Garmin Sports Technology is adding a much-needed camera to its Varia line of radars and taillights.
It’s called Variation RCT715 and features a 1080p camera that shoots at 30 frames per second. The device has an automatic capture of incidents, which ensures the continuation of recording “before, during and after” the accident. So, as you can imagine, the RCT715 is a fairly robust device.
He has a water resistance rating IPX7, which means it can withstand up to one meter of water for up to 30 minutes. However, the Varia RCT715 does not provide protection against dust or sand.
When turned on the Varia camera will continuously record and store materials in The app is a variation. You can then transfer these frames to your home computer or smartphone. The app will even alert you if the rear camera detects that the car is too close to you (provided your phone is pressed against the bike and available for viewing while riding). RCT715 is also compatible with Smart watch from Garmin and cycling computers to help track your workouts or send notifications.
Safety first
While the new camera is the main focus, the other features of the Varia RCT715 are equally important. The proper operation of the camera depends on how the surveillance radar does its job.
The Varia radar has a viewing angle of 220 degrees and can detect vehicles at a distance of up to 459 feet. It is paired with incredibly bright light that can be seen up to a mile away, and has a variety of lighting modes. There’s Solid mode for continuous light, Peloton mode (part of the automated riding group function) for dimmer light that’s more comfortable for the eyes of the people behind you, Night Flash for blinking during late night travel and Day Flash for mid-day rides. In its brightest form, the Varia reaches 65 lumens.
Short battery
In a device with so many features you can expect the battery to discharge quickly.
Varia battery life depends on which lighting modes you use and whether the camera records in 1080p. The shortest service life is four hours with “Constant” or “Night Flash” mode enabled. The longest service life is six hours with daytime flash on. We asked Garmin if it was possible to extend battery life by disabling recording from the camera or radar, but he didn’t answer.
The Varia RCT715 is also not cheap. You can buy it now for $ 399.99 or buy a model with the camera removed for $ 199.99. If you are interested in pairing a Varia with a Garmin watch, TechRadar has a guide to help you.
https://www.techradar.com/news/garmins-new-rear-camera-watches-your-back-while-you-ride-your-bike/
