Updated: Garmin Vector power meter now compatible with Shimano pedals

You can now use Garmin’s Vector power meter with Shimano pedals for the first time thanks to a new cartridge kit. Up until now you’ve only been able to use Vectors with Garmin’s Look Kéo compatible pedals.

Garmin Vector is a pedal-based power measuring system. You fit the pedals, along with their accompanying pods, to your cranks and your power data is sent to a head unit, such as a Garmin Edge bike computer, as you ride. The latest incarnation, Vector 2, impressed us greatly when we reviewed it last year. 

You can’t currently buy a Garmin Vector/Shimano system as a complete package. First, you need to have Shimano Ultegra PD-6800 pedals. Second, you need to buy a Garmin Vector power meter: either the Vector 2, which measures power from both legs, or the Vector 2S single-legged option.

Third, you need the Vector Cartridge Kit for Shimano Ultegra PD-6800 pedals. We've just heard that these are priced £99.99.. 

Finally, you need to remove the cartridge and axle from the Garmin Vector pedal body, swap the existing cartridge for your new Shimano cartridge, and install the axle and the new Shimano cartridge into the Shimano Ultegra PD-6800 pedals. It doesn’t seem like the most difficult job in the world. 

Obviously, this is a more expensive way of doing things than simply using the Look Kéo compatible pedals included in the Garmin Vector system but it does provide a solution if you’re dedicated to using Shimano pedals and cleats.  

Check out our guide to choosing a cycling power meter. 

We’ve asked for details on availability, of course, and we’ll update you as soon as we get those.