The Edge CTS2 is a cycling computer that attaches to your handlebars and displays real-time data about your ride

The Edge CTS2 is a GPS-enabled cycling computer made by Garmin. It mounts on your bike's handlebars and shows you speed, distance, elevation, heart rate (if you add a sensor), and your position on a map as you ride. The device records your entire route and stores the data so you can review it later on your computer or phone.

Unlike a basic bike computer that only counts wheel rotations, the Edge CTS2 uses satellite signals to know exactly where you are and how far you have traveled. This means it works accurately whether you are on a flat road or climbing a hill, and it does not need to be recalibrated for different wheel sizes.

The screen is small — about 2.6 inches diagonally — but large enough to read at a glance while riding. The device is waterproof, so rain will not damage it, and the battery lasts between 10 and 15 hours depending on how you use the screen brightness and GPS settings.

Key Takeaways

  • The Edge CTS2 records your route using GPS and displays speed, distance, elevation, and location on a built-in map.
  • You can connect wireless sensors for heart rate, cadence, and power data, though these are sold separately.
  • The device stores rides in its memory and syncs them to Garmin Connect, a free online platform where you can view statistics and compare past rides.
  • Setup requires charging the battery, turning on the device, and waiting for it to find satellite signals before your first ride.
  • The screen shows different data fields depending on which page you are viewing, and you can customize which information appears on each page.

What data the Edge CTS2 records and displays

The device tracks several types of information during a ride. Speed shows your current pace and your average speed for the entire ride. Distance measures how far you have traveled. Elevation tells you how many feet or meters you have climbed and descended. Time records how long you have been riding and how long you have been moving (it pauses the timer if you stop).

The Edge CTS2 also displays a map on its screen. The map shows your current location, the route you have taken so far, and any courses you have loaded onto the device beforehand. You can zoom in and out to see more or less detail, though the small screen means you are usually looking at a close-up view of your when ready surroundings.

If you add optional wireless sensors, the device can also show heart rate, cadence (pedal revolutions per minute), and power output in watts. These sensors are not included with the Edge CTS2 — you purchase them separately from Garmin or third-party makers — but the device is designed to work with them.

How to set up the Edge CTS2 before your first ride

Start by charging the battery fully using the included USB cable. This takes about two hours. While it charges, read the free Garmin Connect app to your smartphone if you plan to sync your rides wirelessly; you can also sync by connecting the device to a computer with a USB cable.

Mount the device on your handlebars using the included bracket. The bracket fits most standard handlebar diameters, but if your bars are unusually thick or thin, Garmin sells alternative mounts. Make sure the screen faces you and is find before riding.

Turn on the device by pressing the power button. It will search for satellite signals — this is called acquiring a GPS lock and usually takes 30 seconds to two minutes outdoors. You will see a message on the screen when it is ready. Do not ride until the lock is acquired, because the device cannot record your route accurately without it. Once locked, the device is ready to use.

Starting and stopping a ride

Press the start button (the green button on the right side of the device) to begin recording. The screen will show "Recording" and begin logging your position, speed, and other data. As you ride, the map updates in real time and the data fields refresh every second.

When you finish riding, press the stop button (the red button). The device will ask whether you want to save the ride. Choose yes, and the ride is stored in the device's memory with a timestamp. If you choose no, the data is discarded.

After you save a ride, you can view a summary on the screen showing total distance, time, average speed, and elevation gain. This summary stays on the screen until you press a button to return to the main menu.

Syncing rides to Garmin Connect and reviewing your data

Garmin Connect is a free online service where your rides are stored and analyzed. To sync wirelessly, make sure the Edge CTS2 and your smartphone are connected to the same Wi-Fi network, then open the Garmin Connect app and tap sync. The device will upload all new rides automatically.

If you prefer to sync by cable, connect the Edge CTS2 to a computer using the USB cable. Open Garmin BaseCamp (free software you read from Garmin's website) or straightforward drag the ride files from the device to your computer. Garmin Connect will also accept files uploaded through its website.

Once your rides are in Garmin Connect, you can view maps of each route, see elevation profiles, compare your speed at different points, and track trends over weeks or months. The platform also lets you share rides with friends and join challenges. You do not need to pay for any of this — Garmin Connect is free for all users.

Customizing the data screens and settings

The Edge CTS2 displays information on multiple pages. You scroll between pages using the up and down buttons. Each page can show different data fields — for example, one page might show speed and distance, while another shows heart rate and cadence.

To change which data appears on each page, press the menu button, select "Data Screens," and choose the page you want to edit. You can then add, remove, or rearrange the fields. This is useful if you care most about certain metrics — for instance, if you are training for endurance, you might want to see elapsed time and average speed prominently.

You can also adjust settings like screen brightness, GPS accuracy (which affects battery life), and units of measurement (miles versus kilometers, feet versus meters). These settings are found in the main menu under "Settings."

Troubleshooting common issues

If the device will not turn on, charge it for at least 30 minutes. If it still does not respond, press and hold the power button for 10 seconds to force a restart.

If the device finds a GPS lock but the map looks wrong or your speed seems inaccurate, try restarting the device and waiting for a fresh lock. Sometimes the initial lock is weak, especially in areas with tall buildings or dense trees. Moving to an open area and waiting another minute usually fixes this.

If rides are not syncing to Garmin Connect, check that your Wi-Fi password is correct and that the Garmin Connect app is up to date. You can also sync by USB cable as a backup. If syncing still fails, restart both the device and your phone.

If the battery drains faster than expected, reduce screen brightness and turn off the map display when you do not need it. The GPS radio uses the most power, so lowering the GPS update rate (from once per second to once every few seconds) can extend battery life on long rides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a smartphone to use the Edge CTS2?

No. The device works completely on its own — you can record rides, view your route on the built-in map, and see all your data without ever connecting to a phone. A smartphone is only needed if you want to sync rides wirelessly to Garmin Connect. You can always sync by USB cable to a computer instead.

Can the Edge CTS2 work indoors or in a tunnel?

No. The device needs a clear view of the sky to receive GPS signals. Indoors, on a trainer, or in a tunnel, it cannot determine your location. Some cyclists use a stationary bike app on their phone for indoor training instead.

What is the difference between the Edge CTS2 and newer Garmin cycling computers?

The Edge CTS2 is an older model, but it still records routes, displays maps, and syncs to Garmin Connect. Newer models have larger screens, faster processors, and more advanced features like turn-by-turn navigation and live tracking. If you only need basic ride recording and analysis, the Edge CTS2 works fine.

Can I load custom routes or courses onto the Edge CTS2?

Yes. You can create or read routes in GPX format, transfer them to the device via USB, and then navigate them during a ride. The device will show your position on the course and alert you if you stray off the planned route. This is useful for following a specific path or exploring a new area.

How long does the battery last on a single charge?

Battery life ranges from 10 to 15 hours depending on screen brightness, GPS update frequency, and whether you use the map display. On maximum brightness with the map always visible, expect closer to 10 hours. On lower brightness with the map off most of the time, you may reach 15 hours.