Wahoo Enters Radar Market with Trackr, Updates Elemnt Roam & Bolt GPS

Wahoo Fitness continues to innovate in the cycling technology space, unveiling not only third-generation updates to its popular Elemnt Roam and Elemnt Bolt GPS computers but also venturing into a new product category with the all-new Trackr Radar taillight. While the updated computers bring welcome enhancements, the introduction of the Trackr Radar marks a significant step for Wahoo, aiming to bolster rider safety on the road.

Although these products were announced ahead of the Sea Otter Classic, cyclists will need to wait until May 2025 for the computers, with the radar's availability marked as "coming soon." This announcement follows the relatively recent launch of the larger, smartphone-like Elemnt Ace computer, further segmenting Wahoo's lineup to cater to diverse rider needs: the Ace for tech-focused early adopters, the Roam for adventure and endurance, and the Bolt for performance-minded training and racing.

Entering the Safety Zone: The Wahoo Trackr Radar

The most notable reveal is undoubtedly the Wahoo Trackr Radar taillight. Recognizing the growing demand for enhanced situational awareness, Wahoo joins brands like Garmin, Bryton, Magene, and Trek in offering a radar-integrated rear light. Wahoo emphasizes that the Trackr Radar is designed to improve safety for all cyclists, integrating seamlessly not just with their own Elemnt computers but with any compatible Bluetooth or ANT+ bike computer or fitness watch.

Key Features of the Trackr Radar:

• Vehicle Detection: The radar scans for vehicles approaching from behind up to a distance of 150 meters.
• Direct Visual Alert: Upon detecting an approaching vehicle, the Trackr automatically intensifies its flashing pattern to increase the cyclist's visibility to the driver.
• On-Screen Alerts: When paired with a compatible GPS device (Wahoo Elemnt family recommended for the "ultimate user experience," but compatible with others), riders receive visual or potentially audible warnings directly on their screen.
• Intelligent Brake Light: An integrated accelerometer enables the Trackr to function as a smart brake light, increasing brightness significantly when the cyclist rapidly decelerates.
• Battery Extender Mode: To maximize ride time, this mode reduces the taillight's brightness when no vehicles are detected, stretching the battery life up to a claimed 20 hours while maintaining continuous radar functionality.
• Mounting: The unit attaches via a standard rubber band strap suitable for various seatpost shapes (round and aero). The description mentions a "dual-mounting system" featuring a quarter-turn interface, suggesting the light might detach easily from the strap mount, potentially using Wahoo's existing computer mount standard. Further mounting options, like saddle rail brackets, remain speculative possibilities.

The Wahoo Trackr Radar boasts an IPX7 waterproof rating, weighs a claimed 99 grams, and is set to retail for $199.99 / €199.99 / £179.99.

Refining the Ride: Elemnt Roam v3 Updates

The Elemnt Roam, positioned as Wahoo's device for exploration and long-distance riding, receives significant upgrades in its third iteration, focusing on usability and endurance.

• Touchscreen Integration: The most substantial change is the addition of an anti-glare touchscreen to its slightly larger 2.8-inch high-contrast display (up from 2.7 inches). This feature promises glove-friendly multi-touch functionality, allowing users to pinch-to-zoom and swipe through maps and data screens, simplifying on-the-fly route management.
• Extended Battery Life: Battery performance sees a major boost, increasing by nearly 50% (an additional 8 hours) to offer up to 25 hours of runtime, catering to epic adventures and multi-day trips.
• Enhanced Navigation: Wahoo promises improved navigation with more detailed mapping, integrated elevation data, clearer distinction between road surface types, and voice-guided turn-by-turn directions.
• Software Enhancements: The Roam v3 incorporates the updated Wahoo 'Ready to Ride' dashboard for quicker setup before rides and boasts expanded connectivity with third-party applications and services.
• Design Note: While the overall form factor remains similar, the Roam v3 loses the distinct LED strips found on previous generations, replacing them with an on-screen chevron pattern for navigation cues, similar to the Elemnt Ace. Observations suggest the new aero mounts might be deeper than previous versions.

The Elemnt Roam v3 will be priced at $449.99 / €449.99 / £399.99, representing a 12.5% increase over the v2 model, and is scheduled for release on May 6th, 2025.

Streamlined Performance: Elemnt Bolt v3 Updates

The Elemnt Bolt remains Wahoo's compact, lighter, and more aerodynamic option, favoured by racers and those seeking essential data display. The third generation builds on this foundation with targeted improvements.

• Improved Display: The Bolt v3 features an incrementally larger 2.3-inch high-resolution color display (up from 2.2 inches) with enhanced clarity in bright sunlight. Unlike the new Roam, the Bolt v3 does not gain a touchscreen; interaction relies on the physical buttons.
• Increased Battery: Runtime is extended by five hours, now offering up to 20 hours of use on a single charge, thanks to a larger internal battery.
• Software Parity: Like the Roam, the Bolt v3 gets the 'Ready to Ride' dashboard for streamlined pre-ride checks and improved third-party app integration.
• Design Note: Similar to the Roam v3, the single row of LEDs atop the screen is gone. The new aero mounts might also feature the deeper design observed on the Roam v3 mounts.

The Elemnt Bolt v3 sees an 18% price increase compared to its predecessor, retailing at $329.99 / €329.99 / £299.99. It shares the May 6th, 2025 release date with the Roam v3.

Looking Ahead

Wahoo's latest product offensive brings both iterative refinement and category expansion. The upgraded Elemnt Roam v3 and Bolt v3 offer tangible improvements in battery life and display technology (with the Roam gaining the much-requested touchscreen), addressing key user needs. However, the introduction of the Trackr Radar is the headline act, signalling Wahoo's commitment to rider safety and providing cyclists with another compelling option in the growing radar taillight market. While real-world performance reviews are pending, these additions significantly strengthen Wahoo's cycling electronics ecosystem.