Garmin Edge Explore - where to get?

[mecheng89]

Morning Hubbers,

 

I'm keen to try touring rides in 2019 but I love having a Garmin as a backup for navigation. My Garmin 520 has, shall we say, suggestive navigation. 

 

https://www.starbike.com/en/garmin-edge-explore-incl.-aero-handlebar-mount/?currency=ZAR&vat=hide&gclid=Cj0KCQiAxs3gBRDGARIsAO4tqq3OPXF6dUi_CJPtD0TrNYR8Q50aOpPPzYJAG3j1SqDth-YrvtRLATMaAt9XEALw_wcB

 

So online research lead me to the Garmin Edge Explore. A unit that looks like the new 1030, but with a lot of expensive bits removed (cant'connect to PM, no rider-to rider messaging like the 1030) bits removed, but critically the navigation function being top class. No one sells it locally (it's not on the Garmin SA website), and I'm hesitant buying it from overseas as the maps may be region locked. They say new maps can be purchased, but at what cost.

 

Has anyone ever bought a Garmin unit from overseas finding the maps are region locked?

[scotty]

My 820 has multiple countries, when i connect mine it keeps on notifying me that new map updates are available for routable cycle maps of Europe.