Yes, it alerts you of vehicles, even before you can hear them. This can be critical when riding in hilly, rural areas.
It can detect multiple vehicles (even when you miss them through your mirror). Depending on how you’re device is set up, it can indicate the approach speed and give you a colour coded warning.
It can be used to gather vehicle passing speed and count data.
They flash when vehicles approach, increasing their speed and intensity to catch a driver’s attention. I’ve actually been told by drivers in passing that this feature works really well.
they can warn you of unexpected vehicles, like ebikes, approaching quickly from behind when you wouldn’t expect them (like on a quiet trail).
They can alert you when it may not be safe or ideal to check your mirror or shoulder check.
I have the varia 515, and it’s been an incredible safety tool. Even though I also ride with a mirror, the radar has been more useful/practical/accurate on certain roads.
Y’know what? ‘it’s cool’ is a good argument. This thing is totally not for me, but I’ve got plenty of other useless crap that I love because I just think it’s cool, so you do you! Enjoy it.
What is the advantage of this beyond something like a mirror, or looking over your shoulder?
More than you’d think!
I have the varia 515, and it’s been an incredible safety tool. Even though I also ride with a mirror, the radar has been more useful/practical/accurate on certain roads.
it’s cool?
it also flashes bright when people get too close I think.
Y’know what? ‘it’s cool’ is a good argument. This thing is totally not for me, but I’ve got plenty of other useless crap that I love because I just think it’s cool, so you do you! Enjoy it.