Garmin Varia eRTL615 launches as a first-gen rear-view radar for e-bikes

The new Varia eRTL615 looks like a third-party tail-light capable of 1-mile visibility even during the day, with "solid, peloton, night flash and day flash" modes. However, Garmin has also designed it to bring "our trusted radar technology" to the emerging market of those who ride e-bikes. 

It is far from the first similar product from the OEM: for example, its predecessor the Varia RCT715 integrates an FHD camera as well as a tail-light. However, that rear-view radar runs on a battery that might need to be charged as often as every 4 hours, whereas the new eRTL615 can plug directly into a variety of bikes for always-on operation.

Then again, this requires an additional outlay for a first-party Garmin cable to connect the eRTL615; plus, the user needs to make sure to buy the right one depending on whether their e-bike is from either Bosch, Shimano or another manufacturer that has built a conveniently-placed USB type-A port into their model.

The adapter cable also tacks an extra US$29.99 onto the eRTL615's current US$299.99 price. Nevertheless, the extra purchase keeps the "reliable" radar on and feeding vehicle proximity alerts to either a compatible Garmin watch, a biking computer or a smartphone, all via the Varia app.