From Phone to Cycle Computer: How One Tiny, Underrated Device Transformed My Safety After a Crash
Since 2015, I’ve regularly taken to the roads on my bicycle, experiencing a variety of minor crashes-thankfully, usually resulting in little more than scrapes. The common thread? Distractions from my smartphone. A device mounted on handlebars can seem convenient for navigation, but that bright screen often pulls focus away from the road. Notifications and alerts not only divert attention but can also drain the phone’s battery, especially if you’re using apps like Strava to log your ride. This makes smartphones less reliable for longer journeys.
Bike computers have stepped in to tackle these challenges. Designed to resemble miniature smartphones, they provide vital metrics like speed, distance, and heart rate without the distracting features of a phone. Prices range from budget-friendly models under AU$20 to high-end versions equipped with GPS, maps, and even digital bells, paralleling the cost of a mid-range smartphone.
Recently, I tested Garmin’s Edge 850, a notable bike computer that promises a more focused riding experience compared to using a smartphone. Its small black-and-white screen displays critical information without distractions, allowing me to keep my eyes on the road. Moreover, it offers real-time alerts about hazards like potholes or debris, thanks to user-reporting features similar to those in community-driven apps like Waze. The device’s GPS is exceptionally accurate and recalibrates routes effortlessly if I miss a turn.
A significant enhancement for safety is the Garmin Varia RearVue 820, a rear bike light that uses radar to detect approaching vehicles, reminiscent of technology employed in Tesla cars. Although bike radar systems have been around since Garmin introduced the first commercial rear-facing unit in 2015, the Varia RearVue 820 stands out by discerning the type of vehicle behind you-distinguishing between standard cars and larger vehicles like buses and trucks.
Being passed by a large vehicle can be disconcerting; the air pressure can throw a cyclist off balance. This was a reality I faced multiple times, nearly resulting in accidents when I was overtaken by trucks. The Varia RearVue 820 alerts users about larger vehicles, helping to prepare for such encounters. The radar pairs seamlessly with the Edge 850 and even with older Garmin models, enhancing the riding experience with vehicle detection displayed on the bike computer or compatible smartwatch.
The radar can pick up vehicles from as far as 170 meters away, providing essential advance notice. Accompanied by audio alerts, the system ensures that cyclists aren’t solely dependent on visual cues while monitoring their surroundings. Additionally, the bright rear light is highly visible from up to 2 kilometers, giving drivers ample time to notice cyclists ahead.
While the Varia RearVue 820 is an invaluable safety tool, it is not a substitute for frequently checking behind for traffic, underscoring the necessity of vigilance for cyclists. Priced at $299 / £259.99 / AU$469, it may be a considerable investment for some, but for those prioritizing safety, it’s a worthwhile addition. It works with a range of Garmin devices and even has a smartphone app that turns your phone into a compatible screen.
Ultimately, the Garmin Varia RearVue 820 represents an essential safety upgrade for anyone who rides on roads, whether you’re an avid cyclist logging mileage or a casual commuter popping out for coffee. Riding is inherently risky, and taking steps to improve visibility and awareness can make a significant difference in safety on the road.
Categories: Cycling Safety Technology
Tags: Garmin, Cycling, Bike Safety, Technology
Original Source: https://www.techradar.com/health-fitness/i-swapped-my-phone-for-a-cycle-computer-after-a-crash-but-a-tiny-underrated-device-was-the-real-safety-upgrade
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Publish Date: 2026-04-18 05:30:00
