Garmin has announced the Varia Vue headlight camera as the brand’s latest addition to its line-up of accessories “designed to help increase safety and visibility for cyclists riding on roadways”.
Regular BikeBiz readers will know that we don’t test and review products – you come to us for news, announcements, and industry insights – so here you’ll find text from the Garmin product launch, along with a review from a reliable and respected source – DC Rainmaker.
First, let’s go with that Garmin launch detail.
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Complete with a 4K front-facing camera – which requires a not included memory card – that saves video automatically if an incident is detected*, plus a 600-lumen headlight, Varia Vue boasts a range of premium features to provide cyclists with greater peace of mind – all while maintaining impressive battery life. Users can also sync with the Varia RCT715 radar taillight camera (sold separately) to capture their ride from both angles.
Talking at the product launch, Susan Lyman, Garmin VP of consumer sales and marketing, comments: “With Varia Vue, cyclists can embark on rides knowing they’re more likely to be seen on the road when using the headlight and are equipped with a high-resolution camera that can capture it all.
“We’re thrilled to add another tool to Garmin’s unparalleled cycling lineup, giving riders the confidence they need to pursue their passion with greater peace of mind than ever before.”
You ride, it records
No matter the road or route, Varia Vue’s built-in camera records sharp, 4K video while Electronic Image Stabilisation keeps the footage steady.
If the device detects an incident along the way, the camera automatically saves and stores video from before, during and after the event. Plus, when Varia Vue is connected via Wi-Fi, any saved footage can be automatically uploaded to Garmin Vault for secure storage with an active subscription.
At the end of a ride, cyclists can also use the Varia app to review and edit video clips.
A smarter and brighter headlight
Day and night, Varia Vue’s smart headlight illuminates the way, offering five light modes of up to 600 lumens that automatically adjust to fit a rider’s speed and surroundings when riding with a compatible Edge cycling computer.
The headlight’s smart design also includes a cutoff beam, reducing the light intensity above the cutoff line to help preserve the vision of oncoming traffic.
Other features in focus
A battery life of up to 7 hours in day flash mode with the camera recording then becomes up to 9 hours when the headlight is off. For the longest of rides, the headlight camera can be used while charging.
- Adjust from anywhere: For on-the-go convenience, camera and headlight settings can be changed anytime from a compatible Edge cycling computer or the Varia app.
- Clear audio: The concealed microphone captures clean audio during every ride.
- Simple setup: Easily add to existing setups using Edge out-front bike mounts.
Available now, Varia Vue has a suggested retail price of £459.99.
*Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of this camera device. It is your responsibility to know and comply with applicable laws and rights to privacy in jurisdictions where you plan to use this device.
Now, for the review you know will be detailed and impartial
