I will start by saying I am a Garmin fan from cycling computers to my watches. But I do review honestly and this is no different. As usual having varying models of Garmin watches over the years I finally bought the 965 over a year ago. Now let me caveat this review with the fact I am no runner but a cyclists. The features for the most across Garmins range are the same. Oh, you get some more bells and whistles and functions the more you pay no doubt. I need only HR, FTP, VO2, Endurance Score, Pulse Ox, and I am happy. The 965 does this and more obviously. The system seems very accurate as well when compared to known calibrated devices that measure these variables. So to keep this review simple and not bore folks with in depth cycling needs and results, it meets my needs and plenty more. Battery life usually yields 6 days unless I am cycling in warm months when I use the features more. Screen visibility 8s awesome and easily read in bright sun without washout. This watch has never had one hiccup in a year. Worth purchasing if you need a great all-purpose health watch. Yes, there is a newer model but unless you need it's functions, save some money and get a 965. Sorry for any typos ahead of time.
I now have the brightest taillight in our riding group, though I'd like to set it lower and then brighten or flash when the radar is triggered (and maybe I haven't found that setting). The radar function works really well and integrates with my Garmin 1040 perfectly. You get an audible notification from the Garmin then a dot (or dots for multiple cars) that rises up the side of the display signifying as the car approaches. When paired, the taillight powers on and off automatically with the Garmin. There are frequent "false positives", but they are easily discernable as the cars don't advance. And I am OK with that and don't callout to the group until the car advances halfway up the screen (30-50 yards) when its more actionable and I pretty certain that its not a false positive. Of course, sometimes a car pulls off once it's been detected. Battery life is good, seemingly lasting 15+ hours on my setting. I'm in a habit, however, to charge when I charge my Garmin. A little bulkier than the Garmin Vario but much, much brighter and much cheaper.
Have owned multiple 'generations' of the Varia Radars and this 515 is the best radar unit on the market. This is my third purchase of this model, one for myself, one for my son-in-law, and this one for my grandson. HE lives in the country where it's easiest for cars/trucks/motorcycles to sneak up on a cyclist. It was the final way to get my daughters (his moms') approval to ride the roads.
The only two downsides are the low volume of the warning 'beep' and the old-style mini USB charge port. While the cable is provided with the unit, it's slightly annoying to have to switch to this antique tech to recharge. As for the beep, it's easily drowned out by wind, so regular 'glances' to the computer need to become part of your awareness. FWIW we all use it with a variation of the 8XX series of Garmin computers, so the volume is an issue with them.
Still... a five star purchase.
I feel a lot safer riding with this unit. The only time it doesn't pick up traffic behind me is when I'm riding on a bike path separated from the the road by large concrete barriers (it will still pick up taller vehicles in those conditions). It will still pick up traffic several lanes over on the same separated bike path, so I'm not sure how wide of a view the radar has, but it picks up everything. I like the alerts it gives me on my Garmin computer (I haven't tried it with a phone or other GPS brands).
