According to the smooth voice over narration in Garmin’s latest product video, 40% of cycling fatalities occur when riders are struck from behind by a car or truck. In order to create a safer cycling environment, the new Varia Rearview Radar system is designed to warn cyclists that vehicles are approaching from behind.
This technology was developed by a South African startup named iKuba, which Garmin purchased earlier this year. The basic package has since been refined and is now able to work independently or wirelessly integrate with compatible Garmin Edge computers.
The radar detector is capable of notifying cyclist that a vehicle is approaching from behind at a range of 153 yards or 140m. It can also detect multiple vehicles (up to eight), their relative speed, and threat level.
There are several different ways of taking advantage of this technology. The most cost effective if you already own an Edge 100o is purchasing the rear tail light for $199. This unit houses the radar system and as traffic approaches, can be set to flash with increasing intensity as help notify oncoming vehicles of your presence.
If you don’t have a Garmin Computer already, you can order a Radar Bundle that includes a head unit and tail light for $299.
Later this year, a headlight will also be introduced that will pair with the headunit or Edge computers via ANT +. This will allow both lights to automatically adjust to conditions depending on speed and and ambient light.
For more info, visit Garmin
