Garmin Varia Radar RTL515 - Unboxing & Review

Christmas came early for me this year as I cash into my entitlement from AECO Technologies as the Everymove Sports Club which I am very much part of the past 2-years is being KIV due to changes in direction from AECO itself. It is a sad moment for me, more so after a whole 13 or 14 years of collboration with AECO representing the Garmin brand and myself has been on the forefront of all devices that was launched, learning about them and sharing it here in my blog. As a friend said, cherish the good memories and move on.

And this is indeed a move on post, and I write them with mixed feeling.

The journey so far with AECO Technologies

I've only been reviewing wrist devices mostly over the years; from the first unit of FR910XT and the first ever Fenix, to everything cart GPS and iteration of all the Forerunner (FR) series to all the Fenix series, Cycling power meters such as Vector 2s and Vector 3s, All permutation of HRM OG to HRM Pro Plus, cycling computer such as Edge 1000 and Edge 1040. I even have the Vista handheld series such as the HCx which accompanied me in my early days pre-wrist watch Garmin, and a Vista10, which was replaced as HCx was beyond repair.

The Edge 1000 (thank you AECO) now belong to my son as he starts his triathlon journey. In fact, he inherited the Fenix7X that was given as an entitlement in 2022 and my daughter took over the Fenix6 (2020). Some older devices were given away to friends that wanted to start the sports, while some ended up as electronic waste as they can't be fixed anymore as they are effectively extinct even in Garmin directory.

I have always been curious of the Radar or Varia - and it was indeed a missing link to the Garmin ecosystem that I never had. So with the Entitlement that was due to me for 6-months (and a lot of bargaining), I managed to exchange it for 2-units of Varia RTL515, and you guessed it right - one for me to pair on Edge 1040 and one for my son for his Edge 1000. 

(now before you think i left my Wife out, I bought a FR965 for me using my entitlement in 2023)

Thank you AECO Technologies, for this and the good memories with Garmin as a brand. And yes, this also meant I am no longer representing or able to represent Garmin (via AECO) anymore from July 1, 2024 onwards.

Garmin Radar Varia RTL515 - A very quick Review

Garmin has a few variant of cycling radar. And by radar we really meant something that can detect vehicles (and motorbikes) behind us and gives you the heads up warning on your cycling computer or compatible wrist devices. It is safety at it's best.

Couple that with super bright LED lights that can be seen hundreds of meter away, and flashes in such a way it should really alert any road users that you are there. Radar is indeed an underrated companion for many cyclist. First debuted in 2015 as Garmin acquired a South African company that does this technology (Thank you iKubu) with the release of RTL500 and RTL501. Little changed over the years until 2018 where the new shaped RTL510 and RTL511 came out. The 1 at the back actually denote the European requirement that the LED lights must stay ON all time without flashing. So anyone outside of EU can use those fancier flashing and strobe functions.

A mix feeling, really

The RTL515 is to date, 4 years old. It is no changes to the design vs the 2018 RTL510. So it does not surprise me when the two units of Radar I receieved carries both AECO sticker (aka been in the retail shop for at least the past 2 years) and Garmin Malaysia (the new mothership) sticker. Essentially nothing change in terms of packaging.

Notice the two different stickers

The old packaging is glossier

As how a father should operate, I kept the newer unit for my son, and I took the AECO unit for myself - also for sentimental value being associated with AECO. The unboxing is pretty straight forward with the unit well packed with all things you required to attach to your seatpost.

The box at the end showed this unit was dropped before from display :(

Here is the step by step unboxing, since I did not take any video to show. You can see that the Radar unit is in plastic bag, so is the attachments for it, the Micro-USB charging cable, the user manual and two sets of stickers. We all love stickers.

And here they are, all out of plastic.

three different grommet to attach to three different type of seatpost, including aero-post, and two silicon band to secure the unit

The next few series of photos shows how the unit looked like from all angle. Comments or observation in the photo captions as required.

Similar mounting as per the cycling computer

Rubber cover on the charging port. Micro-USB

Top view of the On/Off button. Press 1s to switch it on. Do not look at the light.

I repeat, do not look at the light

Damn bright

There is light window on both left and right, I believe supposedly lend visibility to people on your flank

Also as bright, just less intense from the side

A status LED (in blue here) help you to know if the unit battery requires charging, the charging stage and for blue, it denotes "smart" mode where it "talks" to your headunit

The other side

Base mount attached to the RTL515

On my Steel bike seat post

Mounted as per instruction. The whole front facing area below the LED is the radar console

Bright! 

Paring it with my Edge 1040 is straight forward. 

The pairing of the RTL515 to the Edge 1000 and Edge 1040 were straight forward. it will link as a Radar first, and then you will need to search and link it as LIGHT. This way, the setting can be optimised as you can control the LED behaviour from your headunit very easily. I do not or did not take any video of the unit pairing up, but once done correctly, it will prompt you to update the RTL515 firmware and just follow the intructions on your headunit or wrist devices (I have no issues linking it to the Fenix 7X and my FR965).

And if you are curious on how the unit behave, this is a short video showing how it detects vehicles coming at speed, and the approximate "distance" based on visual on the Edge 1040. The accuracy is good and the past few bike ride was with a lot of confidence that I do not need to constantly look behind even when on straight road to check over my shoulder - and of course using this to supplement the usual looking over the shoulder as I change lane or when I saw obstacle on the front that I would like to avoid.

The beep was loud enough to be heard going at 35km/h and it was fun watching some of these dots turning RED as they approach nearer to you (at approximately 140m). The RTL515 is capable to detect traffics from a 3-lane road as it has a wide "field of vision". 

It picks up motorbike very accurately as well but not bicycles. I believe part of the reason is that the radar detects significant speed differences between you and the objects coming from behind - and alert you on the actual threats rather than giving a false positive. 

Hope this very short write up provide some insight to the Radar units. Of course, if you have more questions, please do ask away. As the functionality of this Radar i pretty straight forward, there is really nothing more I can write about unless you experience it yourself.

This Unit retail for RM1050 at all Garmin Malaysia retail and online store. This could be one of the best money you may spend on for safety if your riding is constantly outdoor in trafficked area. The LED brightness alone is already a first line of sight for vehicles - the only way they will miss you is because they are driving distracted or under the influence, or in some cases, they just hate anything on two wheels and look at you as a target to bully. For these reasons above, no amount of radar or careful riding will save you.

Just ride safe and defensively!

See you all on the road soon!

 

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Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 : Unboxing and Review

It's been a year since I was signed up to be a part of Shokz Malaysia's ambassador program and it has been nothing but a great collaboration and sharing. Being able to experience and provide review of the Bone Conduction and Air Conduction headphones gave me the in-depth knowledge and understanding on how each product may and could suit different individual lifestyle. 

If you missed them, here are the list of products I have had the chance to review:

Shokz OpenFit Air [Unboxing+Review]

Shokz OpenSwim [Unboxing+Review]

Shokz OpenComm [Unboxing Review]

Shokz OpenRun Pro [Unboxing Review]

Shokz OpenFit [Unboxing Review]

Shokz OpenSwim Pro is in progress, and I am de-prioritizing it today to bring to you the brand new, just launched, fresh from the oven Shokz OpenRun Pro 2.

Hello OpenRun Pro 2

I received this unit under embargo and only to be posted on September 20th. However, some of you sharp eyed enough would realised I have been wearing it in a few of my IG stories... but if you missed it...

I have a knack for writing long reviews and understand not everyone enjoy reading a rather longish review, so here is the TL:DR version:

Pros:

• Less vibration vs OpenRun Pro. Way less ticklish if you are sensitive about it.
• Sound quality noticeably better than OpenRun Pro. The DualPitch™ is not a marketing gimmick.
• Because of open ear concept, you can hear your surroundings and still able to have a conversation while running or cycling or in the gym. Beyond sports-usage, the ability to hear your water boiling, fire alarm and other surrounding noises. 
• Less potential for in-ear infection or impacted ear-wax as it does not go into the ear. No sweat or heating/hot issue as the unit doesn't sit in the ear canal or has the earpad covering like the traditional headphones.
• Comfortable fit, doesn't fall out. Difficult to lose as it is secured in a band-construction
• Suitable for those with medical or auditory condition. Those with ringing ear (tinnitus) condition may be able to enjoy music better as it does not rely on the eardrums to transmit sound vibration. Works well with hearing aid as the vibration helps amplify the sound picked up by the bone conduction.

Cons:

• Pricier at RM899 (aligned with their flagship) - but this in my mind is subjective if you were to compare to the higher end earbuds or Bluetooth communicator devices (specific for work)
• Sound leakage if you bump the sound too high (above 75%). If you are in a quiet environment or taking a confidential call/privacy matters, it is best to lower the volume or find a more secure place.
• Can potentially cause hearing loss much like traditional headphone/earphone due to exposure to loud noises for much longer hours.

The Full Review

If you been using the OpenRun series, you will know about the bone conduction technology and how the open ear design keeps you alert while you are still able to listen to your favourite podcast, music or just using the device to get coaching feedback from your training.

With a lot of competing brands and products, it is often easy to get lost in the choices and prices; needless to say, Shokz is the pioneer in open-ear bone conduction earphones that has existed since 1994. 

Shokz as a brand has kept innovating and improving on their range of products that grew from military application to consumer products and (After)Shokz has made them popular.

Thanks to Shokz Malaysia (Nove Marketing), I received the unit ahead of the official launch and has the chance to re-learn and give this new addition a test so I can share my review with you today.

Here is the unboxing video. 

Environmentally friendly packing from recycled corrugated cardboard material

Items you get in this box consist of

• The OpenRun Pro 2
• USB-C Charging cable
• Premium Case
• Manual and warranty card

All in

Premium carry case

Slot for cable

Sitting very pretty

How it look with all items removed

The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 specification (that is important to know):

New DualPitch™ technology delivering crystal clear sound

• New technology DualPitch™ that combine both TurboPitch™ and DirectPitch™; one brings in the mid and highs, and the other the bass  
• 30.3 +/- 0.5 grams - lightweight (slightly heavier than Pro by 1 gram)
• IP55 protection - water resistance (meaning, do not immerse in water), sweat proof, splash proof
• 1 hour to fully charge (2 hours for Pro)
• 12hours of battery life - 5mins charge allow 2.5 hours usage (2hours more battery life + 1 hour more on Quick Charge compared to Pro)
• Latest (10th) generation Bone Conduction technology with TurboPitch™) allowing enhanced bass with clearer vocal
• 2 Years Warranty

Review

Shokz has been integral in my lifestyle - both at work and play. Having experienced all the models available, I can say that I am very familiar with the functionality.

Eco-friendly packing

The ability to be fully aware of my surrounding is audible even down to my own footstep. As long as it's not cranked up to more than 80% of the max volume, I can hear people talking, traffic rumbling and even dogs barking during my activities. I felt safer and felt way less guilty using headphone for a workout in a trafficked public area. Best of all, at a conversational volume, i can have music playing in the background like white noise while still having a chat while running with friends. 

Getting to know the device (parts)

There are minimal changes to the buttons arrangement and how it works on the OpenRun Pro 2 when compared to the Pro. Which is good news as it is zero learning for those familiar or upgrading from OpenMove OpenRun and the OpenRun Pro.

Love the orange colorway

The biggest change is the USB-C charging port versus the proprietary magnetic charging. If you lose the magnetic cable, you will have to buy a new one. With USB-C, which is easily available, you are certain that you can charge the unit without worrying you forgot the cable.

covered port

USB-C exposed

There are a few additional parts that makes this different from the Pro version. The charging port is one, which now comes with a cover and without Moisture Detection function (aka it will blink/'beep if you try to charge it while the magnetic port is damp).

Because of the air-conduction, the vent that points directly to your ears is more pronounced and obvious, also making the contact patch much larger compared to the Pro.

The air-vent for the Air-Conduction driver is large. Bass all the way

The placement of the dual-microphone has changed with one of the mic being placed on top/higher than the Pro. Shokz claim this new iteration has greatly reduced noises and provide crystal clear vocal from users during calls and conversation. 

They move the upper mic to the very top of the driver, hidden behind the titanium band

I have been using this set and tested it by making a call in front of a fan and the counterparty did not hear any wind noises as my voice came through to them clear. I have made calls in noisy environment (indoor swimming pool with splashes and a lot of chatters from the pool side) and the counterparty still hear me clearly. I feel confident to use this as my daily call/conference call headset if I have to travel light to office or out of home.

The next small change is the multifunction button where it was shrinked smaller and moved slightly to the front. My finger automatically moved to the back or closer to the driver initially and quickly learnt to readjust as needed. Two runs and I am all re-learned.

The multi-function button is moved slightly to the front and smaller footprint. Note the air-vents for the Bone-Conduction driver next to it

No changes to the volume and on/off rocker. Pairing is same as OpenRun Pro; hold it long enough from OFF position and it will start pairing to new device.

Same volume rocker and on-off switch

Charging LED same position

The air-vent for the Air-Conduction driver is large. Bass all the way

Air-vent at the bottom to aid the Bone-Conduction driver to deliver the mid and high 

No changes to one of the mic position (that small dot). There is another vent for the Bone-Conduction that mirror the left side driver.

They move the upper mic to the very top of the driver, hidden behind the titanium band

The Bone-conduction unit vibrates as it send them to your cheekbone for the whole music/sound production. The speakers and the air-vents gives the overall surround experience, apart from allowing the driver unit to push air from the vibration (hence the bass enhancement) sound delivery.

Connectivity

Fresh out of the box and once linked to the phone (iPhone) and app, a quick check and updating the firmware as needed.

The Pro comes with Bluetooth V5.3 and allow Multipoint pairing. V5.3 is the latest protocol and it worked as it should. Minimal delay making it suitable for both sports and play.

Straight forward pairing with laptop (Windows 11)

I have the unit paired to my Garmin FR965, iPhone12 and 13, and my work laptop. You can link up to two devices at any one time. It however require activation of Multipoint connection.

easy and fast pairing on my FR965

Done!

The instruction is here or you can also do it via the Shokz App which is much easier with a flick of the toggle button in the app. But if you want to do it the harder way... the same process as doing it for OpenRun Pro.

Straight forward with a few steps to follow

Using it with Multipoint meant I have the freedom to switch between two devices without needing to disconnect from other devices. At work, I switch between phone (for Spotify) and laptop (for meeting/calls). you are limited by the 12 hours battery life. If you are a heavy user, do keep your device charged to avoid interruption. It is sufficient for a day or two use (assume up to 4hours of total usage per day).

You can tell that I am a fan

On the new devices since OpenFit Air, it is more straight forward on the connection function, and it is all defaulted to just "Headset". Previously on the OpenRun Pro, there were option for Headset and Headphone, which essentially limits how the sound is optimized for music or call. So no more guessing game with the OpenRun Pro 2. 

The Multifunction button allow for playing/pausing, switching music, answering and ending calls. 

Find the complete guide here

The complete user guide for Pro 2 is similar to Pro and can be found here

Fitting

The unit hook over your ears, it clasps lightly over the top of your ear with the driver unit sitting on your face, parallel to the ear canal on this area called the Auricle. The Pro 2 claims to have 16% less "clamping" force versus the Pro version. The bigger contact area helps to distribute pressure better ensure a daylong comfort.

Personally I felt no differences in how it sits on my head and side of my face. It remain as comfy with no pressure points around my ears. It doesn't interfere with sunglasses or my reading glasses as well.

Once placed in position, you hardly will notice it weigh wise, but you know it's there due to the light pressure the titanium band holds it against your face. There is a "mini" version where the band is shorter.

Not noticeable from the front

right side

Left side

If you have a small (circumference) head, you may want to consider going the "mini" version with 1.5inches shorter band. Having said this, if you are planning to use the normal sized band over a hoodie, it will interfere with the clothing. Some adjustment to the unit to move the rear side downwards/towards the neck may be needed at the expense of the bone-conduction driver sitting slightly higher on the cheekbone.

Using it while cycling, the OpenRun Pro 2 won't interfere with the positioning as long as it's not an aero-helmet. 

Sound - Now with 4+2 Customizable EQ and DualPitch™

This is a flagship model - and rightly so with dual-driver known as DualPitch™ technology that changed how the OpenRun pro delivers the sound. DualPitch™ brings in both bone conduction and air conduction into one unit. Resulting in precise high and mids using the bone conduction and subterrean bass delivered from the air conduction. 

The introduction of DualPitch™ also reduced the vibration effect of the OpenRun series that uses TurboPitch™. Those of you that felt a bit uncomfortable on the strong vibration may want to test and try if the sensation has been reduced. Personally, I actually like the vibration. It reminds me of the days when i had 2 units of 12 inches subwoofers installed in my car.

Having experienced and tested all the Shokz product, I can say that the Pro 2 is definitely a different listening experience. You have to hear it to believe it. Also, as mentioned above, it has way less ticklish sensation or vibration or I would say there was none in my week of testing this product pre-launch. 

Customised EQ 

4 preset EQ which is Standard, Vocal, Bass Boost, Treble Boost is same as the OpenFit series. And as they are the same, you have the ability of creating and saving two other EQ that suits your listening style. It is important to note that the EQ only works when you stream using your phone (where the app resides) and not when it is streamed from your devices (laptop or watches). 

More than sufficient for all your intent and purpose

This is because the quality is significantly impacted by the sound codec of your device and limited by what Shokz can process. In this case, OpenRun Pro uses sub-band codec or SBC which allow up to 300kbps transfer rate. This is also the most general codec compatible with all Bluetooth transmission, at the expense of quality. 

The Shokz is compatible with profiles such as A2DP (high quality audio signals profile), AVRCP (remote control profile for sending command such as play, skip, pause etc), HSP (Headset profile aka to be used for communication) and HFP (handsfree profile). 

About IP55 Protection

The IP protection of Pro 2 is the same as Pro which is IP55. It is however lesser than the OpenRun with IP67. In my last year of using the devices with IP55, there is absolutely no issue to have the unit drenched in sweat and in rain. No issues to pour water over my head or even taking it to shower. Only do not immerse the unit in water (read: do not wash it in washing machine) or take it for swimming.

IP stands for International Protection (rating). It comes with two numbers and an optional letter. It defines the degree of protection against solid contact and water in electrical enclosures.

The first digit defines the level of protection the enclosure provides against access to hazardous parts such as electrical contacts, moving parts, and ingress of solid objects (like dust, sand, finger)

The second digit refers to liquid protection against well, water or liquid, generally.

The bigger the number, the better the protection. Naturally the IP67 would meant better protection versus IP55. 

• IP55 protection against limited dust ingress and protected from low-pressure water jets from all direction
• IP67 protection against total dust ingress and immersion up to 1m depth, but not meant for swimming

Looking at it, it is evidence enough that IP55 is sufficient protection taking into account splashes of water from heavy rain or sweat. I would not worry too much as all my unit has been in service for the past 2 years with no issues. The Pro 2 will definitely stand to this level of usage if not better as with better materials and technology vs the older models.

TL:DR 

Pros:

• Less vibration vs OpenRun Pro. Way less ticklish if you are sensitive about it.
• Sound quality noticeably better than OpenRun Pro. The DualPitch™ is not a marketing gimmick.
• Because of open ear concept, you can hear your surroundings and still able to have a conversation while running or cycling or in the gym. Beyond sports-usage, the ability to hear your water boiling, fire alarm and other surrounding noises. 
• Less potential for in-ear infection or impacted ear-wax as it does not go into the ear. No sweat or heating/hot issue as the unit doesn't sit in the ear canal or has the earpad covering like the traditional headphones.
• Comfortable fit, doesn't fall out. Difficult to lose as it is secured in a band-construction
• Suitable for those with medical or auditory condition. Those with ringing ear (tinnitus) condition may be able to enjoy music better as it does not rely on the eardrums to transmit sound vibration. Works well with hearing aid as the vibration helps amplify the sound picked up by the bone conduction.

Cons:

• Pricier at RM899 (aligned with their flagship) - but this in my mind is subjective if you were to compare to the higher end earbuds or Bluetooth communicator devices (specific for work)
• Sound leakage if you bump the sound too high (above 75%). If you are in a quiet environment or taking a confidential call/privacy matters, it is best to lower the volume or find a more secure place.
• Can potentially cause hearing loss much like traditional headphone/earphone due to exposure to loud noises for much longer hours.

This unit of Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 (orange) is provided to me under the Shokz Malaysia and Nove Marketing Sports Ambassador program for 2024/2025 year. The unit retail for RM899.00 and comes with 2-years warranty. Make sure you only get your Shokz from Nove Marketing as the authorised distributor and also from Malaysia authorised dealers. 

There are a few scam website that often offer too good to be true pricing. To purchase, please click this link and use TRISTUPE15 on check out for 15% discount on older models (sorry this is not applicable for OpenRun Pro 2, OpenFit Air and OpenSwim Pro at this moment of time)

Thank you Shokz Malaysia

Full Technical Info of OpenRun Pro 2 vs the two previous generations

About Shokz:

Shokz is a US world's leading brand. Shokz's headphone focuses on Open-Ear technology, which are bone conduction technology and DirectPitch™ Technology with the purpose of ensuring the listening experience while keeping safe.

Bone Conduction Technology: transmits sound via vibrations through the skin and temporal bone directly to the cochlea, bypassing the ear canal and eardrum. This ensures clear sound even in noisy environments without affecting others.

• Bone Conduction Headphone: OpenMove, OpenRun, Open Run Pro, OpenRun Pro 2, OpenSwim, OpenSwim Pro, OpenComm, OpenComm 2
• DirectPitch™ Technology: which is also called Air Conduction Technology, enhances audio by using phase cancellation, where opposing sound waves cancel each other out. With multiple vents, it directs sound towards the ear canal, reducing leakage and enabling immersive, private Open-Ear listening.
• Air Conduction Headphone: OpenFit, OpenFit Air

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