I bought this primarily for the larger screen for maps. Of course also all the plethora of features. Originally I thought touch screen was not necessary on bike computer, but the ability to easily zoom out a couple clicks and pan around while riding is really helpful in training and racing.
I just got my Edge 1040. One reason I bought it was that it had metal ears on the mount. I have broken the ears off all the bigger Garmins ( 1000 & 1030). I have had to buy the dog ears to put on them so they can still be used and that works. With the 1040 having a metal mounting plate that shouldn't happen. I can't believe the battery life on the 1040. I have 6 rides all over 50 miles and still have 64% battery left. I am sure I will probobly get 500 miles before I need to recharge it. It's the best that Garmin has come up with yet. I am hoping they come up with live weather radar next
Not only am I overbiked but I am also over computered and I freakin love it. Gave my 1030 to my wife and upgraded to the 1040 and couldnt be happier. Faster updating and screen changing and a louder beep with the radar. Also a lot of small things that make this unit an upgrade that I'm happy to have spent the money on.