Hammerhead has revamped its Karoo bike computer. It looks almost the same as the previous generation of the Karoo. The big difference is the internal construction. Almost all of the Karoo's internal components are new. Not only a faster 2.0GHz processor, but also more gehuegen (64GB) and multi-band GNSS support, for better navigation. We look forward to seeing the review soon!
Crucially, Hammerhead has simultaneously increased battery life from a claimed eight hours for the Karoo 2 to reportedly more than 15 hours.
This is the first major upgrade since Hammerhead was acquired by SRAM, and the Karoo has been developed in conjunction with the brand's new Red AXS groupset for better integration - you can configure the SRAM groupset's behaviour in the Karoo, rather than using the AXS smartphone app.
Read also: Shimano vs Campagnolo vs SRAM: What are the differences?
Better visibility
The Hammerhead's screen resolution of 480 x 800 pixels was already significantly higher than that of its competitors. The 3.2-inch touchscreen also helps with that. Neither Garmin nor Wahoo can match that (yet). Some changes have also been made under the small bonnet. There is a new quad core processor of 2.0 GHz, instead of the 1.1 GHz on the Karoo 2. The internal memory has been doubled. You now have access to 64GB instead of 32GB. Combine that with 4GB of RAM and you get why this is a 'monster'.
Better positioning
Hammerhead has new multi-band GNSS support on the Karoo. With this, Hammerhead draws the playing field even more honour to itself. Also, the latest generation of Garmin and Wahoo cycle computers have this. It should provide more accurate positioning, especially in places where it is difficult. Think of cycling in the middle of New York or in a densely forested area.
Longer carefree cycling.
One of the Hammerhead Karoo 2's major complaints was its relatively limited battery life. With a maximum of eight hours (according to specs), it was always pinching the buttocks on long days. The new Karoo 3 has a claimed battery life of 15 hours, which is also double that. But still this is less than Wahoo's 17h and more than half less than the 35h of the Garmin Edge 140. Probably due to its high-resolution screen and Android-based internals, the Karoo 2's battery life lagged behind its competitors, with a claimed eight hours. The new Karoo improves that significantly by more than 15 hours. Nevertheless, it is a significant upgrade that makes multiple trips between charges or longer outings more practical.
Also quick recharging
Hammerhead says you can charge the battery by 30 per cent in 30 minutes. A full-circle charge takes two-and-a-half hours, using the included USB-C cable. That the computer weighs less despite all the upgrades is an absolute bonus. Not that the average cyclist cares, but that 13g saving is a win for the pros. From 118g for the new Karoo versus 131g for its predecessor, the Karoo 2
Tech for techies
The Karoo's new app is also a touch better, providing seamless integration with the SRAM AXS switch groups. It saves a step because you don't have to connect to the SRAM AXS companion app. Still, you can just connect heart rate monitors, power meters and any other BLE-controlled electronics to the Karoo. One more point though: The fact that Karoo is owned by SRAM also means that integration with Shimano Di2 does not seem to be on the roadmap yet. The battle between the two shifting giants is thus played out in a bland way.
The new Hammerhead Karoo 3 costs €499.99
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