strongly recommend for anyone doing anything in the wilderness.
This came out last fall, and is the second time this has been discounted, but now to the lowest price to date. The key difference with the new Plus model is that it adds the ability to send photos and voice messenges via satellite. I've used it a bit, and it's pretty cool because it makes it a lot faster to just say something rather than type it out, but the $499 price seemed excessive. $399 makes it slightly more palatable.
This is one of the other more popular display-laden rowing machines. I haven't tried this, but my sports-tech reviewing buddy DesFit has (linked at side) and liked it.
These are the main gels I use when I don't need the bigger 90g ones. So for example doing something a bit shorter where I don't want to carry the bigger 90g packs (mainly running). Note: Precision Fuel & Hydration is a DC Rainmaker partner
Precision Fuel & Hydration PF90 Energy Gels 10pkg - 15% OFF
I primarily use these 90g packs on all my adventures, roughly doing 90g/hour for cycling/trail running/hiking/etc... Note: Precision Fuel & Hydration is a DC Rainmaker partner
My wife uses the Theragun, and absolutely loves it, in the most hatefun kind of way.
DCR Random Gadget List:
These are basically the mostly totally unrelated gadgets and things I think are cool deals that I’ve likely bought one or five of (you can never have too many, right)? Some of it’s probably photography stuff. Some of it’s random stuff like chargers and battery packs that I use daily, fun camera gear I use to make videos like sliders and turntables, and well…just random things you’ll find around the DCR Cave. It’s all random…but it’s all awesome randomness!
Product
Sale Price
Amazon
Sale Notes
Adobe Creative Cloud Pro (12 Months) - $389 off (50% off!)
As a side note, you can cancel and take advantage of this. Which, is precisely what I did when I realized my existing plan was gonna be stupid expensive. In any case, I use the Adobe Creative Cloud Pro suite for a lot of what I do.
⚡ This is an awesome deal. I use my iPad primarily for TrainerRoad as well as Zwift when not with a larger display. I also occasionally use it for other apps, namely Indievelo, Kinomap, Rouvy, and Peloton. But I pretty much test every smart trainer app on it. For all these cycling apps, the graphics capabilities is really pretty irrelevant, so having the absolute top-end/latest model won't make any difference. I prefer the budget options.
This is the singular piece of apparel that's lasted the longest in my collection - some 15-16 years of buying the same socks. Heck, some of them are probably half that old. EIther way, this be the ones I use. Love them (well, except for hiking and trail running, then I use other stuff that goes higher). I'm wearring them as I wrote this post too.
We have more Nest cam's than I can count. No really, we have half a dozen at the DCR Cave alone, plus more at home. We love them. Nest Cam's really only go on sale about 1-2x per year.
⚡ Let's be honest: This place runs on Nespresso (or, well, the knock-off pods we buy). But, the machine is Nespresso. Without it, reviews most definitely would not get done (and certainly not on time). This is a pretty sweet deal if you ask me!
Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven - $120 off
I use the Fyra 12 (with wood pellets), and love it. The Karu 12 is essentialyl the newer version of that, and there's both a gas-only version, and a multi-fuel option (gas or wood). Love it!
I use Philips Hue stuff all over the DCR Cave/Studio for lighting, both obviously colorful stuff in the background of shots, but also just for automation of the lights. Same goes at home. Love it (mainly when it's on sale like now). Starter packs are a good place to begin, and then I love the light strips (such as pictured).
We have a few SONOS speakers around the house and DCR Cave (the Ikea variants at DCR Cave), but by far our favorite is the Roam, which we take outdoors into the garden during the summer, beach vacations, AirBNB's, etc... It has a battery in it, and also connects to both WiFi and Bluetooth. Love, love, love. I think the main reason I love it, is that we heavily use it in summer, so...kinda reminds me of summer.
SanDisk 1-4TB Extreme PRO Portable External SSD - 30% off
⚡This is one of the two the high speed drives types I use to store the footage I'm actively video editing. I typically buy the 2TB and 4TB ones, and then eventually offload the footage onto a NAS array when I'm done.
Sony Alpha 7 IV Full-frame Mirrorless Camera w/ 28-70mm Zoom - $400 offThis is the main camera I use for still photography and video b-roll. I semi-recently wrote about all the photography gear I use, linked at side here.
I have bigger Synology NAS units at the DCR Studio/Office, but I also have a smaller unit (this one) that I use to keep various piles of data here too. I like the Synology stuff, as it's generally quite dependable.
With that – thanks for reading, and for supporting the site via the links above.
For lack of a better place to put this, does anyone have issues with having to re-login every couple days? I check the site multiple times a week and it seems that every few days ads appear again and I need to login. It happens on my computer, phone, and iPad. Not sure if that is normal.
Thanks for being a DCR Supporter. Hmm, that’s odd. It should be a heck of a long time for any DCR Supporter. I’ll have to dig-in to the exact settings, but we also allow unlimited concurrent connections, so it’s not a case of one device signing in, kicking out another. The only thing I can think of, is if you’ve got something blocking the session cookie from sticking the landing, thus requiring the re-login.
I’ll poke the developer folks and see if they know what’s going on.
Not sure. Last year we didn’t actually see any FR955/255 deals, and it was released at a similar timeframe this year. The Garmin FR955/255 deals run through Black Friday, so I’d say no harm in waiting on that one another week or so.
Garmin historically doesn’t bother with different/lower Cyber Monday type deals, it’s either BF or bust.
I just got the FR965 for 552,49 € (15% discount) from Austrian shop polleosport.at – they offer free shipping to Austria and Germany. I figured that higher discounts might be unlikely for the 965 this year. They also got the FR265 with a 15% discount.
Looking at the database, last year they did actually run KICKR Bike deals. Specifically:
From Oct 26th through till BF weekend:
Wahoo KICKR Bike V1 – $500 off
(Note this was a US deal, and not a Europe deal)
And Black Friday Weekend:
Wahoo KICKR Bike V1 – €1,000 off/£1,200 off
(Note this was a Europe deal, and not a US deal)
In addition, they ran some smoking hot deals on both US and European sides for refurb bikes, which I actually picked up back then.
Also remember for context, last year when this deal happened, Wahoo had just launched their V2 bike in September/October, and concurrently, was grasping for air/cash. Their financial position is far better now, so they might not be as eager to highly discount the bikes. In other words…who knows.
I’ve been suspecting and waiting for this! Question on Forerunner 255 vs 255 M. I’m currently on a 645 Non Music. Since I’m deaf, I don’t care about the music at all. However, with the 645, I know we didn’t get a bunch of updates that the M did because they had more memory on the watch. Could that be an issue with the 255 non-M as well? (Still, I’m hoping to get a 955 on my wrist to see how it feels, if it’s not too thick, then I’d definitely prefer having the maps too) Thanks, Ray!
No, we’ve seen the FR255 receive concurrent updates with the Forerunner 255M since launch, and honestly, quite a boatload of them. Tons of new sport modes, expansions, etc.
The most recent beta update about 12 days ago added essentially all of the new Venu 3 features: link to forums.garmin.com
Follow up on this, as I found an interesting tidbit… the 255 Music can get beta updates, but the 255 cannot. Reason – the beta updates are coming over wifi, and only the Music edition has wifi. (Source: link to forums.garmin.com and other discussion in the forums) However, my earlier question was related to regular software updates, not necessarily betas, so I’m fine with it. Wanted to let you know since you used the beta as a specific example.
Thanks, Ray! I wondered whether the Fenix/epix Pro models being on a strong sale indicates Fenix 8 / epix 3 coming soon, like in January. I imagine you won’t engage in such speculation, though you could probably provide historical perspective on whether the current/flagship versions of Fenix/epix have been on sale like this before and/or whether new versions have been released without a new version of the Elevate sensor (given a new Elevate sensor seems unlikely to come as soon as January)
Historically Garmin has always found a way to drop usually $150-$200 off at least one of the Fenix series units, during Black Friday sales. Thus, this doesn’t really surprise me. I was slightly more surprised it’d be the Pro, I figured they might go deeper on non-Pro (which, they also did).
I wouldn’t expect any new Fenix/Epix units in January. That’d be a 7-8 month cycle, and far sooner than any previous Fenix/Epix series refresh. Historically they’ve floated in the 14-18 month range (exempting COVID, where like any other company, things got slightly tilted). I suspect Garmin would love to find themselves closer to a 12-month cycle, to be able to better position their units against a yearly Apple Watch Ultra release cycle.
The soonest I’d expect to see any new Fenix/Epix series units would be the same time as last year, May-June or so. Or, they could slide to late August like other years.
Do you think the 14-18 month cycle, or less, would apply equally fo the 965 and 265? If it doesn’t go on sale for Black Friday its an issue if buy now or wait for a sale or next generation (965 came out so soon after the 955 and ECG could be in the posy 965: version, maybe?).
Ooh, this assessment makes me lean more towards a purchase. I was shying away because when I bought my Fenix 6 Sapphire on Black Friday 2021 the 7 and Epix came out just a few months later, despite rumors to the contrary. However, the F6 was over 2 years old then I guess. Going off F7/Epix Gen 2 base, January 2024 is 2 years for them , but sounds like you’re resetting clock with Pro models
Garmin views the Pro models as simply the next-gen Fenix/Epix. They aren’t considered a different level SKU, akin to Apple Watch vs Apple Watch Ultra. Sure, there’s some marketing that will hint that, but from a real-world product standpoint, the order of release has been:
Oct 2012: Fenix 1
Feb 2014: Fenix 2
Mar 2015: Fenix 3
Feb 2016: Fenix 3HR (the mid-point release)
Mar 2017: Fenix 5
June 2018: Fenix 5 Plus (the mid-point release)
Aug 2019: Fenix 6/Pro
July 2020: Fenix 6 Solar (the mid-point release, all units got solar)
Jan 2022: Fenix 7/Epix
May 31st 2023: Fenix 7 Pro/Epix Pro (the mid-point release)
Now, in this somewhat rare scenario, the Fenix 7 Pro/Epix Pro is the first time we’ve seen Garmin keep the software features in sync with the base Fenix 7/Epix series. Who knows how long that’ll happen for. Hopefully pressure from companies like Apple’s WatchOS releases will keep that going a long while.
The other potential piece of this puzzle is the timing of a new Elevate sensor. The last few versions of the Fenix/epix series each appear to have come with a new version, further supporting the idea that a new Fenix/epix is further away given the launch of the latest Elevate v5 earlier this year.
I would assume new ELEVATE V5 will be the sensor for a while. Garmin isn’t going to want to mess with it, in terms of re-doing ECG FDA certification (or any theoretically pending CE certification).
I would expect it to continue. Mainly because it’s at rando-pricing, which indicates it’s technically an Amazon sale, and not a Garmin sale. Thus, Amazon is likely depleting inventory of old watches as they often do during BF, and usually do so while looking a bit drunk at times – as if someone dared them to go lower on price. But hey…we all benefit!
The ‘Gen 2’ is only loosely used, because technically speaking, the original Garmin Epix was waaay back in 2015: link to dcrainmaker.com
Obviously, that was sorta a one-off, and most people had forgotten about it 7 years later except sports tech geeks. But Garmin really liked the name (and it had been cleared from trademarks standpoint), so…they went with it.
Hey Ray, appreciate you putting together a great guide!
I’m looking on upgrading from a Vivoactive 4S into the Epix range. I saw that the Epix Gen 2 base model was going for $449 compared to the Epix 2 Sapphire for $600.
Most of the reviews have been focused around the sapphire version that has the multi-band GPS and sapphire screen. For an additional 25-30% more, is the sapphire screens and multi-band pivotal for long-term usage?
I’m primarily concerned if it would be worth in the long-term to pay more now to avoid the Epix Gen 2 base model aging poorly.
I don’t think it’s as big a deal as we collectively thought it might have been when the Epix first launched (with multiband and not). Garmin has made their non-multiband variants using the same chip incredibly accurate. 98% of the time, you can’t tell the difference. I did a test last year with both units side by side in NYC, and the differences were almost unseeable: link to dcrainmaker.com
You can see then for example, that the Fenix 7 Base and Fenix 7 Sapphire, performed nearly identically, both easily beating the COROS Vertix 2 with multiband/dual-freq.
Would you say the same holds for the FR255? Is that the same chipset?
I am currently in the market for a new watch (because my fenix 5s died) and it’s between the 255 and the 265. Currently, I do not see the need for an AMOLED screen (potentially I might change my mind once I had one for a while…). And since I do not need music support and those training readiness stuff, the 255 is appealing due to the price. The only other difference that might really matter to me would be multiband…
Two cents: Multiband seems important, though I would also consider the sapphire’s superior screen durability and longevity. If you’re the kind of person that keeps watches a while.
I had a base fenix 5 that got little dings/scuffs immediately that drove me nuts. After 2 years I paid up for a fenix 6 SAPPHIRE and it’s still my daily watch 4 years 3 months later.
It’s not just the screen – the bezel is also far less worn on the Sapphire/Pro. I think b/c the sapphire bezel is typically “DLC coated” whatever that means.
TL;DR I the Neo 2T worth (almost) 2x the price of the KICKR CORE?
So. My current setup is a Tacx Vortex Smart (wheel on) with a 6 speed 1988 Cannondale kludged to accommodate the 126 mm read spacing. Works great! Until the read hub exploded recently. Original wheel, probably 30,000+ miles. No complaints. BUT…a wheel-off trainer is not going to work with that bike – it has a burly, aluminum rear triangle, so I’m not super excited about spreading it to 130 mm. So, maybe my normal road bike (8 speed Cannondale) or race bike (10 speed QR) on a wheel-off trainer is the smart move. SO…if I’m going wheel-off…see TL;DR…
Coming from a Vortex, you’ll definitily be happy with the KICKR CORE. And you should be, it’s a great trainer. Personally, I would not see a reason to spend more on a Neo 2T. Which is a great unit as well. I just don’t see much added benefit. Downhill drive for example… kinda nice, but honestly never missed it.
If you’d like to spend more money I would see more benefit in adding a KICKR CLIMB. That makes much more difference… Or maybe buy or build a sprintboard.
That’s a hard one to predict. Wahoo has often run very limited Black Friday sales of 10-20% over the years, sometimes even on new models. They tend to last usually 1-4 days. But they tend to be very hard to predict. Wahoo apparently won the battle with REI over their 20% coupon, as it isn’t permitted this year (previously it was on trainers, but not “bike simulators”).
RE: NEO 2T at 2x the CORE?
That’s tough. As others have said, coming from a VORTEX, which is…umm…not awesome, either unit will be a massive upgrade. The NEO 2T has downhill drive, which is super cool. Meanwhile, the CORE has ability to connect to a KICKR CLIMB for up/down. While you can get nuanced on road-feel between the two, most people wouldn’t likely be able to tell the difference.
If it was me, I’d pickup the CORE and then the CLIMB on sale, and call it even-ish.
Thank you Ray! FWIW I found that Trek’s 10% discount for signing up for their mailing list *did* work on a KICKR MOVE. I figured it was unlikely that we’d get something higher than that during Black Friday so I went for it.
Yeah, I’d take that and run – before someone figutes it out. :)
That said, that’s historically how some of the better Wahoo (or even Garmin) deals have happened over Black Friday weekend. Basically smaller shops/outlets (obviously Trek is big) not entirely realizing they’re violating MAP pricing by offering a blanket discount. Grab them deals when you can, they usually don’t last more than a few hours.
EPIX 2 $399. Stainless / Gorilla Glass / Single GPS Satellite. (Not the Epix 2 Pro.)
A great deal that I jumped on. The price has varied from $449 to $429 to $399 at this vendor. (The price has bounced up and down. Now at $399.) New in the box and very fast shipping – at least to me in the US.
As noted, we usually see the biggest EU discounts on Black Friday weekend itself, and they usually beat the US side.
I see a few of the German bike discounters have the NEO 2T at 1,200EUR including the Tacx NEO Motion Plates and some other random stuff. So essentially the same 899+300 price of the US side, albeit you have to pay for those motion plates.
Point being, I’d be surprised if we don’t see the NEO 2T sub-1K over BF in Europe.
Expecting anything on GoPro? I’m looking to pick up a Hero 11 at a decent price – for being an “old” model, the current discount vs the 12 seems absolutely pants – but knock another 50-100 off it on a sale and I’ll jump on it.
We generally see $50-$100 off GoPro models over this time period. I’d expect the same – both for new and previous-gen models. Usually that happens next week.
I am looking at a cheaper DJI drone combo. Do you anticipate any additional sales as we move closer to the holidays? As of now the one I’m looking at (DJI Mini 2 se combo) is the same price on their website as well as Amazon.
Also, I’ve pulled the trigger on an Epix 2 Pro Saphire thanks in part to your videos. Anxiously awaiting it’s arrival.
Thanks!
I’d fully expect to see the DJI Mini 2 variants on sale – and likely the Mini 3/Pro variants too. I would expect no sales on the Mini 4 Pro. If in the US, Costco has oddly been one of the leaders on BF DJI Drone deals.
Between the new watches and the discounts on certain older models, I hesitate…
I have a Forerunner 735 xt and I would be tempted to upgrade to a watch with more comprehensive navigation for bicycling.
Canceled my Kickr Core order I made a week ago and went full out on Neo2T.
I am beyond excited.
From a Kurt Kinetic Wheel on Fluid Dumb Trainer to Neo2T direct drive smart trainer.
Major upgrades…I’m scared!
RIDE ON!
I missed out on the Epix Gen 2 in EU for 449.
Had it in the bag, clicked checkout and got distracted :-)
Do I need it? no but trailrunning in the dark the better screen is a game changer.
Last year Favero had some really good deals that they published on Black Friday itself. I received an e-mail from them and picked up an UNO > DUO upgrade pedal at about 50% off. I’m in the U.S. but the transaction was directly with Favero and the pedal shipped from Italy.
Redshift sports still has an early black friday sale of 25% off on most everything including suspension stems and seatposts. Great stuff for road or gravel. link to redshiftsports.com
Wasn’t disappointed when I came straight to your website to confirm the deals!
I was waiting for the Black Friday weekend itself to buy F7Pro, but now that there’s already a 200 off, do you suggest I take the plunge right away or wait till the Black Friday weekend itself for a potential further pricedrop? I’m from Canada if that helps.
I have been wearing the fenix 5 basically for 5 years 24/7 and, honestly, did not have any issues with scratches or whatever. And I am not extremely cautious with my stuff, I am dropping my phone quite regularly.
I guess I am just not sensitive in regard to the looks…
Do you have any info on fitness app deals during Cyber Week? Most specifically looking ahead to any WahooX membership deals that I should wait before pulling a trigger on?
As mentioned above I just ordered a 965 from polleosport.at with a 15% discount. They also got the Epix Pro Sapphire and other Garmin watches with 15% off. Delivery is free to Austria and Germany.
For the Canadians in the group, Sport Check has a 50x multiplier for their triangle points on the apple watch 9 right now. I picked up a 45mm GPS model for the regular price of 589CDN and got $117.80 in points to use at Sport Check, Canadian Tire, Marks, etc. It’s not really money I guess, but I buy enough at the places that I can use it towards normal household stuff quite easily. Best deal I’ve found so far.
Thanks again for pulling together this very helpful master list. I was on the REI app this morning and saw the Garmin Edge 1040 offered at the discounted sale price, but none of the Garmin Rally pedals were available and were listed at the regular US price ($1080 USD). Did REI sell through their stock of Rally pedals?
Until mid this week in Canada on garmin site and one day on amazon, epix 2 sapphire was at 480$ usd. I hesitate between 965 and epix to buy, but the deal take the decision for me 😄
Wow! I got the Epix Gen 2 last December for a good deal on Amazon with it being an open box return and getting $200 off for opening a Chase Card. And I’ve been really happy with the watch. My previous watch was the Fenix 6 and if that was still my daily driver I would definitely be moving to the Epix now.
I wonder if Garmin is being so aggressive with Epix prices because they are being affected by the Apple Watch Ultra. I see a lot of people wearing them.
I believe I recall reading the Garmin epix Gen 2 (currently at $448 on Amazon) doesn’t come preloaded with maps (and perhaps some other features were missing?). Is it able to accept maps after purchase? Or is the onboard storage limiting this? Thanks!
Your website is always so helpful. Thank you.
I was hoping for a deal on the Garmin Edge 840 as the screen on my Edge 830 is cracked. Unfortunately, Garmin does not offer many deals on bike computers this year. But hey, now I’m considering buying the Nespresso machine and the pizza oven.. ;-)
With deals like this, is the NEO 2T for $900 still attractive? I know that’s a great discount from Garmin, however KICKR Core for half that seems pretty nice
This is really solid. My wife has been thinking on a KICKR Core for $500, so getting the Climb for $163 tipped the scale.
I’m surprised there still is stock, but I also don’t see this bundle when searching for it on the site. I only found it from seeing your post and link. Thanks!
Man at that price point unless you are just wanting to move out of Garmin eco system the Suunto is a tough buy. For me the two watches were basically a tie for the running features I value and there were a few that garmin does much better and the OHR swung in Garmin’s favor. For the handful of times I still play golf it sure is nice to have the courses on my wrist. I actually played a few days ago with the Race on my wrist and the cart GPS was not working and I really missed having the yardages. Plus the dial on the Race kept getting triggered with my wrist which was annoying. Good luck with your purchase.
I’d generally agree with Craig. The Suunto Race is a great watch, but it’s incredibly hard to argue with the Epix at $449USD (or equivs globally) for the same price. Yes, the Suunto Race will get longer battery life, so, if that’s something you value over everything else – then go forth.
But in almost every other scenario, for the same price it’s hard to argue with Epix.
What’s your go-to Nespresso compatible pod? We just got a Breville Creatista which uses original Nespresso pods. Didn’t consider the Vertuo since I read it only accepted proprietary pods.
Need to add a 2 (259ish for most flavors rn – $59 would be a better steal than the RIVAL!) to the price on the Polar Pacer Pro in your sale price column – although the Maroon-plum color is at $177 rn (3rd party). Also Polar Vantage M2 floated down to $189. You really need your own algorithm to keep up with the Amazon bots haha.
thanks for all your work on this Ray !
I am looking for a cheapest Garmin watch with map feature.
I would like to upload routes and use the navigation function.
My current watch (Garmin Forerunner 310XT) died and I am looking for a replacement.
What do you recommend?
garmin forerunner 945 is $299 an amazon rn with full maps and routing. also look at Fenix6 Pro refurbished in the list above for $329. If you just need breadcrumb routing to upload a route without actual maps the Garmin 935 is a little less ($263). I have see the 935 as low as $199. You said garmin but Coros added breadcrumb routing to the Pace2 and Pace3 recently that are both cheaper than the aforementioned Garmin models. I believe turn by turn on Coros is still in beta
A large high street jewellery chain in the UK has an incredible deal on the Epix gen 2 for £375 ish which you can get down to £320 if you sign up to their newsletter and use discount code (it seems the one they send out automatically doesn’t work, but if you use the web chat to their customer support folks, they are replacing the faulty 10% voucher code with a 15% one)
Trek has the Wahoo Powrlink Zero dual-sided power meter pedals for $719.99. Plus, you can stack the 10% coupon for signing up to their email list on top of that taking it down to $648.
Pay attention if buying the Epix Gen 2 on Amazon. The current ship date is Jan 8th.
There may be other sites with it discounted to $399 like Bike Closet or Running Warehouse, but read their return policy first. It is not as generous as Amazon.
I wonder: is there any detailed comparison of health related features of current smart watches (features, their limitations, their accuracy and reliability compared to medical-grade equipment, …) available? I am very interested in things like on-demand AFib detection, respiration rate, SP02, sleep tracking, … and in the future hopefully something like blood pressure and sugar levels.
As I get older, these things get more important and I find it hard to assess them. E.g, I don’t trust the blood oxygen level values from my old FR 245 much since they vary a lot (e.g. just now: anything from 93% to 100% within a few minutes sitting on a chair, but maybe the arm band is just too loose). Any guidance would be highly appreciated! :-)
The site also hid the buying options for the Epix a couple days ago, then it returned. If you click the “See All Buying Options” button and filter by New, there are still sellers with it available. Not sure why Amazon doesn’t always pick the lowest price and offer to add to cart. Anyone still looking for an Epix should keep an eye for it to return soon with a ship date of Jan 8-9 again.
Yeah, Epix is still there for $449 – right now you can get it for $449 on Amazon, shipped from Adorama (a massive electronics retailer) for next-day delivery: link to amzn.to
(Fun Amazon fact: Amazon will sort by price, always, with multiple sellers. But more specifically, to the cent. In this case, the cheapest option was $449.00 with January delivery. But, $449.99 has next day delivery. Nonetheless, Amazon won’t show you that unless you click to expand the others.)
Here is an interesting one. Garmin Epix Gen 2 Sapphire at dell.com for $599. If you happen to be an American Express card holder and have the option to add their selected deals, one of which is $120 statement credit for Dell.com purchases of $599 or more, you can get the more premium watch for $479.
So many incredible Epix gen 2 deals over the last few days – I can’t help but think retailers are clearing old stock.
Maybe there’s a replacement arriving soon, or just retirement of the Epix product?
Forerunner and Fenix seem such strong lines with recognisable purpose, even though I’ve ordered an Epix it’s still not clear to me what it’s intended audience is?
I think epix has a niche as the only ultra long battery life with amoled display? It’s nearly 2 years old now so I wouldn’t be surprised if there is a Gen 3 released soon.
I’m confused. Epix Pro is simply the next Epix. Garmin has used that tick-tock style naming scheme for Fenix for a decade now (either using HR, Pro, or Plus for the in-between version).
Hit the Epix deal…page actually said DC Rainmaker commission…that is cool. Mine coming from Adorama…will be here tomorrow. Another poster mentioned a January ship date, perhaps my Prime membership got me faster shipping.
Saris H3 is $584 with coupon on Amazon and Tacx Neo is $899. Is the Tacx worth $300 more? Both are in Ray’s top three high end trainers. Anyone got any experience with both?
Deciding whether it’s worth $300 more is always tricky, but I’d personally spend $899 for the NEO 2T versus $600 for the Saris H3. It’s quieter, it’s got better/proper 12-speed support, it’s got downhill drive, etc…
The H3 is on sale now for $487. Would that change your decision over the NEO 2T? I only use ERG mode with TR and would be mounting a 9 speed old bike on it.
However, beware of what type of bike you’re planning on putting it on. It doesn’t have native 12-speed support, thus, if you’re trying to put on a much newer bike, that can get you into a bit of a pickle. Whereas the KICKR CORE is $599 including a cassette or $499 without a cassette, and while the ERG is a bit more nuanced/better on the H3, the CORE is much quieter, has 3-concurrent BLE connections, has KICKR CLIMB support, and will likely get more firmware updates in the future.
The 487.00 sale was short lived. Back to 650.00. I think Saris was clearing H3 inventory so they could start pushing the H3 plus which definitely makes the core a better deal.
My trainer bike is a permanently mounted ancient 9 speed so compatibility is not an issue. It’s actually older then the computrainer it’s mounted to,
The Epix for $449 deal has ended on Amazon, but is still discounted to $449 or sometimes $399 or $380 on Bike Closet or OTA (Outside The Asylum Diving & Travel)
I swim, bike and run. Then, I come here and write about my adventures. It’s as simple as that. Most of the time. If you’re new around these parts, here’s the long version of my story.
You'll support the site, and get ad-free DCR! Plus, you'll be more awesome. Click above for all the details. Oh, and you can sign-up for the newsletter here!
Here’s how to save!
Wanna save some cash and support the site? These companies help support the site! With Backcountry.com or Competitive Cyclist with either the coupon code DCRAINMAKER for first time users saving 15% on applicable products.
You can also pick-up tons of gear at REI via these links, which is a long-time supporter as well:
Alternatively, for everything else on the planet, simply buy your goods from Amazon via the link below and I get a tiny bit back as an Amazon Associate. No cost to you, easy as pie!
You can use the above link for any Amazon country and it (should) automatically redirect to your local Amazon site.
While I don't partner with many companies, there's a few that I love, and support the site. Full details!
Want to compare the features of each product, down to the nitty-gritty? No problem, the product comparison data is constantly updated with new products and new features added to old products!
Wanna create comparison chart graphs just like I do for GPS, heart rate, power meters and more? No problem, here's the platform I use - you can too!
Think my written reviews are deep? You should check out my videos. I take things to a whole new level of interactive depth!
Smart Trainers Buyers Guide: Looking at a smart trainer this winter? I cover all the units to buy (and avoid) for indoor training. The good, the bad, and the ugly.
Check out
my weekly podcast - with DesFit, which is packed with both gadget and non-gadget goodness!
Get all your awesome DC Rainmaker gear here!
FAQ’s
I have built an extensive list of my most frequently asked questions. Below are the most popular.
You probably stumbled upon here looking for a review of a sports gadget. If you’re trying to decide which unit to buy – check out my in-depth reviews section. Some reviews are over 60 pages long when printed out, with hundreds of photos! I aim to leave no stone unturned.
I travel a fair bit, both for work and for fun. Here’s a bunch of random trip reports and daily trip-logs that I’ve put together and posted. I’ve sorted it all by world geography, in an attempt to make it easy to figure out where I’ve been.
The most common question I receive outside of the “what’s the best GPS watch for me” variant, are photography-esq based. So in efforts to combat the amount of emails I need to sort through on a daily basis, I’ve complied this “My Photography Gear” post for your curious minds (including drones & action cams!)! It’s a nice break from the day-to-day sports-tech talk, and I hope you get something out of it!
Many readers stumble into my website in search of information on the latest and greatest sports tech products. But at the end of the day, you might just be wondering “What does Ray use when not testing new products?”. So here is the most up to date list of products I like and fit the bill for me and my training needs best! DC Rainmaker 2024 swim, bike, run, and general gear list. But wait, are you a female and feel like these things might not apply to you? If that’s the case (but certainly not saying my choices aren’t good for women), and you just want to see a different gear junkies “picks”, check out The Girl’s Gear Guide too.
For lack of a better place to put this, does anyone have issues with having to re-login every couple days? I check the site multiple times a week and it seems that every few days ads appear again and I need to login. It happens on my computer, phone, and iPad. Not sure if that is normal.
Hey Bruce!
Thanks for being a DCR Supporter. Hmm, that’s odd. It should be a heck of a long time for any DCR Supporter. I’ll have to dig-in to the exact settings, but we also allow unlimited concurrent connections, so it’s not a case of one device signing in, kicking out another. The only thing I can think of, is if you’ve got something blocking the session cookie from sticking the landing, thus requiring the re-login.
I’ll poke the developer folks and see if they know what’s going on.
Appreciate the heads up!
Thanks for the reply and for checking. Maybe other people will let me know that I am the only one with the problem. 🙂
Also, I’m moving back to Amsterdam in April. Hope to see you sometime!
I have the same problem every few weeks (maybe?) but as per Ray’s comment just disabled the adblocker, which could yield better results.
Yeah I have to re-log in regularly.
Perhaps ad blocking…
I have the same, have to re-login very often
yup, same here, perhaps once every two weeks or so? often enough to be annoying…
Didn’t see it in the list but I got a message today that the Wahoo Element Rival is currently $100 off (only $99).
link to wahoofitness.com
Nice, that’s a pretty crazy deal!
Think the Garmin 965 and/or 265 will go on sale any time soon? I keep holding on waiting for a sale…
Not sure. Last year we didn’t actually see any FR955/255 deals, and it was released at a similar timeframe this year. The Garmin FR955/255 deals run through Black Friday, so I’d say no harm in waiting on that one another week or so.
Garmin historically doesn’t bother with different/lower Cyber Monday type deals, it’s either BF or bust.
If you have an Expert Voice account they are 20% off direct from Garmin.
The 265 is available for 425 € at the moment. But that’s not the first time in the last few weeks. Not sure whether it will go below.
I just got the FR965 for 552,49 € (15% discount) from Austrian shop polleosport.at – they offer free shipping to Austria and Germany. I figured that higher discounts might be unlikely for the 965 this year. They also got the FR265 with a 15% discount.
955 seems on sale everywhere, $200 off.
link to rei.com
Amazon has the 265 and 265s for $399.99 right now in the US
Have Wahoo bikes typically been offered at discounted prices during Black Friday sales in the past? Thank you!
Looking at the database, last year they did actually run KICKR Bike deals. Specifically:
From Oct 26th through till BF weekend:
Wahoo KICKR Bike V1 – $500 off
(Note this was a US deal, and not a Europe deal)
And Black Friday Weekend:
Wahoo KICKR Bike V1 – €1,000 off/£1,200 off
(Note this was a Europe deal, and not a US deal)
In addition, they ran some smoking hot deals on both US and European sides for refurb bikes, which I actually picked up back then.
Also remember for context, last year when this deal happened, Wahoo had just launched their V2 bike in September/October, and concurrently, was grasping for air/cash. Their financial position is far better now, so they might not be as eager to highly discount the bikes. In other words…who knows.
Thank you! 🙏
I’ve been suspecting and waiting for this! Question on Forerunner 255 vs 255 M. I’m currently on a 645 Non Music. Since I’m deaf, I don’t care about the music at all. However, with the 645, I know we didn’t get a bunch of updates that the M did because they had more memory on the watch. Could that be an issue with the 255 non-M as well? (Still, I’m hoping to get a 955 on my wrist to see how it feels, if it’s not too thick, then I’d definitely prefer having the maps too) Thanks, Ray!
No, we’ve seen the FR255 receive concurrent updates with the Forerunner 255M since launch, and honestly, quite a boatload of them. Tons of new sport modes, expansions, etc.
The most recent beta update about 12 days ago added essentially all of the new Venu 3 features: link to forums.garmin.com
Follow up on this, as I found an interesting tidbit… the 255 Music can get beta updates, but the 255 cannot. Reason – the beta updates are coming over wifi, and only the Music edition has wifi. (Source: link to forums.garmin.com and other discussion in the forums) However, my earlier question was related to regular software updates, not necessarily betas, so I’m fine with it. Wanted to let you know since you used the beta as a specific example.
Thanks, Ray! I wondered whether the Fenix/epix Pro models being on a strong sale indicates Fenix 8 / epix 3 coming soon, like in January. I imagine you won’t engage in such speculation, though you could probably provide historical perspective on whether the current/flagship versions of Fenix/epix have been on sale like this before and/or whether new versions have been released without a new version of the Elevate sensor (given a new Elevate sensor seems unlikely to come as soon as January)
Historically Garmin has always found a way to drop usually $150-$200 off at least one of the Fenix series units, during Black Friday sales. Thus, this doesn’t really surprise me. I was slightly more surprised it’d be the Pro, I figured they might go deeper on non-Pro (which, they also did).
I wouldn’t expect any new Fenix/Epix units in January. That’d be a 7-8 month cycle, and far sooner than any previous Fenix/Epix series refresh. Historically they’ve floated in the 14-18 month range (exempting COVID, where like any other company, things got slightly tilted). I suspect Garmin would love to find themselves closer to a 12-month cycle, to be able to better position their units against a yearly Apple Watch Ultra release cycle.
The soonest I’d expect to see any new Fenix/Epix series units would be the same time as last year, May-June or so. Or, they could slide to late August like other years.
Do you think the 14-18 month cycle, or less, would apply equally fo the 965 and 265? If it doesn’t go on sale for Black Friday its an issue if buy now or wait for a sale or next generation (965 came out so soon after the 955 and ECG could be in the posy 965: version, maybe?).
Ooh, this assessment makes me lean more towards a purchase. I was shying away because when I bought my Fenix 6 Sapphire on Black Friday 2021 the 7 and Epix came out just a few months later, despite rumors to the contrary. However, the F6 was over 2 years old then I guess. Going off F7/Epix Gen 2 base, January 2024 is 2 years for them , but sounds like you’re resetting clock with Pro models
Garmin views the Pro models as simply the next-gen Fenix/Epix. They aren’t considered a different level SKU, akin to Apple Watch vs Apple Watch Ultra. Sure, there’s some marketing that will hint that, but from a real-world product standpoint, the order of release has been:
Oct 2012: Fenix 1
Feb 2014: Fenix 2
Mar 2015: Fenix 3
Feb 2016: Fenix 3HR (the mid-point release)
Mar 2017: Fenix 5
June 2018: Fenix 5 Plus (the mid-point release)
Aug 2019: Fenix 6/Pro
July 2020: Fenix 6 Solar (the mid-point release, all units got solar)
Jan 2022: Fenix 7/Epix
May 31st 2023: Fenix 7 Pro/Epix Pro (the mid-point release)
Now, in this somewhat rare scenario, the Fenix 7 Pro/Epix Pro is the first time we’ve seen Garmin keep the software features in sync with the base Fenix 7/Epix series. Who knows how long that’ll happen for. Hopefully pressure from companies like Apple’s WatchOS releases will keep that going a long while.
The other potential piece of this puzzle is the timing of a new Elevate sensor. The last few versions of the Fenix/epix series each appear to have come with a new version, further supporting the idea that a new Fenix/epix is further away given the launch of the latest Elevate v5 earlier this year.
I would assume new ELEVATE V5 will be the sensor for a while. Garmin isn’t going to want to mess with it, in terms of re-doing ECG FDA certification (or any theoretically pending CE certification).
Makes sense. Would you expect the epix Gen 2 sale to end after Black Friday / Cyber Monday or continue on through the holidays?
I would expect it to continue. Mainly because it’s at rando-pricing, which indicates it’s technically an Amazon sale, and not a Garmin sale. Thus, Amazon is likely depleting inventory of old watches as they often do during BF, and usually do so while looking a bit drunk at times – as if someone dared them to go lower on price. But hey…we all benefit!
Wait. Where is the Epix Gen 2 in that timeline?
Jan 2022 – under Fenix 7/Epix
The ‘Gen 2’ is only loosely used, because technically speaking, the original Garmin Epix was waaay back in 2015: link to dcrainmaker.com
Obviously, that was sorta a one-off, and most people had forgotten about it 7 years later except sports tech geeks. But Garmin really liked the name (and it had been cleared from trademarks standpoint), so…they went with it.
Hey Ray, appreciate you putting together a great guide!
I’m looking on upgrading from a Vivoactive 4S into the Epix range. I saw that the Epix Gen 2 base model was going for $449 compared to the Epix 2 Sapphire for $600.
Most of the reviews have been focused around the sapphire version that has the multi-band GPS and sapphire screen. For an additional 25-30% more, is the sapphire screens and multi-band pivotal for long-term usage?
I’m primarily concerned if it would be worth in the long-term to pay more now to avoid the Epix Gen 2 base model aging poorly.
I don’t think it’s as big a deal as we collectively thought it might have been when the Epix first launched (with multiband and not). Garmin has made their non-multiband variants using the same chip incredibly accurate. 98% of the time, you can’t tell the difference. I did a test last year with both units side by side in NYC, and the differences were almost unseeable: link to dcrainmaker.com
You can see then for example, that the Fenix 7 Base and Fenix 7 Sapphire, performed nearly identically, both easily beating the COROS Vertix 2 with multiband/dual-freq.
Would you say the same holds for the FR255? Is that the same chipset?
I am currently in the market for a new watch (because my fenix 5s died) and it’s between the 255 and the 265. Currently, I do not see the need for an AMOLED screen (potentially I might change my mind once I had one for a while…). And since I do not need music support and those training readiness stuff, the 255 is appealing due to the price. The only other difference that might really matter to me would be multiband…
Nevermind, I just realized the 255 has multiband. One less reason to get a 265.
Did the 255 get Sat-IQ as well?
Two cents: Multiband seems important, though I would also consider the sapphire’s superior screen durability and longevity. If you’re the kind of person that keeps watches a while.
I had a base fenix 5 that got little dings/scuffs immediately that drove me nuts. After 2 years I paid up for a fenix 6 SAPPHIRE and it’s still my daily watch 4 years 3 months later.
It’s not just the screen – the bezel is also far less worn on the Sapphire/Pro. I think b/c the sapphire bezel is typically “DLC coated” whatever that means.
Think there’s any chance of a KICKR MOVE discount at some point this year?
TL;DR I the Neo 2T worth (almost) 2x the price of the KICKR CORE?
So. My current setup is a Tacx Vortex Smart (wheel on) with a 6 speed 1988 Cannondale kludged to accommodate the 126 mm read spacing. Works great! Until the read hub exploded recently. Original wheel, probably 30,000+ miles. No complaints. BUT…a wheel-off trainer is not going to work with that bike – it has a burly, aluminum rear triangle, so I’m not super excited about spreading it to 130 mm. So, maybe my normal road bike (8 speed Cannondale) or race bike (10 speed QR) on a wheel-off trainer is the smart move. SO…if I’m going wheel-off…see TL;DR…
Coming from a Vortex, you’ll definitily be happy with the KICKR CORE. And you should be, it’s a great trainer. Personally, I would not see a reason to spend more on a Neo 2T. Which is a great unit as well. I just don’t see much added benefit. Downhill drive for example… kinda nice, but honestly never missed it.
If you’d like to spend more money I would see more benefit in adding a KICKR CLIMB. That makes much more difference… Or maybe buy or build a sprintboard.
RE: KICKR Move Discount
That’s a hard one to predict. Wahoo has often run very limited Black Friday sales of 10-20% over the years, sometimes even on new models. They tend to last usually 1-4 days. But they tend to be very hard to predict. Wahoo apparently won the battle with REI over their 20% coupon, as it isn’t permitted this year (previously it was on trainers, but not “bike simulators”).
RE: NEO 2T at 2x the CORE?
That’s tough. As others have said, coming from a VORTEX, which is…umm…not awesome, either unit will be a massive upgrade. The NEO 2T has downhill drive, which is super cool. Meanwhile, the CORE has ability to connect to a KICKR CLIMB for up/down. While you can get nuanced on road-feel between the two, most people wouldn’t likely be able to tell the difference.
If it was me, I’d pickup the CORE and then the CLIMB on sale, and call it even-ish.
Thank you Ray! FWIW I found that Trek’s 10% discount for signing up for their mailing list *did* work on a KICKR MOVE. I figured it was unlikely that we’d get something higher than that during Black Friday so I went for it.
Yeah, I’d take that and run – before someone figutes it out. :)
That said, that’s historically how some of the better Wahoo (or even Garmin) deals have happened over Black Friday weekend. Basically smaller shops/outlets (obviously Trek is big) not entirely realizing they’re violating MAP pricing by offering a blanket discount. Grab them deals when you can, they usually don’t last more than a few hours.
EPIX 2 $399. Stainless / Gorilla Glass / Single GPS Satellite. (Not the Epix 2 Pro.)
A great deal that I jumped on. The price has varied from $449 to $429 to $399 at this vendor. (The price has bounced up and down. Now at $399.) New in the box and very fast shipping – at least to me in the US.
This vendor sells overstocks.
link to bikecloset.com
there are also some big deals on the polar website (GER); M2 f.e. 50% off
Too bad there are no decent smart trainer deals for the EU. Would love to snatch the tacx neo 2t for 899 Euros
As noted, we usually see the biggest EU discounts on Black Friday weekend itself, and they usually beat the US side.
I see a few of the German bike discounters have the NEO 2T at 1,200EUR including the Tacx NEO Motion Plates and some other random stuff. So essentially the same 899+300 price of the US side, albeit you have to pay for those motion plates.
Point being, I’d be surprised if we don’t see the NEO 2T sub-1K over BF in Europe.
Do the motion plates actually improve the experience?
Stage SB20 smart bike has been on sale for a bit now, no idea how long it’ll last.
link to stagescycling.com – 1999$
link to stagescycling.eu – 2099€
A far cry from that 1400$ deal (with a year of Zwift included) that was around at the start of the year but still, more than a thousand off.
I’m tempted, but the slow-to-respond ERG mode is keeping me away. Plus knowing that it has been on sale for much less earlier…
The SB20 group on facebook has a lot of good info. It sounds like ERG mode is largely fixed.
Expecting anything on GoPro? I’m looking to pick up a Hero 11 at a decent price – for being an “old” model, the current discount vs the 12 seems absolutely pants – but knock another 50-100 off it on a sale and I’ll jump on it.
We generally see $50-$100 off GoPro models over this time period. I’d expect the same – both for new and previous-gen models. Usually that happens next week.
I am looking at a cheaper DJI drone combo. Do you anticipate any additional sales as we move closer to the holidays? As of now the one I’m looking at (DJI Mini 2 se combo) is the same price on their website as well as Amazon.
Also, I’ve pulled the trigger on an Epix 2 Pro Saphire thanks in part to your videos. Anxiously awaiting it’s arrival.
Thanks!
I’d fully expect to see the DJI Mini 2 variants on sale – and likely the Mini 3/Pro variants too. I would expect no sales on the Mini 4 Pro. If in the US, Costco has oddly been one of the leaders on BF DJI Drone deals.
Glad the reviews were helpful! Enjoy!
Between the new watches and the discounts on certain older models, I hesitate…
I have a Forerunner 735 xt and I would be tempted to upgrade to a watch with more comprehensive navigation for bicycling.
Canceled my Kickr Core order I made a week ago and went full out on Neo2T.
I am beyond excited.
From a Kurt Kinetic Wheel on Fluid Dumb Trainer to Neo2T direct drive smart trainer.
Major upgrades…I’m scared!
RIDE ON!
I was able to use TREK’s online 10% additional discount on top.
Neo2T for $800 – arriving Thursday!!!
I missed out on the Epix Gen 2 in EU for 449.
Had it in the bag, clicked checkout and got distracted :-)
Do I need it? no but trailrunning in the dark the better screen is a game changer.
Doh! Which Amazon EU site?
You can see prices on different Amazon EU sites for a product in Hagglezon
Germany. Stupid me..
If there’s one truism about Amazon Europe sites over BF, the deal always comes back (at least until the Saturday, then things don’t come back).
Hi,
I’m looking for a good deal on Favero Assioma Duo pedals.
Does anyone have any idea if they will be cheaper than 649€ in Europe?
Best
Max
Last year Favero had some really good deals that they published on Black Friday itself. I received an e-mail from them and picked up an UNO > DUO upgrade pedal at about 50% off. I’m in the U.S. but the transaction was directly with Favero and the pedal shipped from Italy.
THX
Let’s hope for a good deal!
Favero Assioma DUO Powermeter Pedals (2023)
@ Rosiir für 590.75 €
link to rosiir.com
Best deal so far in the EU. Evereywhere else für 629 €
The Favero Assioma sale is now live. I got the e-mail today
link to cycling.favero.com
The Duo is selling for 510 Euro / 557 USD. There are similar savings on the UNO, DUO-SHI and the upgrade kit.
Redshift sports still has an early black friday sale of 25% off on most everything including suspension stems and seatposts. Great stuff for road or gravel. link to redshiftsports.com
A y recommendation of a mat for a trainer? My cats have destroyed my current one 😭
Kinetic Trainer mats are pretty solid. They’re a bit rugged.
Garmin Varia RTL for €129 on Amazon.nl
Probably won’t go for much less, I guess?
Hey, Ray!
Wasn’t disappointed when I came straight to your website to confirm the deals!
I was waiting for the Black Friday weekend itself to buy F7Pro, but now that there’s already a 200 off, do you suggest I take the plunge right away or wait till the Black Friday weekend itself for a potential further pricedrop? I’m from Canada if that helps.
Thank you!
I have been wearing the fenix 5 basically for 5 years 24/7 and, honestly, did not have any issues with scratches or whatever. And I am not extremely cautious with my stuff, I am dropping my phone quite regularly.
I guess I am just not sensitive in regard to the looks…
are the rally pedals due for an refresh do you think?
Do you have any info on fitness app deals during Cyber Week? Most specifically looking ahead to any WahooX membership deals that I should wait before pulling a trigger on?
training peaks is 25% off. very good deal
Anyone seeing european deals for Garmin Forerunner 965 or Garmin Epix Pro Sapphire?
As mentioned above I just ordered a 965 from polleosport.at with a 15% discount. They also got the Epix Pro Sapphire and other Garmin watches with 15% off. Delivery is free to Austria and Germany.
Sports shoes.com has Epix pro for 100gbp off + there is additional 15% promo codes
Polar has a lot of stuff on sale in their website. Ignites, Pacers, Grit watches and HR sensors
link to polar.com
Garmin 6x Pro $289.99 on Woot.
link to electronics.woot.com
For the Canadians in the group, Sport Check has a 50x multiplier for their triangle points on the apple watch 9 right now. I picked up a 45mm GPS model for the regular price of 589CDN and got $117.80 in points to use at Sport Check, Canadian Tire, Marks, etc. It’s not really money I guess, but I buy enough at the places that I can use it towards normal household stuff quite easily. Best deal I’ve found so far.
Hi,
Spotted on EU Amazon (.de):
Polar Verity Sense down 34%, to 66EUR
link to amazon.de
Is it worth holding out hope for a potential EU discount on the Zwift HUB/JetBlack smart trainers? Thanks!
Thanks again for pulling together this very helpful master list. I was on the REI app this morning and saw the Garmin Edge 1040 offered at the discounted sale price, but none of the Garmin Rally pedals were available and were listed at the regular US price ($1080 USD). Did REI sell through their stock of Rally pedals?
I discovered an even better deal on the Fenix 6 Pro. If you have access to an Amazon Business account, it is another $30 off at $299!
Until mid this week in Canada on garmin site and one day on amazon, epix 2 sapphire was at 480$ usd. I hesitate between 965 and epix to buy, but the deal take the decision for me 😄
Curious (or better my wife is) if we will see a deal on Vivoactive 5 :)
Epix 2 sapphire/titanium for $499 on Amazon/Garmin (US)
Wow! I got the Epix Gen 2 last December for a good deal on Amazon with it being an open box return and getting $200 off for opening a Chase Card. And I’ve been really happy with the watch. My previous watch was the Fenix 6 and if that was still my daily driver I would definitely be moving to the Epix now.
I wonder if Garmin is being so aggressive with Epix prices because they are being affected by the Apple Watch Ultra. I see a lot of people wearing them.
INGbank in the Netherlands has good prices for Garmin Edge x40 solar (you need some points too).
Guess the Wahoo KICKR CORE sale isn’t such a deal with the price drop you just posted about. Hope people can get price match from REI.
Oops, my mistake, thought Wahoo dropped price to $449, but is really $499, so sales below that we’re still good
Favero Assioma DUO for 590,75 € @ ROSIIR
link to rosiir.com
Best deal in the EU so far. Evererywhere else for at least 629 €
Best Max
Stryd has the 15% off :)
Can anyone comment on when the expected update to the Edge 1040 will happen? Thanks!
Ray – the Garmin Instinct 2 watch is now $199!!
I wonder if the Whoop 1 year deal is applicable to current members. They don’t even need to send new hardware.
OK, if you ‘extend your membership’ the price is £189 for 12 months in the UK, which comes to £15.75/mo.
I believe I recall reading the Garmin epix Gen 2 (currently at $448 on Amazon) doesn’t come preloaded with maps (and perhaps some other features were missing?). Is it able to accept maps after purchase? Or is the onboard storage limiting this? Thanks!
It should have pre-loaded North America maps, but no biggie to download them from free, directly from the device.
Garmin Fenix 6X Pro Vs Garmin epix gen2. Which one do you suggest?
Favero seems to now have Assioma on sale.
link to cycling.favero.com
Forerunner 965 $50 off as of this am on garmin site in US
Your website is always so helpful. Thank you.
I was hoping for a deal on the Garmin Edge 840 as the screen on my Edge 830 is cracked. Unfortunately, Garmin does not offer many deals on bike computers this year. But hey, now I’m considering buying the Nespresso machine and the pizza oven.. ;-)
Haha…well, the pizza oven and Nespresso machine is better anyway.
As for the Edgd 840, I wouldn’t expect any Garmin-sanctioned sales. However, sometimes Uncle Amazon does crazy stuff.
20% off Garmin Edge 540/840/1040 at Bike tires direct:
link to biketiresdirect.com
The 840 on search page showed 16% but at checkout it was 20%
thanks Ray! note Garmin Venu 3 down to 399 now
ROTOR : link to rotorbike.com
that’s a cheap 2inpower.
I have the Garmins, Favero and 2inpower. Rotor has been hassle free as the Favero.
Right now the Kickr Core + Climb bundle is showing up as $662 + tax with free shipping from the Wahoo Store. Seems like a very good price, no?
Here’s a link: link to wahoofitness.com
That seems like a very solid deal!
With deals like this, is the NEO 2T for $900 still attractive? I know that’s a great discount from Garmin, however KICKR Core for half that seems pretty nice
This is really solid. My wife has been thinking on a KICKR Core for $500, so getting the Climb for $163 tipped the scale.
I’m surprised there still is stock, but I also don’t see this bundle when searching for it on the site. I only found it from seeing your post and link. Thanks!
30% off storewide at Cycliq – Fly6 & Fly12 bike lights/safety cams
link to cycliq.com
The price winner for the most deceptive Black Friday Deal: Strava.
Get two months off.. to get the identical price as pre black friday.. run.
Eeek! The much neglected Euro deals area mysteriously disappears. Eurosceptics everywhere must be rejoicing.
Thanks for all your work putting this together Ray. My query is do I go for the Epix gen 2 or a Suunto Race titanium? £485 Vs £480 in the UK.
Man at that price point unless you are just wanting to move out of Garmin eco system the Suunto is a tough buy. For me the two watches were basically a tie for the running features I value and there were a few that garmin does much better and the OHR swung in Garmin’s favor. For the handful of times I still play golf it sure is nice to have the courses on my wrist. I actually played a few days ago with the Race on my wrist and the cart GPS was not working and I really missed having the yardages. Plus the dial on the Race kept getting triggered with my wrist which was annoying. Good luck with your purchase.
I’d generally agree with Craig. The Suunto Race is a great watch, but it’s incredibly hard to argue with the Epix at $449USD (or equivs globally) for the same price. Yes, the Suunto Race will get longer battery life, so, if that’s something you value over everything else – then go forth.
But in almost every other scenario, for the same price it’s hard to argue with Epix.
Regarding the Oura Ring, I just got a notice that it is HSA account eligible, so if you have that type health insurance you can use those funds
What’s your go-to Nespresso compatible pod? We just got a Breville Creatista which uses original Nespresso pods. Didn’t consider the Vertuo since I read it only accepted proprietary pods.
Need to add a 2 (259ish for most flavors rn – $59 would be a better steal than the RIVAL!) to the price on the Polar Pacer Pro in your sale price column – although the Maroon-plum color is at $177 rn (3rd party). Also Polar Vantage M2 floated down to $189. You really need your own algorithm to keep up with the Amazon bots haha.
thanks for all your work on this Ray !
I am looking for a cheapest Garmin watch with map feature.
I would like to upload routes and use the navigation function.
My current watch (Garmin Forerunner 310XT) died and I am looking for a replacement.
What do you recommend?
garmin forerunner 945 is $299 an amazon rn with full maps and routing. also look at Fenix6 Pro refurbished in the list above for $329. If you just need breadcrumb routing to upload a route without actual maps the Garmin 935 is a little less ($263). I have see the 935 as low as $199. You said garmin but Coros added breadcrumb routing to the Pace2 and Pace3 recently that are both cheaper than the aforementioned Garmin models. I believe turn by turn on Coros is still in beta
Epix Gen 2 is $399 at Running Warehouse.
Did anyone happen to find any F7 Pro deal in Europe?
Picked up the Garmin Epix 2 from bikecloset for $399!
Same.
Fenix 7 for 379 € amazing deal on Amazon.de
Forgot the link: link to amazon.de
Seems like that Fenix 7 price is no longer available – the link directs me to the beige/rose gold version at over €800…
Huge additional savings on the Polar website right now. For example: Polar Grit X watch is $215…… incredible markdowns.
A large high street jewellery chain in the UK has an incredible deal on the Epix gen 2 for £375 ish which you can get down to £320 if you sign up to their newsletter and use discount code (it seems the one they send out automatically doesn’t work, but if you use the web chat to their customer support folks, they are replacing the faulty 10% voucher code with a 15% one)
Oops meant to add the deal forum link
link to hotukdeals.com
link to hsamuel.co.uk
Garmin FR 965 on sale at 529 CHF/EUR – link to galaxus.ch
I didn’t realize you were a pizza maker too! Tell us more! Do you make your dough? Does the fam have any favorites?
Trek has the Wahoo Powrlink Zero dual-sided power meter pedals for $719.99. Plus, you can stack the 10% coupon for signing up to their email list on top of that taking it down to $648.
link to trekbikes.com
Pay attention if buying the Epix Gen 2 on Amazon. The current ship date is Jan 8th.
There may be other sites with it discounted to $399 like Bike Closet or Running Warehouse, but read their return policy first. It is not as generous as Amazon.
Going to Amazon gives Ray a bump
Woot deals on refurbished Garmins. Geat deals essentially from Amazon who owns Woot.
link to electronics.woot.com
Thank you for the comprehensive list, Ray!
I wonder: is there any detailed comparison of health related features of current smart watches (features, their limitations, their accuracy and reliability compared to medical-grade equipment, …) available? I am very interested in things like on-demand AFib detection, respiration rate, SP02, sleep tracking, … and in the future hopefully something like blood pressure and sugar levels.
As I get older, these things get more important and I find it hard to assess them. E.g, I don’t trust the blood oxygen level values from my old FR 245 much since they vary a lot (e.g. just now: anything from 93% to 100% within a few minutes sitting on a chair, but maybe the arm band is just too loose). Any guidance would be highly appreciated! :-)
Looks like Amazon deal for Garmin Epix is done.
The site also hid the buying options for the Epix a couple days ago, then it returned. If you click the “See All Buying Options” button and filter by New, there are still sellers with it available. Not sure why Amazon doesn’t always pick the lowest price and offer to add to cart. Anyone still looking for an Epix should keep an eye for it to return soon with a ship date of Jan 8-9 again.
Yeah, Epix is still there for $449 – right now you can get it for $449 on Amazon, shipped from Adorama (a massive electronics retailer) for next-day delivery: link to amzn.to
(Fun Amazon fact: Amazon will sort by price, always, with multiple sellers. But more specifically, to the cent. In this case, the cheapest option was $449.00 with January delivery. But, $449.99 has next day delivery. Nonetheless, Amazon won’t show you that unless you click to expand the others.)
Haha (or yikes, buyer beware!), when Amazon hides the Add to Cart button, there’s a popup that says this:
No featured offers available
We feature offers with an Add to Cart button when an offer meets our high standards for:
Quality Price,
Reliable delivery option, and
Seller who offers good customer service
“No featured offers available” means no offers currently meet all of these expectations. Select See All Buying Options to shop available offers.
Thanks! That’s great info and I’ve never noticed it before.
I checked both the Withings scale and the San Disk cards and they are both back up to $129 and $40 respectively. Must have been a very short sale…
256 GB is $29, 128GB is $20 at 9 pm EST
Garmin Epix Gen 2 is $399 at Running Warehouse, a legit retailer.
Here is an interesting one. Garmin Epix Gen 2 Sapphire at dell.com for $599. If you happen to be an American Express card holder and have the option to add their selected deals, one of which is $120 statement credit for Dell.com purchases of $599 or more, you can get the more premium watch for $479.
Garmin Instinct new $144.
link to electronics.woot.com
Apple Watch Ultra 1st gen $695.
link to electronics.woot.com
So many incredible Epix gen 2 deals over the last few days – I can’t help but think retailers are clearing old stock.
Maybe there’s a replacement arriving soon, or just retirement of the Epix product?
Forerunner and Fenix seem such strong lines with recognisable purpose, even though I’ve ordered an Epix it’s still not clear to me what it’s intended audience is?
I think epix has a niche as the only ultra long battery life with amoled display? It’s nearly 2 years old now so I wouldn’t be surprised if there is a Gen 3 released soon.
The Epix Gen 2 was replaced by the Epix Pro this past May. Albeit, as noted they’re both receiving the same software updates.
I guess Garmin now thinks that Epix became a dead end street since it is one size. Garmin itself killed it with Epix Pro of 3 sizes.
I’m confused. Epix Pro is simply the next Epix. Garmin has used that tick-tock style naming scheme for Fenix for a decade now (either using HR, Pro, or Plus for the in-between version).
Garmin Epix (Gen 2), Vs Garmin Fenix 6 Pro Series which one to go for? Appreciate your suggestions. I do lot of ultra endurance activities.
Personally, I’d choose Epix, but that’s just me.
Thanks for your input.
I just saw that Amazon has the Garmin Enduro 2 for 27% off.
Hit the Epix deal…page actually said DC Rainmaker commission…that is cool. Mine coming from Adorama…will be here tomorrow. Another poster mentioned a January ship date, perhaps my Prime membership got me faster shipping.
Awesome, thanks Jim!!!
Wahoo Kickr V6 for $899 free shipping and no tax on shopebikesupply.com right now with their 10% off coupon code, wanted to let you know DCR
Saris H3 is $584 with coupon on Amazon and Tacx Neo is $899. Is the Tacx worth $300 more? Both are in Ray’s top three high end trainers. Anyone got any experience with both?
Deciding whether it’s worth $300 more is always tricky, but I’d personally spend $899 for the NEO 2T versus $600 for the Saris H3. It’s quieter, it’s got better/proper 12-speed support, it’s got downhill drive, etc…
Awesome! Thanks!
How do you feel about the Neo 2T vs KICKR Core at new $499 price?
Also, do you think KICKR Climb or Neo Motion Plates enhances the ride more?
The H3 is on sale now for $487. Would that change your decision over the NEO 2T? I only use ERG mode with TR and would be mounting a 9 speed old bike on it.
His last full review of trainers (from 2020 or 2021) stated H3 is fantastic for ERG mode.
Yeah, for $487 it’s a good option.
However, beware of what type of bike you’re planning on putting it on. It doesn’t have native 12-speed support, thus, if you’re trying to put on a much newer bike, that can get you into a bit of a pickle. Whereas the KICKR CORE is $599 including a cassette or $499 without a cassette, and while the ERG is a bit more nuanced/better on the H3, the CORE is much quieter, has 3-concurrent BLE connections, has KICKR CLIMB support, and will likely get more firmware updates in the future.
The 487.00 sale was short lived. Back to 650.00. I think Saris was clearing H3 inventory so they could start pushing the H3 plus which definitely makes the core a better deal.
My trainer bike is a permanently mounted ancient 9 speed so compatibility is not an issue. It’s actually older then the computrainer it’s mounted to,
The Epix for $449 deal has ended on Amazon, but is still discounted to $449 or sometimes $399 or $380 on Bike Closet or OTA (Outside The Asylum Diving & Travel)
I am so tempted to buy @ $379 from Bike Closet (very legit store). Don’t need a watch but this is really a solid deal.
Epix is currently $379 on Bike Closet, $387.50 on OTA Diving and $399.88 on Running Warehouse
Unfortunately the Karoo 2 deal in TPC is already gone. Any other places have it at $259?