Review on 🚴 Enhanced Safety with Garmin Varia RTL510 Bike/Cycling Radar Tail Light Bundle: Real-time Alerts for Vehicles Approaching from the Rear by Douglas Davis

Definitely one of the best items I have ever bought for my bike. I'm rather skeptical about products and had my doubts at first, but after reading some reviews and watching some videos I felt that they fit my riding style well. I usually drive alone on country roads and knowing if someone was approaching from behind was a huge benefit. Operation: The device is charged with a USB cable with a power button to choose between multiple flashing modes. I suppose it can be used as a separate taillight, but that negates the main advantage - the radar. I'm using an Edge 810 and after updating my head unit's software the taillight paired with no issues. There are settings in the head unit that can also change how the light flashes when a vehicle is detected. After the flashlight has been paired with your main device, the screen will display data as usual, but an additional icon will appear in the top right corner. Corner. When a vehicle is detected, the device will beep and red bars will appear on the left and right of the display with a small dot representing the vehicle. If the device detects two vehicles, two dots are displayed. etc. When the vehicle's approach speed is high, the dot moves up rapidly from the bottom of the screen. As soon as the vehicle has passed, the display changes from two red bars to two green bars. , the same red stripe/dot is superimposed over the segment. So you always know if a vehicle is approaching you. I have found that the light will detect a car at a sufficient distance and give you advance warning so you can maneuver if necessary. Its accuracy was 100%. The RTL510 also recognizes motorcycles. lines of speed. During a recent event that took place on a closed route, I was in the speed line and the drivers behind me were not detected by the radar. However, I've found that if we're surrounded by a faster driver, they'll spot them on radar. Installation: The taillight comes with a quarter turn bracket for use with a round or aero seatpost. I have an aero seatpost and it fits perfectly. I'm a big fan of Garmin mounts and bought an extra mount for my other bike so it's easy to switch between bikes. I don't understand how you can't be seen. This is a premium taillight so it needs to be bright. Cons: As far as I know, this flashlight is only compatible with Garmin devices (a full list is available on the Garmin website). Buying this taillight is a pretty big branded investment, and Garmin head units have a history of disappointing users (including me), so do your head unit homework before you buy this taillight. - EDIT 8/28/19 - Wahoo announced ANT+ and RADAR support on 8/27/19, there are several videos on YouTube showing how RTL510 works with Wahoo head units. This is a great addition for Wahoo users. Final Thoughts: As a taillight it's impressive but not outstanding, the presence of radar makes it stand out from the crowd. It's one of those things that after a few rides with it, I realize I don't want to ride without it. If you're already a Garmin user with a compatible device, that's great. If you are just starting out or thinking about switching from another platform I would make sure Garmin is right for you before buying the RTL510. To use an analogy, Garmin head units are like sundaes, and the RTL510 is like icing on the cake. EDIT 8/28/19 - no more discussion about platforms (Wahoo/Garmin)!