Garmin course points for ultracycling: FIT via USB, not Connect

When favorites and control points are missing on the Edge, it is often not the plan — it is the transfer path. For ultracycling with course points: save FIT and copy via USB into Garmin/NewFiles.

Why course points are finicky

Garmin Edge devices typically allow about 200 course points (including turn cues). UltraPlaner therefore exports only your marked stops ★ and control points ⚑ — not every fuel stop on the map. That keeps the course usable and readable on the device.

Why not Garmin Connect?

Via Garmin Connect, course points are often lost or arrive incomplete. A familiar ultracycling pain: route yes, stops no. USB mass storage into the Garmin → NewFiles folder keeps track and points more reliably.

From UltraPlaner to the Edge

  1. In UltraPlaner, star favorites ★ and place control points ⚑
  2. Download the FIT course (Export)
  3. Connect the Edge via USB as mass storage
  4. Copy the file into Garmin/NewFiles, eject safely — course under Navigation → Courses

Limit and selection

If you mark more than ~200 stops, FIT export caps at the Garmin limit. Prioritise mandatory CPs and real supply stops; leave the rest on the cheat sheet or map. For a navigation line without stops there is also “FIT — route only”.

Build the course in UltraPlaner

Load a GPX or draw a route, filter POIs, check elevation gaps, then mark only the stops you want on the Edge. Then FIT/USB — or parallel Wahoo cloud and COROS GPX if you ride a mixed setup.