When an accident occurs, a recording is always required to confirm the information. DVRs are usually used for this, but what if you have to drive a motorcycle? For this purpose, action cameras have been created that allow you to record not only the most unexpected situations, but also simply capture beautiful moments. Such a device is quite easy to attach to a motorcycle helmet. Thanks to the waterproof box, you can record in the rain without worrying about the device breaking.
This article presents the five best models that will be an assistant on Russian roads.
Criteria for choosing a motorcycle recorder
Every year the manufacturer improves the functionality and reliability of its DVRs, so the market for motorcycle products is huge. The bikers themselves and the conditions under which they use motorcycles allow us to put forward certain requirements for a normal device for video recording:
- small dimensions and weight;
- protection from shocks and falls;
- excellent video recording;
- ability to record video at an angle of 360 degrees;
- Record video with current date and time.
Other mandatory requirements include good sensitivity when recording, the presence of mounts for the steering wheel or helmet, as well as a sufficient level of tightness. Such an indicator as the viewing level plays an important role, despite the recommendation to record video at an angle of 360 degrees, the optimal option would be a viewing angle of no more than 100 degrees. A higher number will have a bad effect on the quality of the video.
Good video resolution and frame rate are simply a must for many recorders, but here you will also have to look at the cost of the device, because in this case it will be quite expensive to buy a recorder for a motorcycle. The next indicator is resistance to vibrations and falls. When driving fast or frequently traveling on rough roads, a bad camera will not be able to clearly record a specific moment. And when using the recorder on bicycles, enduro or street motorcycles, you will need to provide the camera with reliable protection. An action camera for a motorcycle will be an excellent option for most cases; it records in high resolution, has a protective box and all kinds of mountings.
And the last important point when choosing a recording device is the battery. During the trip, the recorder should quietly record video for several hours. Be sure to stock up on a memory card with a large amount of memory.
What to look for when choosing a motorcycle camera?
Choosing the right motorcycle sports camera should depend on several factors. First of all, pay attention to the image resolution that this camera offers. The best are devices with 4K resolution.
Recording at 60fps or 30fps allows for smooth images even at higher speeds. Image stabilization is extremely important in motorcycle cameras. Thus, the frames are almost motionless.
Even if you are driving on uneven surfaces, the camera can handle it. Typically, special suspensions are used for stabilization. In this case there is no such need.
When choosing a camera for your motorcycle, be sure to choose an additional bracket that will allow you to mount it on a motorcycle helmet or handlebars. Many manufacturers add such accessories to the kit.
Action camera - ideal
In general, an action camera is considered a universal device for shooting video; it is actively used for recording extreme videos, traveling, just amateur photography and, of course, as a recorder for a motorcycle. In appearance, this is a completely ordinary camera with a standard design, but its characteristics and quality will surprise anyone. The basic requirements for an action camera are to have maximum protection from moisture and mechanical damage and record video in good quality, usually at least 720p.
A large number of action cameras makes you think about choosing a suitable device. Try to pay attention to the above parameters and the manufacturer; you often come across models that only imitate a real Action camera. And if you have a sufficient amount of money and want to get the highest quality and well-known device for your motorcycle, buy a Go Pro camera version 3 and higher. Many other cameras may be small in size and have a waterproof and sealed housing.
Recommended Motorcycle Helmet Cameras
GoPro Hero 7
A GoPro camera is a great choice for a motorcycle helmet. Recording in 4K resolution and 60 fps makes every detail clearly visible. In addition, the manufacturer offers proprietary image stabilization, which works very well in everyday use.
The body of this sports camera is completely waterproof, so you can travel with it in the rain without fear. If you want to share your recordings with loved ones, GoPro Hero 7 also offers this feature.
Technical data
- resolution: 4K
- Frame rate: 60fps
- display: 2 inches
- battery: 1220 mAh
Xiaoyi YI 4K+
The YI 4K+ camera is a worthy competitor to the market-dominant GoPro. First of all, the sports camera is almost half the price of the previously presented model.
4K recordings look very good. Credit goes to digital image stabilization. The manufacturer has not forgotten about the use of additional functions, such as voice control or camera control via phone.
Technical data
- resolution: 4K
- Frame rate: 60fps
- screen: 2 inches
- battery: 1200 mAh
DJI Osmo Action
DJI is known for making great drones, but you can find a very good sports camera in their offering. The original image stabilization system, which is no worse than in GoPro cameras, should stimulate the purchase. The front panel display allows instant viewing. It is worth adding that the case is resistant to water and scratches. Creative shooting modes mean anyone can create professional-looking footage while riding a motorcycle.
Technical data
- resolution: 4K
- screen: 2.25 inches
- battery: 1300 mAh
Lamax X9.1
Do you need a cheaper camera to record what's happening on the road? Lamax X9.1 is ideal for this role. Full HD recording at 60 frames per second is sufficient for clear, clutter-free images. The camera comes with mounts, a remote control and a waterproof case. It's hard to find a better inexpensive motorcycle helmet camera.
Technical data
- Resolution: Full HD
- Frame rate: 60fps
- battery: 1050 mAh
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Mounting methods
Before purchasing a camera for shooting, be sure to decide where you will mount it. There are three main methods of fastening:
- on the driver's helmet;
- behind the windshield;
- directly to the frame.
A helmet-mounted motorcycle video recorder is the most popular; it is a universal installation method. There must be a special mount, otherwise it will be impossible to install the camera on the helmet.
If the recorder has a headset and certain wires, install it on the steering wheel near the headlight, but just make sure that the mounting is as secure as possible and that the viewing angle is correct. And again, the best option would be to buy a standard Go Pro action camera or a similar model. It operates autonomously from a battery, has a small display for watching videos, and the manufacturer includes a variety of mounts for handlebars, helmets, and others.
Which action camera to choose for a motorcycle?
The number of car recorders available on the market is impressive. However, they are not the best choice for a motorcycle. These devices are not waterproof and are designed for windshield installation.
Dash cams often do not have built-in image stabilization, which is necessary on a motorcycle.
Sports cameras are a much better choice. They have a waterproof body and are not afraid of shocks. While the GoPro brand is still the leader, you can also find quality action cameras from Sony, DJI, SJCAM, TomTom, Olympus, Ricoh, Xiaomi and many other cheaper brands.
action camera
Before purchasing, check to see if your camera is compatible with GoPro accessories. This will give you access to a whole host of additional details.
Best for Sports and Travel: GoPro Hero8 Black
The best action camera from a popular manufacturer with advanced stabilization and video quality in a protected, waterproof case.
Pros:
- Stabilization at 4K resolution up to 60 fps.
- Rugged waterproof housing.
- Clear LCD touch screen.
- Built-in mount.
- User-friendly interface.
- Recharges via USB-C.
- Application with automatic editing.
- Expansion system Mod.
May not like:
- Transferring video over Wi-Fi takes a lot of time.
- Small slot for memory cards.
Prices for Yandex.Market
GoPro Hero8 Black
Best Budget Camera: GoPro Hero7 Black
It has stabilization when shooting 4K 60 fps video and supports live video broadcasting.
Pros:
- Compact, durable housing.
- Protection from water up to 10 m depth.
- 4K 60 fps recording with stabilization.
- Supports video shooting up to 240 fps at 1080p resolution.
- Voice control.
- Smartphone application with streaming support.
May not like:
- Autonomy could be better.
- Transferring files over Wi-Fi can take a long time.
Prices for Yandex.Market
GoPro Hero7 Black
What is such electronics?
“Motorcycle” recorders are also used on other similar vehicles - attached to the handlebars of a bicycle, ATV, or buggy. Also, reviews on YouTube show that this technique is sometimes used by car drivers.
Features of such devices:
- waterproof housing (primarily this applies to cameras, because the control unit can be hidden in “secluded” places);
- immunity to constant vibration or strong shaking;
- lightness and compact dimensions (especially if the model is designed to be mounted on top of a helmet);
- reliable fastening.
The recorder can be mounted: on the front fender (the preferred option), on a windshield or on a helmet.
Wireless control
An action camera mounted on a helmet or on the front of a motorcycle can be difficult to operate, so remote control capability is a necessary feature. Some motorcycle action cameras have additional remote controls or wristbands that can activate the camera and allow recording.
Some watches are equipped with a small screen that allows you to view the material live - this is very convenient.
Another solution to the problem is simply connecting to Wi-Fi. Then you just need to connect the action camera to your smartphone (using a special application) to be able to fully control it.
