FEATURE

Introducing the Varia line of smart cycling devices from Garmin

By eckfactor

Garmin’s Varia line of smart cycling devices, including a first-of-its-kind rearview bike radar and smart bike lights, is now available in New Zealand. Helping create a safer cycling environment, Varia rearview bike radar warns cyclists of vehicles approaching from behind up to 140 metres and also warns approaching vehicles of a cyclist ahead. Varia smart bike lights automatically adjust to changing conditions as well as the speed of the cyclist. Both the radar and lights work independently, or seamlessly integrate with each other and with compatible Edge® cycling computers^[1], allowing cyclists to customise to their needs.

“As leaders in creating innovative cycling technology, we’re excited to introduce our line of cycling awareness products and take the next step in providing a complete experience for riders,” said Matt DeMoss, General Manager, Garmin Australasia.

“Varia rearview bike radar and smart bike lights not only alert cyclists of vehicles, but also alert the vehicles of the cyclist. With Garmin cycling products you can now track all your essential stats with peace of mind on the roads.”

Varia Rearview Bike Radar

Each year in New Zealand approximately 9 cyclists are killed^[2] and several hundred more are seriously injured^[3] in road crashes.  As the first-of-its-kind radar system for bikes, Varia rearview bike radar alerts the cyclist and the approaching vehicles to assist in creating a safer environment on the roads.

The system includes a radar tail light transmitter and a radar display unit. The radar tail light transmitter detects approaching vehicles from up to 140 metres behind and increases brightness as cars approach. When in flashing mode, it increases flashing intensity as well. The radar display unit and compatible Edge cycling computers show up to eight vehicles as they approach, indicating increasing risk with a change in colour on a LED interface or using an overlay of the current data screen on an Edge device.



Varia Smart Bike Lights

Based on GPS data from a compatible Edge, the Varia headlight beam automatically projects further ahead at faster speeds during a ride and closer as a rider’s speed decreases, lighting the road where cyclists need it the most. It also focuses the light ahead instead of all around, shining 100 lux at 10 metres and features a high-beam cut-off to prevent blinding oncoming vehicles.

The Varia tail light operates in solid and flashing modes, and increases intensity when the bike decelerates to warn approaching traffic. By adding a second tail light cyclists can utilise turn signals, which can be controlled through a compatible Edge or the Varia remote^[4].  The Varia remote or Edge also controls the pattern, intensity and on/off function of the lights.

When paired with an Edge 1000, Varia smart bike lights can adjust their brightness based on ambient light conditions. Paired with other Edge devices the lights can automatically turn on and off, preventing accidental battery drain.

The Varia radar tail light is available for NZ$279, or NZ$419 bundled with the radar display unit. The Varia smart bike lights are available as a bundle including the Varia remote for NZ$419, or separately for NZ$279 (headlight) and NZ$109 (tail light).

​See video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=1&v=7lCQN8DaelY

For more than 25 years, Garmin has pioneered new GPS navigation and wireless devices and applications that are designed for people who live an active lifestyle. Garmin serves five primary business units, including automotive, aviation, fitness, marine, and outdoor recreation. For more information, visit www.garmin.co.nz.



[1] Compatible with Edge 1000 and Edge 520 (with software update 3.0); compatibility with Edge Touring Plus/810/510/25 coming via a software update in Q3
[2] New Zealand Ministry of Transport road toll data from 2010-2014 http://www.transport.govt.nz/research/roadtoll/
[3] Cycle-Helmets.com http://www.cycle-helmets.com/zealand_helmets.html
[4] Included with some models, sold separately on others.