Best practices for receiving reliable results for the Vector Series

Vector and Vector S were designed for cyclists, by cyclists, to provide an outstanding experience of owning a precision power measurement system for your bike. The outlined procedures will aid in achieving accurate and consistent results from the Vector system, out of the box and over years of use.

1. Confirm that the internal operating software on the Edge or Forerunner is up to date.
   • Use Garmin Express to check and install any applicable software updates that may be available.
2. Confirm that you have the latest internal operating software installed on the Vector pedals.
   • For more information on checking and installing the latest firmware on the Vector system, please review Related Content.
3. Ensure that the crank length is set accurately on the Edge/Forerunner.
   • For more information on entering crank length, please review Related Content.
   • To display crank length, Vector must be active (spin the cranks) and paired with the Edge/Forerunner.
4. Use an appropriate number of washers.
   • Many cranks have a recessed counterbore around the spindle threads, and require a washer or two to take up the gap and ensure that the pedal pod is touching the crank only on the raised pedal pod mounting face.
   • If you can slip a piece of paper between the pod and the crank around the pod, there is sufficient clearance.
   • Each washer is 1.2mm thick. Never use more than two (2) washers per pedal, as you may not engage a sufficient number of spindle threads in the cranks, and could create a dangerous installation.
5. Ensure pedals are properly torqued to the recommended specifications.
   • Garmin recommends a torque spec of 25-30 lbf-ft (34-40 N-m). The Vector's accuracy can be affected when under-torquing pedals. If apprehensive, try using a torque wrench with a 15mm fitting to achieve the proper torque value.
   • If you don’t have access to a torque wrench, be sure to tighten firmly with your pedal wrench.
   • Start with the pedal pod at an angle, to allow it to rotate into place as you torque the pedals.
6. Smoothly set the installation angles after installing the pedals, or when changing the batteries in the pedal pods.
   • Installation angles should be set as smoothly/evenly as possible. It is recommended to perform this procedure on a trainer or smooth stretch of road.
   • Do not attempt to spin the cranks by hand to set the installation angles.
   • For more information on setting the installation angles, please review Related Content.
7. Perform a static zero calibration at the start of each ride.
   • The static calibration zeros out the Vectors, eliminating any small residual strain that may be left in the system.
   • For optimal results, have cranks in horizontal position when performing a static calibration.
   • The bike must be in an upright position, with no load on the pedals.
   • For more on performing a static zero calibration, please review the "Your First Ride" section of the Vector Owner's Manual.
8. Vector typically goes through a short “settling in” period during your first ride and after a couple hard efforts. It is recommended that the installation angles be reset after Vector has settled in. Re-establishing the installation angles ensures that the angles are as accurate as possible, in case the spindles have shifted slightly after the original installation.
   1. Power Edge/Forerunner off.
   2. Pull the pedal pod battery doors, wait at least 10 seconds, then re-insert the battery doors. This will ensure that you clear all data from the pods and successfully set new angles.
   3. Power the Edge/Forerunner back on after re-inserting the battery doors.
   4. Be cautious when re-inserting battery doors. Make certain that the battery door is properly seated prior to tightening it down. If you turn the door while it is only partially seated, you may damage one of the electrical contacts, and impact the pod’s transmission capability.
9. If you are transporting your bicycle or not using Vector for an extended period of time, Garmin recommends removing and storing all Vector components in the product box.
   • To remove Vector from your bike, simply unscrew the pedals, and the pedal pod connector will pop out on its own. Do not attempt to pry the connector off of the back of the crank with a tool.