Garmin

I bought the Garmin Varia from Bikes Direct for 25-30% off just prior to a cycling trip to Europe and it was worth every penny. What a wonderful product and it syncs to every other product I have. I used mirrors for years (and still do at this point), but I can say without hesitation that the Varia radar notified me with 100% accuracy of approaching vehicles. It was most handy when I needed to quickly pass a cyclist or pedestrian ahead of me. It was spot on providing me assurance about what was behind me when making a pass. This has become a road-riding must have for me.

This is the third Varia I've purchased and each one has been wonderful, with improving technology each time. This one's ability to show whether car is in my lane, one lane over, or even straddling the line to give me extra space is quite reassuring. I usually (though not always) distinguishes between approaching car, truck or bike. It also picks up cars quite away back. light seems much brighter than previous models. USB-C hookup is a bonus as well. Nothing bad to say about it.

This purchase was to take advantage of the Biketiresdirect sale and replace the Garmin Varia that i purchased 5 years ago. If you've never ridden with the Varia with a Garmin cycle computer it's a gamechanger when riding on the road. There is much less stress being able to hear a beep and seeing vehicle icons on your cyclecomputer when vehicles approach from the rear.

The Varia became a necessary part of my rides after I was hit by box truck while riding. As a result of the accident, I had sustained a severe spinal injury. Although I was lucky enough not to end up paralyzed...my spinal fusion surgery meant that it is not possible for me to turn sideways anymore. The Varia really helps me by alerting me about approaching cars (even other cyclists). This allows me to ride safer and enables to "see" what is behind me. The camera feature is a great addition as now I have videos of potentially harmful events. I would highly recommend this product or the less expensive version without the camera. It is a game changer these days with so many distracted drivers and also the prevalence of silent electric cars.