1. Introduction
The Wahoo ELEMNT Rival is a high-performance multisport GPS smartwatch engineered for athletes who demand precision and reliability. It seamlessly integrates with the Wahoo ecosystem and other fitness platforms, providing comprehensive data for training and competition. This manual will guide you through the setup, operation, and maintenance of your ELEMNT Rival to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Front view of the Wahoo ELEMNT Rival Smartwatch, showing the digital display with current time, date, step count, and battery level.
2. Setup Guide
2.1. Unboxing and Initial Charge
- Carefully remove the ELEMNT Rival smartwatch and its accessories from the packaging.
- Locate the USB charging cable. Connect the magnetic end to the charging port on the back of the watch and the USB-A end to a power source (e.g., computer USB port, wall adapter).
- Allow the watch to charge fully before first use. A full charge typically takes approximately 2 hours.
2.2. Pairing with Wahoo ELEMNT App
- Download the Wahoo ELEMNT Companion App from your smartphone's app store (iOS or Android).
- Open the app and create an account or log in if you already have one.
- Turn on your ELEMNT Rival by pressing and holding the top right button.
- In the app, select 'Add New Device' and follow the on-screen prompts to pair your watch. This usually involves scanning a QR code displayed on the watch or entering a pairing code.
- Once paired, the app will guide you through initial setup, including personal profile, units of measurement, and activity profiles.
The Wahoo ELEMNT Rival Smartwatch displaying its connection status to the Wahoo Companion App on a smartphone.
3. Operating Instructions
3.1. Basic Navigation
- Top Right Button: Power On/Off, Select/Enter.
- Middle Right Button: Scroll Up, Menu Navigation.
- Bottom Right Button: Scroll Down, Menu Navigation.
- Top Left Button: Back, Lap/Split (during activity).
- Bottom Left Button: Light, Lock Screen.
3.2. Sport Modes and Workouts
The ELEMNT Rival supports various sport profiles, including Running, Cycling, Swimming, and Triathlon. You can customize data pages for each sport via the ELEMNT app.
- Starting an Activity: From the watch face, press the top right button to enter the activity menu. Scroll to select your desired sport and press the top right button again to start.
- Triathlon Mode: The watch features 'Touchless Transition' for triathlons, automatically transitioning between swim, bike, and run segments without manual input.
- Structured Workouts: Load structured workouts from compatible platforms (e.g., TrainingPeaks) directly to your watch via the ELEMNT app. The watch will guide you through intervals and targets.
The ELEMNT Rival displaying the selection screen for various sport modes, with 'Triathlon' highlighted.
The watch screen showing an active interval workout, indicating remaining time and a visual representation of effort.
3.3. Data Tracking
The ELEMNT Rival provides comprehensive data tracking for various metrics:
- Heart Rate: Optical heart rate sensor provides continuous heart rate monitoring during activities and 24/7 (when enabled).
- GPS: Built-in GPS tracks distance, pace, speed, and route for outdoor activities.
- Activity Tracking: Monitors daily steps, calories burned, and active minutes.
- Sleep Tracking: Tracks sleep duration and quality (HRV data coming soon via firmware update).
The watch displaying real-time heart rate data during a workout, showing current and average heart rate.
3.4. Smart Features
Beyond fitness tracking, the ELEMNT Rival offers smart features to enhance daily use:
- Smartphone Notifications: Receive alerts for calls, texts, and app notifications from your paired smartphone.
- Music Control: Control music playback on your smartphone directly from the watch.
The watch screen showing music playback controls, specifically for Spotify, with track information and progress bar.
4. Care and Maintenance
Proper care will extend the life of your ELEMNT Rival smartwatch.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the watch, especially after workouts. Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe the screen and casing. For the optical heart rate sensor on the back, gently clean with a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol if needed. Ensure the charging contacts are clean and dry.
- Strap Care: If your strap is removable, clean it separately with mild soap and water. Allow it to air dry completely before reattaching.
- Water Exposure: The ELEMNT Rival is water-resistant (5 ATM). Rinse with fresh water after exposure to chlorinated or salt water. Do not press buttons underwater.
- Storage: Store the watch in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Battery Care: Avoid fully discharging the battery frequently. For long-term storage, charge the battery to about 50% to preserve its health.
Rear view of the Wahoo ELEMNT Rival, highlighting the optical heart rate sensor and magnetic charging contacts.
5. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your ELEMNT Rival, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Watch not turning on | Low battery; software glitch | Charge the watch for at least 30 minutes. Perform a soft reset by holding all four side buttons for 10 seconds. |
| GPS not connecting | Poor satellite signal; outdated firmware | Move to an open area with a clear view of the sky. Ensure firmware is updated via the ELEMNT app. Sync GPS data via the app. |
| Heart rate readings are inaccurate or absent | Watch not worn correctly; dirty sensor; dry skin | Ensure the watch is snug on your wrist, one finger-width above the wrist bone. Clean the optical sensor. Moisten skin under the sensor if very dry. |
| Cannot pair with smartphone | Bluetooth off; app issue; watch not in pairing mode | Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone. Restart both watch and phone. Try pairing again through the ELEMNT app. |
| Battery drains quickly | Frequent GPS use; high backlight setting; many notifications | Reduce GPS usage if possible. Lower backlight brightness. Manage notifications through the ELEMNT app. |
6. Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Name | ELEMNT Rival |
| Model Number | WF140BK |
| Display Size | 1.2 Inches (3.05 cm) |
| Display Type | Color Display (AMOLED, OLED, LCD, or LED) |
| Resolution | 240 x 240 pixels |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, GPS |
| Battery Life (Smartwatch Mode) | Up to 2 weeks |
| Battery Life (GPS Training Mode) | Up to 24 hours |
| Battery Type | Lithium Ion (250 mAh) |
| Water Resistance | 5 ATM |
| Material | Nylon (strap) |
| Dimensions | 4.65 x 4.65 x 1.53 cm |
| Weight | 50 g |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphone |
| Operating System | Android Wear 2.9 (or compatible) |
7. Warranty and Support
Wahoo Fitness products are designed for durability and performance. For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Wahoo Fitness website. The warranty typically covers manufacturing defects for a specified period from the date of purchase.
For technical support, firmware updates, or additional resources, please visit the Wahoo Fitness support page on their official website. You can find FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and contact information for customer service.
- Online Support: www.wahoofitness.com/support
- Product Registration: Register your product online to receive updates and streamline support.
