Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt: Uploading Strava Routes for Navigation and Enhanced Training

How do I upload a Strava route to ELEMNT Bolt?

Uploading a Strava route to your Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt is achieved by first ensuring your Strava account is linked to the Wahoo ELEMNT Companion App, starring your desired routes within Strava, and then syncing these routes wirelessly to your paired ELEMNT Bolt device for navigation.

The ability to follow pre-planned routes is a cornerstone of effective endurance training, offering structure, navigation, and an opportunity to explore new terrain with confidence. For cyclists and runners utilizing the Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt GPS computer, integrating routes created or discovered on Strava is a seamless process that enhances every outing. This guide will walk you through the precise steps to get your Strava routes onto your ELEMNT Bolt, ensuring you stay on course and optimize your training.

Essential Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have the following in place:

• Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt Device: Your device should be charged, powered on, and updated to the latest firmware.
• Wahoo ELEMNT Companion App: Installed on your smartphone (iOS or Android) and paired with your ELEMNT Bolt. This app acts as the primary interface for managing your device.
• Strava Account: An active Strava account where you have created or "starred" (favorited) the routes you wish to upload.
• Stable Internet Connection: Both your smartphone and ELEMNT Bolt (if connected via Wi-Fi) will need an internet connection for syncing.
• Bluetooth Enabled: Ensure Bluetooth is active on your smartphone to connect to the ELEMNT Bolt.

Step-by-Step Guide to Uploading a Strava Route

The process primarily involves linking your accounts, selecting your routes on Strava, and then syncing them through the Wahoo ELEMNT Companion App.

Step 1: Ensure Strava and Wahoo Accounts are Linked

For your Strava routes to appear in the Wahoo ecosystem, your accounts must be connected.

• Open the Wahoo ELEMNT Companion App on your smartphone.
• Navigate to the Profile tab (usually represented by a person icon).
• Select Linked Accounts.
• Locate Strava in the list of services. If not already connected, tap on it and follow the on-screen prompts to authorize the connection using your Strava login credentials. This connection also enables Strava Live Segments on your ELEMNT Bolt.

Step 2: Create or Star Your Route on Strava

Only routes that you have "starred" (favorited) on Strava will sync to your Wahoo device.

• Go to Strava.com on a web browser or use the Strava mobile app.
• To create a new route: Navigate to Dashboard > My Routes > Create New Route. Design your route and save it.
• To use an existing route: Find a route (either one you've created, a friend's, or a public route).
• Once you've found or created your desired route, ensure you click or tap the star icon next to the route name. A yellow star indicates it's favorited and ready for syncing.

Step 3: Sync Routes to Your ELEMNT Bolt via the Companion App

With your accounts linked and routes starred, it's time to transfer them to your device.

• Ensure your ELEMNT Bolt is powered on and connected to your smartphone via Bluetooth. You can confirm this by checking the device status within the Wahoo ELEMNT Companion App.
• In the Wahoo ELEMNT Companion App, navigate to the Workout tab (often represented by a bike icon).
• Tap on Choose a Route.
• At the top of the routes list, you should see an option to Sync or pull down on the screen to refresh. Tap this or pull down to initiate a sync with your linked platforms, including Strava.
• Your starred Strava routes should now appear in the list of available routes within the app. If they don't appear immediately, ensure your phone has a strong internet connection and try syncing again.

Step 4: Select and Start Your Route on the ELEMNT Bolt

The final step is to select the route directly on your Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt device.

• On your ELEMNT Bolt device, press the Route button (typically located on the bottom left side of the device).
• Scroll through the list of available routes until you find the Strava route you wish to ride. Strava routes are usually clearly labeled.
• Select the desired route.
• You will then have options such as Ride Route (to start navigation from your current location) or Take Me To Start (to navigate to the beginning of the route before starting the ride).
• Once you select your option, the ELEMNT Bolt will display the route on its map, and you can begin your activity, following the on-screen navigation cues.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While the process is generally smooth, you might encounter minor hurdles.

• Route Not Appearing in Companion App:
  • Check Strava Star: Confirm the route is starred on Strava.
  • Refresh App: Pull down to refresh the routes list in the Companion App.
  • Internet Connection: Ensure your phone has a stable internet connection.
  • Account Link: Verify your Strava account is still linked in the Companion App.
• ELEMNT Bolt Not Syncing with Companion App:
  • Bluetooth Connection: Ensure Bluetooth is on for both your phone and ELEMNT Bolt.
  • App Permissions: Check that the Companion App has necessary Bluetooth and location permissions on your phone.
  • Restart Devices: Try restarting both your phone and ELEMNT Bolt.
  • Firmware Update: Ensure your ELEMNT Bolt's firmware is up to date.
• Navigation Issues During Ride:
  • GPS Signal: Ensure you have a clear view of the sky for good GPS signal acquisition.
  • Map Data: For regions you frequently ride, consider downloading offline maps via the Companion App to improve map loading speed and reliability.

Maximizing Your Training with Strava Routes on ELEMNT Bolt

Leveraging Strava routes on your ELEMNT Bolt goes beyond simple navigation; it's a powerful tool for enhancing your training:

• Structured Workouts: Follow routes with specific elevation profiles or segment challenges for targeted training.
• Exploration and Adventure: Confidently explore new roads, trails, or cities without the fear of getting lost.
• Pacing and Strategy: Utilize the route's elevation profile and estimated time to completion to plan your efforts and nutrition.
• Group Rides: Share routes with training partners to ensure everyone stays on the same course.
• Safety: Stay on designated paths and avoid unexpected detours.

Conclusion

Uploading Strava routes to your Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt is a straightforward process that significantly enhances your cycling and running experience. By following these steps, you gain access to a world of structured training, confident exploration, and improved performance. Integrate this feature into your routine to unlock the full potential of your Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt and elevate your fitness journey.