The terms, without the jargon

du bike radar glossary

Every technical term used on our product pages and in our filters, explained in one sentence. We use the same terms throughout the site: if a word trips you up while filtering bike radars, you'll find its definition here.

Connectivity

Determines which devices can receive radar alerts and how they connect wirelessly.

ANT+
Provides a wireless link that lets compatible bike computers display alerts about vehicles approaching from behind.
Bluetooth
Provides a wireless link to supported phones or bike computers for radar alerts, settings, or updates, depending on device support.

Compatible with a bike computer

Determines whether your handlebar display can show approaching vehicles without needing to use a phone.

Garmin
Allows radar alerts to appear on supported bike computers from this manufacturer, so compatibility with your specific device matters.
Wahoo
Allows radar alerts to appear on supported bike computers from this manufacturer, so compatibility with your specific device matters.
Bryton
Allows radar alerts to appear on supported bike computers from this manufacturer, so compatibility with your specific device matters.
IGPSPORT
Allows radar alerts to appear on supported bike computers from this manufacturer, so compatibility with your specific device matters.

Compatible with a smartphone

Determines whether a supported app on your phone can receive radar alerts while you ride.

Android
Allows radar alerts to reach phones running this operating system through a compatible app.
IOS
Allows radar alerts to reach phones running this operating system through a compatible app.

Lighting modes

Determines how the rear light behaves to help others notice you in different riding conditions.

Steady
Keeps the rear light continuously illuminated instead of flashing, giving following road users a consistent light to see.
Daytime flashing
Uses bright flashes to help approaching road users notice your rear light in daylight.
Night flash
Uses a flashing pattern intended for darkness to help others notice you while limiting glare compared with daytime flashing.
Peloton
Reduces rear light intensity for group rides to limit glare for cyclists following closely behind.

Features

Determines which extra functions the device offers and how they support your riding needs.

Braking detection
Detects slowing and changes the rear light to help warn road users behind you that you are braking.
Automatic on/off
Turns the device on and off automatically in response to supported triggers, reducing manual operation.
Video recording
Captures video during your ride so you can review recorded events afterward.

Ingress protection rating

Indicates tested resistance to water and solid particles, helping you judge suitability for wet or dusty rides.

IPX6
Indicates protection against powerful water jets, but does not establish dust protection or suitability for submersion.
IPX7
Protection against temporary immersion under test conditions helps with accidental water exposure but does not establish dust resistance.
IP67
A dust-tight enclosure with protection against temporary immersion under test conditions helps shield the radar from dirt and water.

Charging connector

The charging port determines which cable you need and whether you can share a charging cable with your other devices.

USB-C
A reversible charging port lets you plug in a compatible cable either way up, making it easier to connect.
Micro-USB
A charging port that accepts its matching cable in only one orientation requires you to check the plug direction before connecting.

Condition

The device's history and physical state help you judge likely wear, battery health, and whether the purchase suits your needs.

New
A device sold without prior consumer use generally avoids wear from previous riding, though storage can still affect its battery.
Used
A previously owned device may show wear or reduced battery capacity, so checking its operation and included accessories matters.
Refurbished
A previously owned or returned device has been checked and, if needed, repaired for resale, with standards that vary by seller.

Power supply

How the radar receives electricity determines what you need to keep it running and whether installation involves electrical connections.

Built-in rechargeable battery
An internal battery powers the radar independently of the bike and needs recharging between rides as its charge runs low.
E-bike power supply
Power from a compatible electric bike system runs the radar, reducing separate charging but requiring a suitable electrical connection.

Mounting location

Where the radar attaches affects mount compatibility, rearward visibility, and possible interference from bags or other accessories.

Seatpost
Mounting on the tube beneath the saddle places the radar behind the rider, but a saddle bag or low saddle can limit clearance.
Saddle rails
Mounting to the supports beneath the saddle keeps the seatpost clear but requires space around the rails and any saddle bag.
Luggage rack
Mounting on the bike's cargo carrier keeps the radar off the seatpost but requires a compatible bracket and a clear view behind.

Compatible seatpost shape

Matching the mount to your seatpost's cross-sectional profile helps keep the radar secure and correctly aimed behind the bike.

Round
A mount designed for a circular seatpost grips its curved surface to help keep the radar from slipping or turning.
D-shaped
A mount designed for a seatpost with a flat side and a curved side helps the radar sit securely against that profile.
Aero
A mount designed for a streamlined seatpost accommodates an elongated profile, but fit still depends on the post's specific shape.

Available video resolutions

The recording detail options affect how clearly footage can show vehicles and road features, as well as how much storage it uses.

HD 720p
A basic high-definition recording option captures general road activity with less fine detail than higher-resolution settings.
Full HD 1080p
Provides detailed video for reviewing road incidents, though clarity also depends on lighting and camera quality.
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