One of the things that make my bike life easier and literally EVERYONE with a bike needs: A bike working stand. Doesn't have to be expensive, a super basic one will do, but it makes cleaning, servicing and working on the bike about 1 million times easier, quicker and more comfortable
100% agree the Varia is a great piece of kit. Bought one at the start of this season. Did one ride, went holy crap I should have bought this year's ago and then promptly bought one for my wife.
I've had the Garmin Varia Radar for over a year; it helps you on solo rides to feel safer and any extra awareness is a life saver. Linked to my Hammerhead Karoo 2 and is now essential kit! Nice one Francis. Love the vids.
Agreed! Has saved me from several situations that could've scared me clear off my bike. 150 bucks for the version without the light is easily worth it.
@@lechprotean Sometimes you don’t want to run the radar, e.g. when riding along a bike path which is next to a highway. It just beeps like mad! I know Hammerheads can mute the radar, but Garmin can’t (AFAIK). Another reason is battery life. A separate light will last a huge number of hours, but the radar only lasts 7-8 hours. Not so great for really epic rides or bikepacking.
@@lechprotean a nice feature, but i wanted to have the light separate so i could leave the radar for situations where it makes no sense like downtown, when it would just alert nonstop. The price difference is also steep enough to buy two pretty good lights that are both as good if not better than the radar. Those are important points to me, but the biggest factor was not having my light and radar die at the same time. Separate devices gives me flexibility.
its also one of my most favorite gadgets; makes me feel uncomfortable if I don't use it.... hate to get surprised. New versions have bluetooth so you can have alerts in your headphone while listening to podcasts.... but recommend to keep your ears free... ;-)
I've had the Varia for a week and it's life changing and dramatically safer, always a temptation to cruise down the middle of the tarmac when the radar coverage is 140 metres back too
One lesser known tip about the Radar is you can pair multiple head units to one, so you can try your friend’s Radar (without them having to do anything) while cycling together… The reference point will be wrong (obvs) depending on your position, but it’s still something, and a good way to experience it.
The answer is in the name. It's called a 'chain' gauge because it's one of a sequence (chain) of gauges that you'll have to purchase once the current one wears out. Taking this into consideration, I would suggest you procure them on a subscription basis - since this works out much cheaper in the long run. #TechTips101
Could have it calibrated to ISO 9001 standards. Good idea to have it calibrated every 12 months. Also, the calibration data sheet should highlight the ambient temp. you need to test your chain at. If you live in a cold country, you may have to bring your bicycle indoors, and ensure your room temp is at around 21 degrees C. Then use the chain gauge. Not a prob here where I live, it's always 21 degs C. at 9:00 pm - I live in Darwin.
Boot dryer- bought one on your recommendation... Agreed, best thing ever... Not just for bike shoes but for hiking boots too. Will be used daily here (UK North West) for 6 months of the year. Cheers Francis. No more stuffing of paper and balancing on rads.
I’ve had the Garmin radar for years and it’s amazing. It worked on my Garmin and it now works on my Wahoo. If you’re unsure of buying because it’s too much, a friend put it best “I didn’t realize your life was so worthless”. Fair enough I said.
Agree with the Garmin Varia. Game changer, ordered extra mounts so it is on all my bikes now. Especially good at dawn and dusk. Its range is better than my hearing.
I really really love my Garmin Varia. I wont ride my bike with out it now. It is so useful(not so much in a city, but on the country lanes and quieter roads), being able to know a car is coming before you can hear it, or being able to tell there is an electric car approaching. 100% recommend getting one, unless you are only riding in a city centre. Because at that point, it will just beep at you a lot, and you just know that there will always be cars behind you.
Could not agree more on the Varia. First try yesterday and it’s brilliant, makes you more relaxed and you can ‘see’ multiple cars - how many times have you thought it’s clear only to be surprised by a second or third car. Game changer. Love the channel…..keep it up
Also agree with others varia is a game changer for me, when it ran out of battery half way through a ride was clear the difference it makes. Less effective on busy roads as just beeps all the time, but riding on quieter B roads and lanes it’s a huge safety measure. Went on a ride with 2 guys and showed them it, both bought one the following week.
Garmin Varia - absolute game changer for me. Wouldn't want to ride without it now. I ride semi rural to full on out on the moors, fast mostly quiet roads by urban standards - it absolutely comes into its own out here where wind noise is often loud. Would recommend for anything except busy commutes. Brilliant brilliant tech
Given how cheap the shoe drier is, It's probably worth opening it up and checking it has a fuse. I remember Seth from Berm Peak/Seth Bike Hacks reviewing something similar a few years ago and he was alarmed at the lack of safety measures. Granted his was bought in the US while I'm not up to date on the current CE/UKCA markings/implementation.
Should’ve waited to comment. Garmin Varia is the best thing I’ve ever bought for cycling. It never misses a car, gives you a visual display dot for each car approaching from behind and in my experience has never let me down. Also worth noting that it will also link to an app on your phone that displays the same information. Similarly I thought that’s an expensive light but it’s just brilliant.
absolutely agree on the RADAR. i had a double concussion a few years ago after being knocked off. this is an absolute must for me not just for awareness of cars around you, but, also peace of mind
Totally agree with you on the Varia. I have one of the older models (they used to be rectangular) that I got about 5 years ago. It is essential to my piece of mind because I always know when a car is behind me and I can squeeze over a bit farther because Florida drivers are all crazy! Love the videos.
Garmin Vario is simply the best peace of mind when riding on country roads. A very nice heads up for the infrequent car. Number 8 could be a Park bike stand. Sure makes life easier when changing wheelsets or working on the bike!
I still use a sunglass mounted mirror instead of the radar system. Obviously doesn't tell me speed or distance, or alerts, but I've done it for so long I'm not sure the radar would be worth the large cost comparatively. Good list!
Varia radar user for 15 months. Brilliant bit of kit. Agree, riding on the road without it now feels weird. Don’t rely on it, but is it so useful to give you a little extra info. Especially on fast downhills when you can’t hear cars.
+1 for the radar - can recommend, can't go out without it: my last ride the battery lasted 9hrs 52 mins - gave up with 3km to go (185km in the bank), so i went to my reserve light while I was charging...hated not having it! It also shows MANY cars behind you (seems annoying in towns, but literally - live with it!) As a tip - it can connect with multiple riders/ gartmins/ wahoos at the same time, so there are people I ride with that connect and they get the advantage (for that ride) too.
Shoe dryer, game changer especially with Autumn/Winter around the corner. Definitely buying one. Brilliant idea and at £20 what's not to like. 0 seconds ago
I do hop on and off your channel Francis and I find the more informational focused videos quite helpful. Either about training, tech, nutrition or practical tips. Thank you! The varia has made me curious and I will certainly check it out. I would add a couple of things I have not seen in the comments much: - daytime running lights: after two near misses riding in shady roads I got a pair and I noticed cars spot me a lot more at junctions. Very useful for my urban commute. - cat-ears: they surely look daft, but the noise reduction is huge in my case. The added quietness makes long/windy rides much nicer. It is a bliss not having to put up with deafening noise for hours on end . I also hear cars approaching a lot better, as well as whatever nice sounds are going on on quieter roads. Any mechanical niggles that might come up are also more audible. I went for a pair after knowing about hearing loss and road cycling, and that runs in my family already! The helmet straps must be close to the face though, and I expect the sort of ears you have will affect the results. One last note Francis: What are your thoughts about using teflon products in cycling? I appreciate they perform really well and GT85 is your sponsor. However, it does worry me that were are releasing persistant organic polutants in the environment which, in this case, are also directly related to several health issues. (see the report on POP's from the WHO) As cycling is also 'marketed' as an environmentally friendly activity, I wonder if we should not do more on other aspects as well, rather than just avoind car use. Releasing teflon from my bike into a stream during a wet ride is not my idea of environmentally conscious...The same could be said for the waterproof gear, etc. I have since switched to other alternatives which, although perform slightly less well, don't hinder my riding either.
I bought the garmin varia after I got knocked off my road bike in June and this amazing piece of kit has increased my confidence no end. Well worth the price tag.
The 515 radar is essential for me in every ride. Can’t see myself cycling without it. One time I left it at home. After setting up my bike out of the car, I noticed I didn’t bring it. I packed up my bike and went home. It’s like riding without a helmet, a big mistake if I don’t have my radar with me. And the charge lasts a long time off full battery. The cost of being safe on a bike is a priceless to me.
Ditto on the Varia, been using for almost 5 years, great rear light, good battery life, and picks up multiple cars to indicate when it may be safe to pass, move into turning lane, etc
Great list! Here is another one for you - a set of cassette pliers. I could never get chain whips to work properly - the pliers have saved both time and my fingers!
Love my Varia, but one thing to be wary of: if a vehicle comes up behind you and then slows to your speed (e.g., no opportunity to pass you), it will disappear from the display on the head unit after about 20 sec. Doesn't happen often, but even if the display shows nothing behind you, it's best to take a quick glance back before making an abrupt turn or moving out into the traffic lane. As you'd expect, a contact can disappear if terrain (rolling hills or turns) blocks the beam, but when the radar picks it up again you get another audible signal, so no worries.
totally agree on the Varia. I bought it two months ago and won't go out without it. One problem I have with it is that the button easily gets clogged with the fine dust we have here, and won't press. Good thing though is that the unit is sealed and you can rinse it in a bowl of water and it dislodges the dust.
The Garmin Varia tip was great. I'm planning my first XL bikepacking trip around april/May '22, going from Utrecht, Netherlands to Mont Ventoux. I will definitely get me this thing for that extra safety of knowing when cars are coming from behind. Thanks for another very helpful video, mate!
+1 for the varia, for the reasons others have expressed. I bought the version without the light, as I already had an Exposure flare and preferred the look without the light. Think that was probably a mistake, as the one with the light has a longer battery life - I’d assumed, without checking, that the batteries would be the same, so deleting the light would mean a longer run time for the radar. You also need a fair amount of seat post to run a separate light while allowing the radar an unobstructed view, if you have a saddle bag that rules out a saddle mounted light. I get a good few rides with the varia between charges and my wahoo bolt tells me when the battery is low, so the battery life isn’t a big issue. It’d just be good to have to charge it less often. Great content on your other tips!
The radar is brilliant. Picks up vehicles about 150m back on most roads, even better on straight roads and will even show if there is a trailer in some cases. It works on differential speeds so won't pick up the riders around you but will pick up a car approaching the group! It's a good addition to the riding aresnal! Only thing I find annoying is if you are group riding the light is often very bright when you are in the sweet spot behind the rider in front... such is life...
Had a Varia for a while now and totally agree! Complete game changer! Amazing piece of kit. Can even link mine and my partner's Garmins to it when we head out together.
Great list and thinking of getting a few on the list and I would include a front light for ridding in town. I know its a pain to ride with a front light but helps with identifying your bike to cars turning as well as stopped cars pulling out onto the road in an urban area. I would also suggest get a very small one for the front bar.
Yes, good lights front and back always. I would add, always wear a bright orange hi-vis vest also. Makes you very visible at a long distance day and night and no batteries required!
Garmin radar is one of the best pieces of kit I have ever purchased.... I now feel pretty vulnerable if I forget to put it on, or fail to charge it! Great recommend
Great tips Francis, the Varia radar new model (RTL515) is also Bluetooth enabled so can be used with a mobile phone app too. I’ve had the RTL510 for a couple of years and really rate it too.👍
Garmin radar best piece of kit. Gives me plenty of notice when a car is approaching so I can get into position earlier when turning right. Compatible with Wahoo too.
There's 2 types of people with the Varia... Those that think they're absolutely amazing & totally worth the cost for what it gives and how extremely accurate it is. And then those who haven't experienced it yet.
Useful kit, gt85 used it for years. Shoe drier probably quicker than my silica gel bags. Like the idea of the garmin Varia, worst fear is being hit from behind handy to know what's coming.
Thank you for this. I did not know how often to replace my chain. Now I wish I had a better option for the old chain than chucking it into the landfill.
One lv up on pressure; the topeak Shuttle Gauge Digital, attached at the end of a Ryobi one+ handheld aircompressor makes everything inflation related no sweat. A Fabric LUMARAY front daytime runninglight, attached to the underside of Garmin head unit mount.
And none of those cheap chromoly sets, they wear out rather quickly with heavy use. I'm currently using the Bondhus ProGuard set (#10999) for almost a year, never let me down. Even had my colleagues borrow it a few times for smaller fasteners.
I view the Varia light the same as a helmet. I was skeptical at first but it was quickly an essential bit of kit. I immediately noticed that it alerts me to a car much, much quicker that I can actually hear it.
If you use rim brakes I can highly recommend swapping out the front mounting bolt for a titanium one. No more crusty rusted bolts when you need to remove the front caliper. Nice and cheap and makes life easier.
As to the radar, I have a mirror. If I see a car coming up fast, on the lanes I ride, I move out to block the car. When it slows down, I move over and wave it past. Simples at zero cost. (Except for the mirror. Cateye.)
I have used the Garmin radar for few years. Now I hate riding on road without it. My head unit also estimates closing speed of any vehicle, a very handy heads up on traffic.
With the proliferation of silent electric cars now, a Garmin Varia is becomming an essential bit of kit, I've been running a Varia for 2 years now, never leave home without it.
Garmin Varia RTL515 is amazing, especially with the deceleration mode enabled! I use it with Garmin Edge 1030 Plus so the beeps are really loud. I hope Garmin updates the Varia UT800 with more lumens as I like the ANT+ light network. Most country lanes, B roads or A roads in the UK I would recommend the radar unit. It’s dope
I don't think a mirror replaces the Varia, or vice versa. In my opinion, you need both. The mirror is the more critical piece of kit, though, I'll grant you. The Varia tells you when to check your mirror, and the mirror tells you whether the vehicle is giving you room. The way I see it, the Varia is the automatic reminder to check your mirror. You're never surprised by a car going by, ever.
i bought brushes that attach to a drill for cleaning my car and found the small disc-shaped brush attachment works great for cleaning my cassette. I apply degreaser to the cassette and hit it with the drill brush as I pedal forward. My cassette looks good as new when done. also - magic eraser for cleaning shoes. i have white shoes so keeping them looking fresh is imperative :-P
I have the older Varia that has the LEDs all in a row, but not the radar. I've been using it religiously and have been thinking about upgrading it. I believe that you've just made it harder for me to forget about. Thanks! 🤣 Oh, I neglected to add that the Varia will also work on Garmin watches. I'm unsure about the Wahoo Rival (or any other sport watches, for that matter), but don't see why it wouldn't.
Also a huge fan of varia radar light. The safety I feel and actually get are amazing. Cannot ride without it now. My fellow riders behind ask me to set it permanently on unless a car appears at which point it starts flashing - alerting them also! PLS the light is incredible for long visibility, masses of lumens.
You can let multiplier riders connect to your Varia and share display on their head units. A number of mates have since gone out and bought one after being converted piggy backing off mine!
Remarkable that there are so few options out there for car spotting like Garmin's. I've been riding with a mirror that attaches onto the drop bar end and can flip up to hide. Most mirrors are garbage, and bulky, but this one's amazing. It's called the Corky Performance Mirror on The Beam's website. Great option if battery life is a problem for long trips. Or if like me you forget to charge stuff.
Night rides on the WEH it may be useful. i am also considering getting one, Almost got hit by a rick who buzzed past me on an empty road today morning.
Great tips as always. 1) will definitely pickup a dedicated pressure gauge. 2) GT85 - hmm, perhaps better than M-off silicone spray? 3) Garmin Varia - hot tip, connect to the downloadable app via iOS/Android and IF you ride with an earphone (side away from traffic & 50% volume), it provides the same audible alert as through the HU. A really great option for those who ride in a group, or with music.
One of the things that make my bike life easier and literally EVERYONE with a bike needs:
A bike working stand. Doesn't have to be expensive, a super basic one will do, but it makes cleaning, servicing and working on the bike about 1 million times easier, quicker and more comfortable
100% agree the Varia is a great piece of kit. Bought one at the start of this season. Did one ride, went holy crap I should have bought this year's ago and then promptly bought one for my wife.
I've had the Garmin Varia Radar for over a year; it helps you on solo rides to feel safer and any extra awareness is a life saver. Linked to my Hammerhead Karoo 2 and is now essential kit! Nice one Francis. Love the vids.
@@georgzwiebel9585 now we're talking ! an uncalled for horn? a very called for pop.
meant to add as a title, Garmin Varia was sent to me for free (more news on that soon). GT85 are a channel sponsor, everything else was bought.
The rear radar is a brilliant piece of kit. Great to know when you have cars coming up behind you.
Agreed! Has saved me from several situations that could've scared me clear off my bike. 150 bucks for the version without the light is easily worth it.
@@louisrafaelcom Why would you get one w/o the light? The lights blink extra fast if the car is approaching too fast so drivers take extra notice
@@lechprotean Sometimes you don’t want to run the radar, e.g. when riding along a bike path which is next to a highway. It just beeps like mad! I know Hammerheads can mute the radar, but Garmin can’t (AFAIK).
Another reason is battery life. A separate light will last a huge number of hours, but the radar only lasts 7-8 hours. Not so great for really epic rides or bikepacking.
@@lechprotean a nice feature, but i wanted to have the light separate so i could leave the radar for situations where it makes no sense like downtown, when it would just alert nonstop. The price difference is also steep enough to buy two pretty good lights that are both as good if not better than the radar.
Those are important points to me, but the biggest factor was not having my light and radar die at the same time. Separate devices gives me flexibility.
its also one of my most favorite gadgets; makes me feel uncomfortable if I don't use it.... hate to get surprised.
New versions have bluetooth so you can have alerts in your headphone while listening to podcasts.... but recommend to keep your ears free... ;-)
I've had the Varia for a week and it's life changing and dramatically safer, always a temptation to cruise down the middle of the tarmac when the radar coverage is 140 metres back too
One lesser known tip about the Radar is you can pair multiple head units to one, so you can try your friend’s Radar (without them having to do anything) while cycling together… The reference point will be wrong (obvs) depending on your position, but it’s still something, and a good way to experience it.
My friend tags on to mine which is great as it means he doesn’t have to buy one
It also works on Garmin watches. Unsure if it will work on the Wahoo Rival, but don't see why it wouldn't.
What's it like compared to a good mirror?
Yep. The wife pairs with my RADAR so she sees the cars sneaking up behind, too.
Varia is amazing. Won't ride without it
very clever bit of kit and i was surprised how useful it is
Although expensive, you can’t go wrong with a mechanic workstand
Lidl has a relatively cheap workstand, which isn't exceptional but it's good for regular maintenance.
I found the Bikehand repair work stand pretty decent for the price, picked one up for $150 AUD.
Beer makes my life easier added a cooler bag to my Bikepacking setup lol
Love the Radar light, you’re spot on. Same for me, completely changed my riding
Indeed. Love my wahoo and varia combination
what happens if my chain guage gets worn? is there a chain guage guage?
The answer is in the name. It's called a 'chain' gauge because it's one of a sequence (chain) of gauges that you'll have to purchase once the current one wears out.
Taking this into consideration, I would suggest you procure them on a subscription basis - since this works out much cheaper in the long run.
#TechTips101
A chain gauge of chain gauges.
Check it against a new chain.
Could have it calibrated to ISO 9001 standards.
Good idea to have it calibrated every 12 months.
Also, the calibration data sheet should highlight the ambient temp. you need to test your chain at.
If you live in a cold country, you may have to bring your bicycle indoors, and ensure your room temp is at around 21 degrees C. Then use the chain gauge.
Not a prob here where I live, it's always 21 degs C.
at 9:00 pm - I live in Darwin.
Boot dryer- bought one on your recommendation... Agreed, best thing ever... Not just for bike shoes but for hiking boots too. Will be used daily here (UK North West) for 6 months of the year. Cheers Francis. No more stuffing of paper and balancing on rads.
I’ve had the Garmin radar for years and it’s amazing. It worked on my Garmin and it now works on my Wahoo. If you’re unsure of buying because it’s too much, a friend put it best “I didn’t realize your life was so worthless”. Fair enough I said.
And you can share it with a riding buddy as it connects to more than one Wahoo so my buddy gets the benefit too
I’m still alive and still have my money 🤷♂️ The millions of cyclists riding without one prove its not an either or
Agree with the Garmin Varia. Game changer, ordered extra mounts so it is on all my bikes now. Especially good at dawn and dusk. Its range is better than my hearing.
I really really love my Garmin Varia. I wont ride my bike with out it now. It is so useful(not so much in a city, but on the country lanes and quieter roads), being able to know a car is coming before you can hear it, or being able to tell there is an electric car approaching.
100% recommend getting one, unless you are only riding in a city centre. Because at that point, it will just beep at you a lot, and you just know that there will always be cars behind you.
I find a bell on my road bike essential. I must use it every ride to alert dog walkers on the lanes I ride. 😀🚴🏼♂️
Or if you got the money, you can buy an expensive wheel hub that makes a really loud buzz every time you freewheel
As a person who does more solo riding the Garmin varia is a great purchase because of the simple notifications of vehicles coming up behind you
Could not agree more on the Varia. First try yesterday and it’s brilliant, makes you more relaxed and you can ‘see’ multiple cars - how many times have you thought it’s clear only to be surprised by a second or third car. Game changer. Love the channel…..keep it up
Also agree with others varia is a game changer for me, when it ran out of battery half way through a ride was clear the difference it makes. Less effective on busy roads as just beeps all the time, but riding on quieter B roads and lanes it’s a huge safety measure. Went on a ride with 2 guys and showed them it, both bought one the following week.
Garmin Varia - absolute game changer for me. Wouldn't want to ride without it now. I ride semi rural to full on out on the moors, fast mostly quiet roads by urban standards - it absolutely comes into its own out here where wind noise is often loud. Would recommend for anything except busy commutes. Brilliant brilliant tech
I love my bar end mirror.
The Shoe drier looks amazing. I’m definitely going to get one. I saw someone else’s Varia and bought one immediately. Best thing I have ever bought.
Given how cheap the shoe drier is, It's probably worth opening it up and checking it has a fuse. I remember Seth from Berm Peak/Seth Bike Hacks reviewing something similar a few years ago and he was alarmed at the lack of safety measures. Granted his was bought in the US while I'm not up to date on the current CE/UKCA markings/implementation.
Been running the Varia for a few months and it is truly a game changer. Highly recommend.
Should’ve waited to comment. Garmin Varia is the best thing I’ve ever bought for cycling. It never misses a car, gives you a visual display dot for each car approaching from behind and in my experience has never let me down. Also worth noting that it will also link to an app on your phone that displays the same information. Similarly I thought that’s an expensive light but it’s just brilliant.
absolutely agree on the RADAR. i had a double concussion a few years ago after being knocked off. this is an absolute must for me not just for awareness of cars around you, but, also peace of mind
Totally agree with you on the Varia. I have one of the older models (they used to be rectangular) that I got about 5 years ago. It is essential to my piece of mind because I always know when a car is behind me and I can squeeze over a bit farther because Florida drivers are all crazy! Love the videos.
Garmin Vario is simply the best peace of mind when riding on country roads. A very nice heads up for the infrequent car. Number 8 could be a Park bike stand. Sure makes life easier when changing wheelsets or working on the bike!
I still use a sunglass mounted mirror instead of the radar system. Obviously doesn't tell me speed or distance, or alerts, but I've done it for so long I'm not sure the radar would be worth the large cost comparatively. Good list!
Varia radar user for 15 months. Brilliant bit of kit. Agree, riding on the road without it now feels weird.
Don’t rely on it, but is it so useful to give you a little extra info. Especially on fast downhills when you can’t hear cars.
+1 for the radar - can recommend, can't go out without it: my last ride the battery lasted 9hrs 52 mins - gave up with 3km to go (185km in the bank), so i went to my reserve light while I was charging...hated not having it!
It also shows MANY cars behind you (seems annoying in towns, but literally - live with it!)
As a tip - it can connect with multiple riders/ gartmins/ wahoos at the same time, so there are people I ride with that connect and they get the advantage (for that ride) too.
Love the Garmin Varia. What I’ve found with the people who knock it, is that they have never used one.
Echo all the positive comments on Varia. Absolute game changer for me!
Francis is right about Garmin Varia. From my experience it makes riding safer and is worth the price.
Shoe dryer, game changer especially with Autumn/Winter around the corner. Definitely buying one. Brilliant idea and at £20 what's not to like.
0 seconds ago
Really good tips. Keep doing this videos Francis!
I do hop on and off your channel Francis and I find the more informational focused videos quite helpful. Either about training, tech, nutrition or practical tips. Thank you!
The varia has made me curious and I will certainly check it out. I would add a couple of things I have not seen in the comments much:
- daytime running lights: after two near misses riding in shady roads I got a pair and I noticed cars spot me a lot more at junctions. Very useful for my urban commute.
- cat-ears: they surely look daft, but the noise reduction is huge in my case. The added quietness makes long/windy rides much nicer. It is a bliss not having to put up with deafening noise for hours on end . I also hear cars approaching a lot better, as well as whatever nice sounds are going on on quieter roads. Any mechanical niggles that might come up are also more audible.
I went for a pair after knowing about hearing loss and road cycling, and that runs in my family already!
The helmet straps must be close to the face though, and I expect the sort of ears you have will affect the results.
One last note Francis: What are your thoughts about using teflon products in cycling? I appreciate they perform really well and GT85 is your sponsor. However, it does worry me that were are releasing persistant organic polutants in the environment which, in this case, are also directly related to several health issues. (see the report on POP's from the WHO)
As cycling is also 'marketed' as an environmentally friendly activity, I wonder if we should not do more on other aspects as well, rather than just avoind car use. Releasing teflon from my bike into a stream during a wet ride is not my idea of environmentally conscious...The same could be said for the waterproof gear, etc.
I have since switched to other alternatives which, although perform slightly less well, don't hinder my riding either.
I bought the garmin varia after I got knocked off my road bike in June and this amazing piece of kit has increased my confidence no end. Well worth the price tag.
The 515 radar is essential for me in every ride. Can’t see myself cycling without it. One time I left it at home. After setting up my bike out of the car, I noticed I didn’t bring it. I packed up my bike and went home. It’s like riding without a helmet, a big mistake if I don’t have my radar with me. And the charge lasts a long time off full battery. The cost of being safe on a bike is a priceless to me.
Totally agree on the varia radar! It detects every single car over a 100 meters before overtaking you. Nice vid!
Ditto on the Varia, been using for almost 5 years, great rear light, good battery life, and picks up multiple cars to indicate when it may be safe to pass, move into turning lane, etc
Great list! Here is another one for you - a set of cassette pliers. I could never get chain whips to work properly - the pliers have saved both time and my fingers!
Love my Varia, but one thing to be wary of: if a vehicle comes up behind you and then slows to your speed (e.g., no opportunity to pass you), it will disappear from the display on the head unit after about 20 sec. Doesn't happen often, but even if the display shows nothing behind you, it's best to take a quick glance back before making an abrupt turn or moving out into the traffic lane.
As you'd expect, a contact can disappear if terrain (rolling hills or turns) blocks the beam, but when the radar picks it up again you get another audible signal, so no worries.
totally agree on the Varia. I bought it two months ago and won't go out without it. One problem I have with it is that the button easily gets clogged with the fine dust we have here, and won't press. Good thing though is that the unit is sealed and you can rinse it in a bowl of water and it dislodges the dust.
Love my Varia. Got it a few years ago, feels much safer on lone rides. I need to get that shoe dryer though! Great video Francis.
The Garmin Varia tip was great. I'm planning my first XL bikepacking trip around april/May '22, going from Utrecht, Netherlands to Mont Ventoux. I will definitely get me this thing for that extra safety of knowing when cars are coming from behind. Thanks for another very helpful video, mate!
+1 for the varia, for the reasons others have expressed. I bought the version without the light, as I already had an Exposure flare and preferred the look without the light. Think that was probably a mistake, as the one with the light has a longer battery life - I’d assumed, without checking, that the batteries would be the same, so deleting the light would mean a longer run time for the radar. You also need a fair amount of seat post to run a separate light while allowing the radar an unobstructed view, if you have a saddle bag that rules out a saddle mounted light.
I get a good few rides with the varia between charges and my wahoo bolt tells me when the battery is low, so the battery life isn’t a big issue. It’d just be good to have to charge it less often.
Great content on your other tips!
The radar is brilliant. Picks up vehicles about 150m back on most roads, even better on straight roads and will even show if there is a trailer in some cases. It works on differential speeds so won't pick up the riders around you but will pick up a car approaching the group! It's a good addition to the riding aresnal! Only thing I find annoying is if you are group riding the light is often very bright when you are in the sweet spot behind the rider in front... such is life...
Had a Varia for a while now and totally agree! Complete game changer! Amazing piece of kit. Can even link mine and my partner's Garmins to it when we head out together.
Agreed, feel like every cyclist should have one
Couldn’t agree more about the Varia. Absolute gamechanger. Won’t ride without it now.
Great list and thinking of getting a few on the list and I would include a front light for ridding in town. I know its a pain to ride with a front light but helps with identifying your bike to cars turning as well as stopped cars pulling out onto the road in an urban area. I would also suggest get a very small one for the front bar.
Yes, good lights front and back always.
I would add, always wear a bright orange hi-vis vest also.
Makes you very visible at a long distance day and night and no batteries required!
I too was a skeptic of the Garmin Radar until I tried it out. A valuable device.
Garmin radar is one of the best pieces of kit I have ever purchased.... I now feel pretty vulnerable if I forget to put it on, or fail to charge it! Great recommend
Great tips Francis, the Varia radar new model (RTL515) is also Bluetooth enabled so can be used with a mobile phone app too. I’ve had the RTL510 for a couple of years and really rate it too.👍
+1 👍 for Garmin Varia. Changed completely how safe i feel on the road.
Shoe dryer is a very practical thing here in Sweden too, also works a treat on your gloves
The varia should be mandatory for road use. Definitely feel safer knowing where cars are, plus the flashy light notifies the cars of you.
Garmin radar best piece of kit. Gives me plenty of notice when a car is approaching so I can get into position earlier when turning right. Compatible with Wahoo too.
There's 2 types of people with the Varia...
Those that think they're absolutely amazing & totally worth the cost for what it gives and how extremely accurate it is.
And then those who haven't experienced it yet.
Useful kit, gt85 used it for years. Shoe drier probably quicker than my silica gel bags. Like the idea of the garmin Varia, worst fear is being hit from behind handy to know what's coming.
Thank you for this. I did not know how often to replace my chain. Now I wish I had a better option for the old chain than chucking it into the landfill.
GT85!!!! I havnt seen that in forever we don’t have it here in America anymore
One lv up on pressure; the topeak Shuttle Gauge Digital, attached at the end of a Ryobi one+ handheld aircompressor makes everything inflation related no sweat. A Fabric LUMARAY front daytime runninglight, attached to the underside of Garmin head unit mount.
Metric hex wrench set, especially the L shaped ones with ball ends. Required tool if you do any kind of bike tinkering.
And none of those cheap chromoly sets, they wear out rather quickly with heavy use.
I'm currently using the Bondhus ProGuard set (#10999) for almost a year, never let me down. Even had my colleagues borrow it a few times for smaller fasteners.
I view the Varia light the same as a helmet. I was skeptical at first but it was quickly an essential bit of kit. I immediately noticed that it alerts me to a car much, much quicker that I can actually hear it.
Living in rural Australia the Garmin Varia Radar is so good. You can also get it to display to your phone if you don’t have a head unit
Look at all those tuboliot's on the shelf. Nice to be sponsored!
I took a little convincing but sprung for a bike stand which has been incredibly helpful and I'm not particularly mechanical!!
Varia is the single best thing I have bought in years. If Garmin adds video to Varia I will order it as soon as it’s announced.
If you use rim brakes I can highly recommend swapping out the front mounting bolt for a titanium one. No more crusty rusted bolts when you need to remove the front caliper. Nice and cheap and makes life easier.
Varia radar owner here. Highly recommended!!! If I lost my one I'd buy another one immideatly. Won't ride road without it. (Not sponsored)
As to the radar, I have a mirror. If I see a car coming up fast, on the lanes I ride, I move out to block the car. When it slows down, I move over and wave it past. Simples at zero cost. (Except for the mirror. Cateye.)
For the cold months, I “discovered” using chemical toe warmer packets (like hand warmers but thinner to fit in your shoes). They work a treat.
The light is amazing 👍🏿
I have used the Garmin radar for few years. Now I hate riding on road without it. My head unit also estimates closing speed of any vehicle, a very handy heads up on traffic.
With the proliferation of silent electric cars now, a Garmin Varia is becomming an essential bit of kit, I've been running a Varia for 2 years now, never leave home without it.
Shoe dryer tip from a long time owner - put your shoes on it for 10 mins before you put them on. Mmmmm. Toasty 😀
Crazy thing is I have everything on your list 👍🏽👍🏽. I completely agree with your list.
Garmin Varia RTL515 is amazing, especially with the deceleration mode enabled! I use it with Garmin Edge 1030 Plus so the beeps are really loud. I hope Garmin updates the Varia UT800 with more lumens as I like the ANT+ light network. Most country lanes, B roads or A roads in the UK I would recommend the radar unit. It’s dope
The shoe dryer I could have used in the Army 😎, really need a torque wrench though.
Garmin Varia is fantastic especially for solo rides👌 Got mine on a Black Friday deal last year
A cheap alternative to the Garmin rear light is a simple bar end mirror. Does precisely what Francis said the radar light does
I don't think a mirror replaces the Varia, or vice versa. In my opinion, you need both. The mirror is the more critical piece of kit, though, I'll grant you.
The Varia tells you when to check your mirror, and the mirror tells you whether the vehicle is giving you room. The way I see it, the Varia is the automatic reminder to check your mirror. You're never surprised by a car going by, ever.
i bought brushes that attach to a drill for cleaning my car and found the small disc-shaped brush attachment works great for cleaning my cassette. I apply degreaser to the cassette and hit it with the drill brush as I pedal forward. My cassette looks good as new when done.
also - magic eraser for cleaning shoes. i have white shoes so keeping them looking fresh is imperative :-P
I have the older Varia that has the LEDs all in a row, but not the radar. I've been using it religiously and have been thinking about upgrading it. I believe that you've just made it harder for me to forget about. Thanks! 🤣 Oh, I neglected to add that the Varia will also work on Garmin watches. I'm unsure about the Wahoo Rival (or any other sport watches, for that matter), but don't see why it wouldn't.
Also a huge fan of varia radar light. The safety I feel and actually get are amazing. Cannot ride without it now. My fellow riders behind ask me to set it permanently on unless a car appears at which point it starts flashing - alerting them also! PLS the light is incredible for long visibility, masses of lumens.
I use my car dryer for drying my bike and chain etc..ace bit of kit for removing all traces of water 👍
Varia is complete game changer. Single best bike bucks I ever spent!
You can let multiplier riders connect to your Varia and share display on their head units. A number of mates have since gone out and bought one after being converted piggy backing off mine!
Agree on the Varia. ✌🏼
+1 Varia
Good vid Francis ... but Garmin Varia shoudda been no 1 ! I prefer the version without the light; discrete and quite small in comparison.
Garmin Varia: the very best accessory I ever got for my bike
Remarkable that there are so few options out there for car spotting like Garmin's. I've been riding with a mirror that attaches onto the drop bar end and can flip up to hide. Most mirrors are garbage, and bulky, but this one's amazing. It's called the Corky Performance Mirror on The Beam's website. Great option if battery life is a problem for long trips. Or if like me you forget to charge stuff.
We used Corky's for Australia, they were excellent but limited to how far you could see behind, the road trains came up so quick!
@@Cade_Media Interesting. I didn't realize the Garmin had longer range.
If I use the Varia in Mumbai, the head unit is gonna probably kill itself :P
Night rides on the WEH it may be useful. i am also considering getting one, Almost got hit by a rick who buzzed past me on an empty road today morning.
Best thing I ever bought, zefal bike mirror
Love my Garmin Varia.
I would never ride without my Garmin Varia now especially on country roads in Australia. Best money I have ever spent on bike things
I agree with your tipps.... love my varia, pocket torque wrench is great, don't need shoe dryer though, I wear different shoes in rain ;-)
Great tips as always.
1) will definitely pickup a dedicated pressure gauge.
2) GT85 - hmm, perhaps better than M-off silicone spray?
3) Garmin Varia - hot tip, connect to the downloadable app via iOS/Android and IF you ride with an earphone (side away from traffic & 50% volume), it provides the same audible alert as through the HU. A really great option for those who ride in a group, or with music.
silicone shine is a bit different, apparently great for suspension forks 🤷
How come you never spoke about making the move over from Wahoo to Garmin? Interested to hear your thoughts on the 530 head unit