Three functions in one seatpost mount sounds like a compromise until you actually use the Varia RCT715 from Garmin. Radar detection, continuous video recording, and a tail light run simultaneously without the mounting complexity of managing separate devices. The radar tracks vehicles approaching from behind up to 153 yards away and sends alerts to your compatible Edge computer or smartphone. The camera captures everything at 1080p and 30 frames per second, automatically saving clips when its accelerometer detects an incident. The tail light provides visibility up to a mile away in day flash mode at 65 lumens.

Radar awareness changes how you ride on roads with vehicle traffic. The system displays approaching cars on your Edge screen or smartphone app, giving you time to adjust position before they reach you. Visual and audible alerts indicate when vehicles enter the detection zone. The radar updates continuously while you ride, tracking multiple vehicles simultaneously and showing their relative speed and distance. When paired with compatible Garmin wearables, you get haptic alerts through your watch if you're not looking at your head unit.

The camera records to an included 16GB microSD card with support for cards up to 128GB. Recording runs continuously in the background or activates only when the radar detects approaching vehicles. When the onboard accelerometer senses sudden deceleration or impact, the system automatically locks the surrounding footage in a protected file so it won't be overwritten. You can manually save clips ranging from 90 seconds to 5 minutes through your Edge computer during a ride. The 220-degree viewing angle captures license plates and vehicle positions clearly enough for incident documentation.... Read More