Wahoo Elemnt Bolt 3 & Roam 3 in Review

With the ELEMNT ACE, Wahoo has introduced a new software and display platform. Now, the proven models ELEMNT BOLT 3 and ELEMNT ROAM 3 are following suit and are based on the same technical platform. Wahoo's goal is to transition all GPS bike computers to a unified operating logic. For the user, this means not only a consistent user experience across all devices but also simplified updates, standardized features, and a clearly structured menu system—regardless of the model.

From a functional perspective, neither the ELEMNT BOLT 3 nor the ELEMNT ROAM 3 introduce new features that are not already known from the ACE. Instead, they benefit from the same look and feel and a more modern, significantly more responsive system architecture. The menus appear organized, synchronization is fast, operation is smooth, and pairing with sensors is reliable.

One difference from the two predecessor models is the omission of the LED strips, which were previously used to display performance zones or navigation cues. These indicators have now been integrated into the main display, which does not detract from readability. Whether or not the LEDs are missed ultimately depends on personal preferences.

We already had the opportunity to test production devices with the final software. The performance was stable, the interface intuitive, and the overall system left a well-rounded impression. Those who have already worked with Wahoo devices will find their way around immediately, while newcomers will benefit from the clear menu structure.

Quick setup and synchronization via Wahoo app (iOS & Android): Wireless configuration through the smartphone app with cloud-based synchronization. Additionally, all user data is automatically backed up in the Wahoo cloud.

Large displays: The ELEMNT BOLT 3 features a 2.3" (5.8 cm) matte and anti-reflective TFT display with 480 × 720 pixels and 16 million colors, while the ROAM 3 comes with a larger 2.8" (7.1 cm) display. Furthermore, the ROAM 3 includes glove-friendly multi-touch functions (zooming in and out as well as swiping left and right to change pages) that complement the reliable buttons and, combined with the modern operating system, provide even easier operation during rides.

Improved navigation: A faster processor, intuitive map functions, and audible turn-by-turn directions simplify navigation. While the BOLT 3 only has a beeper, the ROAM 3 is equipped with a real speaker.

Maximum connectivity and long battery life: The "dual-band" GPS uses multiple frequency bands, enabling more consistent route tracking and more accurate positioning. The generously sized batteries offer a runtime of approximately 20 hours for the BOLT 3 and 25 hours for the ROAM 3—enough energy for long tours or many rides without needing to recharge in between.

"Ready to Ride" dashboard: The updated software architecture ensures that loading routes, synchronizing workouts, and checking battery or sensor status now only take seconds instead of minutes.

All new ELEMNTs can be set up and synchronized via the Wahoo smartphone app. Since the app is cloud-based, any changes made are automatically uploaded to the bike computer as soon as it is powered on and connected to the smartphone or via Wi-Fi. Furthermore, the settings also apply to all other Wahoo GPS computers owned by the rider. In the future, the Wahoo app is intended to become the central hub for managing and configuring all Wahoo devices as well as training data.

As with the ACE, individual bike profiles are also supported. This allows the athlete to configure custom training pages for different categories or bikes (gravel, road, triathlon/time trial, and mountain bike). Naturally, all ELEMNTs can also be directly synchronized with other Wahoo products, including the recently released TRACKR HEART RATE heart rate strap.

The test begins with turning on the ELEMNT BOLT 3. It is noticeable that the device's boot-up process once again takes a relatively long time: it takes a total of 33 seconds for the BOLT to complete its startup procedure and display the QR code. That is about one-third faster than the ELEMNT ACE – but still not exactly quick.

After scanning the QR code with the smartphone camera, things move significantly faster, and Wahoo guides you step by step through the setup. During this process, the ELEMNT BOLT 3 is paired with the smartphone, the Wi-Fi connection is established, and the user profile and workout pages are configured. Third-party apps like Komoot, Strava, and TrainingPeaks can also be authorized directly – Garmin Connect, as expected, is not included.

With the ELEMNT ROAM 3, the process is quite similar: the boot-up takes a bit longer, but the subsequent configuration is quick and seamless.

The clarity of the Wahoo app is impressive. In addition to the basic configuration, numerous bike computer settings can also be conveniently adjusted via the app; the long-standing frustration with loading and transferring routes is now a thing of the past.

Routes can be imported either from files, previous recordings, or through a variety of third-party apps – including filtering and sorting options.

Note: In the case of Komoot, all „saved tours“ are automatically imported. This is very convenient for many users since there is nothing they need to do: plan the tour, import or accept an invitation, save – and as soon as the BOLT 3 or ROAM 3 is connected for a few seconds via smartphone or Wi-Fi, the tour already appears in the directory of the bike computer.

However, it becomes more challenging for users who have several hundred tours saved in their Komoot account. In such cases, it can be tedious to find a specific – possibly older – tour directly on the device.

After the firmware update, setup, and pairing of the power meter, it's time for the first big ride. Before that, we encounter the 30-second "warm-up" again – that time period the bike computer needs to boot up its processor. However, satellite search works very quickly, and all other tasks like switching pages, loading routes, and browsing the detailed maps are done in no time. But let's take it step by step.

Both new ELEMNT models not only feature larger and higher-resolution displays compared to their predecessors, but they also offer significantly more detailed map representation and good readability under changing light conditions, thanks to anti-glare TFT technology and 16-million color display.

Upon startup, the brand-new "Ready-to-Ride" dashboard appears. From here, you can select the training profile, a route, or a workout – as well as check sensor connections and their battery statuses.

The touchscreen of the ROAM 3 works – as with the ACE – excellently without gloves and still sufficiently well with thick gloves, provided their touch compatibility plays a crucial role. The six physical buttons work precisely on all three devices and provide pleasant, clear haptic feedback.

Both TFT displays are easily readable in all lighting conditions and impress with high resolution and an impressive variety of colors. However, readability strongly depends on the chosen settings. With "Backlight: Automatic" and "Brightness: Low," I struggled in bright sunlight – especially when combined with certain sunglasses. Therefore, I switched to "Backlight: Auto Max," which presumably corresponds to the highest brightness level but likely affects battery life. This applies to both the BOLT 3 and the ROAM 3.

Additionally, the ELEMNT ROAM 3 combines both operating worlds in one device: a touchscreen for navigation and precise adjustments in dry weather, as well as six physical buttons for cold, rain, or rides with gloves – and whenever the focus should be more on road traffic.

Most bicycle computers neither reach the level of modern smartphones with navigation apps like Google Maps or Apple Maps in terms of display nor operating quality. However, with its three ELEMNT models, Wahoo sets new standards and additionally takes inspiration from automotive navigation systems. For instance, the routing functions of the ROAM 3 and the ACE have been expanded to include voice-guided turn-by-turn directions. This is intended to increase safety as the rider's focus can remain on the road or trail. In practice, however, this works only to a limited extent, as cyclists are exposed to stronger winds and louder ambient noises compared to car drivers.

For users who still primarily want to rely on the map, all three ELEMNT models offer numerous advantages even without voice guidance: Large displays with high resolution and high-contrast representation make navigation easier, and detailed map layers allow the display of landmarks, various surface types, street names, elevation profiles, and more.

The high resolution and the detail-rich display give the map a special depth, allowing you to clearly and distinctly see both the route and the surroundings. Additionally, the directional arrows are color-coded. They provide information about inclines and descents or indicate a re-routing.

The re-routing also deserves praise at this point. Missed a turn, road closed, or simply decided to take a different path spontaneously? In no time - provided there is an active smartphone connection - the ELEMNT calculates alternative route suggestions and color-codes the arrows accordingly. If a waypoint is skipped intentionally or accidentally, it doesn’t take long for the algorithm to "recognize" this - all without annoying announcements like "Route deviation detected" or "Please turn around." Maybe not always perfect, but handled excellently in 99.9% of cases. That’s why, for the first time, I keep automatic re-routing activated.

On the other hand, I personally didn’t fully warm up to the voice guidance (only available on ROAM 3 or ACE). With many turns, I found it disturbing over time - especially in strong winds when the instructions were difficult to understand anyway. Its strength probably lies in quiet routes with few turns or in dense city traffic, where you want to fully concentrate on the road. Even if the speaker isn’t used for voice guidance, it still offers a practical feature: With a touchscreen tap, both the ELEMNT ROAM 3 and the ELEMNT ACE simulate the sound of a classic bicycle bell.

The "Summit Freeride" function, on the other hand, is well thought out and practically implemented. It’s interesting for both ambitious riders and beginners - because everyone wants to know what’s coming next and how long it will take. The display leaves nothing to be desired and can be shown either on its own screen with additional data fields or as a compact graphic below the navigation map.

We were able to test both devices for several weeks on various bikes and under a wide range of weather conditions – on gravel bikes and road bikes, both domestically and abroad. Despite fog, rain, cold, heat, dust, and lots of mud, both devices held up well and worked flawlessly. The touchscreen: like new. The buttons: slightly dirty, but precise in function. The USB-C port: bone dry. There were no crashes – even though I repeatedly put the re-routing calculations to the test.

Both devices face criticism for their weak backlighting. The displays offer three brightness levels – low, medium, and high – but during rides in sunlight, practically only the highest setting ("Auto Max Backlight" or "High Brightness") is really usable.

I found the somewhat long "warm-up" after turning the device on to be a real negative. However, after booting, everything runs lightning fast – even syncing a new tour via smartphone and starting the tour works within seconds. The map view, map zoom, and the color-coded directional arrows that indicate upcoming climbs or descents – simply outstanding.

Also worth mentioning is the excellent touch functionality of the ROAM 3. Zooming and swiping on the map work almost as smoothly and quickly as on a high-performance smartphone – and that on a "small" bike computer.

The sufficiently high battery performance was also a positive – even though, with my usage (paired power meter, highest brightness setting, routing, etc.), it was about 20% below Wahoo's optimistic manufacturer specification – as well as the fast processor for navigation and re-routing and the extensive map material.

Buy recommendation - yes or no? If you can do without the wind sensor and the huge display of the ACE, it makes perfect sense to opt for one of the two new models. Racers benefit from the compact, aerodynamic design and the significantly lower price of the ELEMNT BOLT 3, while all-rounders will appreciate the ELEMNT ROAM 3's double tour storage, larger display with touch function, longer battery life, and digital bell or audio speaker.
The detailed map view, extensive navigation features, excellent usability, and all other improvements are common to both models.