I have the RVR315, so they do exist in the wild. The reason was that I was already using the Fly6 as a rear light and camera and there is only so much space on a seat post. Even if two lights each with different dual functions would have been nice there's not enough vertical space. All three in one sounds great.
Great Review and thank YOU for taking the time to do this very detailed review! I have the RTL515 and will be upgrading to the RCT715 AFTER all of the bugs and issues are ironed out (via firmware). It has great potential and I’m sure it will do exceptional ONCE everything is resolved. Thanks 🇺🇸
Awesome review as always! Glad I watched this video before purchasing, I'll stock to my rtl510 for now. Garmin sure dropped the ball on this one, should be atleast 2.7k with image stabilization and better integration especially with Garmin head units!
I personally think 1080p is fine given some basic stabilization. The way I see it this product is a safety device. Warns you of traffic approaching, records said traffic, and operates as a light. If you want to record behind you in high quality you get a gopro.
Now if only they would add a front facing camera to the Varia headlight as well (since that’s what would capture license plate numbers here in the states). That would be a sweet combo!
Garmin, this is simple; bring back the Virb team!! v2 needs to be a Virb 4k stabilised, PD USB 3 gen 2 C with full ANT+ support and Virb edit apps. Shane, great review, thanks again but I can’t purchase this monstrosity. My Virb ultra and RTL515 work fine but I wouldn’t mind if they were all one seamless unit which this isn’t
I have the Varia 515 and really wished I'd had a camera when a driver hit me last week (not inured thankfully). Driver didn't give details and I was so upset I didn't get the rego. Bought yet another Fly6 to add to my setup so I get details next time. Thanks for the review, won't be buying this model!
If size and quality of video is a an issue, it could be programmed to take a number of photos per second, say 3 a second or more. It could be triggered by the radar. When it sensors no car stops taking photos. This would increase quality (better sensor) lower power use and reduce size of files. Of course not a action camera, but good enough to show a vehicle driving inappropriate.
@@whazzat8015 It'll overwrite the oldest first if there's not enough space. 16GB is 1hr44mins at 1080. If it detects an incident or you hit 'save', it'll lock the footage away in another folder that isn't overwritten.
@@gplama Good design. If there is an incident , preserving evidence is the whole point, and adding that as a task when a lot could be going on, would defeat the whole purpose. All our things need to work as a system. Otherwise they are just novelties. Superb review of complex device
I posted this comment in Ray's video as well. For people excited about having a camera on your bike for the purposes of recording an incident, be aware that there is potentially a downside. I had the misfortune of being seriously injured being struck by a vehicle when on my bike. I own a fly6 but had stopped using it for 'reasons'. After the incident, I hired a lawyer to represent me and assist with navigating the insurance maze. The first question he i asked me if 'did you have a camera on your bike'' ? . I answered 'no' and, to my surprise, he actually expressed relief. He then explained that the camera footage... ALL OF IT.. can be used as evidence. Once you present video evidence of the incident, the defendant lawyer can request ALL of the footage from said camera.. i mean ALL of it. Their intention is to identify dangerous or illegal activity (i.e. changing lanes without signaling, failing to stop at a signal or sign, or speeding on a MUT. They will use this 'evidence' to show you are a dangerous cyclist and attempt to negotiate a lower settlement as a result. The only real value of the footage is 1) helping to identify the driver/vehicle in the event they leave the scene or deny involvement, or 2) establishing fault for the incident. If these things are not disputed or in question, the camera footage can only be a liability. In my case, there were quite a few witnesses of the incident, and the driver stayed at the scene, so the camera footage would have provided No value. You might to keep this in mind when deciding if you want to ride with a camera. (these things apply to dash cams as well)
@@gplama I want to be clear. I'm not telling anyone what they should or shouldn't do. I'm just sharing my personal experience and the details given to me by my lawyer after my incident. Everyone needs to make their own decisions about whether to run with a camera or not.
The camera performance was disappointing but you were testing in ideal conditions. What I mean by that is you weren't in an accident? If you're rear ended by a vehicle does the camera catch the number plate then? Also, the vehicles passing you were being quite courteous, and giving you a fairly wide birth, what if they only passed at less than 2 meters? Good luck testing those scenarios though😉.
Thank you. Awesome as usual. This is not for me. 1.) Not sure how I would use these videos. If the video would show on 1040 screen that would be awesome. 2.) I use a tail bag so not sure how I would mount it.
I'm wondering if it might be a processing/compression issue rather then an issue with the camera hardware itself. You can see the video is clear is spots that are more static like trees etc, seems like a classic compression thing (like when watching a dodgy free live stream of TdF)
Yeah, I raised this over on the TrainerRoad forums discussion on the product. It’s a possibility. Dropping to 720 in the hope it had a higher bit rate was an epic fail.
So…. I contacted Cycliq a while back asking about the unit they supplied me for review. I still have it. They wouldn’t even reply to my question as it was ‘out of warranty’…. They offered me a discount on a new unit. That was a suboptimal experience.
Out of interest did you test battery life with the light off? I can get around 15 hours out of a fully charged Varia RTL 515 with the light off in day time and on at night but radar running full time. I pair it with a rechargeable Moon rear light instead as that has a much better battery life on the light. Appreciate most folks dont go for 15Hr+ rides but it does greatly extend the battery life.
I would like to see with this radar/camera to have a live interphase via a seperate monitor or even a phone, for quick glances. Is it possible? In other words, much like a rear view mirror. In today's road conditions, more is better, mirror, radar function on the gps display and a live monitor condition of rear images.
Surely in this day and age, you’re developing the above device, and automatically you specify h265 compression for the video files. Even with a 4K sensor you wouldn’t be chewing up 8.5gb an hour.
You can tell when Shane has decided he doesn't like something. To be honest, from his tone I was continually expecting to see something that totally unwarranted buying this thing. But I just saw nitpicking. No comparison on the night footage with the gopro? Probably because that would have struggled also in those conditions. The controls from the bike? No one should be making changes whilst riding (even with a gopro). Battery life actually sounded pretty decent considering what's out there (including gopro). The Cycliq rear units are even worse! Yep the file management seems clunky, but something that is hopefully improved over time.
The video was too long as it was to insert comparisons with a GoPro. It's also pretty shitty at night, but that's not the product in review. The controls from the bike are what Garmin are expecting people to use too. With releases like this there's inevitably going to be a LOAD of press/media/influencers giving the highlights and showing it working in ideal conditions. The issue with that kind of content is that when consumers buy these things thinking everything is smooth sailing and easy to use - they end up frustrated and pissed off at new technology. For people like me, I get emails. I get @ replies. I am held to account if I bullshit about the experience and don't tell it like it is. It's clear that the testing pool from Garmin was too small on this one. There are a LOT of easy wins that could be (and should be) resolved in firmware/software. This unit is six months underdone. I really hope they push a few updates to this very very quickly.
I'm a little confused from this review by what can and can't be fixed with the current hardware. GPLama seems to be saying the Varia App and Edge Integration can be addressed but not the camera performance??? I would have thought stabilisation was a firmware fix. Is that not possible because of the 1080p resolution?
just to be a bit more specific....digital image stabilisation just involves changing the ISO setting of the camera so should be possible from firmware I would have thought.
They could also boost the bitrate... but almost anything they do will put more strain on the battery in that regard. Let's wait and see if they do anything with it. The app and WiFi connectivity to the RCT here is still terrible.
@@gplama What firmware are you running out of interest? Unfortunately for me I ordered it before seeing this review and it turned up to day and wanted a firmware update straight away.
Maybe no one will read this but for OCD's sake I thought I'd put my everyman's 3 week review of this device. I'm no GPlama just a middle aged weekend warrior. Context for this review is I have never had a radar device before. I have used a forward facing Garmin Virb camera but no rear facing camera. I have a very mixed relationship with Garmin and their products. I bought this device before seeing this Lama Review and make no mistake, I think his reviews are the bee's knees. So after watching it, I had this sick feeling in my stomach that yet again Garmin had suckered me out of several hundred dollars for a shitty product like the Garmin 820 (which IMHO was a piece of rubbish being beta tested by the unsuspecting public). Roll on 3 weeks and I'm in fact a happy camper. I love this device and would prefer not riding than leaving home without it. The simple act of being alerted to cars up my keister before I get jump scared has been a huge gain. The camera (while not a brilliantly clear go-pro equivalent) has performed faultlessly on my rides and taken some classic pain cave moments of some of my colleagues not to mention close passing cars. One of the valid criticisms made in Lama's review is that at 1080p the quality of the video is ordinary without stabilisation. In his video he gives many examples of unreadable number plates. I might be lucky at this point but I'm yet to have this issue. It's related, no doubt, to how much slower I am than him but so far, every Rego number I needed to identify I could with no issues. I've had no issues with the battery life - I have light on flashing mode and the camera on radar activated with no audio. My longest ride was about 4+ hours and it was still running fine. I don't use the Varia app as Lama rightly points out it is a mess (and I'm a software developer). I control the radar functions from my head unit (Garmin 830). Value for money? Well that depends on your situation money-wise. I'm a mamil who can justify the cost for the peace of mind having had one too many brushes with vehicles. So while your mileage may vary, I have been pleasantly surprised and happy with my purchase at this stage.
For me the fact that company like Garmin is releasing a product with 1080p and 16GB SD card in 2022 AND asking AU$640 for it is laughable... Adding all the faults and the size...
Man. Like so often with Garmin, great idea, iffy execution. Would be a total winner with a better camera. The Varia 510 remains one of the very few indispensable pieces of kit I own. Thanks Shane!
I’m interested as to when a car is detected what you do? Pull over each time? I don’t get the advantage of having it. Only reason I might see is if you wear headphones (but then you might not hear warning) or with more quieter EVs on the road, that might give you a warning. Never had radar and want to know what I’m missing?
@@JohntuberLeeds it allows me to move over a bit if there’s a car back and certainly gives me an opportunity to prepare for a turn, all without having to take my eyes off the road ahead. It also gives me the relative speed of the vehicle. I honestly would never leave home without it. After my helmet and cell phone, I consider the Varia to be the most important safety device I have. I do typically encounter several hundred cars on each ride I do.
I was so hoping that this would be exactly what cyclists needed in a rear camera, maybe if they can improve on the video image and the software with updates I'll purchase but it really seems like a complete waste at the moment. Thanks for the great review!
The Varia is a hugely transformative device, but still with a long way to go. Needs to work as smoothly as a car's back up camera. The elements are there, but not present in this version. It took car makers 10-15 years to start to get the electronics right.
@@whazzat8015 Seems like Garmin has screwed up every attempt they have made at cameras, including every action camera... Maye they need more than 15 years.
I ordered it the minute it was listed and canceled the order after seeing the first review. I would have gladly paid if it were only satisfactory. I love the Varia so much that I refuse to ride without it and I have wanted this since the first day I bought the Varia. I will continue to wait for something that really works.
Serious question....do you believe beyond doubt that you have been safer since fitting the vadar and if so can you outline how this is so. Asking for a friend
@@glennoc8585 I definitely feel safer with the Varia. I am 76-years old with my sight and hearing failing, and I do almost all my rides by myself. I would have a hard time using a mirror and I cannot hear many cars. I turn on the app on my iPhone for sound because I cannot hear the signal from the Hammerhead Karoo 2, but the computer has a bright screen where I can see the cars approaching. When I see a car approaching, I will move as far to the right as I can, and I try to never make a left-hand turn if a car is close behind me. If for some reason, the computer drops the radar signal, I will stop and fix it or end my route and go home. I am cautious because I have had several bad wrecks over the many years I have ridden, including being knocked unconscious and breaking my shoulder. I have come close to being killed by crazy drivers and I have read of several cyclists who have been killed in my county. So, definitely, I think it makes me safer.
@@glennoc8585 I agree with Orville Harris, this is the best bit of tech I have bought for using whilst out on my bike. I ride with a bike club and when out as a group, it's excellent if I am towards the back as I can then give a verbal warning of "car back" to the other riders. Definitely feel safer with the RTL515, not convinced the RCT715 is worth the extra cost.
I got the RTL515 the best purchase I’ve made , perfect for warning me on oncoming vehicles so I can get a heads up and get prepared, even picked up a monster cyclist in TT mode behind me 😀, think I’ll use a go pro on a rail seat mount for now, great review as always Shane 👍🏻
i have a cateye bm-45 mirror that does the same thing except i can actually see how close the car is away from me with my own eyes, the only thing you dont get is an audio que. the varia won't tell you how close left-right the car is away from you while a mirror will,
@@darinsteele7091 Your mirror is great, if you're looking at it every 5 seconds. Otherwise, the radar + mirror combo is best. The radar tells you when to look at your mirror, allowing you to have a more relaxed ride than you would looking at the mirror every 5 seconds.
@@darinsteele7091 I'm a poverty cyclist, but bought the RTL515 and it's added at least 20% to my enjoyment riding the bike not having to worry about what is behind me. I had a mirror for a number of years, but dark cars without daytime running lights are often missed with a quick glance. I've never spoken to anyone that has regretted buying one...at the end of the day, you don't get a lot of medical treatment for ~$A350 ...
As usual , Garmin always hold back on their innovation . I mean come on, it’s 2022 you can literally put an iPhone 6 camera sensor on it and still look wayyy better than this junk. I love the radar , when the RTL500 launched I straight away bought it and never regret ever since . That remains the only new category gadget from Garmin that have a solid performance , works as intended , from the very first day it was launched. I always wanted to have a camera built in , this is what I wanted but feel disappointed with the image quality. Obviously Garmin is trying out to test the market and if the community responded well they come out with PRO version or something like “RCT730”. Guess I’ll wait until they improve the image quality .
I literally placed an order for the RCT715 and after watching THIS SUPERB in-depth review I cancelled it! I still have the RTL515 so I’ll keep using that until a better version of this camera is released. Clearly the camera tech needs improving on it (which can’t be completed with software updates) but my biggest problem and what I expected it to have is a live view camera. I expected it to somehow connect through the Varia app in my phone (and maybe head unit) and be able to stream the live video which to get a visual of what is behind me at the time while I’m riding is so useful. This only records footage to view later once uploaded. This Lama guy knows his stuff!
The price point on this compared to the RTL515 is ridiculous considering the quality of the camera, if it was 4k it would really be worth it but for the extra £180 here in the UK for that camera quality is so poor!
I have had two previous Fly6 and now a Varia510, so I was interested to if they’d succeeded. My experience with the Fly6 was that on those few occasions I wanted to use it I couldn’t read the numberplate. That looks as bad. As regards image stabilisation: my cheap wifi home camera has built in person and vehicle detection. Even if the image stayed bad but it stamped number plates on it It’d be okay. Even if it did it after downloading using servers/AI I’d be inclined to consider upgrading. No way I’d upgrade for that picture.
Have the updates improved this enough to make it worthwhile? I have a coupon that would lower the price a bit. Still >$300 though. I like the idea of the radar and the camera seems it could create some documentation. I've been holding out on buying the radar without the camera in hopes that they will improve this one enough to make it worthwhile to get the one with the camera. Also, how well might this work when mounted on a bike packing saddlebag (so the big ones, not the little tool holder ones)?
This unit is simply not good enough to replace my forever buggy and dying Cycliq. And I seriously CAN'T WAIT to replace that thing! Maybe next version.
I'm really not sure how Garmin could mess this one up. Seriously, they slapped a cheap camera without basic software image stabilization and made the user interface on their compatible Garmin device a serious pain in the ass. Garmin should have added a better camera 1024p is fine but it NEEDS image stabilization. Add a camera that has better night vision much like Sony's camera lenses have. This is possible since Sony does allow other companies to use their technology. Update how the user can save/view/edit video files. Make it simpler, easier and more efficient. If you can't do this then it's NOT ready for the public.
Thanks for looking at the numbers plates especially, this would be my main use case after having had an accident with a hit and run scenario last week. It seems like the image quality here is not really good enough to work reliably even during daylight...
Great review as always. I'm on the RVR315 with a separate and much better light than the RTL515 has and based on this review I'll be staying in that configuration for a long while yet. Thanks Shane!
So which camera would recommend for safety purposes? A GoPro? I have been reading reviews about different ones and the GoPro seems to be the best option. Any advice would be recommended.
Love my 515 but no sale here. I’d question whether it even does what Garmin intended. I don’t need GoPro level footage but if the worst happens I do need footage where number plates are readable or what’s the point? Night time is always going to be tricky but daytime is inexcusable. I’d say that mounting options have always been an issue with the Varia devices, generally forcing you to choose between the Varia or a saddle bag and clearly with a camera lens to protect you’d think a bit of a rethink might have been in order. I’d be ok with the asking price if it did a good job but if you can’t read number plates then it’s a big fail in my eyes
Well the footage was good enough to make the local news a few days ago, so *GARMIN* likely won't up the image quality now. _( sigh )_ _Guess we'll see!_ 🚲📷 th-cam.com/video/FVXoOHxOCjI/w-d-xo.html
Fantastic review - I'll stick with the original. What a shame about the quality. The number plate has to be a minimum ask - hopefully they can tweak this in firmware. From other reviews, it does look like it fares better with the UK plates and in slower moving urban traffic.
I can live with the slightly large and ugly RTL515 on my bike for the rear radar function which is actually very useful. But not sure about the extra bulk and faff on the RCT715 just to have the camera function.
The thing with any first release garmin product is THE BUGS. To be fair they do usually work them out but only buy the time the second generation hits the market... ironing out any hardwear issues the first release had. Then you need to wait for those bugs in the mk2 version to be fixed. So generally when mk3 (usually just an asthetic upgrade) comes out, and the mk2 is in a sale ready for this (clearing old stock) then jt's time to consider it against the competition.
Standard Garmin hardware. Clunky, poor performance. Awful software. The camera is of NO use at all if it cannot capture a license plate. Once again hamstrung by 1980s operating system and lack of DSP for video processing.
Properly disappointed with this. It's like the follow up to the amazing original movie that sucked. Garmin have proper missed a trick with this, it would have flew out the door as I don't know anyone who doesn't like the Varia and this should have ticked all the boxes and could have.
Still not sold on the radar Shane albeit I have a camera light for follow up purposes. I can see the benefit if say you on an isolated highway which has fast trucks and cars in frequently do you get warning to pull over. In Metro traffic it would be just an annoyance. I'm trying to rationalise here. The best safety is avoid road cycling or wear high visibility clothing and turn on good lighting during the daylight hours. The drivers don't know and don't care that you know they're coming along or are videoing them they're just oblivious to the fact. If one wears dark clothing and no lights it all in vain.
In spite of this review I decided to buy this device. I live in far east country of Poland where dash cam is a "must be" and the idea of having one combined with radar was too appealing. Even though Garmin logo on it (sorry, but my exp with Garmin products are exclusively bad.... so far). After updating Varia to latest firmware (5.1) and pairing with varia app on android phone, I went for short test ride (14km or so) with camera configured to work just on radar activity. My observations are: 1. Preview speed: previous and thumbnails is sufficient. Previous are loading instantly with no delays, although they have resolution is lowered. I also suspect (although can't prove it yet) that the speed here depends on the number of files stored on the card. But that to be checked further 2. Download speed: yes, it is still bad. DesFit tip of disabling bluetooth works and download accelerates but it is still rather slow, considering that it is done via dedicated wifi connection on dedicated WiFi channel with no other devices co-existing and very good radio conditions. I consider this as a flaw/buggy of the design. Clearly, Varia can't deal with wifi+bluetooth co-existence. So either it is a bug or they used the cheapest Chinese chip to handle wireless connection. This way or another -> true Garmin experience ;-) 3. Connectivity: there is one annoying but - varia app can be connected to the device only if the lamp is shining. If I switch to mode where light is off, both bluetooth and wifi get disconnected. Even though LEDs indicate that bluetooth is active. It seems that Garmin's wifi requires the light ;-) I can almost hear Garmins manager instructing developers: "user should be able to connect only if the light is on" :D Anyway, standby mode is useless for bt/wifi user. 4. False positives. I was absolutely surprised by amount of those. I can understand and accept it if I ride on dedicated bike line along the road. That's fine. If the bike like goes on the opposite side of the road, that's becoming weird. But if the bike road goes like 20m a side the road and is separated with double fence from it... it becomes annoying. In addition, during this one 30min ride I already had one "ghost" report - there was literally nothing behind me and warning was triggered. Maybe it was a tree or bird... i don't know 5. Plates: I was able to read every plate so far, even with 80km/h speed difference. Perhaps we use better/bigger font for plates in Poland. 6. The device is constantly emitting high frequency noise (feep). On the bike I can't hear it, but when browsing the content at home it is audible. Moreover, it seems that blinking light generates clicking sound which you can hear when watching the recordings. One blink, one click :D 7. Last thing, which is maybe just my preference. The disco (blinking) mode which is activated on radar activity is a very good idea for the day, but in the night time it is annoying/disturbing and may bling. I think that during the night the solid or pulsing light is a better option as it gives a constant information about my position to drivers and it is not as glaring as blinking one. Sorry for the long comments, I had to throw this out ;-)
Saved me some money. On paper just what I’ve been looking for / dreaming off. That camera quality though, not fussed about it being high quality for TH-cam footage etc, just want something from a safety perspective, looking at those (or not looking) number plates doesn’t seem to be any use. Drivers in the UK care not for cyclists, every time I ride I have a near miss or get people randomly shouting abuse for absolutely no reason… we can be in different empty lanes and still get it… that’s the stuff I want to capture and report, doesn’t look like this will cut it.
As per all your reviews another great one. Thanks. I have a Varia and it does a good job. However, this new iteration appears to offer very little to warrant stepping up to it. Aside from needing to offer a better camera it would also be better if it were to provide a calculation on the speed of an approaching vehicle, particularly in a critical incident situation. As your review indicates - Don't take this to market Garmin. Rather, back to the drawing-board and perfect it further
An interesting review but: 1) it is more of an incident camera and not a GoPro replacement. 2) image stabilization - in the early days even with a GoPro that was a post production process. Integration with the my ride app - should be able to zero in on the approximate location/time that SOB tried to play car tag with you giving you the option to preview the videos and download the relevant video which should also go into the saved folder giving you a copy to send to the police and the original on the card. Many tools to refine the image if needed by the police. Otherwise, really the majority of vehicles that pass you are of little interest and files can be deleted soon after. If you are doing videos, use the appropriate equipment for that purpose. Len's protection - yes, they need to improve that aspect with something like what many of their GPS units have but easier to replace/repair. The options for recording - should make it KISS - app to alter basic settings, a button push takes a photo, long push turns unit on to your selected options or to turn the unit off. Head unit or app to turn light, radar, camera on or off and adjust light mode during your ride - actual saved settings should be separate. No, I am not a Garmin fan boy, just born near their headquarters long before they were a pipe dream.
Well. After watching your review Shane I am not going to be the guinea pig I will stick to the original light even though that is what I wanted a video camera light but I shall not be putting my hand in my pocket for one of these at the moment. Cracking review and one that I can trust. thanks for that👍
Garmin must have brought the old eMap and CX series handheld software engineers for this one. How could they not just build on the Edge and RT series functionality. Granted it isn't superb, but at least it isn't a dumpster fire.
Varia radar changed my riding experience. Adding a camera sounds like a great idea, but, as you said Shane, the camera is NOT a safety feature. One doesn't even need a camera for incident detection and reporting to a third party. When I watched you and Ray show the file structure, I had a flashback to segmented music files in the late 90s. Seems file transfer speed is of the same vintage. So many different ways to store and provide preview ability....not here. Thanks for the first pass review. Very disappointing....camera can't even be a back up Action Cam. Lots of work to do. 📷
@@cbyod No prob. Adding weight and delays are the story of my life. It does raise an interesting question on timing. Everyone has a rhythm to their situational awareness. We tend to emphasize hardware, not the way it's used. Remember why the old fighter dictum of "checking your 6 " ? TBH the game of the Varia for me is as much a reminder to scan and that may be a big part of its value. Folks have differing coaching needs. As I get older, this is a rhythm I see changing in drivers as well. Noting the screen delays is a good pointer. In traffic design this is called "complications". Cars have gone from greenhouse cabins to obstruction with pillars and headrests, as an example, not to mention their other distractions that add delays in observation. Mirrors also have variable fields of view. The Varia is wide and up to 150 yards long. "Mirrors say, "No", they never say, "Go". Again additive.
Hey Shane, I am wondering if anything has changed on the RCT yet following your awesome review? I currently run Cycliq front & rear, I think I have been lucky, they mostly have been fault-free but the rear is reaching it's use by date. I don't want an RCT that is half baked and I am hopeful GARMIN have sorted some of the issues 5 months in..... A mate runs the RTL and I love the audible alerts, the entire group knows 'Car Back'.... Fingers crossed we are closer to the 'perfect' RCT than we were. Cheers, love your work.
No change unfortunately. There’s been a few app updates, nothing of note to change the experience. I still have to pop the SD card to get to the footage easily. I still can’t get the rear view preview working either.
@@gplama Thanks, really love the way you present - typical Aussie with no BS, just the facts. I agree totally with your view, if Garmin get this right (hardware and software), this product is almost a MUST HAVE for riders - then a front mount version also, with ambient light sensor to switch from headlight to flash mode and we just might help change driver habits and stay safer out there.
So I wanted this to work but alas is no. Have my varia and love it but may look to use my old Garmin virb for a camera and run it to a battery pack for longer battery life Thanks for the review - most of the time these reviews cost me money but in this case it has saved me some dollars!
I so wanted it to be great too. I LOVE the radar. They might be able to throw this a lifeline with a few QUALITY updates to the app and firmware. We'll see. I'll keep using it and keep reporting back when they change things. Thanks for being a channel member too Jeremy. 🙏🏼
Honestly for such a capable and most of all communicating sensor node like this it is pretty impressive. It’s always a trade between some features when it comes to small devices. I mean seeing this quality on your phone or your even smaller head unit is totally fine. I guess it was never intended as a go pro…
RTL510 is just fine. May get the RTL515 as a replacement & pass the RTL510 to my Fiancée. However, I just can't see the RCT715 as a viable replacement at £349.99 unless quality is much improved.
Not going to spend $399 US. I have the RTL 515 and paid $199 US. It became more valuable when I got a Karoo 2 and paired it with that. Don’t need to see the vehicles behind me. I like the radar, and I like the light. One reason it’s not essential, it’s good for country rides but if your riding in the city or even with multiple riders, it picks them up. Works great where I ride but it will be useless say in a century ride. Lot of beeping. Nice review.
Conceptually love it. I run a Cycliq 6ce and I downright hate it. After a being a victim of a hit and run though...won't ride without it now. I have a Varia....love it also never ride without it. What Garmin have done is merged the two. Cool for me. I won't lose anything and I get what I have in one device. I'm ok with that. Image quality is the same yada yada However they have dropped the ball on it. No stabilization. No last 5 minutes saved , This is exactly how I envisioned the first radar camera combo though....so can't get to upset
A 'lookback' rolling buffer would be a nice addition. Similar to what GoPro do with HindSight. Another feature that'd inevitably drain the battery...... but... it'd be neat!
@@gplama I just can't get over that they missed image stabilization. Thats so basic...was the work experience kid writing the minimal viable product requirements? I can see half it's current issues being fixed with firmware / software. I will say this if someone says to me. Thinking of buying a Cycliq 6. I'd just slap them and tell them to buy this. There's no argument that this is better than anything Cycliq has done.
@@itsdeebs5156 don't you think a gopro would work better for a hit and run scenario, to have an easier time identifying the numbers plate? Also had a hit and run scenario last week, sadly without a camera.
@@lorsch. 100% yes. Image quality on GoPro plus stabilization is infinitely better than anything Cycliq or Garmin are producing. The downfall is battery life.
Yeah, thanks for that. Think I'll wait till it's a more mature product. In the meantime, I'll be getting a normal Varia Radar. If I want video, I'll use an action cam.
That’s a shame, as was half tempted by this, as currently available at a really good price in the UK. Guess I’ll stick with my RTL 515 until they improve it or release the next version. Cheers Shane… keep up the great work!
I have the RV315 and I'm disappointed, though it's really a homework failure on my side. I kind of expected that a radar without the light would have longer battery life that the radar with the light, so why read the specs. Bad thinking. I mainly use it for long trips, basically I use the 315 until it becomes dark, then I switch to the 511. Maybe I should simply get a 515. Certainly not getting the 715, it seems like a clear case of waiting for the successor that has the bugs ironed out.
VERY poor identification via license plates or other identifying features. You'll get the make of the car and the colour, but that's about it. You almost need a front camera to capture the license plate of the back of the vehicle in cases of punishment passes or harassment. We need 4k/60 to capture license plates at these passing speeds. I think Apeman is building one, but it's bulky. I hope the technology improves at viable price points. Garmin should keep trying.
To be fair NZ number plates are not the best design for clarity and most of your examples , the cars were giving you loads of room , therefore you wouldn’t need the number plate. Any car that’s close enough to have caused you to want to download the video , would be much clearer
I have the RTL515 and I'm super happy with it. But the mounting options are not great, I feel like it isn't sturdy on a d shaped seatpost. Will pass on this camera option.
There’s a video of using a velcro strap that threads through the mount. I had an old Profile Design velcro strap off of a tri water bottle that works great vs the rubber band method.
If the camera was better I would have brought this immediately but its shite... the cycliq camera has been out for years and is massively better............. No excuses for that camera quality
Good review but I’m still going to stick to my 515 for now. Can’t see myself riding without it. I remember I left it at home once on accident. Drove to the parking area, saw I didn’t have my radar. Just went back home and postponed my ride. It’s that important for me. Going home safe and sound is a top priority for me while going on a bike ride.
I'm not sure how much reduced battery life this can get if we can get the same image quality as a gopro. Even at 1080p30fps the gopro 11 has a maximum battery life of 2 hours, which may not be enough. The rct715 has a minimum battery life of 4 hours. Definitely this can be improved with a larger battery with later revisions but at least with this camera, you can identify the make and colour of the vehicle, giving you more information to pass to the police if the area you cycle in has traffic cameras. Ideally having a front and back long lasting camera of gopro quality is the best but for a first time user of the garmin radar system, this rct715 can be looked into. Furthermore, in this video the cars are quite far away. In the event an accident occurs hitting from the rear, the vehicle would be behind and up close. But this may not be true if the vehicle hits the rider at the sides. I haven't seen any videos that has tested this but I'm not thoroughly convinced that this camera is incapable.
I already have a RTL515 and it’s brilliant. If the camera on this new model isn’t even good enough to pick up car number plates I really don’t see the point in upgrading. Heck, if I didn’t have the 515 I still wouldn’t buy this one. Adding a camera is a great idea by Garmin. It’s just a shame that what they have produced has fallen so short.
If the Varia live streamed video to the bike computer when a car was behind you....I would buy it immediately. Going to stick with my Varia 515 until that happens
It looks like Garmin hired a newly graduate engineers to design this, lack of pretty much everything. Garmin, attention to battery life and video quality, just saying.
I have the current Varia radar/light, and it works great. I ride a small bike and can't mount anything on my seatpost (not enough room). I have a Specialized saddle and use a 3D printed quarter-turn mount attached to the "swat" mounting points on the saddle. Can you attach this device to a standard quarter turn mount? It seems not ....
This isn't native 1/4 turn compatible. I'm sure something could be hacked up though. The additional weight would have to be factored into the strength of the mount though.
I bought one. Next day went in bought another...for the brother in-law. Wife got a bike. Right bought a third. Mate got into riding ... Told him his first purchase before bibs or anything is one of these, I'd loan him head units etc to get cracking. This is the only cycling tech that enhances your riding experience hands down...must have.
Is there any decent rear cameras out there that will cover a 5hr ride and provide actual usable footage in case of an incident? anything I look at seems to fall short.
thanks for the review. I have a 515 and love it. When the battery eventually goes hopefully this 715 model is into its next release and fixes some of the issues you raise. Out of interest, is it possible to have the 515 in Radar only mode? I have a Wahoo Roam head unit if that makes a difference. Also, just FYI, since the last upgrade to the firmware a few months back I have been getting Radar Error coming up on the Wahoo screen every now and then (maybe once a week), the green stripe disappears and then reappears a few seconds later after dismissing the alert on the Wahoo.
You can only put it in radar only mode when paired to a Garmin head unit. Shane covered it ( varia secret running mode ) in his festive 500 rides I believe.
I have the RVR315, so they do exist in the wild. The reason was that I was already using the Fly6 as a rear light and camera and there is only so much space on a seat post. Even if two lights each with different dual functions would have been nice there's not enough vertical space. All three in one sounds great.
Great Review and thank YOU for taking the time to do this very detailed review! I have the RTL515 and will be upgrading to the RCT715 AFTER all of the bugs and issues are ironed out (via firmware). It has great potential and I’m sure it will do exceptional ONCE everything is resolved. Thanks 🇺🇸
You could be waiting a looooong time for that, Garmin not known for resolving / improving firmware & software issues particularly swiftly….
Awesome review as always! Glad I watched this video before purchasing, I'll stock to my rtl510 for now. Garmin sure dropped the ball on this one, should be atleast 2.7k with image stabilization and better integration especially with Garmin head units!
I personally think 1080p is fine given some basic stabilization. The way I see it this product is a safety device. Warns you of traffic approaching, records said traffic, and operates as a light. If you want to record behind you in high quality you get a gopro.
Now if only they would add a front facing camera to the Varia headlight as well (since that’s what would capture license plate numbers here in the states). That would be a sweet combo!
For the camera part, it would be nice to have 1:1 comparison with the Fly6. Thanks for the review!
Garmin, this is simple; bring back the Virb team!! v2 needs to be a Virb 4k stabilised, PD USB 3 gen 2 C with full ANT+ support and Virb edit apps.
Shane, great review, thanks again but I can’t purchase this monstrosity. My Virb ultra and RTL515 work fine but I wouldn’t mind if they were all one seamless unit which this isn’t
Great review thanks for all of the detailed information!
I have the Varia 515 and really wished I'd had a camera when a driver hit me last week (not inured thankfully). Driver didn't give details and I was so upset I didn't get the rego. Bought yet another Fly6 to add to my setup so I get details next time. Thanks for the review, won't be buying this model!
If size and quality of video is a an issue, it could be programmed to take a number of photos per second, say 3 a second or more.
It could be triggered by the radar. When it sensors no car stops taking photos. This would increase quality (better sensor) lower power use and reduce size of files.
Of course not a action camera, but good enough to show a vehicle driving inappropriate.
You raise a good point, technically it doesn't need to be a video does it. Hmm. Nod.
@@gplama Does it over write the files? If you got hit and couldn't turn it off especially.
@@whazzat8015 It'll overwrite the oldest first if there's not enough space. 16GB is 1hr44mins at 1080. If it detects an incident or you hit 'save', it'll lock the footage away in another folder that isn't overwritten.
@@gplama Good design. If there is an incident , preserving evidence is the whole point, and adding that as a task when a lot could be going on, would defeat the whole purpose.
All our things need to work as a system.
Otherwise they are just novelties.
Superb review of complex device
We need Rockets! And EMP! Review and prizes please, especially for the different munition. :)
I posted this comment in Ray's video as well. For people excited about having a camera on your bike for the purposes of recording an incident, be aware that there is potentially a downside. I had the misfortune of being seriously injured being struck by a vehicle when on my bike. I own a fly6 but had stopped using it for 'reasons'. After the incident, I hired a lawyer to represent me and assist with navigating the insurance maze. The first question he i asked me if 'did you have a camera on your bike'' ? . I answered 'no' and, to my surprise, he actually expressed relief. He then explained that the camera footage... ALL OF IT.. can be used as evidence. Once you present video evidence of the incident, the defendant lawyer can request ALL of the footage from said camera.. i mean ALL of it. Their intention is to identify dangerous or illegal activity (i.e. changing lanes without signaling, failing to stop at a signal or sign, or speeding on a MUT. They will use this 'evidence' to show you are a dangerous cyclist and attempt to negotiate a lower settlement as a result. The only real value of the footage is 1) helping to identify the driver/vehicle in the event they leave the scene or deny involvement, or 2) establishing fault for the incident. If these things are not disputed or in question, the camera footage can only be a liability. In my case, there were quite a few witnesses of the incident, and the driver stayed at the scene, so the camera footage would have provided No value. You might to keep this in mind when deciding if you want to ride with a camera. (these things apply to dash cams as well)
That's very interesting Jim. And thanks for posting. There's a lot more to consider when cameras are rolling!
@@gplama I want to be clear. I'm not telling anyone what they should or shouldn't do. I'm just sharing my personal experience and the details given to me by my lawyer after my incident. Everyone needs to make their own decisions about whether to run with a camera or not.
It does encourage everyone to not be a jerk.
Sometimes the presence of a visible camera is de-escalatory
The camera performance was disappointing but you were testing in ideal conditions. What I mean by that is you weren't in an accident? If you're rear ended by a vehicle does the camera catch the number plate then? Also, the vehicles passing you were being quite courteous, and giving you a fairly wide birth, what if they only passed at less than 2 meters? Good luck testing those scenarios though😉.
You can usually get the number plate data off the back of your jersey
Thank you. Awesome as usual. This is not for me. 1.) Not sure how I would use these videos. If the video would show on 1040 screen that would be awesome. 2.) I use a tail bag so not sure how I would mount it.
I'm wondering if it might be a processing/compression issue rather then an issue with the camera hardware itself. You can see the video is clear is spots that are more static like trees etc, seems like a classic compression thing (like when watching a dodgy free live stream of TdF)
Yeah, I raised this over on the TrainerRoad forums discussion on the product. It’s a possibility. Dropping to 720 in the hope it had a higher bit rate was an epic fail.
In fairness Garmin normally plug away at the firmware. My Garmin virb is now very useable 😂
@@rapidrick 1945 was a great year for action cams. Good to hear they've finally got it working! 🤣
addendum .... would welcome a comparative analysis between this "integrated" garmin and the Fly 6/12 kit (which I see is Aus.)
So…. I contacted Cycliq a while back asking about the unit they supplied me for review. I still have it. They wouldn’t even reply to my question as it was ‘out of warranty’…. They offered me a discount on a new unit. That was a suboptimal experience.
Out of interest did you test battery life with the light off? I can get around 15 hours out of a fully charged Varia RTL 515 with the light off in day time and on at night but radar running full time. I pair it with a rechargeable Moon rear light instead as that has a much better battery life on the light. Appreciate most folks dont go for 15Hr+ rides but it does greatly extend the battery life.
I would like to see with this radar/camera to have a live interphase via a seperate monitor or even a phone, for quick glances. Is it possible? In other words, much like a rear view mirror. In today's road conditions, more is better, mirror, radar function on the gps display and a live monitor condition of rear images.
Surely in this day and age, you’re developing the above device, and automatically you specify h265 compression for the video files. Even with a 4K sensor you wouldn’t be chewing up 8.5gb an hour.
5:21 There’s a new firmware update that adds a useful feature 🎉🎉
th-cam.com/users/shorts_dxHbPtbzQA?feature=share
You can tell when Shane has decided he doesn't like something. To be honest, from his tone I was continually expecting to see something that totally unwarranted buying this thing. But I just saw nitpicking. No comparison on the night footage with the gopro? Probably because that would have struggled also in those conditions. The controls from the bike? No one should be making changes whilst riding (even with a gopro). Battery life actually sounded pretty decent considering what's out there (including gopro). The Cycliq rear units are even worse! Yep the file management seems clunky, but something that is hopefully improved over time.
The video was too long as it was to insert comparisons with a GoPro. It's also pretty shitty at night, but that's not the product in review. The controls from the bike are what Garmin are expecting people to use too.
With releases like this there's inevitably going to be a LOAD of press/media/influencers giving the highlights and showing it working in ideal conditions. The issue with that kind of content is that when consumers buy these things thinking everything is smooth sailing and easy to use - they end up frustrated and pissed off at new technology. For people like me, I get emails. I get @ replies. I am held to account if I bullshit about the experience and don't tell it like it is.
It's clear that the testing pool from Garmin was too small on this one. There are a LOT of easy wins that could be (and should be) resolved in firmware/software. This unit is six months underdone. I really hope they push a few updates to this very very quickly.
Shane , what do you think of the Fly camera range? Don't hold back mate - tell us what you really think :)
Do these devices show a live view when then approaching object is near?
No
I'm a little confused from this review by what can and can't be fixed with the current hardware. GPLama seems to be saying the Varia App and Edge Integration can be addressed but not the camera performance??? I would have thought stabilisation was a firmware fix. Is that not possible because of the 1080p resolution?
just to be a bit more specific....digital image stabilisation just involves changing the ISO setting of the camera so should be possible from firmware I would have thought.
They could also boost the bitrate... but almost anything they do will put more strain on the battery in that regard. Let's wait and see if they do anything with it. The app and WiFi connectivity to the RCT here is still terrible.
@@gplama What firmware are you running out of interest? Unfortunately for me I ordered it before seeing this review and it turned up to day and wanted a firmware update straight away.
The RCT715 is on 4.40 according to the Varia app.
Maybe no one will read this but for OCD's sake I thought I'd put my everyman's 3 week review of this device. I'm no GPlama just a middle aged weekend warrior. Context for this review is I have never had a radar device before. I have used a forward facing Garmin Virb camera but no rear facing camera. I have a very mixed relationship with Garmin and their products. I bought this device before seeing this Lama Review and make no mistake, I think his reviews are the bee's knees. So after watching it, I had this sick feeling in my stomach that yet again Garmin had suckered me out of several hundred dollars for a shitty product like the Garmin 820 (which IMHO was a piece of rubbish being beta tested by the unsuspecting public).
Roll on 3 weeks and I'm in fact a happy camper. I love this device and would prefer not riding than leaving home without it. The simple act of being alerted to cars up my keister before I get jump scared has been a huge gain. The camera (while not a brilliantly clear go-pro equivalent) has performed faultlessly on my rides and taken some classic pain cave moments of some of my colleagues not to mention close passing cars. One of the valid criticisms made in Lama's review is that at 1080p the quality of the video is ordinary without stabilisation. In his video he gives many examples of unreadable number plates. I might be lucky at this point but I'm yet to have this issue. It's related, no doubt, to how much slower I am than him but so far, every Rego number I needed to identify I could with no issues.
I've had no issues with the battery life - I have light on flashing mode and the camera on radar activated with no audio. My longest ride was about 4+ hours and it was still running fine.
I don't use the Varia app as Lama rightly points out it is a mess (and I'm a software developer). I control the radar functions from my head unit (Garmin 830).
Value for money? Well that depends on your situation money-wise. I'm a mamil who can justify the cost for the peace of mind having had one too many brushes with vehicles.
So while your mileage may vary, I have been pleasantly surprised and happy with my purchase at this stage.
I’ll just stick with my 510 then.
For me the fact that company like Garmin is releasing a product with 1080p and 16GB SD card in 2022 AND asking AU$640 for it is laughable...
Adding all the faults and the size...
to even release a bike camera without stabilization is just bad quality control
Man. Like so often with Garmin, great idea, iffy execution. Would be a total winner with a better camera. The Varia 510 remains one of the very few indispensable pieces of kit I own. Thanks Shane!
It’s not that bad.
I’m interested as to when a car is detected what you do? Pull over each time? I don’t get the advantage of having it. Only reason I might see is if you wear headphones (but then you might not hear warning) or with more quieter EVs on the road, that might give you a warning. Never had radar and want to know what I’m missing?
@@JohntuberLeeds it allows me to move over a bit if there’s a car back and certainly gives me an opportunity to prepare for a turn, all without having to take my eyes off the road ahead. It also gives me the relative speed of the vehicle. I honestly would never leave home without it. After my helmet and cell phone, I consider the Varia to be the most important safety device I have. I do typically encounter several hundred cars on each ride I do.
@@paddyotoole2058 it could, and should, be so much better though.
@@paddyotoole2058 The image quality is pretty bad for something that costs $400.
I was so hoping that this would be exactly what cyclists needed in a rear camera, maybe if they can improve on the video image and the software with updates I'll purchase but it really seems like a complete waste at the moment.
Thanks for the great review!
The Varia is a hugely transformative device, but still with a long way to go. Needs to work as smoothly as a car's back up camera. The elements are there, but not present in this version. It took car makers 10-15 years to start to get the electronics right.
@@whazzat8015 Seems like Garmin has screwed up every attempt they have made at cameras, including every action camera... Maye they need more than 15 years.
I ordered it the minute it was listed and canceled the order after seeing the first review. I would have gladly paid if it were only satisfactory. I love the Varia so much that I refuse to ride without it and I have wanted this since the first day I bought the Varia. I will continue to wait for something that really works.
Serious question....do you believe beyond doubt that you have been safer since fitting the vadar and if so can you outline how this is so. Asking for a friend
@@glennoc8585 I definitely feel safer with the Varia. I am 76-years old with my sight and hearing failing, and I do almost all my rides by myself. I would have a hard time using a mirror and I cannot hear many cars. I turn on the app on my iPhone for sound because I cannot hear the signal from the Hammerhead Karoo 2, but the computer has a bright screen where I can see the cars approaching. When I see a car approaching, I will move as far to the right as I can, and I try to never make a left-hand turn if a car is close behind me. If for some reason, the computer drops the radar signal, I will stop and fix it or end my route and go home. I am cautious because I have had several bad wrecks over the many years I have ridden, including being knocked unconscious and breaking my shoulder. I have come close to being killed by crazy drivers and I have read of several cyclists who have been killed in my county. So, definitely, I think it makes me safer.
@@glennoc8585 I agree with Orville Harris, this is the best bit of tech I have bought for using whilst out on my bike. I ride with a bike club and when out as a group, it's excellent if I am towards the back as I can then give a verbal warning of "car back" to the other riders. Definitely feel safer with the RTL515, not convinced the RCT715 is worth the extra cost.
Wait till Version 2.1
I got the RTL515 the best purchase I’ve made , perfect for warning me on oncoming vehicles so I can get a heads up and get prepared, even picked up a monster cyclist in TT mode behind me 😀, think I’ll use a go pro on a rail seat mount for now, great review as always Shane 👍🏻
i have a cateye bm-45 mirror that does the same thing except i can actually see how close the car is away from me with my own eyes, the only thing you dont get is an audio que. the varia won't tell you how close left-right the car is away from you while a mirror will,
@@darinsteele7091 Your mirror is great, if you're looking at it every 5 seconds. Otherwise, the radar + mirror combo is best. The radar tells you when to look at your mirror, allowing you to have a more relaxed ride than you would looking at the mirror every 5 seconds.
@@ytubela i agree, i just wish the varia didnt cost so much its crazy
@@darinsteele7091 I'm a poverty cyclist, but bought the RTL515 and it's added at least 20% to my enjoyment riding the bike not having to worry about what is behind me.
I had a mirror for a number of years, but dark cars without daytime running lights are often missed with a quick glance.
I've never spoken to anyone that has regretted buying one...at the end of the day, you don't get a lot of medical treatment for ~$A350 ...
@@mechpatt in Canada it's free!
As usual , Garmin always hold back on their innovation . I mean come on, it’s 2022 you can literally put an iPhone 6 camera sensor on it and still look wayyy better than this junk. I love the radar , when the RTL500 launched I straight away bought it and never regret ever since . That remains the only new category gadget from Garmin that have a solid performance , works as intended , from the very first day it was launched. I always wanted to have a camera built in , this is what I wanted but feel disappointed with the image quality. Obviously Garmin is trying out to test the market and if the community responded well they come out with PRO version or something like “RCT730”. Guess I’ll wait until they improve the image quality .
They know exactly what they are doing. An opportunity for them to fix the issues and come up with a higher price.
That's because Garmin bought a working product with the first version.
This is still not a working Version 2.0, more a V1.4 or even 0.4.
I literally placed an order for the RCT715 and after watching THIS SUPERB in-depth review I cancelled it! I still have the RTL515 so I’ll keep using that until a better version of this camera is released.
Clearly the camera tech needs improving on it (which can’t be completed with software updates) but my biggest problem and what I expected it to have is a live view camera. I expected it to somehow connect through the Varia app in my phone (and maybe head unit) and be able to stream the live video which to get a visual of what is behind me at the time while I’m riding is so useful. This only records footage to view later once uploaded.
This Lama guy knows his stuff!
The price point on this compared to the RTL515 is ridiculous considering the quality of the camera, if it was 4k it would really be worth it but for the extra £180 here in the UK for that camera quality is so poor!
File size for a 4 hour bike ride at 4k would be huge!
I have had two previous Fly6 and now a Varia510, so I was interested to if they’d succeeded. My experience with the Fly6 was that on those few occasions I wanted to use it I couldn’t read the numberplate. That looks as bad.
As regards image stabilisation: my cheap wifi home camera has built in person and vehicle detection. Even if the image stayed bad but it stamped number plates on it It’d be okay. Even if it did it after downloading using servers/AI I’d be inclined to consider upgrading. No way I’d upgrade for that picture.
Have the updates improved this enough to make it worthwhile? I have a coupon that would lower the price a bit. Still >$300 though. I like the idea of the radar and the camera seems it could create some documentation. I've been holding out on buying the radar without the camera in hopes that they will improve this one enough to make it worthwhile to get the one with the camera.
Also, how well might this work when mounted on a bike packing saddlebag (so the big ones, not the little tool holder ones)?
This unit is simply not good enough to replace my forever buggy and dying Cycliq. And I seriously CAN'T WAIT to replace that thing! Maybe next version.
I'm really not sure how Garmin could mess this one up. Seriously, they slapped a cheap camera without basic software image stabilization and made the user interface on their compatible Garmin device a serious pain in the ass. Garmin should have added a better camera 1024p is fine but it NEEDS image stabilization. Add a camera that has better night vision much like Sony's camera lenses have. This is possible since Sony does allow other companies to use their technology. Update how the user can save/view/edit video files. Make it simpler, easier and more efficient. If you can't do this then it's NOT ready for the public.
Thanks for looking at the numbers plates especially, this would be my main use case after having had an accident with a hit and run scenario last week. It seems like the image quality here is not really good enough to work reliably even during daylight...
Great review as always. I'm on the RVR315 with a separate and much better light than the RTL515 has and based on this review I'll be staying in that configuration for a long while yet. Thanks Shane!
I want the smoke screen option!
I was super excited about this 30 minutes ago, now I'm going to play my Banjo.
Thanks for the comprehensive review. Think I'll be sticking with my RTL515
Thank you for this ... thoughts on FRONT cameras ?? Motor Vehicles are not issued front license plates in some jurisdictions ....
I’m all for front cameras too. You make a good point about front plates.
So which camera would recommend for safety purposes? A GoPro? I have been reading reviews about different ones and the GoPro seems to be the best option. Any advice would be recommended.
I'll stick with my varia radar/light. Interesting idea, but clearly very poor execution.
Love my 515 but no sale here. I’d question whether it even does what Garmin intended. I don’t need GoPro level footage but if the worst happens I do need footage where number plates are readable or what’s the point? Night time is always going to be tricky but daytime is inexcusable. I’d say that mounting options have always been an issue with the Varia devices, generally forcing you to choose between the Varia or a saddle bag and clearly with a camera lens to protect you’d think a bit of a rethink might have been in order. I’d be ok with the asking price if it did a good job but if you can’t read number plates then it’s a big fail in my eyes
Well the footage was good enough to make the local news a few days ago, so *GARMIN* likely won't up the image quality now. _( sigh )_ _Guess we'll see!_ 🚲📷
th-cam.com/video/FVXoOHxOCjI/w-d-xo.html
Incident aside, those were optimal conditions for the camera.
Thank you
Fantastic review - I'll stick with the original. What a shame about the quality. The number plate has to be a minimum ask - hopefully they can tweak this in firmware. From other reviews, it does look like it fares better with the UK plates and in slower moving urban traffic.
"Aint nobody got time for 720" Amen sir! Lol.
I can live with the slightly large and ugly RTL515 on my bike for the rear radar function which is actually very useful. But not sure about the extra bulk and faff on the RCT715 just to have the camera function.
The thing with any first release garmin product is THE BUGS.
To be fair they do usually work them out but only buy the time the second generation hits the market... ironing out any hardwear issues the first release had. Then you need to wait for those bugs in the mk2 version to be fixed.
So generally when mk3 (usually just an asthetic upgrade) comes out, and the mk2 is in a sale ready for this (clearing old stock) then jt's time to consider it against the competition.
This is a Varia Version 0.4
Maybe there by 2.1
Disappointing product, great review, thanks
Standard Garmin hardware. Clunky, poor performance. Awful software. The camera is of NO use at all if it cannot capture a license plate.
Once again hamstrung by 1980s operating system and lack of DSP for video processing.
Did you not watch the video? It caught plenty of the number plates. And vehicles which do closer passes will be even clearer.
Properly disappointed with this. It's like the follow up to the amazing original movie that sucked. Garmin have proper missed a trick with this, it would have flew out the door as I don't know anyone who doesn't like the Varia and this should have ticked all the boxes and could have.
Are you saying this is the Blues Brothers 2000 of Varia Radars!? 🤣
@@gplama I think I am saying this yes. 😂
Right concept but Garmin seems again to be in early beta release not time to be an early buyer
Still not sold on the radar Shane albeit I have a camera light for follow up purposes. I can see the benefit if say you on an isolated highway which has fast trucks and cars in frequently do you get warning to pull over. In Metro traffic it would be just an annoyance. I'm trying to rationalise here. The best safety is avoid road cycling or wear high visibility clothing and turn on good lighting during the daylight hours. The drivers don't know and don't care that you know they're coming along or are videoing them they're just oblivious to the fact. If one wears dark clothing and no lights it all in vain.
Agreed about the radar in high traffic areas where cars are the norm, not the exception.
In spite of this review I decided to buy this device. I live in far east country of Poland where dash cam is a "must be" and the idea of having one combined with radar was too appealing. Even though Garmin logo on it (sorry, but my exp with Garmin products are exclusively bad.... so far).
After updating Varia to latest firmware (5.1) and pairing with varia app on android phone, I went for short test ride (14km or so) with camera configured to work just on radar activity. My observations are:
1. Preview speed: previous and thumbnails is sufficient. Previous are loading instantly with no delays, although they have resolution is lowered. I also suspect (although can't prove it yet) that the speed here depends on the number of files stored on the card. But that to be checked further
2. Download speed: yes, it is still bad. DesFit tip of disabling bluetooth works and download accelerates but it is still rather slow, considering that it is done via dedicated wifi connection on dedicated WiFi channel with no other devices co-existing and very good radio conditions. I consider this as a flaw/buggy of the design. Clearly, Varia can't deal with wifi+bluetooth co-existence. So either it is a bug or they used the cheapest Chinese chip to handle wireless connection. This way or another -> true Garmin experience ;-)
3. Connectivity: there is one annoying but - varia app can be connected to the device only if the lamp is shining. If I switch to mode where light is off, both bluetooth and wifi get disconnected. Even though LEDs indicate that bluetooth is active. It seems that Garmin's wifi requires the light ;-) I can almost hear Garmins manager instructing developers: "user should be able to connect only if the light is on" :D Anyway, standby mode is useless for bt/wifi user.
4. False positives. I was absolutely surprised by amount of those. I can understand and accept it if I ride on dedicated bike line along the road. That's fine. If the bike like goes on the opposite side of the road, that's becoming weird. But if the bike road goes like 20m a side the road and is separated with double fence from it... it becomes annoying. In addition, during this one 30min ride I already had one "ghost" report - there was literally nothing behind me and warning was triggered. Maybe it was a tree or bird... i don't know
5. Plates: I was able to read every plate so far, even with 80km/h speed difference. Perhaps we use better/bigger font for plates in Poland.
6. The device is constantly emitting high frequency noise (feep). On the bike I can't hear it, but when browsing the content at home it is audible. Moreover, it seems that blinking light generates clicking sound which you can hear when watching the recordings. One blink, one click :D
7. Last thing, which is maybe just my preference. The disco (blinking) mode which is activated on radar activity is a very good idea for the day, but in the night time it is annoying/disturbing and may bling. I think that during the night the solid or pulsing light is a better option as it gives a constant information about my position to drivers and it is not as glaring as blinking one.
Sorry for the long comments, I had to throw this out ;-)
Thought about doing your own review channel? lol
Garmin should work with gopro so that the radar can trigger recording via bluetooth 🤞
ABSOLUTELY!
Maybe even display on headunit for rear views
Saved me some money. On paper just what I’ve been looking for / dreaming off. That camera quality though, not fussed about it being high quality for TH-cam footage etc, just want something from a safety perspective, looking at those (or not looking) number plates doesn’t seem to be any use. Drivers in the UK care not for cyclists, every time I ride I have a near miss or get people randomly shouting abuse for absolutely no reason… we can be in different empty lanes and still get it… that’s the stuff I want to capture and report, doesn’t look like this will cut it.
Great review. Thanks for the skip ahead on the time line 👌👌
As per all your reviews another great one. Thanks.
I have a Varia and it does a good job. However, this new iteration appears to offer very little to warrant stepping up to it.
Aside from needing to offer a better camera it would also be better if it were to provide a calculation on the speed of an approaching vehicle, particularly in a critical incident situation.
As your review indicates - Don't take this to market Garmin. Rather, back to the drawing-board and perfect it further
An interesting review but:
1) it is more of an incident camera and not a GoPro replacement.
2) image stabilization - in the early days even with a GoPro that was a post production process.
Integration with the my ride app - should be able to zero in on the approximate location/time that SOB tried to play car tag with you giving you the option to preview the videos and download the relevant video which should also go into the saved folder giving you a copy to send to the police and the original on the card. Many tools to refine the image if needed by the police. Otherwise, really the majority of vehicles that pass you are of little interest and files can be deleted soon after.
If you are doing videos, use the appropriate equipment for that purpose.
Len's protection - yes, they need to improve that aspect with something like what many of their GPS units have but easier to replace/repair.
The options for recording - should make it KISS - app to alter basic settings, a button push takes a photo, long push turns unit on to your selected options or to turn the unit off. Head unit or app to turn light, radar, camera on or off and adjust light mode during your ride - actual saved settings should be separate.
No, I am not a Garmin fan boy, just born near their headquarters long before they were a pipe dream.
Disappointing results! Thanks for the review, phenomenal test scenarios. Awesome.
Well. After watching your review Shane I am not going to be the guinea pig I will stick to the original light even though that is what I wanted a video camera light but I shall not be putting my hand in my pocket for one of these at the moment. Cracking review and one that I can trust. thanks for that👍
Garmin must have brought the old eMap and CX series handheld software engineers for this one. How could they not just build on the Edge and RT series functionality. Granted it isn't superb, but at least it isn't a dumpster fire.
This was the best product review I jave seen in a LONG time. You answered all of my questions very well. Thanks!
Varia radar changed my riding experience. Adding a camera sounds like a great idea, but, as you said Shane, the camera is NOT a safety feature. One doesn't even need a camera for incident detection and reporting to a third party.
When I watched you and Ray show the file structure, I had a flashback to segmented music files in the late 90s. Seems file transfer speed is of the same vintage. So many different ways to store and provide preview ability....not here.
Thanks for the first pass review. Very disappointing....camera can't even be a back up Action Cam. Lots of work to do. 📷
Cheaper to use a bar end mirror
Gimme a rear view monitor
Would even beat the bar end in everything but price.
@@whazzat8015 lol you just adding weight to your bike also the footage won't be real time there will be a slight delay.
@@cbyod No prob. Adding weight and delays are the story of my life.
It does raise an interesting question on timing. Everyone has a rhythm to their situational awareness. We tend to emphasize hardware, not the way it's used.
Remember why the old fighter dictum of "checking your 6 " ?
TBH the game of the Varia for me is as much a reminder to scan and that may be a big part of its value. Folks have differing coaching needs. As I get older, this is a rhythm I see changing in drivers as well.
Noting the screen delays is a good pointer.
In traffic design this is called "complications".
Cars have gone from greenhouse cabins to obstruction with pillars and headrests, as an example, not to mention their other distractions that add delays in observation.
Mirrors also have variable fields of view. The Varia is wide and up to 150 yards long.
"Mirrors say, "No", they never say, "Go". Again additive.
Hey Shane, I am wondering if anything has changed on the RCT yet following your awesome review?
I currently run Cycliq front & rear, I think I have been lucky, they mostly have been fault-free but the rear is reaching it's use by date. I don't want an RCT that is half baked and I am hopeful GARMIN have sorted some of the issues 5 months in..... A mate runs the RTL and I love the audible alerts, the entire group knows 'Car Back'....
Fingers crossed we are closer to the 'perfect' RCT than we were. Cheers, love your work.
No change unfortunately. There’s been a few app updates, nothing of note to change the experience. I still have to pop the SD card to get to the footage easily. I still can’t get the rear view preview working either.
@@gplama Thanks, really love the way you present - typical Aussie with no BS, just the facts.
I agree totally with your view, if Garmin get this right (hardware and software), this product is almost a MUST HAVE for riders - then a front mount version also, with ambient light sensor to switch from headlight to flash mode and we just might help change driver habits and stay safer out there.
So I wanted this to work but alas is no.
Have my varia and love it but may look to use my old Garmin virb for a camera and run it to a battery pack for longer battery life
Thanks for the review - most of the time these reviews cost me money but in this case it has saved me some dollars!
I so wanted it to be great too. I LOVE the radar. They might be able to throw this a lifeline with a few QUALITY updates to the app and firmware. We'll see. I'll keep using it and keep reporting back when they change things. Thanks for being a channel member too Jeremy. 🙏🏼
2022 and that camera quality and THAT price...Back to the drawingboard Garmin...
Honestly for such a capable and most of all communicating sensor node like this it is pretty impressive. It’s always a trade between some features when it comes to small devices. I mean seeing this quality on your phone or your even smaller head unit is totally fine. I guess it was never intended as a go pro…
Thanks for the review - I guess I‘ll stay with my bar end mirror ! 🤙
I still have the 500 works great
RTL510 is just fine. May get the RTL515 as a replacement & pass the RTL510 to my Fiancée. However, I just can't see the RCT715 as a viable replacement at £349.99 unless quality is much improved.
OK, this is exactly what I expect of a thorough review!..Cheers, mate!👍
Does this mean new edge devices are also on the horizon ?
Not going to spend $399 US. I have the RTL 515 and paid $199 US. It became more valuable when I got a Karoo 2 and paired it with that. Don’t need to see the vehicles behind me. I like the radar, and I like the light. One reason it’s not essential, it’s good for country rides but if your riding in the city or even with multiple riders, it picks them up. Works great where I ride but it will be useless say in a century ride. Lot of beeping. Nice review.
Conceptually love it. I run a Cycliq 6ce and I downright hate it. After a being a victim of a hit and run though...won't ride without it now. I have a Varia....love it also never ride without it.
What Garmin have done is merged the two. Cool for me. I won't lose anything and I get what I have in one device. I'm ok with that.
Image quality is the same yada yada
However they have dropped the ball on it. No stabilization. No last 5 minutes saved ,
This is exactly how I envisioned the first radar camera combo though....so can't get to upset
A 'lookback' rolling buffer would be a nice addition. Similar to what GoPro do with HindSight. Another feature that'd inevitably drain the battery...... but... it'd be neat!
@@gplama I just can't get over that they missed image stabilization. Thats so basic...was the work experience kid writing the minimal viable product requirements? I can see half it's current issues being fixed with firmware / software.
I will say this if someone says to me. Thinking of buying a Cycliq 6. I'd just slap them and tell them to buy this.
There's no argument that this is better than anything Cycliq has done.
@@itsdeebs5156 don't you think a gopro would work better for a hit and run scenario, to have an easier time identifying the numbers plate? Also had a hit and run scenario last week, sadly without a camera.
@@lorsch. 100% yes. Image quality on GoPro plus stabilization is infinitely better than anything Cycliq or Garmin are producing.
The downfall is battery life.
chunky boi
It chose the meat lovers pizza. Family size!
Yeah, thanks for that. Think I'll wait till it's a more mature product. In the meantime, I'll be getting a normal Varia Radar. If I want video, I'll use an action cam.
Out of curiosity….. 6 months on, have they sorted out the usability of this unit with the app yet?
No updates to the product/app/experience since posting this review (as far as I know).
That’s a shame, as was half tempted by this, as currently available at a really good price in the UK. Guess I’ll stick with my RTL 515 until they improve it or release the next version. Cheers Shane… keep up the great work!
I have the RV315 and I'm disappointed, though it's really a homework failure on my side. I kind of expected that a radar without the light would have longer battery life that the radar with the light, so why read the specs. Bad thinking. I mainly use it for long trips, basically I use the 315 until it becomes dark, then I switch to the 511. Maybe I should simply get a 515. Certainly not getting the 715, it seems like a clear case of waiting for the successor that has the bugs ironed out.
VERY poor identification via license plates or other identifying features. You'll get the make of the car and the colour, but that's about it. You almost need a front camera to capture the license plate of the back of the vehicle in cases of punishment passes or harassment.
We need 4k/60 to capture license plates at these passing speeds. I think Apeman is building one, but it's bulky. I hope the technology improves at viable price points. Garmin should keep trying.
Thanks for the vidio 🙂👍
I vill go with the radar model🚲🙂👍🇩🇰
Learnt so much from your channel, great garmin IQ apps and devices introduction , thank you for making gamin newbie more enjoying riding 🎉
To be fair NZ number plates are not the best design for clarity and most of your examples , the cars were giving you loads of room , therefore you wouldn’t need the number plate. Any car that’s close enough to have caused you to want to download the video , would be much clearer
I have the RTL515 and I'm super happy with it. But the mounting options are not great, I feel like it isn't sturdy on a d shaped seatpost. Will pass on this camera option.
There’s a video of using a velcro strap that threads through the mount. I had an old Profile Design velcro strap off of a tri water bottle that works great vs the rubber band method.
@@DeveryAndrews thanks I'll definitely look into that!
Shane actually gave me the idea in this video….
th-cam.com/video/J6lvKiCsj00/w-d-xo.html
I got a 3d printed option and it works so much better
If the camera was better I would have brought this immediately but its shite... the cycliq camera has been out for years and is massively better............. No excuses for that camera quality
Good review but I’m still going to stick to my 515 for now. Can’t see myself riding without it. I remember I left it at home once on accident. Drove to the parking area, saw I didn’t have my radar. Just went back home and postponed my ride. It’s that important for me. Going home safe and sound is a top priority for me while going on a bike ride.
Totally agree. It's like my helmet.
but it is not there yet, seems like Version 0.4
The battery life of the RVR315 is poor and here too. Why should I spend €400? I'd rather stick with the RVR315 (7h) with B+M IXXI (15h).
I'm not sure how much reduced battery life this can get if we can get the same image quality as a gopro. Even at 1080p30fps the gopro 11 has a maximum battery life of 2 hours, which may not be enough. The rct715 has a minimum battery life of 4 hours. Definitely this can be improved with a larger battery with later revisions but at least with this camera, you can identify the make and colour of the vehicle, giving you more information to pass to the police if the area you cycle in has traffic cameras. Ideally having a front and back long lasting camera of gopro quality is the best but for a first time user of the garmin radar system, this rct715 can be looked into.
Furthermore, in this video the cars are quite far away. In the event an accident occurs hitting from the rear, the vehicle would be behind and up close. But this may not be true if the vehicle hits the rider at the sides. I haven't seen any videos that has tested this but I'm not thoroughly convinced that this camera is incapable.
You and the camera button…I’ve been watching you for years and never laughed like that
I already have a RTL515 and it’s brilliant. If the camera on this new model isn’t even good enough to pick up car number plates I really don’t see the point in upgrading. Heck, if I didn’t have the 515 I still wouldn’t buy this one.
Adding a camera is a great idea by Garmin. It’s just a shame that what they have produced has fallen so short.
If the Varia live streamed video to the bike computer when a car was behind you....I would buy it immediately. Going to stick with my Varia 515 until that happens
It looks like Garmin hired a newly graduate engineers to design this, lack of pretty much everything. Garmin, attention to battery life and video quality, just saying.
I have the current Varia radar/light, and it works great. I ride a small bike and can't mount anything on my seatpost (not enough room). I have a Specialized saddle and use a 3D printed quarter-turn mount attached to the "swat" mounting points on the saddle. Can you attach this device to a standard quarter turn mount? It seems not ....
This isn't native 1/4 turn compatible. I'm sure something could be hacked up though. The additional weight would have to be factored into the strength of the mount though.
Great review! I am soooo tired of TH-cam product pimps. You gave an honest review!
when it comes to reading plates, I guess Garmin follows the rule: if I can read your plates, you're too close mate! Otherwise, I don't care
I just bought a RTL515 and I couldn't see myself wanting the camera, so much happier my purchase in the light of this release.
515 is a great unit. Not all that spectacular on battery, aside from that brilliant.
I bought one. Next day went in bought another...for the brother in-law. Wife got a bike. Right bought a third. Mate got into riding ... Told him his first purchase before bibs or anything is one of these, I'd loan him head units etc to get cracking.
This is the only cycling tech that enhances your riding experience hands down...must have.
@@gplama I have the RVR315 (coming from RTL511 that had some battery issues after 3 years of service) and the battery life is a disaster (hardly 7h).
Is there any decent rear cameras out there that will cover a 5hr ride and provide actual usable footage in case of an incident? anything I look at seems to fall short.
thanks for the review. I have a 515 and love it. When the battery eventually goes hopefully this 715 model is into its next release and fixes some of the issues you raise.
Out of interest, is it possible to have the 515 in Radar only mode? I have a Wahoo Roam head unit if that makes a difference. Also, just FYI, since the last upgrade to the firmware a few months back I have been getting Radar Error coming up on the Wahoo screen every now and then (maybe once a week), the green stripe disappears and then reappears a few seconds later after dismissing the alert on the Wahoo.
You can only put it in radar only mode when paired to a Garmin head unit. Shane covered it ( varia secret running mode ) in his festive 500 rides I believe.
@@talonlan thanks for that, much appreciated