The Techalogic CR-1 is a compact device that combines a rear light and camera. It can record incidents in full 1080P HD quality and has a wide-angle lens of 120 degrees. It also has 6 different lighting options that can be adjusted depending on the time of day and can be configured using the RICAM app on your smartphone.
TECHALOGIC CR1 REAR LIGHT AND CAMERA: CONSTRUCTION
The Techalogic CR-1 is a compact and versatile bike camera that can be mounted in various positions using GoPro fixings. It comes with two seat post mounts that fit 27.2mm and 30.9mm posts, and measures 80mm by 47mm by 27mm, weighing 120 grams.
The package includes a comprehensive set of fittings and tools, as well as a 64GB micro SD card. The camera and light unit are well-built and weather-resistant with three buttons for power, light mode, and still photos, and a USB port and micro SD card slot under a weatherproof flap.
To customise settings, the RICAM app can be downloaded and linked to the camera via WiFi.
One useful feature is the ability to view the camera’s angle through the app. Once mounted, the camera can be easily powered on and the light mode can be chosen with the buttons on the side. A green LED beneath the lens indicates recording.
THE RIDE
The Techalogic CR1 produces clear and detailed images during the day, making it easy to read car number plates and see the road behind. Although the image quality may not be as high as the more expensive Garmin Varia RCT715, it is still suitable for evidential purposes and is much more affordable. At night, the camera is able to capture clear images on roads with street lighting, but struggles in very dark areas. This suggests that it is better suited for city or daytime riding. The camera also has the ability to time and date stamp the recordings.
The solid light mode has a brightness of 60 lumens, which is better than the Cateye LD610, but not as bright as the Garmin Varia RCT715 or other high-end lights. The microphone does pick up sound, but road noise can be quite dominant in the recording. It may not be able to capture your voice if you’re talking while riding. The micro SD card can be a little difficult to remove due to the flap, but it is designed to be a “fit and forget” item, recording in a loop until you need to extract it.
VALUE AND CONCLUSION
The Techalogic CR-1 offers excellent value for money, as it is priced at only one-third of the cost of the Garmin Varia RCT715. While the Garmin unit does have additional features such as a radar, the Techalogic CR-1 is still a great option for those who want to be seen and record their journey without breaking the bank. The Techalogic CR-1 can be purchased on Amazon or directly from Techalogic.
SPECIFICATION
- 1920 x 1080 @ 30 fps Resolution
- H.264 encoding
- 120 degrees sensor viewing angle
- AVI Video File Type
- Loop recording
- Date and time stamping
- 60 Lumen light: 6 light modes available, various flashing or solid.
- Micro USB charging
- Battery Capacity 1500mAh. Up to 6 hours runtime with LED. Over 7 Hours recording with LED off
- IPX5 water resistant – Weatherproof and shock resistant. Water resistant for any weather, and extremely durable.
- G sensor option. In an incident the camera will recognise the impact and auto lock that all important video file so it cannot be over written.
- WiFi/app-controlled. Easily change settings. Check and download your videos on your mobile device
- Dimensions: 80mm by 47mm by 27mm. 120 Grams / 4.5oz