Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM 3: The Ultimate GPS Bike Computer for Exploration & Adventure

Embark on your most ambitious rides with unparalleled clarity and confidence! Wahoo has officially unveiled the new ELEMNT ROAM 3, the latest evolution of its flagship GPS bike computer designed for adventurers and explorers. Building upon the robust foundation of the ELEMNT ROAM v2, the new ROAM 3 arrives with substantial upgrades, including a breathtaking 16 million colour touchscreen, massively expanded memory, enhanced navigation features like Summit Climb (no route needed), extended battery life, and refined usability, all housed in its familiar, durable, and adventure-ready chassis. In this guide, we explore every facet of the new Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM 3, detailing how it elevates the cycling experience for those who love to explore further.

What's New? Key Upgrades in the Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM 3

The new ELEMNT ROAM 3 is a significant upgrade, enhancing its capabilities for serious exploration and long-distance riding. Here are the standout improvements over the ROAM v2:

• Stunning High-Resolution Touchscreen (16 Million Colours): Features a vibrant, anti-glare 2.8-inch TFT touchscreen capable of displaying 16 million colours (a massive leap from 64 colours on V2) for superior map detail, clarity, and richer data visualization.
• Massively Expanded 64GB Memory & 2GB RAM: Quadrupled internal storage (up from 16GB on ROAM v2) allows for extensive global map storage and routes, while increased RAM ensures exceptionally smooth operation.
• Enhanced Summit Climb Features: Wahoo's advanced climbing feature provides detailed insights into upcoming climbs with gradient profiles and elevation previews, now functioning even without a preloaded route.
• Extended Battery Life: Increased battery life, now offering an impressive up to 25 hours of runtime (up from 17 hours on V2).
• Updated UI & Ready-to-Ride Dashboard: A cleaner, more intuitive interface optimized for the touchscreen and a new dashboard for quicker pre-ride setup.
• Audible Turn-by-Turn Directions: Includes an internal speaker for clear, audible navigation prompts, enhancing awareness on the road.
• Added Internal Sensors: Includes Accelerometer, Gyroscope, and Compass alongside GPS (Dual-Band) and Altimeter for comprehensive data capture.
• USB-C Port & Dual-Band GPS: Retains and builds upon these modern essentials for robust connectivity and accuracy.

Introducing the Wahoo ELEMNT Family: ROAM 3 and BOLT 3

Alongside the exciting launch of the new ELEMNT ROAM 3, Wahoo has also simultaneously unveiled the updated ELEMNT BOLT 3. While this guide focuses specifically on the upgrades and features of the larger ROAM 3 compared to its predecessor (ROAM v2), we cover the compact BOLT 3 in detail in its own dedicated article: Read Our Full Guide to the Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT 3.

Both new models share powerful internal upgrades like Dual-Band GPS, USB-C charging, enhanced Summit Climb Features, stunning 16 million colour screens, and the Ready-to-Ride Dashboard. Key differences cater to distinct rider preferences:

• The ELEMNT ROAM 3 offers a larger 2.8-inch anti-glare touchscreen, more memory (64GB), longer battery life (up to 25 hours), and adds audible turn-by-turn directions via speaker, ideal for exploration, detailed map viewing, and riders who prefer a larger display with touch interaction.
• The ELEMNT BOLT 3 maintains its compact, aerodynamic profile with a 2.3-inch screen, 32GB memory, and up to 20 hours battery life, suited for racers and those prioritizing minimal handlebar clutter.

Both the new Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM 3 and ELEMNT BOLT 3 will be available starting May 6th, 2025 and can be ordered from Multitronic. We will add both GPS computers to our webshop as soon as they become available.

Detailed Features & Specifications of the Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM 3

Let's explore what makes the new Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM 3 the ultimate companion for cycling adventures.

Immersive Display & Enhanced Navigation: 16 Million Colours on a Touchscreen

The most significant upgrade is the 2.8-inch, high-resolution TFT touchscreen, now displaying a breathtaking 16 million colours. This, combined with its anti-glare properties, offers unparalleled clarity for maps, routes, and data, even in direct sunlight. The touch interface (which can be locked) complements Wahoo's signature tactile buttons for versatile control. Navigation is further enhanced by:

Advanced Mapping & Exploration Tools

• 64GB Internal Memory: Quadrupled storage provides vast space for pre-loaded global maps, detailed regional maps, and an extensive library of routes and workouts.
• Enhanced Summit Climb Features: Automatically detects climbs on any ride (not just pre-loaded routes), showing detailed colour-coded gradient profiles, elevation previews, and distance remaining. Perfect for tackling unknown ascents.
• On-Device Smart Routing & Rerouting: Comprehensive navigation suite including "Get Me Started," "Route to Start," "Back on Track," "Retrace Route," "Take Me To," and "Saved Locations."
• Audible Turn-by-Turn Directions: An internal speaker provides clear audio cues for navigation, in addition to on-screen prompts and LED indicators, enhancing safety and convenience.
• Dual-Band GPS & Internal Compass: Delivers superior accuracy and faster satellite lock, even in challenging terrain. The compass aids off-road navigation.
• Points of Interest (POIs) & Strava Live Segments: Easily find cafes, bike shops, or compete on your favorite segments.

Robust Connectivity & Training Ecosystem

The ROAM 3 integrates seamlessly into your cycling world:

• WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0, ANT+: Reliable connection for all your sensors (Wahoo TRACKR HR, power meters, radar, electronic shifting), smartphone notifications, live tracking, and effortless ride uploads.
• Comprehensive Workout Integration: Sync structured workouts from Wahoo SYSTM, TrainingPeaks, Intervals.icu, TrainerRoad, and more for guided training.
• Advanced Device Control: Manage compatible ANT+ lights and radar, control your GoPro, and even manage music playback from your phone.
• Live Tracking, Public Route Sharing & Custom Alerts: Keep others updated on your progress and stay informed.

Refined User Experience: Intuitive and Efficient

Wahoo enhances its user-friendly approach:

• Ready-to-Ride Dashboard: A new streamlined screen for quick pre-ride checks of sensors, battery, route selection, and workout loading.
• Updated User Interface: Optimized for the 16M colour touchscreen, offering a cleaner, more modern, and intuitive experience.
• ELEMNT Companion App: The cornerstone of Wahoo's ease-of-use, allowing for effortless setup, customization, and route management via your smartphone.
• Customizable Data Pages & PerfectView Zoom: Tailor your display and easily zoom data fields with the side buttons.
• Tactile Convex Buttons: In addition to the touchscreen, easy-to-press buttons ensure reliable operation with gloves or in wet conditions.

Built for Endurance: Hardware & Durability

The ROAM 3 is engineered for long, tough rides:

• Durable, Adventure-Ready Chassis (109g): Slightly larger form factor for the bigger screen and battery, built to withstand the rigors of exploration.
• Up to 25 Hours Battery Life: Class-leading runtime, perfect for multi-day adventures or ultra-endurance events.
• USB-C Port: Modern, robust charging and data transfer.
• IPX7 Water Resistant: Dependable performance in all weather conditions.
• Integrated Out-Front Mount: Includes an aerodynamic mount designed for the ROAM.
• Internal Sensors: GPS (Dual-Band), Altimeter, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Compass.

Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM 3 vs. Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM v2: Key Differences

How does the new ELEMNT ROAM 3 improve upon its well-regarded predecessor, the V2?

• Screen Colours/Detail: ROAM 3 features a stunning 16 Million colour 2.8" touchscreen vs. V2's capable 64-colour 2.7" screen, offering vastly superior visual richness.
• Memory & Performance: ROAM 3 quadruples storage to 64GB + adds 2GB RAM vs. V2's 16GB, for extensive map storage and exceptionally smooth operation.
• Battery Life: ROAM 3 significantly extends runtime to up to 25 hours vs. V2's 17 hours.
• Climbing Feature: ROAM 3 introduces enhanced Summit Climb Features that work without loaded routes, a major upgrade over V2's Summit Freeride.
• Audible Alerts: ROAM 3 adds an internal speaker for audible turn-by-turn navigation cues, not present in V2.
• Setup/UI: ROAM 3 features the convenient Ready-to-Ride Dashboard and an updated UI optimized for the new touchscreen and colour depth.
• Internal Sensors: ROAM 3 adds Accelerometer, Gyroscope, and Compass (V2 had an ambient light sensor but not explicitly listed Accelerometer/Gyro/Compass in the same way). Both have Dual-Band GPS & USB-C.

Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM 3 vs. Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM v2: Key Differences

How does the new ELEMNT ROAM 3 improve upon its well-regarded predecessor, the V2?

• Screen Colours/Detail: ROAM 3 features a stunning 16 Million colour 2.8" touchscreen vs. V2's capable 64-colour 2.7" screen, offering vastly superior visual richness.
• Memory & Performance: ROAM 3 quadruples storage to 64GB + adds 2GB RAM vs. V2's 16GB, for extensive map storage and exceptionally smooth operation.
• Battery Life: ROAM 3 significantly extends runtime to up to 25 hours vs. V2's 17 hours.
• Climbing Feature: ROAM 3 introduces enhanced Summit Climb Features that work without loaded routes, a major upgrade over V2's Summit Freeride.
• Audible Alerts: ROAM 3 adds an internal speaker for audible turn-by-turn navigation cues, not present in V2.
• Setup/UI: ROAM 3 features the convenient Ready-to-Ride Dashboard and an updated UI optimized for the new touchscreen and colour depth.
• Internal Sensors: ROAM 3 adds Accelerometer, Gyroscope, and Compass (V2 had an ambient light sensor but not explicitly listed Accelerometer/Gyro/Compass in the same way). Both have Dual-Band GPS & USB-C.

Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM 3 vs. ROAM v2 vs. BOLT 3 Comparison

Who Should Upgrade to the New Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM 3?

If you currently own an older Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM (V1 or V2), or are considering a top-tier GPS computer, the upgrade to the new ROAM 3 is highly compelling if:

• You crave the best possible map and data visibility with a larger, 16 Million colour touchscreen.
• You need extensive map storage (64GB) for global adventures or a vast library of routes.
• Maximum battery life (up to 25 hours) is critical for ultra-endurance rides or multi-day bikepacking.
• You want the most advanced Summit Climb features, especially the ability to see climbs without needing a pre-loaded route.
• Audible navigation cues are an important safety or convenience feature for you.
• You appreciate the quicker setup via the Ready-to-Ride Dashboard and the refreshed, touch-optimized UI.

For owners of the original ROAM v1, the upgrade is a night-and-day difference. For V2 owners, the vastly superior screen, quadrupled memory, significantly longer battery life, enhanced Summit features, and audible alerts make a very strong case for upgrading.

Practical Usage & Tips

• Touchscreen & Buttons: Leverage the touchscreen for easy map panning/zooming and menu navigation, while relying on the tactile buttons for core functions during rides, especially with gloves or in wet conditions.
• Audible Alerts: Customize audible alerts in the settings to get the turn-by-turn cues you need without constantly looking at the screen.
• Map Management: Use the ELEMNT App to download desired map regions to take full advantage of the 64GB storage for offline navigation.
• Battery Management: While impressive, for multi-day trips without charging, consider optimizing screen brightness and sensor connections to maximize the 25-hour runtime.

Pricing & Availability

The new Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM 3 will be available starting May 6th, 2025 and can be ordered from Multitronic. Pricing is set at:

• Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM 3 €449.00

The new Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT 3 will also launch on May 6th, 2025, priced at €329.00 and will be available for order from Multitronic.

We will add both new ELEMNT computers to our webshop as soon as they become available.

Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM 3 FAQ

Conclusion: The Ultimate Adventure & Exploration GPS, Redefined

The new Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM 3 significantly enhances Wahoo's top-tier offering for cyclists who demand the best in navigation, display quality, and battery endurance. With its stunning 16 Million colour touchscreen, massive 64GB map storage, class-leading 25-hour battery life, refined Summit Climb Features, and the addition of audible navigation cues, it's perfectly equipped for the most demanding adventures.

If you're a dedicated explorer, long-distance cyclist, or simply want the largest, most vibrant display with touch capability and maximum battery from Wahoo, the ELEMNT ROAM 3 is a powerful and compelling choice that sets a new benchmark for adventure-focused GPS bike computers.