Garmin Quick Release Kit, Forerunner 935 Review

Here’s What I Think of the Garmin Quick Release Kit, Forerunner 935

As an equipment specialist with over a decade of experience across diverse environments, I’ve come to appreciate solutions that streamline workflow and enhance versatility. The Garmin Quick Release Kit, Forerunner 935 from Garmin is one such accessory that promises to do just that for compatible Forerunner GPS running/triathlon watches. It’s designed to offer a seamless transition between wearing the watch on your wrist and mounting it on a bicycle, a crucial capability for any triathlete or serious cyclist who also relies on their watch for training data.

My initial encounter with this kit stemmed from a growing frustration during my own training sessions. Constantly swapping bands or struggling to secure my watch to bike mounts was eating into precious transition time and, frankly, becoming a nuisance. I needed a more efficient method, something that offered immediate flexibility without compromising security or data integrity.

Upon unboxing, the kit presents a practical, no-nonsense collection of components. The materials feel robust, and the design principles are clearly focused on functionality and ease of use. It feels like a well-thought-out solution to a common problem faced by multi-sport athletes. I had briefly considered generic, off-brand solutions or attempting a DIY mount, but the potential for instability and the risk of damaging my expensive Forerunner watch made me stick with the official Garmin offering. My first impression was one of quiet satisfaction; this looked like it would solve my problem efficiently.

Real-World Testing: Putting Garmin Quick Release Kit, Forerunner 935 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested this kit in its intended environment: transitioning from a run to a bike ride during a triathlon training simulation. The process was remarkably straightforward. Attaching the quick-release bracket to the watch was a simple matter of aligning pins and screws, a task that took less than five minutes from opening the package.

The true test, however, was the transition itself. Slipping the watch from its wrist strap and then clipping it into the bike mount was incredibly fast. I completed the swap in under ten seconds, a significant improvement over my previous method. Even with sweaty hands after a hard run, the mechanism felt secure and positive, with a satisfying click indicating it was locked in place.

Performance in varied conditions was also important. I’ve used it in light rain without any discernible issues, and the materials show no signs of corrosion or degradation after several weeks of consistent use. The mounting mechanism remained firm on the bike, even over rougher terrain that tends to shake equipment.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, spanning multiple training sessions and commutes, the Garmin Quick Release Kit, Forerunner 935 has held up exceptionally well. It has become an indispensable part of my training gear, proving its worth in every transition. The quick-release mechanism shows no signs of loosening or wear; it still clicks into place with the same reassuring firmness as day one.

Durability has been a strong point. The plastic components feel high-grade, and despite a couple of accidental drops onto pavement (from about waist height), there are no cracks or structural compromises. The smaller screws and pins have also remained secure, with no tendency to loosen over time, which is a common issue with many small accessories.

Maintenance is minimal, which is a huge plus. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to keep it clean, even after muddy rides. The kit comes with extra o-rings for the bike mount, which is a thoughtful touch, suggesting Garmin anticipates potential wear on these smaller, high-contact parts over extended use. Compared to some cheaper alternatives I’ve seen, which often feel flimsy and have less secure attachment points, this kit feels like a premium, reliable accessory that’s built to last.

Breaking Down the Features of Garmin Quick Release Kit, Forerunner 935

Specifications

The Garmin Quick Release Kit, Forerunner 935 is a compact but comprehensive package designed for effortless device interchangeability. It includes a quick release bracket that attaches to your Forerunner watch, a dedicated wrist bracket, a sturdy bike mount, two pins, two screws, and six bike mount o-rings. The inclusion of installation screwdrivers means you have everything needed for immediate setup.

These specifications are crucial for its intended function. The quick release bracket is the core innovation, allowing the watch to detach from its standard band and connect to other mounts. The bike mount is designed to securely hold the watch in a visible and accessible position on handlebars, and the o-rings provide crucial grip and vibration dampening, ensuring it stays put even on bumpy roads. Having extra o-rings and the necessary screwdrivers adds significant value, making it a complete solution right out of the box.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Garmin Quick Release Kit, Forerunner 935 is to facilitate quick and secure transitions between different mounting options for your compatible Forerunner watch. In this regard, it excels. The watch snaps in and out of the bracket with minimal effort, yet feels exceptionally secure once locked.

Its biggest strength is undoubtedly the speed and ease of transition. You can go from wrist-worn to bike-mounted in seconds, a critical advantage for competitive athletes. The bike mount itself is robust and holds the watch firmly, preventing any unwanted movement or rotation during rides. A slight weakness, though minor, could be the reliance on o-rings for secure bike mounting; while effective, they are consumables that could eventually wear out, though the kit provides spares. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for its intended purpose, especially considering its price point.

Design & Ergonomics

From a design and ergonomics perspective, the Garmin Quick Release Kit, Forerunner 935 is all about practical efficiency. The components are primarily constructed from durable plastic, which keeps the overall weight down while maintaining perceived sturdiness. The finish is a matte black, blending seamlessly with most Garmin devices and bicycle aesthetics.

Ergonomically, the kit is intuitive. The wrist bracket and quick-release mechanism are designed for one-handed operation once you’ve performed the initial setup. Clipping the watch onto the bike mount is a simple push-and-click action. The bike mount itself is ergonomically shaped to be easily gripped and positioned on handlebars, and the included screwdrivers make the initial setup comfortable and straightforward. There’s virtually no learning curve, which is a testament to its well-executed user-centric design.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, this kit is designed for repeated use in active environments. Given its plastic construction, it’s not meant for extreme heavy-duty applications, but for its intended use with a Forerunner watch, it should last for years. The locking mechanisms feel solid, and there are no obvious points of failure that would typically occur with prolonged stress.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick rinse under water or a wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the components clean, especially after sweaty use or exposure to road grime. The inclusion of six bike mount o-rings is a smart move, acknowledging that these small but vital parts might eventually need replacement. There are no complex parts to maintain, meaning most users will likely find it very low-maintenance, offering peace of mind for frequent use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Garmin Quick Release Kit, Forerunner 935 comes with a thoughtfully curated set of accessories, all aimed at ensuring immediate usability and long-term functionality. The key accessory is the bike mount, which is designed to fit standard handlebar diameters securely. The included two pins, two screws, and six bike mount o-rings are essential for initial setup and future maintenance.

While there isn’t extensive “customization” in the traditional sense, the kit’s strength lies in its modularity. The primary customization is the ability to detach your watch from one mounting solution (your wrist strap) and attach it to another (the bike mount). This flexibility is the core benefit. The o-rings offer a degree of adaptability for handlebar size and grip preference. The inclusion of the installation screwdrivers further enhances its out-of-the-box utility.

Pros and Cons of Garmin Quick Release Kit, Forerunner 935

Who Should Buy Garmin Quick Release Kit, Forerunner 935?

This kit is an absolute must-have for any triathlete, duathlete, or serious cyclist who uses a compatible Forerunner watch. If you regularly transition between running and cycling and need quick access to your watch data, this product will significantly streamline your training and racing. It’s also ideal for runners who prefer to mount their watch on their bike for better visibility during rides without wearing it on their wrist.

Individuals who prioritize efficiency and convenience in their training gear will find this kit invaluable. Those who don’t engage in cycling or who are content with wearing their watch on their wrist for all activities might not find it essential. For users who require an ultra-secure, permanent bike mount that can withstand extreme vibrations or impacts, a metal aftermarket solution might be considered, but for most standard cycling applications, this Garmin kit is more than sufficient. A good quality bike computer mount lubricant could also be considered for the o-rings to extend their life, though it’s not strictly necessary.

Conclusion on Garmin Quick Release Kit, Forerunner 935

The Garmin Quick Release Kit, Forerunner 935 delivers precisely what it promises: a fast, secure, and convenient way to integrate your Forerunner watch into your cycling setup. Its thoughtful design, robust build, and inclusion of all necessary components make it a standout accessory for multi-sport athletes. The ease of transition it offers is not just a convenience; it’s a genuine performance enhancer during critical race moments.

Considering the price of compatible Forerunner watches, the $42.49 for this kit represents excellent value. It’s a small investment that significantly enhances the usability and versatility of your primary training device. I wholeheartedly recommend this Garmin accessory to any Forerunner user who cycles regularly. It’s a well-executed solution that simplifies transitions and keeps your essential data literally at your fingertips, or handlebars.