Always relieving when other reviewers come to the same conclusion. Mine experience was faultless, but I was constantly thinking if it was a fluke. More competition = good for consumers. 👍👍
Just getting back on the bike after a long time off it. Brought one of these and had my first outside ride today with it, didn't miss any car and didn't give off any false positives, what an awesome unit.
Awesome to see finally some competition to Garmin’s Varia. Hopefully this will speed up introduction of even better radars for affordable price. Won’t be surprised if Wahoo gets one. Hopefully we will not see Garmin going nuts like Shimano recently did over Hammerhead/SRAM. For European folks out there: was checking actual prices to Denmark and Magen came only $5/€5 cheaper than Varia. …Less than ideal, I’d say.
I don't think Garmin would do that. It's a safety product after all. They provided open protocols for radars for a reason. Now the rest of the market finally catches up.
With such serious flaw as no continues flashing while cars are still approaching it can't be considered as a serious competitor, rather just a bad knock off the original concept. I highly doubt Magene will ever fix it, as companies like magene avoid investing heavily in product support, they just make one or two semi-working firmwares just to release the product and distribute it via various marketplaces without any intention to support it or address newly discovered bugs.
Hi Shane Great report. I bought one and use Wahoo elemnt the problem I find that top led flash for the first car and rest of the cars are in black white. Exactly what you said. It’s a great unit.
Good review, thanks. I have been cycling for over 50 yrs and some of the stuff on the market these days would have been considered only something you would see in a sci-fi movie not that long ago and not ever in real life, incredible really how things have evolved and what will come next.
Almost the same as a Garmin. Rode it recently up Akuna, a very popular climb in Sydney with sections averaging 8-10% gradient. Magene couldn't detect at all a motorbike that approached and passed me. I suspect it was due to the vehicle approaching from below the device's horizon. Mind you I have had a Varia in the same position that never had a miss. So worth recognising this limitation and hope there is a firmware fix. Otherwise, it works flawlessly in other conditions so far.
Just used the L508 for the first time today. I haven’t used the Varia, so I don’t have a frame of reference, but so far love it. Dodging ditches and potholes suddenly became a whole lot safer
Thanks for a great review! Yours is the 1st ive seen that actually mentions the unit is capable of tracking multiple vehicles. Great content as always!
I'd really like upgrades to the lights in future versions, one major avenue for safety could be drastically brighter flash modes proportional to passing vehicle speed. This could be a real safety boost in visibility without having to have a massive battery or heat sink (since the high power leds wouldn't be on constantly)
I bought this unit, and it was about $100 US less than the comparable Garmin. It paired with my Wahoo computer right away and it works very well indeed. Several of my friends are thinking of getting one. Battery life is about what you found, not super but works fine for me.
Great content Shane. I've been considering the Varia, and having an option to throw into the mix makes for great window shopping. Kudos to the driver if the Tradie White Ute giving ample room when overtaking!! 👌👌
Been using mine for about a month now, no problems at all so far. It's cool that it also works with Magene's bike computers, so you can get full radar safety without having to spend loads
So, no continues flashing for the whole period of car detection is not a problem for you so far? Hm, I think you're missing what safety device is in essence.
it would be great to have a radar, light, camera combo. Imagine the ability to camera record only when a car is incoming and even set rules on distance.
Would be nice if Magene and/or Garmin provided a light mode with NO light and then flashing light with approaching traffic and back to no light once the traffic has gone. Basically no point in wasting battery when nothing is approaching. Alternatively say a low intensity light (peleton mode) and again flashing for when traffic approaches, then back to peleton mode when no traffic. This would be great for battery life on long rides
@@onnobakker9173 @Shane Miller - GPLama - that's exactly how I configured my radar to work using the Smart Bike Lights ConnectIQ data field. Works like a charm and super-flexible. You can set different light modes based on time of day and also the speed of approaching cars
@@shahedameer @Shane Miller - GPLama Thank you for this tip! Smart Bike Lights is just awesome!! On my commuter bike with fixed automatic lights my varia rtl510 now only flashes on approaching cars and warns me via the Garmin edge (like normal). When i select my road bike profile when the RTL510 is attached to my race road bike it now automatically switches on at sunset but always flashes on approaching cars also during the day. This is just perfect: no more hassling with screens and buttons on the garmin to control the light, an only flash on approaching car mode plus battery savings.
I'm relieved to see this works. I always thought these were a must have for road safety, but the Varia was hard to recommend at the price rate. I think a lot more people will be adding these to their bikes and it might force Garmin to step up their game... the camera on the new Varia RCT715 is such a joke, they should be ashamed of themselves.
Thank you for that review Shane Miller. Did you had any chance to give it a second try with recent firmware updates. How about that blinking light on detection and and light intensity adjustment you can make ? Thanks
Love your videos and just ordered this item. The Magene speed and cadence sensors have been great and with some firmware updates I am sure this device could be perfected. Thanks for what you do!
thanks for showing the KOM Cycling Radar Mount too! I have a Varia Radar only unit and I've always thought the mounting rubber band seemed a bit optimistic. I've ordered one with your link already. Just wouldn't ever want to deal with it popping off mid-ride and needing to buy another one.
I bought the KOM Cycling radar mount when it first became available. I bought it for my 2019 Venge Pro with its D-shape aero seat post because KOM claimed it works with seat post with D cross-section. Unless KOM has a different rubber adapter pad, the factory pad is not compatible with the Venge seat post. Looking at other reviews on the KOM site, it also does not work well with many other D-shape seat posts. Even on my cyclocross bike with round seat post, because the strap in the ATOP dial system is not elastic, I could not get that extra "click" to fully secure it. A slight bump by my legs when I'm riding out of the saddle will cause the mount to rotate out of position.
There's many use cases for having that data recorded for sure. Imagine being passed by a car speeding, it causes an accident further up the road or *insert any other scenario here*, you'll have a record of the speed it went past. This is something that should be recorded by ALL head units by default. For now it requires the ConnectIQ app (linked to in the description).
@@gplama I looked at the data from my RTL510 and though interesting was a bit of a novelty. As it is not calibrated in any way I don't believe it would be valid as evidence in the UK. (There was a well publicised issue where thousands of speeding fines were rescinded as the fixed speed cameras did not have the required certification.)
@@quasijones Still better to have the data than not, imo. We're not exactly issuing fines from our bikes.... I'd have a Pinarello, not a Giant, if we could! 🤣
Lama, Thanks not only for the excellent review of the product, but also for the lightbulb moment where I noticed that there were extra fields available on the My Bike Radar Traffic app. I had no idea they existed - I've only been using the traffic count field ! =D
I bought this a month ago after seeing these on your eurobike 2022 video, when there were no reviews out yet. And was already satisfied with its performance for its price. Thanks for your review I can now confidently recomnend them to my buddies who would rather turn their heads to look behind, than spend 200+dollars on a Garmin bike radar.
Great Vid, I've been using one of these for the last couple of weeks in Melbourne. Agree the included mount wasn't that sturdy using the supplied rubber bands, ended up zip-tieing the mount to my saddle bag. May have to give the KOM mount a go. Has worked well otherwise, my friend found the brake light function useful when following on Beach Rd. Hopefully you'll have the Bryton Gardia for review in the near future, their battery stats sound unbelievable.
I have the Varia 715 it was expensive but I like it. I know some of the reviews have been critical particularly about the Camera but in all honesty its just fine and can see all the number plates.
I think it's a case of the unit being released in 2022 with such low camera specifications. A company like Garmin has the resources to make a MUCH better product.
@@gplama I see what you're saying but the camera is good enough for what it is intended for. I use it on my commute just convenient having it all in one. Very easy getting it on and off the bike as well which I like.
@@Ngamer834 I don’t have one, but wonder if the issue is identifying the driver as well as the plate. In the US people are always claiming they weren’t driving when speed and red light cameras get their vehicle. Better quality might help reduce that response.
Great review Shawn! I agree with the provided mount not being as secure. I really like that KOM mount you have, may have to pull the trigger on that. It is really nice that it works so well with the Garmin head unit and apps.
I just did my first ride using the L508. I do not have any experience using the Garmin Varia, but I have to say that at this price point, it’s a game changer how much more secure I feel when riding on the road. I use a Hammerhead Karoo2 head unit and it works flawlessly. Your review brings up many good points on both units, and I hope that Magene continues to update firmware and features.
I've got a magene power crankset here and whilst they worked ok I got sick of short battery life between charges. This radar light looks like and affordable alternative let's hope the battery is worthy
I'm starting to give the "radar" more thought. I rider I ran into recently told me that he actually counted how many times he was checking over his shoulder during a ride. It was in the hundreds. Usually I only glance over my shoulder when I want to cross over the road to make a turn, but I've caught myself on way too many occasions being surprised there was a car there AND drifting, so this would definitely help with that.
I got one a few weeks ago and love it. When you are on a busy road and waiting to turn - now you dont need to turn all the time - just use the radar until it signals all clear and then turn to check. Much safer. Also fast descents - you don't need to look behind to see if you have the space to move around the road. Fantastic and so reliable.
This is exactly the best use case for me, crossing an A road in the UK which has 3 lanes of 50mph was a headache without the radar. As Les mentions, I can let the radar make my movement more efficient and I can keep a controlled straight line in the mean time. It’s so good. Seen 2 Varias now also and it’s amazing how bright the light is in the day. Out of all the cameras, sensors and meter I rode with, this is hands down the best. I try stopping my self getting it for all my bikes and easily remember it’s interchangeable and Only ride one bike at a time, that’s how good it is lol
Important question: How does the radar do at picking up bird attacks? Jokes aside, this unit looks promising. I love that there is some additional market players for this important category. Amazing review as always Shane! 👌🏻
Just found mine at the front door mailed to me today. Looking forward to the weekend to give it a trial. I’ve had a few years experience with the Garmin RTL510 on ultra (Audax) rides…
@@gplama - complicated. The 510 is lost from the ELEMNT on the instant of charging (as different to the 515 I’m told). Hence, with the 8+ hrs battery life (still, after 30,000kms+ at mediocre pace so far), I just whip the 510 off the bike on a food stop and give it a top up charge off a usb battery pack. I want to see if this 508 suffers the auto-off on charge, and if not, I’ll just add it to the power circuit off the SON dynamo (and KLite USB charger).
@@eyeninja3043 for the RTL515, yes. For the RTL510, no. Unfortunately, I’ve just noticed in the paperwork that the L508 also shuts down radar when charging.
I ordered one on the weekend, before seeing this video. Received it yesterday and used it today... Quite happy with it as it is my first radar tail light but there is one big flaw that occurred many times on my 50km ride - When a vehicle is behind me and slows to the same speed as I am at, the radar then gives the green 'all clear' and then stops detection. It then does not detect again until the vehicle is beside my rear wheel. One time this occurred, a vehicle was 20 metres behind me for more than 200 metres. I think I will Go for Garmin next time.
That’ll occur with any radar. It’s a limitation of the technology. It’ll only detect what’s moving towards you. Once something is moving at the same speed, it’ll drop off the screen.
Great overview but about the light part...would like to know how well it appears to drivers overall. Probably like all cyclists, when I'm in my car I'll often note cyclists ahead and commonly comment to myself "that Blinky is not going to do it pal". But occasionally there will be something really noticeable even in daylight. Frequently now I've noticed them as being Varias. That gives me pretty good peace of mind that I'm seeing when I'm riding in addition to having a really nifty radar. And for what it's worth I don't like the red zone appearing all the time and prefer how Varia does it for only fast cars. Ymmv
I’m excited to see more come to market. I’d like to see 16hr battery life for longish rides. At this point I leave the Varia off until I’m closer to the end or alternate with other riders. I’d like to see the Brighton get tested.
Also, I’m sure I’m paranoid, but I’d like to see a strap that attaches somewhere so if it falls off it will dangle not fly off. I see other people reaching back to check theirs every time it disconnects so I know I’m not totally alone.
Thanks for this, Lama! I’ve been thinking about getting a Varia but cost was always a little high. With Magene and your comparison between the two, it’s a little more cost effective for me. I’ve been using Magene speed and cadence sensors and they are quality components, and it seems like the L508 is no different.
Hi Lama, Question for you at 10:24 you say it won't turn on or off with your head unit, like a Garmin Varia does, but at 11:27 you say it supports the ANT+ Light standards. I may be confused but shouldn't it turn on and off with the head unit if it complies with the ANT+ Light standard, or is it a case of that is only relating to the control of the light?
Could be just the field of view of the camera, however I feel that the Varia works on vehicles way further out than this and what it’s original spec lists. Also, the continius alert flashing from Varia while there is traffic makes more sense.
150m, I believe, is the cut off calculating range for both due to the technology. Then it’s a matter of target reflectivity and Field of View of the sensor, as you mentioned. I might try to run both (RTL510 and L508) simultaneously on two control heads to compare-presuming they won’t interfere (which I wouldn’t expect probably due to coherent signals).
I wasn’t sure I heard that correctly. It seems like the lack of flashing alert for subsequent vehicles would be a major safety issue. I’m wondering what the developers were thinking. Was their reasoning a better safety concern somehow or longer battery life? Why does it stay dark? It’s sensing the cars according to the screen, but not broadcasting that we know their presence at a crucial time. I just don’t get it.
Would be great to ride with this OFF in the day and only flash for vehicles. Shame that flash only happens for the first car for a few seconds. Hopefully a firmware update could fix that
Excellent to see a company competing with the overly high prices being charged by Garmin for basically a four year old product. It’s still not cheap but a lot more affordable, so it gets my 👍
The difference is really subtle. Magene asks 120 USD while Varia can be picked up for 150 discounted. With such a serious flaw (the missing continues flashing) I won't consider the Chinese knock-off.
Great review! One aspect that you might mention, being that people Down Under drive on the "wrong" (HAHA just kidding!) side of the road, is the feature that (on Garmin at least) one can change the vehicle display to be on either side of the head unit. In your particular case, and when I was cycling in Ireland, I might recommend changing the display to the left...but I guess its a personal preference and whatever gives you the perspective you need to be aware of traffic. One excellent addition to this unit is the "brake light" feature...great when riding with a partner or two. Cheers
I've been using the L508 for about 6 months now. The only issue i have with it is that cars that are travelling slowly behind you can often not be shown on the screen of my Garmin 830. I allow for this now after being surprised a couple of times by cars. Otherwise it is a fantastic unit.
All ANT+ Radar units are like this. They'll only detect/alert on things moving towards you at ~8-10km/h or more. Things moving at the same speed won't be considered a threat/alert. Magene have been releasing updated firmware for the L508 which has changed the operation slightly from what was reviewed here.
Shane - this is great, I've been thinking about the Garmin and now have something to compare. Also, did I see a Magpie swoop? it is getting to that time of year.....
FE Sports is the local distributor. There should be a ton of stores stocking them, or with the ability to get them in for AU$199. It'll work with the Hammerhead units as they support ANT+ Radar and Light* (*Haven't tested this myself... it's just out of reach and I'm firmly positioned on the couch for the night now) 🤣
Excellent review. May look to get one of these. But I wonder if you can help me? Camera on a bike. I had been thinking about this. Have a GoPro 6 but the batteries on GPs only last, what 20 mins. A friend has suggested using the companion app on my phone, and I now have a quad lock sysfor this. Would this work? What else do you suggest. The question is prompted by safety not vanity. Recently survived a car collison. Car coming from the opposite direction on a two way road and then turning through me as if I wasn't there. The camera set up would have been useful and my interest now has new impetus. If you can help out, great.
I’m wondering why no one ever talks about light quality. I run a radar and a bontrager tail light because it’s the best most noticeable light to drivers from a distance. Most of the other lights I see seam not vary visible from a distance in full daylight.
Hi Ray, I just bought this Radar to use with my K2. I have two major problems: I cannot pair the radar/light by BT to my K2 and the pulse modes are also not controllable on my K2. Do you have the same problem while paired to your K2?
@@MrHuyspeter 9:46 in the video discusses the ANT+ pairing options with an Edge and the absence of both peloton and pulse modes in the settings. I didn't test with a Karoo unit.
I have the same problem. Can’t pair by BT to my K2. I wonder if this is a Magene or K2 issue. I wonder if there’s a way to activate pairing mode for the L508 or if Magene update it to allow for BT pairing.
Great content as ever, you are a mine of info. Just trying the data field for traffic data. Mine currently only shows a data field for traffic count? How do you get the data for speeds? please.
Hi, How c606 displays the alert from L508? Does it beep? Do I need to be in a specific tab to be able to view the approaching cars or at any screen it will show me the alert in c606?
Thanks for showing this on boke computers. Have you ever paired this or a Varia radar to a watch (eg FR945) and pair the watch with Garmin Edge used as Externel Display Mode? does the radar show on the bike computer!
Awesome video Shane! I've been trying to determine what is best: know something is coming with the radar or have a camera to have evidence if you get hit. I know Garmin has a model with both but it's kind of expensive. I'm thinking I may go for this one.
Jeff - I have been riding with a radar for 4 years now and is the best bike purchase I have ever made. Makes dodging portholes, going for bottles, passing other cyclists etc a lot easier to manage . I still shoulder check but it becomes a piece of information that you just process. I have tried riding with rear camera etc but is a bit of a pain and my main concern is just getting the info to ride safely. Differs by location but having video that I was smoked likely wouldn’t change much insurance wise etc where I am. The garmin radar with camera got pretty poor reviews for the camera quality
Awesome review (as always!). I purchased one thanks to this video. Out of curiosity, have you rocked the KOM mount on a d-fuse post? If yes, how sturdy is it?
I've just tried it on Mrs Lama's bike with a D-Shape post... it locks in... but can spin sideways with a slight knock and it drops down. iirc KOM Cycling had an updated internal mount for D posts. I'd ping their support channels and see if they've addressed it.
#Answer: (So far)...I have downloaded the Connect IQ "My Bike Radar Traffic" data field in the Garmin IQ (iPhone or {presumably} Android) app and installed it on the Edge 1040. From there the Vehicle Count field can be selected for one of the fields in a standard data screen. Caveat: I have not tried it out on the road yet. Cheers!
Update: my solution above only displayed the vehicle count...and it was undercounted by about 25%. It did not display vehicle speeds. Any suggestions? Thanks
@@gplama Since the 530 doesn't have a touch screen the "buttons" work differently - they're part of a pop up menu that you have to scroll through to choose your selection.
Always relieving when other reviewers come to the same conclusion. Mine experience was faultless, but I was constantly thinking if it was a fluke. More competition = good for consumers. 👍👍
Just getting back on the bike after a long time off it. Brought one of these and had my first outside ride today with it, didn't miss any car and didn't give off any false positives, what an awesome unit.
If you are thinking about getting a radar, just get one. If you are not thinking about one just get one anyway, fantastic safety device for the bike.
Yes. One of the best thingies ever.
Awesome to see finally some competition to Garmin’s Varia. Hopefully this will speed up introduction of even better radars for affordable price. Won’t be surprised if Wahoo gets one. Hopefully we will not see Garmin going nuts like Shimano recently did over Hammerhead/SRAM. For European folks out there: was checking actual prices to Denmark and Magen came only $5/€5 cheaper than Varia. …Less than ideal, I’d say.
I don't think Garmin would do that. It's a safety product after all. They provided open protocols for radars for a reason. Now the rest of the market finally catches up.
With such serious flaw as no continues flashing while cars are still approaching it can't be considered as a serious competitor, rather just a bad knock off the original concept. I highly doubt Magene will ever fix it, as companies like magene avoid investing heavily in product support, they just make one or two semi-working firmwares just to release the product and distribute it via various marketplaces without any intention to support it or address newly discovered bugs.
Alternative use, whilst riding zwift with noise cancelling headphone on to stop the surprise of people creeping up on you
Gold!!
They'd need to have a lot of metal in them to be detected...
Awesome comment!
😂
Unless a humanoid robot is creeping up behind you then yes 😂😂🤣🤣
Thanks for tipping me off on My Bike Radar Traffic, looks pretty useful.
Hi Shane
Great report. I bought one and use Wahoo elemnt the problem I find that top led flash for the first car and rest of the cars are in black white. Exactly what you said. It’s a great unit.
Good review, thanks. I have been cycling for over 50 yrs and some of the stuff on the market these days would have been considered only something you would see in a sci-fi movie not that long ago and not ever in real life, incredible really how things have evolved and what will come next.
Almost the same as a Garmin. Rode it recently up Akuna, a very popular climb in Sydney with sections averaging 8-10% gradient. Magene couldn't detect at all a motorbike that approached and passed me. I suspect it was due to the vehicle approaching from below the device's horizon. Mind you I have had a Varia in the same position that never had a miss. So worth recognising this limitation and hope there is a firmware fix. Otherwise, it works flawlessly in other conditions so far.
Just used the L508 for the first time today. I haven’t used the Varia, so I don’t have a frame of reference, but so far love it. Dodging ditches and potholes suddenly became a whole lot safer
Riding with it around Beijing and Shanghai for a while now and does a solid jobs for a few months now
Great work again Shane. I love what I see. I hope they create a unit with integrated camera along with light and radar.
Thanks for a great review! Yours is the 1st ive seen that actually mentions the unit is capable of tracking multiple vehicles. Great content as always!
I'd really like upgrades to the lights in future versions, one major avenue for safety could be drastically brighter flash modes proportional to passing vehicle speed.
This could be a real safety boost in visibility without having to have a massive battery or heat sink (since the high power leds wouldn't be on constantly)
I bought this unit, and it was about $100 US less than the comparable Garmin. It paired with my Wahoo computer right away and it works very well indeed. Several of my friends are thinking of getting one. Battery life is about what you found, not super but works fine for me.
Great content Shane. I've been considering the Varia, and having an option to throw into the mix makes for great window shopping.
Kudos to the driver if the Tradie White Ute giving ample room when overtaking!! 👌👌
Def recommend getting a rear radar. It really helps me on the trails to hear and see people coming up behind me for a pass.
The KOM Garmin Varia mount was an added bonus tip, thanks.👍
Been using mine for about a month now, no problems at all so far. It's cool that it also works with Magene's bike computers, so you can get full radar safety without having to spend loads
So, no continues flashing for the whole period of car detection is not a problem for you so far? Hm, I think you're missing what safety device is in essence.
it would be great to have a radar, light, camera combo. Imagine the ability to camera record only when a car is incoming and even set rules on distance.
The radar is one of those things I didn't know of I needed u til I used one. Now I don't ride without one
you are a WEAK rider
Would be nice if Magene and/or Garmin provided a light mode with NO light and then flashing light with approaching traffic and back to no light once the traffic has gone. Basically no point in wasting battery when nothing is approaching. Alternatively say a low intensity light (peleton mode) and again flashing for when traffic approaches, then back to peleton mode when no traffic. This would be great for battery life on long rides
9:09 in the video. It just needs to keep flashing when there are objects in 'range'.
@@gplama agreed, yes should continue flashing until all approaching vehicles are past
To a Garmin product owner: indeed a mode where the light is off and only flashes on approaching cars would be well appreciated!
@@onnobakker9173 @Shane Miller - GPLama - that's exactly how I configured my radar to work using the Smart Bike Lights ConnectIQ data field. Works like a charm and super-flexible. You can set different light modes based on time of day and also the speed of approaching cars
@@shahedameer @Shane Miller - GPLama Thank you for this tip! Smart Bike Lights is just awesome!! On my commuter bike with fixed automatic lights my varia rtl510 now only flashes on approaching cars and warns me via the Garmin edge (like normal).
When i select my road bike profile when the RTL510 is attached to my race road bike it now automatically switches on at sunset but always flashes on approaching cars also during the day.
This is just perfect: no more hassling with screens and buttons on the garmin to control the light, an only flash on approaching car mode plus battery savings.
I'm relieved to see this works. I always thought these were a must have for road safety, but the Varia was hard to recommend at the price rate. I think a lot more people will be adding these to their bikes and it might force Garmin to step up their game... the camera on the new Varia RCT715 is such a joke, they should be ashamed of themselves.
The Varia isn't hard to recommend for its price. I would gladly pay twice for it.
Having a Camera plus Radar pays for itself, its not supposed to be an Action Camera.....but its good for what it does.
Thank you, Llama, for the review. And for referring us to the ride log visualisation website.
Thank you for that review Shane Miller. Did you had any chance to give it a second try with recent firmware updates. How about that blinking light on detection and and light intensity adjustment you can make ?
Thanks
Always nice to see competition.
Love your videos and just ordered this item. The Magene speed and cadence sensors have been great and with some firmware updates I am sure this device could be perfected. Thanks for what you do!
It will be interesting to see if Magene bring along a radar/camera combination device to compete with the RCT715 too.
thanks for showing the KOM Cycling Radar Mount too! I have a Varia Radar only unit and I've always thought the mounting rubber band seemed a bit optimistic. I've ordered one with your link already. Just wouldn't ever want to deal with it popping off mid-ride and needing to buy another one.
I bought the KOM Cycling radar mount when it first became available. I bought it for my 2019 Venge Pro with its D-shape aero seat post because KOM claimed it works with seat post with D cross-section. Unless KOM has a different rubber adapter pad, the factory pad is not compatible with the Venge seat post. Looking at other reviews on the KOM site, it also does not work well with many other D-shape seat posts. Even on my cyclocross bike with round seat post, because the strap in the ATOP dial system is not elastic, I could not get that extra "click" to fully secure it. A slight bump by my legs when I'm riding out of the saddle will cause the mount to rotate out of position.
That ride data is impressive. Come in very handy if you ever get in an accident.
There's many use cases for having that data recorded for sure. Imagine being passed by a car speeding, it causes an accident further up the road or *insert any other scenario here*, you'll have a record of the speed it went past. This is something that should be recorded by ALL head units by default. For now it requires the ConnectIQ app (linked to in the description).
@@gplama I looked at the data from my RTL510 and though interesting was a bit of a novelty. As it is not calibrated in any way I don't believe it would be valid as evidence in the UK. (There was a well publicised issue where thousands of speeding fines were rescinded as the fixed speed cameras did not have the required certification.)
@@quasijones Still better to have the data than not, imo. We're not exactly issuing fines from our bikes.... I'd have a Pinarello, not a Giant, if we could! 🤣
Lama, Thanks not only for the excellent review of the product, but also for the lightbulb moment where I noticed that there were extra fields available on the My Bike Radar Traffic app.
I had no idea they existed - I've only been using the traffic count field ! =D
I bought this a month ago after seeing these on your eurobike 2022 video, when there were no reviews out yet. And was already satisfied with its performance for its price. Thanks for your review I can now confidently recomnend them to my buddies who would rather turn their heads to look behind, than spend 200+dollars on a Garmin bike radar.
You should still turn you head. Tech does fail.
Great Vid, I've been using one of these for the last couple of weeks in Melbourne. Agree the included mount wasn't that sturdy using the supplied rubber bands, ended up zip-tieing the mount to my saddle bag. May have to give the KOM mount a go.
Has worked well otherwise, my friend found the brake light function useful when following on Beach Rd.
Hopefully you'll have the Bryton Gardia for review in the near future, their battery stats sound unbelievable.
Just picked one up on Amazon, thanks for the awesome review!
Thanks for the review. I think as it stands, the Varia on sale at $289.00 is still the better option although more expensive.
I have the Varia 715 it was expensive but I like it. I know some of the reviews have been critical particularly about the Camera but in all honesty its just fine and can see all the number plates.
I think it's a case of the unit being released in 2022 with such low camera specifications. A company like Garmin has the resources to make a MUCH better product.
@@gplama I see what you're saying but the camera is good enough for what it is intended for. I use it on my commute just convenient having it all in one. Very easy getting it on and off the bike as well which I like.
@@Ngamer834 I don’t have one, but wonder if the issue is identifying the driver as well as the plate. In the US people are always claiming they weren’t driving when speed and red light cameras get their vehicle. Better quality might help reduce that response.
Great comprehensive review as always.
Great review Shawn! I agree with the provided mount not being as secure. I really like that KOM mount you have, may have to pull the trigger on that. It is really nice that it works so well with the Garmin head unit and apps.
Looking good but I want safety camera function as well.
Hope they succeed with this model so they can also develop radar/light with camera.
I just did my first ride using the L508. I do not have any experience using the Garmin Varia, but I have to say that at this price point, it’s a game changer how much more secure I feel when riding on the road. I use a Hammerhead Karoo2 head unit and it works flawlessly. Your review brings up many good points on both units, and I hope that Magene continues to update firmware and features.
Now I just need to wait for the Bryton radar to come in for testing. Those claimed battery life values on the spec sheet were crazy.
It's a fake, they probably measured it without light or radar functionality.
I've got a magene power crankset here and whilst they worked ok I got sick of short battery life between charges. This radar light looks like and affordable alternative let's hope the battery is worthy
I'm starting to give the "radar" more thought. I rider I ran into recently told me that he actually counted how many times he was checking over his shoulder during a ride. It was in the hundreds.
Usually I only glance over my shoulder when I want to cross over the road to make a turn, but I've caught myself on way too many occasions being surprised there was a car there AND drifting, so this would definitely help with that.
I got one a few weeks ago and love it. When you are on a busy road and waiting to turn - now you dont need to turn all the time - just use the radar until it signals all clear and then turn to check. Much safer.
Also fast descents - you don't need to look behind to see if you have the space to move around the road.
Fantastic and so reliable.
This is exactly the best use case for me, crossing an A road in the UK which has 3 lanes of 50mph was a headache without the radar. As Les mentions, I can let the radar make my movement more efficient and I can keep a controlled straight line in the mean time. It’s so good. Seen 2 Varias now also and it’s amazing how bright the light is in the day. Out of all the cameras, sensors and meter I rode with, this is hands down the best. I try stopping my self getting it for all my bikes and easily remember it’s interchangeable and Only ride one bike at a time, that’s how good it is lol
Important question: How does the radar do at picking up bird attacks? Jokes aside, this unit looks promising. I love that there is some additional market players for this important category. Amazing review as always Shane! 👌🏻
Too small a RCS to be detected. Also, FOV will be an issue - specs list +/- 20 deg in the horizontal, but doesn’t detail vertical.
Just found mine at the front door mailed to me today. Looking forward to the weekend to give it a trial. I’ve had a few years experience with the Garmin RTL510 on ultra (Audax) rides…
Do you have a power source connected to the RTL510 for the ultras?
@@gplama - complicated. The 510 is lost from the ELEMNT on the instant of charging (as different to the 515 I’m told). Hence, with the 8+ hrs battery life (still, after 30,000kms+ at mediocre pace so far), I just whip the 510 off the bike on a food stop and give it a top up charge off a usb battery pack.
I want to see if this 508 suffers the auto-off on charge, and if not, I’ll just add it to the power circuit off the SON dynamo (and KLite USB charger).
You can use varia whilst charging. I ran a usb cable to a battery in my saddle bag.
@@eyeninja3043 Yes, that's a very common thing for ultras/audax riders.
@@eyeninja3043 for the RTL515, yes. For the RTL510, no. Unfortunately, I’ve just noticed in the paperwork that the L508 also shuts down radar when charging.
I ordered one on the weekend, before seeing this video. Received it yesterday and used it today... Quite happy with it as it is my first radar tail light but there is one big flaw that occurred many times on my 50km ride - When a vehicle is behind me and slows to the same speed as I am at, the radar then gives the green 'all clear' and then stops detection. It then does not detect again until the vehicle is beside my rear wheel. One time this occurred, a vehicle was 20 metres behind me for more than 200 metres. I think I will Go for Garmin next time.
That’ll occur with any radar. It’s a limitation of the technology. It’ll only detect what’s moving towards you. Once something is moving at the same speed, it’ll drop off the screen.
@@gplama Thankyou, that's good to know. It still is a great safety device
Great overview but about the light part...would like to know how well it appears to drivers overall. Probably like all cyclists, when I'm in my car I'll often note cyclists ahead and commonly comment to myself "that Blinky is not going to do it pal". But occasionally there will be something really noticeable even in daylight. Frequently now I've noticed them as being Varias. That gives me pretty good peace of mind that I'm seeing when I'm riding in addition to having a really nifty radar. And for what it's worth I don't like the red zone appearing all the time and prefer how Varia does it for only fast cars. Ymmv
Probably an opportunity for a firmware update if enough of us users tell them. I’d like the flexibility to change things like that.
I’m excited to see more come to market. I’d like to see 16hr battery life for longish rides. At this point I leave the Varia off until I’m closer to the end or alternate with other riders. I’d like to see the Brighton get tested.
Also, I’m sure I’m paranoid, but I’d like to see a strap that attaches somewhere so if it falls off it will dangle not fly off. I see other people reaching back to check theirs every time it disconnects so I know I’m not totally alone.
This comes with a lanyard in the box. 👌🏼
@@gplama Right on the top. Nice. Thank you. Do you know if you can charge this while using it?
@@niles_stone2742 Yep, charging on the fly works.
@@gplama Awesome, thank you.
i have it since 2 Weeks and I love it
Thanks for this, Lama! I’ve been thinking about getting a Varia but cost was always a little high. With Magene and your comparison between the two, it’s a little more cost effective for me. I’ve been using Magene speed and cadence sensors and they are quality components, and it seems like the L508 is no different.
Hi Lama, Question for you at 10:24 you say it won't turn on or off with your head unit, like a Garmin Varia does, but at 11:27 you say it supports the ANT+ Light standards. I may be confused but shouldn't it turn on and off with the head unit if it complies with the ANT+ Light standard, or is it a case of that is only relating to the control of the light?
Atop dial to affix the mount to the seatpost - we recognise that dial! 👀
i do hope they update their firmware to do the flashing throughout detection. id actually purchase it if they do
I'll do an update video if they change this mode.
Could be just the field of view of the camera, however I feel that the Varia works on vehicles way further out than this and what it’s original spec lists.
Also, the continius alert flashing from Varia while there is traffic makes more sense.
150m, I believe, is the cut off calculating range for both due to the technology. Then it’s a matter of target reflectivity and Field of View of the sensor, as you mentioned. I might try to run both (RTL510 and L508) simultaneously on two control heads to compare-presuming they won’t interfere (which I wouldn’t expect probably due to coherent signals).
I wasn’t sure I heard that correctly. It seems like the lack of flashing alert for subsequent vehicles would be a major safety issue. I’m wondering what the developers were thinking. Was their reasoning a better safety concern somehow or longer battery life? Why does it stay dark? It’s sensing the cars according to the screen, but not broadcasting that we know their presence at a crucial time. I just don’t get it.
2:30 Looks like an effective magpie deterrent.
Love your work Shane. Always helpful. Does it have magpie mode? 😂
Not yet!
Does it work with hammerhead? Can you add that into the video to show what it's like?
Yes, those units support ANT+ Radar and Light. I can't add to the video here on UA-cam.
@@gplama Could you do a follow up short showing it?
Would be great to ride with this OFF in the day and only flash for vehicles. Shame that flash only happens for the first car for a few seconds. Hopefully a firmware update could fix that
Any guesses what the battery life for radar only is? I don't think it was in the spec
No clue but I think on the Garmin the light is the biggest drain
Great work. I was looking to get the varia but it's expensive so I will get this one instead. Thanks keep up the good work.
Excellent to see a company competing with the overly high prices being charged by Garmin for basically a four year old product.
It’s still not cheap but a lot more affordable, so it gets my 👍
The difference is really subtle. Magene asks 120 USD while Varia can be picked up for 150 discounted. With such a serious flaw (the missing continues flashing) I won't consider the Chinese knock-off.
@@atexnik not a deal breaker at all, the simple solution is to have light in flashing mode anyway???
Great review! One aspect that you might mention, being that people Down Under drive on the "wrong" (HAHA just kidding!) side of the road, is the feature that (on Garmin at least) one can change the vehicle display to be on either side of the head unit. In your particular case, and when I was cycling in Ireland, I might recommend changing the display to the left...but I guess its a personal preference and whatever gives you the perspective you need to be aware of traffic. One excellent addition to this unit is the "brake light" feature...great when riding with a partner or two. Cheers
Great review. I love my Varia, and this seems every bit the match.
good performance from my Magene sensors
Great review as always.. positive!
I've been using the L508 for about 6 months now. The only issue i have with it is that cars that are travelling slowly behind you can often not be shown on the screen of my Garmin 830. I allow for this now after being surprised a couple of times by cars. Otherwise it is a fantastic unit.
All ANT+ Radar units are like this. They'll only detect/alert on things moving towards you at ~8-10km/h or more. Things moving at the same speed won't be considered a threat/alert. Magene have been releasing updated firmware for the L508 which has changed the operation slightly from what was reviewed here.
@@gplama thanks Shane. I'll look out for the firmware update. Cheers mate.
How's the accuracy with the update? For safety devices such as radar. It would be nice to be 100%
Shane - this is great, I've been thinking about the Garmin and now have something to compare. Also, did I see a Magpie swoop? it is getting to that time of year.....
Awesome test and review!
Any links for buying it here in Australia? Also, it should work with the Karoo 2 right?
FE Sports is the local distributor. There should be a ton of stores stocking them, or with the ability to get them in for AU$199. It'll work with the Hammerhead units as they support ANT+ Radar and Light* (*Haven't tested this myself... it's just out of reach and I'm firmly positioned on the couch for the night now) 🤣
Super cool, awesome video!
Great review, is it possible to do a review on the fly 6 gen 3 or TOOO Cycling™ DVR80
Great video, thanks for this information!
How did you shoot the computer screen video in tandem with the rear-view video?
Excellent review. May look to get one of these. But I wonder if you can help me? Camera on a bike. I had been thinking about this. Have a GoPro 6 but the batteries on GPs only last, what 20 mins. A friend has suggested using the companion app on my phone, and I now have a quad lock sysfor this. Would this work? What else do you suggest. The question is prompted by safety not vanity. Recently survived a car collison. Car coming from the opposite direction on a two way road and then turning through me as if I wasn't there. The camera set up would have been useful and my interest now has new impetus. If you can help out, great.
GoPro (or a phone) isn't a good option for 'always on recording'. Cycliq have their issues but make products for this purpose.
@@gplama thank you
Does it pick up swooping magpies? Maybe an add on feature to come?
Nope. :(
I’m wondering why no one ever talks about light quality. I run a radar and a bontrager tail light because it’s the best most noticeable light to drivers from a distance. Most of the other lights I see seam not vary visible from a distance in full daylight.
Great point. Exactly the same for me: Magene radar with no light and the amazing Bontrager Flare RT rear daylight, the best on the market
Hi Ray, I just bought this Radar to use with my K2. I have two major problems: I cannot pair the radar/light by BT to my K2 and the pulse modes are also not controllable on my K2. Do you have the same problem while paired to your K2?
I’m Shane. The pulse modes are likely not part of the ANT+ Light specifications, at a guess. One for Magene support to clarify.
@@gplama hi Shane first off all apologies for the name swapp. I'll have a talk with Magene. You did not test this during the making of your video?
@@MrHuyspeter 9:46 in the video discusses the ANT+ pairing options with an Edge and the absence of both peloton and pulse modes in the settings. I didn't test with a Karoo unit.
I have the same problem. Can’t pair by BT to my K2. I wonder if this is a Magene or K2 issue. I wonder if there’s a way to activate pairing mode for the L508 or if Magene update it to allow for BT pairing.
Thanks for the video! Is there a reason why you didn't mention/compare anything about the video quality and recording capabilities?
This unit doesn't have a camera. I was using GoPro units front/back to capture the ride for demonstration of the radar capabilities.
Great content as ever, you are a mine of info.
Just trying the data field for traffic data.
Mine currently only shows a data field for traffic count? How do you get the data for speeds? please.
I'm having trouble with my varia it keeps switching itself off so was wondering if this is compatible with the Hammerhead karoo 2
Yes
Thanks 👍
Hi, How c606 displays the alert from L508? Does it beep? Do I need to be in a specific tab to be able to view the approaching cars or at any screen it will show me the alert in c606?
My older Cervelo P2 tri bike has a very wide aero seatpost...are the included rubber bands long enough for attaching this Magene light?
Hope it works with the hammerhead. Looks interesting
Yes, I confirm. Works great with Karoo 2.
Thanks for showing this on boke computers. Have you ever paired this or a Varia radar to a watch (eg FR945) and pair the watch with Garmin Edge used as Externel Display Mode? does the radar show on the bike computer!
This is something I haven't done. I'll loop back and do this when I get the chance.
Hi Shane, thanks for the review. May I ask what is the equipment you use to secure the Magene L508 to your seatpost?
He mentions that in the last part of the video.
Lama, does the Magene run when plugged into a powerbank like the Varia did ?
Yes
Shane or any other users of this product....how do you find the light brightness? 20 lumen seems well under a standard rear light.
Does the „smart” brake light activate in radar only mode?
Awesome video Shane! I've been trying to determine what is best: know something is coming with the radar or have a camera to have evidence if you get hit. I know Garmin has a model with both but it's kind of expensive. I'm thinking I may go for this one.
Jeff - I have been riding with a radar for 4 years now and is the best bike purchase I have ever made.
Makes dodging portholes, going for bottles, passing other cyclists etc a lot easier to manage .
I still shoulder check but it becomes a piece of information that you just process.
I have tried riding with rear camera etc but is a bit of a pain and my main concern is just getting the info to ride safely.
Differs by location but having video that I was smoked likely wouldn’t change much insurance wise etc where I am.
The garmin radar with camera got pretty poor reviews for the camera quality
Do you have problems detecting motor cycles?
Hi Shane great video one question, how do you get the my bike radar field (with the multiple data) I have the vehicle count only on my 1030?
Load up the ConnectIQ app, connect to your 1030, My Data Fields, select My Bike Radar Traffic, config should be there.
Yes but does it detect magpies? Old mate at 2:30 was looking keen. I would pay extra for that feature.
Magpies are too small (and fast) for detection.
Awesome review (as always!). I purchased one thanks to this video.
Out of curiosity, have you rocked the KOM mount on a d-fuse post? If yes, how sturdy is it?
I've just tried it on Mrs Lama's bike with a D-Shape post... it locks in... but can spin sideways with a slight knock and it drops down. iirc KOM Cycling had an updated internal mount for D posts. I'd ping their support channels and see if they've addressed it.
@@gplama thanks so much for trying it out and for responding so quickly. I’ll message them. All the best and keep up the great work!
Imagine a magene x gopro (or insta360) collab? With at least 1080p vid quality, wide shot, stabilization, gps…That would be great for us riders!
I’ll take three thanks! 😀
As a Karoo II user: would it work on Karoo devices as well? Maybe I have overlooked something 🙂
Yes
@@gplama super, thanks!
So you can't turn the light completely off when using the radar? It will flash?
#Question: at 6:39 you have a screen that shows VC (vehicle count) and vehicle speeds...I cannot find that on my 1040...can you help (anyone)? Thanks!
#Answer: (So far)...I have downloaded the Connect IQ "My Bike Radar Traffic" data field in the Garmin IQ (iPhone or {presumably} Android) app and installed it on the Edge 1040. From there the Vehicle Count field can be selected for one of the fields in a standard data screen. Caveat: I have not tried it out on the road yet. Cheers!
Update: my solution above only displayed the vehicle count...and it was undercounted by about 25%. It did not display vehicle speeds. Any suggestions? Thanks
great video as always Shane, but where can you purchase? their own website doesn't seem to have a buy option
Which country are you in?
@@gplama Ireland
Any insight into when it will hit international markets?
@Shane, do you know if the Magene team plans to introduce a random flashing pattern
One for Magene support.
Great review, thanks! The on screen controls you had is that available on the 530?
The ANT+ Light controls? They should be on the 530...
@@gplama Since the 530 doesn't have a touch screen the "buttons" work differently - they're part of a pop up menu that you have to scroll through to choose your selection.
Can I use iPhone for Magene radar. ( like Garmin app)Don’t have cycling computer?
Thanks
Can the decelerometer sensor be disabled?