GarminVaria RTL515 Radar With Tail Light(Return to Product Page)

Initial testing

Tested my new Varia today in today's morning ride - In a straight line it's great - Could not detect the cars sneaking out of alleys - it did- when it's too near. My conclusion -it's good to have both the radar and a mirror

Summary after 2 months

The Varia is a literal lifesaver when riding alone on quiet roads.I'd say the Varia is best suited for quiet country roads and very small groups where you get limited traffic and need a warning that a car is approaching, especially helpful when your mind is wandering from taking in the sights.

There are supposed to be some tricks to reduce false hits when riding in a larger group

When riding in a group, look behind for teammates to stay at a group pace or keep the group together.

When turning right, after an initial check for traffic, I can continue looking while turning, but the Varia radar is still pointing to the angle of the old road.

Wishlist:

Size of car or truck behind. Helps me decide how much I need to swerve out of the way.

We have a bike path beside the main road and it really helps to know when cars are coming. The mount is not very good, I lost the rubber piece for it.

I use it as my first look when I change lanes in traffic. It works so consistently well I can solely rely on it almost 100% of the time .

While this unit is not cheap, it lets your Garmin computer sync and provide information about cars approaching from the rear. Far enough range and give a bit more peace of mind when on the road. Picks up cars long before I hear them approaching.

I ride on the road and this radar makes me feel safe. Its an absolute must have for someone who wants to avoid rash drivers coming up from behind. Compatible with my phone and garmin computer

Very dependable alerts and long battery life between charges. Easy setup

It's a great tool to know whether you have traffic sneaking up behind you to remind you to pull to the right. Super useful on roads with light traffic since you will be constantly alerted if you are riding along a busy street. The only improvement I would like to see is a more secure way to mount to the seat post. The rubber band is pretty slim.

For a long time, I didn't think a Varia was necessary. I used a "dumb" rear light for several years. But, given some of the roads that we ride, I decided to try it out.

I'm impressed. The combination of the Varia with my Garmin head unit provides a much better than expected warning of approaching cars. There's an additional measure of awareness that I'm sure that I didn't know I was missing.

I' can't ride without it now.

This has been great can't believe I waited so long to by it. It is great on narrow and busy roads. If riding on a frontage rd it will pick up cars from the highway. Can't imagine riding without it.

I use the light when I'm doing my training rides by myself. It's helps out a lot. I don't have to keep looking back for cars behind me. I also use it during group rides too. I helps keeping the group together and safe. This is a awesome product.

The Garmin Varia RLT515 is the best taillight you can own! It works better than I ever thought, knows if a vehicle is behind you better than looking back. So much safer making a left and just in general. Great product, and BikeTiresDirect got it to me unbelievable fast!

I recently purchased this light to go with my 830 head unit.

No regrets and no more craning your neck to see whats about to hit you.

This thing really works and provides you with real metrics to gauge traffic proximity and speed.

It's a game-changer - highly recommended

The light is small, but more than adequate during the day or night. But the most important aspect is that I can pair it with my i-phone and it gives me clear warnings when there is a car(s) behind me. It generally picks up the cars at about 75 yards, which I think is more than adequate. I am more than happy with it.

It is very nice knowing that a car is approaching without having to use a mirror. The light seems to be very bright and noticeable. Because of the pandemic I have been riding alone so have not determined how it affects other riders in a paceline.

This Varia is a solid item. It syncs easy, works well with my Garmin 1030 Plus, and detects cars. It is a most valuable accessory.

Keeps you aware of traffic approaching from behind. Even the electric vehicles. I feel a little safer riding the streets in Vegas.

I love it .... Should have bought it sooner but, I am having problems with it disconnecting from the Garmin 830 head unit randomly.

I really like this product. Before having it I was always wondering about traffic coming on behind and getting distracted with looking back. Now I know what's coming well before it passes me. I also know that the light is helping with visibility as it kicks in to high gear flashing when it detects a car approaching. Fantastic

Easy to set up and link with my Garmin 1000 and phone if needed . Such a great device now you don't have to be Surprised by a car on top of you . Now you'll know When a cars coming from behind.

I ride on a roadway that has a shoulder shared by walkers and runners...Varia lets me know if it's safe to ease out into the traffic lanes when going around them...love it!!