Garmin

I was reluctant to jump into one of these, convincing myself that I was sufficiently safe with the flashing rear light I had. But I kept reading accounts of how much safer folks felt with one of these, so decided to "upgrade" in the name of safety.

This also meant getting a suitable bike computer...and I added these to a new-to-me bike.

I'm flabbergasted by how much of a change this combination represents.

I LOVE the audio warning and the visual indication of when I have a vehicle coming up on me. I ride on rural roads in the southwest corner of VT and nearby roads in NY and MA. I've appreciated each warning and been super-happy with my purchase.

Maybe the newer generation is an upgrade, but at the price BTD was selling these and coming from where I was, I'm THRILLED with my purchase.

Finally picked up a radar taillight with the outgoing Varia RTL515 on discount and I have to say, I've appreciated the radar/light more than I thought I would. I haven't used it in the dark yet, so I cannot speak to the effectiveness of the tail light, but the radar function has made me wonder how I survived so long without one. I assume no bike radar is 100% perfect when it comes to picking up cars, but in several weeks of usage, this model has been probably 99% accurate. Get yourself one before they're all gone!

Interfaces with radar/light unit, easy on/off mounting (came with numerous mounting options). Good battery life. Like the feature ability to track fellow riders over busy courses (e.g RAGBRAI type events).

I was updating my old Garmin Edge 530 which served me faithfully for 6 years or so. I don't replace gear that often so this was a big change for me. My first impressions after 200 miles or so indoors and out. The unboxing process was seamless; I unboxed it and synched it using house wi-fi. Everything from my old unit worked seamlessly and the process was fast. Initially I noticed my phone would interfere with the Wahoo Kickr core signal. Solution was to connect phone last. Same thing happened using a Garmin Varia. I just needed to connect ap on phone after getting 840 set up. Otherwise system is a great upgrade. I actually was on the fence about touchscreen but after using it for a couple months I've gotten used to it and love it. Overall great experience and I'm happy I didn't spring for the extra solar charging unit.