Garmin Radar Tether

[LTalou]

Here’s an idea to eliminate the concern for a Garmin radar unit popping off while riding. Tethers can be purchased, however, tethers were out of stock when I wanted one. Here’s a way to make your own.
Parts & Tools needed:
(1) Steel Grip Cable Mounting Base with adhesive backing
Dremel tool or equivalent
Cutting disk
Sanding disk or arbor band
Tether strap

Method:
1. Cut the mounting base in half with a rotary cutting disk
2. Smooth edges with arbor band
3. Bevel the uncut (long side) that will be positioned opposite the radar locking disk.
(See photo). The bevel is circular to match the radar unit’s circular locking mechanism. The circular bevel is necessary to be able to lock the radar unit to the bike.
4. Check the fit of the modified based by placing it passively on the back of the unit. Smooth and bevel as needed
5. Ensure that the rubber charging door can open.
6. Remove the backing from the modified cable mount and press onto the back of the radar unit. No going back once it’s attached, although I was able to modify the bevel with an arbor band without destroying the back of the radar unit.
7. Attach tether strap. I had one at home. Sorry, I don’t have the exact source but tethers can be found online.
8. Loop the strap around the bike seat rails and loop the radar unit through the loop in the strap.
9. Attach the radar unit to your bike. Easy on off for charging, too.
10. Go ride, have fun and don’t worry about the radar unit falling off and loosing it.
Disclaimer: Please forgive any typos, grammar or likeness to another design. It’s not my intention to copy, only to improve on any previous iterations.

 

[DiggyGun]

Easier and neater for me to use a clip on case with a tether strap already fitted.

DG…

 

[juggernaut]

Easier and neater for me to use a clip on case with a tether strap already fitted.
View attachment 159882

DG…

What I have too. Also have the Garmin protective case and tether on the 830 headunit.

 

[fooferdoggie]

the only time I had it come off when the trailer I was pulling hit it. we are talking about 30,000 miles of use. if the mount get lose get a replacement insert.

 

[DiggyGun]

the only time I had it come off when the trailer I was pulling hit it. we are talking about 30,000 miles of use. if the mount get lose get a replacement insert.

My first Garmin Radar (RVR315) flew itself off the rear mount on a muddy track once. Although it was tethered using one of the rubber bands, it still parted company. good job Mrs DG saw it come off, as I didn’t know it had gone.

When got home, I used a tie wrap to fix the tether to the body and never had a problem since then. I then discovered the clip on covers with the tether and started to use these.

When I changed to Radar / Light combo (RTL515), I also got a suitable clip on cover at the same time.

One thing I find strange with Garmin. They put a hole on the Varia Radar Display Unit for a tether, but not on the Rear Radar unit.

Apart from that, they are very good.

DG…

 

[EMGX]

If the clip on case with tether hadn't been available when I bought my 515 I would have tried a DIY solution like the OP but the tether cases were readily available when I bought the radar back in April.
Even if it is unlikely to lose a radar from the mount (but it happens as noted from above posters) why risk a $200 device when a $10 solution is available? That makes no sense.

As an aside, what a great safety device in addition to a mirror. I bought mine on an impulse when it was on sale for $150 but now don't ride without it, even on MUPs where it helps with awareness of other bikers coming up from behind. The flashing tail light is excellent also and it has very good battery capacity.

 

[Ben J]

My first Garmin Radar (RVR315) flew itself off the rear mount on a muddy track once

That seems like worst case: The one model that has no light, and (apparently) a head unit that doesn't complain if it disconnects. I doubt I could lose my 515 off my Tero X because it would beep at me when it lost connection and then I'd find it blinking in the ditch.

 

[DiggyGun]

That seems like worst case: The one model that has no light, and (apparently) a head unit that doesn't complain if it disconnects. I doubt I could lose my 515 off my Tero X because it would beep at me when it lost connection and then I'd find it blinking in the ditch.

Fortunately, Mrs DG was right behind and saw it happen, so stopped immediately to pick it up. Probably only gone about a yard or two.

Put it back on and continued the ride.

DG…