Garmin Varia Bike Camera Radar RCT715: In-Depth Review

[@plinkspot8750]

On my 3rd ride out with this unit we had a couple of 16-18 year old kids in a car behind us trying to act funny/tough and nearly hitting us. Long story short it was easy to trace the vehicle to an address and had lots of fun showing to screenshots to the parents of the driver, also happened to be moms vehicle

[@goncalorosas8023]

100% agree with your post: “Thus, any rear-facing camera I buy for $400 needs to at least be capable of capturing non-sad moments on my ride. Because I think capturing those moments is just as important to remembering this sport (still) as fun and viable, as opposed to the assumption that riding on the road is so inherently dangerous that we need to spend $400 in hopes of capturing those sad moments”.

[@rasmokey4]

What the neck is a SAD moment? Paying $399.99???

[@sarahkottke676]

Can a software update fix these issues?

[@shaunmcdonough4642]

I think there's two different philosophies at play here. One is kind of a set and forget idea. Charge up and start at the beginning of the ride. Minimum thought about is the camera in the right mode or taking beautiful photos that are properly framed. etc. Highest duration and reliability. The other is to have a device that's fun, takes really nice pictures and videos that are ready the Internet. And by chance you do have an accident, hopefully the everything relevant is captured. We don't know that Garmin may already be testing image stabilization. Maybe they didn't have it ready for prime time or they were busy fixing other issues and they could add it on the next software update. I did notice that Cycliq's tail camera/light also doesn't have stabilization, but their forward camera combo does. I know that if by chance my Garmin does capture that award winning video, it'll have to wait until I upload it to the computer a do some post-processing.

[@MinamiX3]

@@rasmokey4 .. Sad moment in cycling is when you get smashed by a 2 ton box on four wheels

[@DjEvolux]

@Mike Extremely right mate!!! I have both 👌🏻

[@Bikemanjoe1]

this is why i love DC Rainmaker honest reviews and tells it how it is, I don't get too excited about new tech until i see what Ray says about it first in my experience so far i've not bought a recommendation from Rays reviews that has disappointed me yet, Cheers Ray

[@jimhansen5395]

Ray, you sir are a legend. I saw the title of this video and was SOOOO excited and almost just rushed out and ordered one. The frustrations you highlighted are exactly the types of things that would drive me insane. Also, as someone who has had the unfortunately experience of being hit and seriously injured by a vehicle, and navigating the legal nightmare afterwards (determining liability, etc...), and working with an experienced lawyer, BE CAREFUL with your cycling camera. The footage my be great for law enforcement to identify a driver in a hit and run scenario, or perhaps establishing who did the dangerous thing that caused the accident, having that footage on your camera can very much work against you when a fault/judgement is being decided. If you turn over your camera footage as evidence, the defendants lawyer can request ALL of the footage from that camera. NOT turning it over can be seen as 'hiding evidence', and worse, there is almost CERTAINLY going to be footage if you (the rider) doing 'illegal' and 'dangerous' things. Change lanes without signaling? DANGEROUS!. Roll through a stop sign? DANGEROUS! Going faster than the posted speed limit (on a road or a bike path) ? DANGEROUS! If the defendants lawyer gets their hands on footage from the camera that shows you doing things that could be construed as 'dangerous', they will use this to attempt to reduce any judgement. Just be careful and don't assume that any footage your camera records is going to be useful/helpful in a courtroom. It could be the exact opposite! (this also applies to dashcams).

[@lorsch.]

On the other hand, this outrageously expensive device would have helped me a week ago. It was a hit and run scenario while commuting and I could not remember the numbers plate, now I am left with a $$$$ bill for the crash replacement of my bike... I also just purchased the RTL515 2 months ago after losing the RTL510, if this new device had been out earlier it ironically could have saved me money...

[@jimhansen5395]

@@lorsch. The Cycliq Fly6 is much cheaper and at least as good. It's been out for several years.

[@lorsch.]

@@jimhansen5395 Thanks I'll have a look, haven't really looked into dashcams before sadly...

[@adammillsindustries.]

@@jimhansen5395 It hasn’t got a traffic radar though.

[@jimhansen5395]

@@adammillsindustries. What? It absolutely has a traffic radar.

[@Uninen]

So great to see an honest review for such a pricey yet flawed piece of kit. I do hope Garmin will learn from this and turn it around likw they did w/ power metering pedals!

[@jamiecarey7883]

The power meter issue took an age to fix so lets hope Garmin are a bit quicker this time and the support staff are not in denial of the issues.

[@rpiian]

Can't rate this more. It had so much potential. It's like they stuck the junior developer on it and said "good enough"

[@OBHarris]

I ordered it the minute it was listed and canceled the order after seeing your 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.

[@MrMartin246]

Why ? Ray is hung up on finding clips and building videos because he does that for a living but are you really going to bother doing that ? Or just let it record and go back to it only if something happen, charging between rides like you do with your Edge and lights ? I am in that camp so I find the main issue Ray highlights mostly irrelevant actually.

[@Bellezzasolo]

@@MrMartin246 I do grab footage for either close pass reports. Sometimes I bung a whole ride (front) onto KZbin. But I really want the radar, and my £25 ebay Cycliq Fly6 really suffers if I've got a saddlebag fitted. So I feel having everything in one package will be worthwhile (it also means I still have a spare camera for those ultra long 12 hour rides!). Software updates should fix the most annoying things, and tbh they're unlikely to affect me much.

[@Bellezzasolo]

@@WildlandExplorer It depends on the police force, different counties have different forces. Some don't care, some are in the stone age (Police Scotland, I believe you have to hand a physical copy in at a police station), but some do take action.

[@cyclewalt]

I’ve used my RTL715 for 3 weeks. The radar works great. The camera works well also. For getting videos off the RTL715 you have 2 means besides the VARIA App Wi-Fi connection. 1) Take the card out after each ride and flip all the videos off to a laptop or iPad with a flash card adapter/reader. 2) Plug the USB-C cable into the Radar and then into a Laptop or iPad (for iPad you will need an adapter. Your laptop or iPad will read the card in the as a DCIM folder with the videos. Videos can be viewed while in the Radar and acceptable videos can be saved off. The video is correct that the Varia App is cumbersome and needs updates. I only is the App after a ride to make sure there is something on the card and the beginning and end of ride are captured.

[@marcelrasing4801]

Excellent review. We rarely see peope doing good, indepth and honest reviews. Much appreciated.

[@phildawe7172]

I still have the original Varia radar (synced to my edge) and it's the best cycling gadget I've owned. So valuable, and appreciated particularly for quieter or country back roads *where they sneak up on you fast* I think this is a decent product and the size doesn't concern me (if you don't get this one, get an older non camera model for sure) If you are a cyclist who sometimes imagines phantom cars approaching and you keep checking behind you. This gadget is for you! Eliminates a lot of that traffic anxiety. 👍

[@gervasebarnes]

I have used a mirror for years, & people have finally stopped rificuling me . The bike helmet mirror , has literally saved my life twice now. Just bought thus varia with Camera for my wife, who also wears helmet bike mirror. Got to have some thing, to deter these twits.

[@detlevhackenberg5388]

Thanks for this excellent review! You saved me from spending €400,00, and kept me from cancelling my order of the Garmin Varia RTL 515. I subscribed to your channel as a token of gratitude. Greetings from Berlin, Germany.

[@brentcharlton1065]

I thought this was a super harsh review until you explained the app… WOW! The rage is real. Many thanks

[@Shawza4]

This is exactly why I'm a paid supporter of your site. Need honest independent reviews.

[@Dcrainmaker]

Thanks Matt - much appreciated!!

[@Sean-vz7zw]

I live in the uk and cycle 15 miles to work along country lanes, the only time I’ll ever want to look at the footage is if I end up in hospital, I’ve ordered one to upgrade the radar and hopefully I will never need to look at the footage 👍

[@NYGiants4Life]

How is the battery life. I don’t need the light on since I already have several. I just want it to record, God forbid something happens i can at least go after them with the law to pay up. Lol

[@Sean-vz7zw]

@@NYGiants4Life Hi, I’m guessing about 6 hours if you have the camera only recording when it senses vehicles approaching and with the lower resolution option, obviously it will depend on how much traffic is around. I hope I never need to use the footage but it’s there God forbid something does happen.

[@NYGiants4Life]

@@Sean-vz7zw Got it. Thanks! I added it to my wishlist for Black Friday. Will definitely be picking this up since I’ll need it for country cycling in Europe.

[@romullotadeu9986]

Absolute on point. I am a garmin user for many many years…. Will wait on V2.0 of this product. Keep the old varia going

[@coppo675]

i watched like 5 videos and you are the only one to include the radar section for review/explain... well done

[@bbginger99]

I’ve watched this and bought it 😄 I agree wholly with the review but the combo of the light, radar & camera with the hope they’ll improve the app made me buy. I commute about 230km per week so I just wanted to catch the inevitable incidents on camera

[@MrMartin246]

I would be the same. That it is dedicated to be a safety device is not a big deal. I think Ray make too much of a deal about that. I will never go back and look for clips anyway, I don't care about that. So if I ever need to replace my current Varia Radar and I will consider this one.

[@NYGiants4Life]

I was thinking of getting this as well just to be safe. I had a lot of crazy encounters ok the road and cant report them because I have no license plate or proof to show. I had ppl conor me on purpose

[@GeneralMills66]

Yeah I just want the camera to protect me in court when I get hit by a car lol

[@Xarx42]

Whats your conclusion after a year now? :) Did garmin improve the app in the meantime?

[@StonkeyKong]

Same, I watched this review and it actually made me want to buy it. I don’t care about “fun” clips, I just want it for safety.

[@JoshuaTootell]

Interestingly enough, even with all the negative criticism, it still sounds like the product for me. Most of my road riding is my solo commute on insane roads.

[@chadshanks5409]

I appreciate this in depth review. I have purchased this and completely recommend it. I had the old taillight/radar before and upgraded to this and have already used the footage. I agree with all of his knit-picks and he isn't wrong, but the combination of the radar sensing/taillight and camera feature make this worth having if it doesn't stretch your budget. I own several go pro's and use them regularly but the battery life is not even close.

[@guycozon]

Thank you for this. When I first saw this, on paper, this is 100% a device I wanted but didn't exist, so I was ready to run out and get it. Maybe Garmin will fix the crappiness via Software updates, but it obviously isn't ready for market. But the lack of image stabilisation probably means it will never be worth my hard earned cash.

[@endokrin7897]

I'm in the same exact situation as you, my friend. 1080p without stabilization sounds like 5+ year old tech and not something to expect from GARMIN at this price. If it had stabilization and a higher resolution, I'd buy it immediately, today, no questions asked. Even with the clunky video clip/app interface, I'd buy it. 1080p and no stabilization isn't guaranteed to get a license plate screen grab. Notice in Ray's clips, overtaking cars are polite and moving slowly. They're on-screen longer. At 30fps, you might get a hundred frames to work with!! Here in the states, we often deal with cars overtaking at a speed difference of 30+ miles per hour. I've tested a few action cams for my own use, and 2.7K WITH some type of stabilization is the only reliable way I can get screen grabs for every situation (except dusk/dawn). If I'm riding at, say, 18mph and a ride driver passes me from behind at 60 mph, I very rarely get a solid screen grab. (And many times, the driver who chooses the pass at a high speed and pass too closely is the type of driver who will purposefully drive very close to you, or honk, or go full-throttle, or tell, or throw trash at you. Does not happen often, but it happens. We don't get in bike crashes often (🤞🫣) but in case we do, we would like clear footage of what happened!) I'm still excited for this, but I might be waiting a few YEARS if Garmin needs to come out with a Gen 2.

[@tecmalo6857]

I totally agree with your points. With a price tag this high, I do expect good features from the beginning. I know, Garmin will say that the software will be improved, the process more streamlined and everything is going to be faster, but this feels a bit half backed, to get it in sale for the 2022 cycling season. Also some form of stabilization should be a must have. I can't imagine, why the skipped that feature, when the camera is mounted on probably the shakiest part of a bike. I don't expect the quality of a current GoPro, considering it would kill the battery, but god almighty, none at all seems like such a clear "well, maybe we can get away with it and safe a few bucks" thing. When I first of the RCL715 I was hyped and didn't bought a normal RTL515, but now im assured, that the 515 ist definitely price/feature wise the better choice.

[@vincerunnerretrobikevince4212]

Thanks! Excellent review. I almost parted with $400 this morning.

[@E.S.Franck]

I’ve used the Cycliq for a bunch of years, and certainly have my complaints (many). I also own the original Varia (the matchbox shape variety). Largely, my reason for camera is accident recording. Yes, over the years I’ve pulled some clips to share with friends or enjoy part of a ride in recording. But, vastly, I turn on and ignore (except when I actually did benefit from a recording when nearly hit by a school bus). I’ve largely not used both the Varia and the Cycliq at the same time…just too much hassle and bike junk, but wished for both. Sounds like for those of us who really just want to record for evidence purposes it’s a successful device, minus frame shake. I think many of us want mostly bike cams for evidence purposes, at least most of the time. Thanks for the review.

[@aapocketz]

Same boat here, though I somehow have had 2 fly6 die on me, so I am not buying more. I would be interested in this as just a safety camera as is, but I agree at the price point it needs to be a decently good camera too and have a functional app. I have a nest camera and love that Ray pointed out how well that app works, it would be awesome to be see a timeline with radar detection snapshots highlighted.

[@E.S.Franck]

@@aapocketz I’ll wait for my current Cycliq (3rd with some under warranty) to die. Then, probably move to the Garmin. Cycliq just can’t seem to improve a few basics after many years of the same hardware design weaknesses.

[@unintegrable]

Thanks

[@Dcrainmaker]

Hi Sathish, much appreciated! Thanks!!!

[@chrisnelson5770]

As somebody that still using the first gen Varia (RTL500), I was so excited to see this announcement ... and then the sad trombone sounded.

[@chrisobyrne5675]

Oh dear, certainly sticking with the standard radar for the time being as it is so good.

[@frisbeefreak199]

Thanks!

[@Dcrainmaker]

Hey Brandon! Huge thanks, much appreciated!

[@endokrin7897]

Ray, can you please clarify which of these issues might be fixed in a firmware update (and/or software update) and which are definitely hardware limitations? It will make the difference between buying this now, or waiting 2-3 years before Garmin makes the next generation. I was so close to buying a Cycliq Fly6 THIS WEEK, then your video pops up. It sounded like everything I have wanted for years! I love my current Varia radar light. The BEST cycling gadget I've ever had. 👍 But we've all wanted a camera to go with it. How can they only give us 1080p? At least bump it up to 2.7K. I have found that 2.7K is a good middle ground (sometimes, cars pass so quickly that 1080p, on most cameras, doesn't allow a good freeze-frame) for battery life and resolution. It's like Garmin got SO CLOSE to the perfect device, then got rushed to push it out prematurely. If they can fix some issues in firmware, great. If not (obviously no Hardware stabilization) then I'm not waiting several YEARS for the next gen of this device to come out with higher resolution and stabilization. Thanks! Great video. 👍

[@Shane-Kelly]

As an avid RTL515 user, when I first heard about the RCT715 today I was super excited. Then as I started to see more details around price and battery life, I had to start tempering my expectations - and your review helps to illustrate even more shortcomings - some of which, as you say, might be addressable in software/firmware updates, but others we're stuck with. Such a shame. I hope this mis-step doesn't tarnish the whole bike radar concept too much because the standard RTL/RVR products are so good.

[@mrobey04]

I’ve been waiting for this. Thanks for your honest review. You’ve saved me some money

[@willum5175]

This was a terrific video and review even if it made it clear that something many of us have wanted isn’t quite there yet. I have generally positive feelings toward Garmin and their products but there are definitely some mixed situations as well. Assuming they don’t abandon the product, this is hopefully something that will improve by software improvements but maybe hardware as well. My interpretation of this is that it is to maximize profit. They think people want to be able to have the proof so bad when bad situations happen that they will pay a premium price for a mediocre bundle of products duct-taped together. They are probably right to some extent. You mentioned the video quality (1080p) and the lack of stabilization but OMG 4 hours of battery life!?! I thought my current one was bad at 8-9 vs the 10 it claims! Thank you so much for the review! Hoping for an Edge 540 coming soon!!!

[@veryboringname.]

My 2.5-year old Cycliq Fly6 CE Gen 1 died the first time it lightly rained during a short ride. Cycliq support said the only thing they can do is offer a 20% discount on a new unit as a gesture of goodwill. Cycliq released a Gen 2 with a near-identical design except for ... improved water resistance. So they knew their Gen 1 had a defective design but did not bother supporting their previous customers. I should have taken it up with Fair Trading here in Aus as it would be considered not durable, but I really didn't have time then. I didn't bother giving Cycliq more money after reading on reddit quite a few comments about how they have terrible customer service. I was hoping Garmin would come out with one. Looks like I have to keep waiting. :(

[@Cookefan59]

Thanks Ray! One of your best reviews! I’ve been saving up for the Varia. I hadn’t even considered the combo radar/video device until I saw this review. I’m of the opinion of keeping them separate so that I can use them separately or together for different reasons. Seems like Garmin couldn’t decide on whether or not to commit. Whatever the case may be, $400 is a huge chunk of change these days. I’ll still pick up the radar unit and maybe start a fund for the cyclique camera. Thanks again for the passion and information.

[@cvdavis]

Another fantastic review. The most comprehensive and trustworthy reviews out there.

[@TropicalVibesHD]

A much needed advance in rear awareness. However the cons would be frustrating to many given the price point and you did a superb job establishing that! Until the kinks are ironed out a mirror + radar 515 unit + GoPro is superior setup. The Quik app could also be used for instantaneous rear view with a stem mounted smartphone (so the mirror and Quik app for rear mounted camera will complement each other). The GoPro can run/record for 6 hrs + at 24K30 or all day at 1080p30, 99.9% of rides up to a century, i.e. except ultra long rides without recharging battery bank. With a 10,000 mAh battery bank, a USB C cable and USB pass through door for GoPro will power sufficient charge for both GoPro and Varia radar to run all day.

[@ruiloureiro3167]

What GoPro model has this kind of battery life? All day in 1080p?

[@CyclingDad]

I have the RTL515. Have been thinking about a Cycliq but still haven’t bothered as I didn’t want a gallery of devices hanging off my bike. When I saw the announce, at first thought cool, finally! But your review has steered me clear of this. Thanks!

[@USMA81]

I bought this unit mainly because my gen 1 Varia radar is aging and battery life is declining. I have a 1030 Plus, and so that helps with some of the issues mentioned here. After watching this review, I will run the camera in continuous mode with the max length of clip size, 5 minutes. That will reduce the number of clips by a factor of 10, but the time to open or download may be an even bigger problem. Will test that strategy this week. The bigger issue, not Garmin related, is that my US state doesn’t have front mounted license plates. So capturing the idiot that brushed my shoulder with his SUV passenger side mirror is still a problem. Update: adjusting the clip length didn’t work; unlocked clips are still only 30 seconds. Recording I initiated (locked), however, is adjusted to saving 5 minutes, but it should work for both locked and unlocked clips. Update 2: thought about this device more. I don’t care for recording any “fun” video from rear-facing camera (might feel different for front-facing video, but can do that with GoPro). So only purpose with RCT715 for me is safety, to capture video of incident. That means I won’t be downloading video, unless there is an incident (accessing video is the biggest 715 drawback I see). If you agree with this line of thought, then the only question is whether it is worth +$200 to have rear video of any incidents (+$200 over RT515). I will run this in continuous mode, 6 hours daytime battery life, and let the video overwrite as needed, never downloading except if needed. That said, would like better software interface with 1030 and possibly software image stabilization.

[@cyclingjeremy7201]

I was just hit by a car and my Varia was destroyed. I am so glad this announcement came out when it did. Gives me some tech to look forward to on my new bike when I get it.

[@PBlaik]

Appreciate the honest review, I love gadgets and my kneejerk is to buy something that "seems" cool.... Saved me the hassle/frustration, much appreciated!

[@PunjabiCyclist]

Top man DC Rainmaker giving a straight and honest view.

[@duttyvegan]

Don’t agree safety first, not to bothered about fun stuff, if your not alive you can’t have fun stuff, but great review has always 👊🏾

[@SimonJenkinsjinxsi]

Thank you for this review. I've had one for a few months now. I love the radar and now I wouldnt ride without it. On a long ride (>6hours) I switch the light off to ensure max length battery life, and use another rear light. I have abandoned attempting to use the app and view the MP4 files with a connection to my pc. Works well and just about instant. Files can be copied and uploaded to social media quickly and easily but need pc or laptop obv. Totally agree, an option to override and choose to take a video would be a great software update. Love the most recent software update that embeds overtaking vehicle speed into the recording.

[@flechastravel]

Thanks for the info/explanation of it. I have a GoPro 4. I use it on and off. Usually on my helmet so where my head goes, the camera film. I can mounted on the front or rear of my road bike. I wish I could have 2. The battery last me for 60+ minutes cont recording. If I have connected to my cells , maybe 30 min ..but all I care is to record continues. In my expirience, must of my traffic issues are ahead of me, never a rear fender. Thank be to God. So, I have being reviewing for Garmin rear camera/radar...but not totally sure if is worse the $500+-... agree 100% on your comments. Look forward for Garmin to renew the system and maybe soon I make up my mind...thanks!

[@brotherfranciz]

I was annoyed when I first saw this clip because I just bought the RTL515 on sale recently (248aud or ~174usd) - it works brilliantly but I now knew why it was on sale. So for you to state quite early on in the clip that the RTL715 has several issues was a relief for me! 😆 Anyway, thanks for the honest review - the product has a lot of potential so it's such a shame about the poor software and lack of stabilisation. 😫

[@noelharrington4786]

Garmin user for years and years but they seem to be just phoning it in for the last few years. Great review, I was thinking about buying this as I love my varia but I won’t now. Thanks for saving me the cash.

[@shivsnorman]

What a fantastic review. I was thinking of getting this but I think I'll wait for version 2 !

[@Bellezzasolo]

I've actually gone and ordered one. I tend to manage footage through my PC, so app issues are a bit secondary. (I have a ROAM, so lower features too). But I have dynamo lights, I want a flashing light and camera. My Cycliq that I got for £25 on ebay does well, but with a saddlebag it becomes a problem. And I really, really want the radar. Given limited seatpost real estate, and not being particularly interested in the whizzbang stuff, I'm just hoping for a quick software update fixing the recording length setting.

[@johnsolomon2516]

Spun a “Uey” on my purchase decision after watching this and GP Lama’s review. Thanks for the comprehensive review. Will stick with my RTL510 for now.

[@johnsolomon2516]

@DC Rainmaker is this legit?

[@razvanhalmaciu1]

Spot on review Ray,as always! Biggest fan. Keep it up!

[@johncampbell5271]

Honest review as expected. Hopefully it drives Garmin to update their product

[@Geeowen]

Cheers Ray. After having a 'moment' today I thought I would look at one of these units. I've been using the standard Varia radar for the past 18 months and it's the best thing I've ever bought for the bike and have been awaiting the integrated camera version for some time. Think I will give it a miss for the time being based on your review. If you can do another review in future, if you can convince Garmin to iron out the bugs that would be awesome.

[@munsonned3674]

I’m one of the people who have been hoping for this device for a long time now, and this is why I love your reviews. It’s just not good enough yet for me to buy it. Fix the clip length, image stabilisation and app usability and I’m onboard. (Although I would also like it to go on a diet)

[@Slowjo1221]

I added this to my cart and found your video before I committed, so happy I did. I guess I’ll just stick with my 515.

[@geraldinecoupland4162]

Think I’ll wait until it’s all rectified. Thank you Ray 🙌🏻

[@davidtydeman1434]

Ray many of the frustrations you described in this review could be fixed with firmware and software updates to the device and App. What is the situation in October 2024? An update web great because on paper this device should be fantastic and a must have for all cyclists who ride on public roads. Keep up the good work

[@josephkozachek848]

Thanks Ray. Great review. I second the ask for more details on what is likely to be fixed, what is unlikely to be fixed and what is unfixable

[@richiric78]

I’m stumped by Garmin, they have super good capabilities but always seem to miss out on the user experience, they could have out Strav’d Strava initially if they though about the complete experience of the app and website. Oh wait, I bet it’s engineers engineering and mashing capabilities together rather than thinking about the complete user experience (employ some UX people Garmin and get more riders to beta test before releasing, theses days it all about the app). Like others I was regretting my recent bargain varia purchase (which I’m super pleased with) seeing this radar and camera combined. Having used Cycliq products I do not want to be the software engineers guinea pig again. Thanks Ray for the honest review.

[@shewh0rn]

I’m just watching this video and as a former software test engineer, software quality assurance manager, and embedded software engineer my first thought was the same, Garmin doesn’t employ a single UX engineer, and they have left the UI design to the software engineers. Always a bad idea. Also, in this day and age, we understand quality control. There is absolutely no excuse for a version one product to have that many issues. Heck, back in the late 90s as SQA manager I answered to the VP of engineering, but I had veto power on all releases. If SQA can’t prevent Engineering from releasing a substandard product, then there is no accountability, and the company is purely being driven by greedy bean counters who don’t understand that bugs related to the field literally cost 10 more to fix after they’re out in the wild due to the support costs they incur. It’s always more profitable to delay in that scenario and fix things before going live.

[@shewh0rn]

And I’ll add… that’s on the CEO to create the corporate culture that is dedicated to quality. Profitability and extremely high quality are not mutually exclusive. I guarantee you there are probably a lot of passionate employees who worked on this project that are frustrated with management’s decisions regarding the release.

[@gregmorrison7320]

Even before discovering that the app was crap and difficult to use and the low battery life which wouldn't last my long rides, the fact that it is not backward compatible with all the mounts on 5 bikes is enough for me to pass on this. Even with backwards compatibility it would give me the option to use on shorter rides and might have been a justified purchase. Thanks for a great review.

[@ehyouman]

Earned my like thanks for the honesty

[@blendtecbrah5761]

I have to go with Garmin on this one; it's a device designed for safety first and foremost, and if it can also capture some cool moments while you're out there, then all the better. I'm not surprised that the wireless video transfer is pretty slow, but that's not a deal breaker for me as I would always transfer via a dedicated card reader of some sort. ProGrade makes some really nice ones. Personally, I'm buying it because drivers in Florida are the worst and I need peace of mind and CYA in case something goes (very) bad. I had been running a light on my K-Edge Garmin combo mount, now I'm swapping that for a GoPro. Stay safe out there everyone! P.S. anyone want to buy an OG Garmin Varia RTL-500 lol

[@RG-fc9hh]

Super honest review, thanks so much for such a great content

[@Dcrainmaker]

Thanks!

[@stevemarriott2788]

Just wish he would speak a little slower. He doesn't come up for breath.

[@brandonvanbaggen3959]

Very in depth details on a new device that Garmin didn't do a very good job describing features, DC does. I like that he was honest with it's flaws but as long as you're using a modern, supported Garmin device like most people buying new tech are. The price was tough to swallow but after a string of incidents to local cyclists, the piece of mind was easier to digest. Full disclosure I upgraded it from the last Varia device.

[@jasonree]

That was super interesting, having just got radar it’s also a great tutorial on varia radar! Not sure I would go for the camera version the GoPro footage looks so much better!

[@troytimmons4444]

Dude, thanks for keeping it real! Hopefully they will see this and get version 2.0 quickly with a longer battery life! On my velomobile, I currently use the RT515 and a Gopro Max. I was hoping that this would have been bettter.

[@gunny6517]

Great Review! IMO Garmin will bug fix the issues via firmware updates, that being said, they should’ve done a tad better job on roll out.. I have the RTL 515 and will upgrade to the 715 AFTER everything is ironed out…. Thanks! 🇺🇸

[@mvp_kryptonite]

That’s for the video Ray!!! Iv left a far more detailed comment on your site. Do keep up the excellent work

[@cycle_path]

Thanks again for your details and in-depth reviews

[@cmuralhas]

I still use the original Garmin Radar and love it for being very good at what it does, lights that even warn fast drivers behind me and radar with gps head. The new versions seem to me a reduce of some functionality in exchange for form being slimmer and vertical.

[@MeteorMark]

I ride a Velomobile like that, and have a separate motorcycle camera set, 2K front and rear with display and GPS for video. And recently bought a Bryton Gardia R300 as radar, does very well! Only annoying thing is our Dutch 🇳🇱 seperate bike lanes, you get warnings for the cars on the road next to you...

[@garnetsteen]

Great review. I especially like the perspective that this is a good if you want to wait until you are hit by a car. Your yellow bike footage is a great example of what anyone with a camera wants to do the other 99% of the time. My guess is the lights are sub-optimal also. What is your favorite method of capturing stills and video while on the bike?

[@briantravis1851]

Thank you for this review mate... I had 3 on order for the shop... I do not any more...

[@ZenEndurance]

Awesome video. You did the right thing - Never just criticize. Only criticize if you can say how to do it better. Garmin should listen and make these changes. I'm sure they will. The only puzzling thing is why did they release something with such a poor user interface.

[@pedal66]

Another useful and helpful video. Thanks for your honest reviews. We like to know the good and the bad.

[@OnwardsandUpwardsalways]

As usual great review, tell me have Garmin made the improvements you suggest and is it now worth the money? Thanks in advance.

[@myminx]

Great honest post ! Please keep up the great work

[@michaelmastell6778]

I vote for a DCR/Hambini roast collaboration on this one.

[@halfglassfull]

excited that Garmin jumped back into the "dashcam for bikes" game although it is not a huge market hence why Cycliq barely survives. The radar is very useful and Garmin is huge so they can offer this even though again the market for bike surveillance vs action cams is limited. And typical Garmin for a first run design and you are the firmware test subject! And I need a surveillance camera first with battery that runs 4-5 hours and don't see how they add stabilization and better footage without compromising battery life. This IS the first model with more designs likely in the future. I'll keep my powder dry and watch the next couple of releases in this new product line direction. Having worked in tech product development for years I can appreciate the fact that you never launch all your arrows at once. Given they've now ramped up hiring for camera engineers, I trust the product and engineering talent will evolve and improve. Although powering 3 components with a single battery makes no sense to me. I use a GoPro for surveillance but of course battery life is poor. Now GoPro has a grip to act as auxiliary 4900mah battery to extend camera run time. Hope to see Garmin break out a camera as a separate device. Perhaps a removable battery or add-on extended life battery pack would be nice. I don't need the best footage just the decent surveillance for capturing what I hope does not happen.

[@WowRixter]

Great analysis Ray. That yellow velo thingy was fun to see. So many new product releases this year. Where are the new Edge devices?!?

[@Dcrainmaker]

Thanks - glad you enjoyed! nAnd, excited I finally got yellow velo man!

[@paceline]

That non-answer confirms that DC has an NDA that forbids him from mentioning it. I can't wait!!

[@WowRixter]

@@paceline I agree. I've got my credit card at the ready

[@matthewtom5200]

Thank you for giving an honest review.

[@lancecrawley9542]

Thanks, DC. Really great review. Maybe a little more in the future about what you feel like could be easily fixed to make it better in the short run. Because, you know they are paying attention to your content. Thx!

[@modernstoriestube]

Yesterday I spent two hours on a MacGyvered custom saddle bag mount for my Varia RTL515. This morning I felt like kicking myself when I saw news of this release. Thanks for saving me $400 on this "dumpster fire" and another $30 on a new, jerryrigged saddle bag. Sometimes I wonder if Garmin actually has a UX team.

[@vicsophios4703]

Wow and I was considering buying this! Thanks Ray.

[@mynock250]

Your review made me buy it.

[@DonybrookandBray]

I think I will wait for this tech to evolve more vis the camera ui particularly before committing to $3-400, although I have seen it for £299, still a lot to bear the stress of finding and sorting camera clips. Kudos to Garmin for making this combo unit though, hopefully others will follow and seriously compete and Garmin will upgrade in the process. Road safety is paramount!

[@lechprotean]

Awesome. I was going to impulse buy, but I’ll wait. I have the regular radar so no rush.

[@PTRRanger951]

And you nailed why things that are your same speed won’t show up. As a cop that used radar for years, when I’m moving mode, which is what this operates in, it’s impossible to detect objects at the same speed until there is a 2-3 -/+ MPH difference in speed. Reason is there is nothing to bounce the signal back to the device since it’s the same speed. Once there is a fluctuation, then it will bounce off. If there is a bike coming up behind you, faster than you it will show, the object size only means it will show faster since it’s a stronger target. That’s how K and Ka band radar operates.

[@orrinkelso9295]

Sorry, don't agree with your review. For me, the sole purpose of the device is safety. I have no interest in the video for fun purposes. I have been using a Fly6 for years. I have never used any of the video except for safety reasons. But the battery is getting weak and I needed a replacement. The RCT715 gives me that replacement with a better light, higher resolution video, and the added safety feature of radar. For me, it is the perfect replacement. The slow download speeds mean nothing to me as I will never use that feature anyway. I will use the computer to manage the video clips, that is where it gets plugged into after every ride anyway for charging. I don't think the device is perfect, installing a larger card was more difficult than it should be. But overall, I really like the device. And I bought it after your review because I recognized that all of your criticism of the device missed the whole point of the device. SAFETY!

[@Wingnut65]

Reminds me of how terrible the Garmin Pedals were when I bought those. Early adopter. Sorted eventually. This will be the same, they’ll get there. Mine is on the way!! 😁

[@gerryfrancis3350]

Garmin just got slayed - yeah boi!

[@robertgiles1071]

Nearly bought one, but saw that you had reviewed it so I have changed my mind until Garmin at least update the software.

[@James-KL]

Brilliant analysis as usual DC-Many thanks! I have both Garmin Varia and the Cycliq Fly6 and they work perfectly-I’d change to a single unit but clearly this is not IT!

[@edgartroxler6085]

Awesome review. Thank you for your honesty.

[@rovdjur2]

Great video, thanks! I can assure you, it’s the same thing with the Garmin Dash cam mini. I hate the experience of it, and I wish that I never have to dig out a clip from that thing ever.

[@benjaminfreeman1735]

Sad to see this being such a poor app experience. Lack of stabilization is rough too. Agree that App is fixable. At this point, I just hope the release a new version of the RTL-515 that has USB-C and I'll just use a GoPro with an extra battery for the Camera part I guess? would be nice to have it all together.

[@vincentthomas7124]

Thank god I saw this. I waa hit off a week ago and was just going to go to the bike store to purchase it (ps I always found garmin software pants so was wary) just watched this and obviously now I'm not going to purchase it. Thanks DC. Awesome reviews

[@sharonrae429]

Thank you for your honest opinion

[@albertdee1139]

Nice review. However, for me (who would probably use the radar mode for the camera more often than constant mode) I was hoping that there would be a field or screen on the bike computer to pop up as a car is approaching, I can be confident that the car has moved over enough to pass.

[@robertpearce2211]

Brilliant, honest, candid and insightful review, and a good reason to wait until some of this silly stuff is sorted. Thanks again

[@Dcrainmaker]

Much appreciated!

[@ChristopherSterwerf]

As always, great review!!

[@juniperDave]

Thank you for the honest review

[@TLK22]

I live in Thailand where the roads are super dangerous and unfortunately that's the only Garmin radar available. I don't care about the camera but the radar and light are a must so I purchased it anyway. It will be paired with the Edge 1040 solar.

[@duane617]

This is an amazing tool! Quick and easy!