The Hammerhead Karoo 3 is one of the most anticipated cyclocomputer releases recently. Given that the Karoo 2 was introduced in late 2020, there has been talk for years that a third generation could be coming.
New information is also starting to leak out. For example, Karoo 3 appeared in the new SRAM RED pictures, so it’s safe to assume that it will be introduced together with the RED launch, which should happen soon. Hammerhead also updated its website.
And here are the actual product pictures of the device:
Below, I summarize all the rumors and leaks we’ve learned about Karoo 3 so far, as well as a few wishes. Let me know in the comments what you expect from Karoo 3.
When Hammerhead Karoo 3 will be launched?
Based on the FCC filings, I believe Karoo 3 will be launched on the 15th of May, 2024. UPDATE: This information was correct.
Karoo 3 Rumors and Leaks
Here is what we know from the leaked pictures by Hans Flensted. These features are almost certain:
- The screen has a glossy finish instead of matte, and the unit has more rounded corners.
- The buttons are now bigger and further away from each other, which could help with control with gloves. Some buttons (like the power button) are relocated (from the side to the bottom).
- It has the same display size, 3.2″ (480×800px), but pretty big bezels.
- It has a thicker profile, which accommodates a larger battery. It should provide up to 15h battery life.
And here are some of the leaked specs that are less certain but very likely:
- 64GB of memory and 4GB of RAM (vs. 16GB memory and 2GB of RAM on Karoo 2).
- Multi-band GNSS for better GPS accuracy.
- A possibility to choose between road, MTB, or gravel routing for customized navigation.
- Seamless connectivity with SRAM AXS and other ANT+ products, and also smartphones.
- Better processor (Quad Core 2.0 GHz).
What Do I Wish Karoo 3 Could Do?
I have basically only 3 expectations from Karoo 3 after my experience with the 2nd generation. Based on the new information, Karoo 3 will meet at least the first two.
The first one is a more powerful and more efficient chip, which would make the device run “smoother” and thus not lag as much. Under a higher load, the Karoo 2 started to chop a bit and was not so snappy.
A more efficient chip would also have an impact on battery life, which is quite poor with the current version, often not even reaching 10 hours. This is insufficient at a time when the average is around 20 hours. See the overview of battery lifetimes of the top bike computers on the market.
The last big wish I have is better controllability when wet. The Karoo 2 display starts to “go crazy” when wet and becomes almost uncontrollable. This is where the Edge bike computers still have the upper hand.
Other features I would appreciate:
- Slimmer bezels
- Matte display, perhaps even different technology
- Thinner profile, lower weight
- Compatibility with external power packs (not a dealbreaker for me)
Wrap Up
I don’t know about you, but to me, it looks more like mandatory improvements than real progress so far. Hammerhead, in particular, could have played around more with the design, which would have had smaller bezels and a matte display for better sunlight readability.
If it releases as it is and doesn’t add any software killer features, it could be outdated pretty soon.
Another question is also the price. The Karoo 2 started at $399. So I wouldn’t be surprised at all if the Karoo 3 was $100 more expensive, $499, and would be on a similar level to the Garmin Edge 840.
It goes crazy when wet? Have you tried enabling rain lock?
I know the Karoo can lock the screen, but the problem I have with it is that it is uncontrollable when wet, unlike other bike computers. 🙂
– Petr