So I bought a garmin varia...

[synchronicity]

And... I like it.

I mainly got it because I've had two accidents with cars (or rather they had accidents with me) and it turns out that I'm a bit anxious about riding onroad since then.
So I thought this may help overcome my inital fear of riding in Australia again.

I only tested it out up and down my local street. But it seems to just work.
What I found helpful was eliminating my own doubts about cars (that weren't) approaching.
What I mean to say is that before I kept hearing cars behind me but now the varia tells me that they aren't even approaching me, thus they are/were all from the local highway nearby (perpendicular).

I think it's good info to have.

I expect it will come in handy for making right runs (left turns in the US/Europe).
It gave me some peace of mind. Looking forward to going on a proper ride.

[MaxPower]

never... ever... use it to make turns without looking over your shoulder.

it works pretty good, never had a case were something came rom behind without it registrering, but it will not always catch scooters, or other cyclists. Cars, lorry´s, motorbikes are okay.

love mine. its just some peace of mind

[MayhemSWE]

I also bought one today as the LBS was running a Black Friday sale on them. Absolutely everyone who who uses these seems to be a believer, but personally I still have my doubts. Will probably give it as a gift to my father who will probably find it more useful as when we ride together he seem to be much less aware of what traffic is behind him.

[TobinHatesYou]

It’s amazing for riding in rural areas. I can safely just ride in the middle of the lane away from all the hazards on the side of the road. It has nearly a 150m range, and I’ve never had it fail to pick up an approaching car. If it beeps, I move over.