Garmin's new Varia rearview light and radar plugs into your e-bike

The Varia eRTLg15 plus directly into compatible e-bikes delivering approaching vehicle alerts to smartphones and cycling computers

Garmin Varia e-bike taillight and radar shown fitted to a bike
(Image credit: Garmin)

Garmin has released an electric bike specific model of its popular Varia rearview radar and tail light, which it says provide “peace of mind during every ride.”

While the name might not roll off the tongue, the Varia eRTL615 is designed to be easy to use, plugging directly into a compatible e-bike. However, you’ll need to buy the Garmin cable separately.

Garmin Varia eRTL615 e-bike tail light shown from the front

(Image credit: Garmin)

Using the e-bike’s power source has allowed Garmin to create a battery-free design, but otherwise it functions much like existing models such as the Varia RCT715. When synced (using ANT+ connectivity or Bluetooth) to a compatible Garmin smartwatch, cycling computer or smartphone equipped with the Varia app it provides both visual and audible alerts letting riders know when vehicles up to 150 yards away are approaching.

The Varia light can, according to Garmin, can be seen up to a mile away in daylight conditions. It also boasts a flash pattern that changes when approaching vehicles are detected. Other light modes include solid, peloton and night flash. 

Garmin eRTL615 e-bike rear light and radar shown from the side

(Image credit: Garmin)


“As e-bike riding becomes more and more popular, we are pleased to bring our trusted radar technology to this growing group of cyclists,” says Dan Bartel, Garmin Vice President of Global Consumer Sales “No matter where the next adventure leads, explore with ease knowing that Varia eRTL615 has your back while you ride ahead.” 

Garmin eRTL615 e-bike light and radar shown from the back

(Image credit: Garmin)

The e-bike Varia’s design is described by Garmin as “sleek and compact” and offering “multiple mounting options with a universal seat rail mount or a rack/pannier mount.” 

When we reviewed the original Varia RTL515 we found it a little chunky so e-bike users will likely be pleased to read that the eRTL615 is indeed compact in comparison and weighs around 20 grams less. However, we were left largely impressed by the RTL515's functionality and performance.

The Varia eRTL615 is available now and it has a suggested retail price of £259.99.

For more information visit garmin.com

Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

Freelance writer

Luke Friend has worked as a writer, editor and copywriter for twenty five years. Across books, magazines and websites, he's covered a broad range of topics for a range of clients including Major League Baseball, the National Trust and the NHS. He has an MA in Professional Writing from Falmouth University and is a qualified bicycle mechanic. He has been a cycling enthusiast from an early age, partly due to watching the Tour de France on TV. He's a keen follower of bike racing to this day as well as a regular road and gravel rider.