Adventure cycling has been the adventure sport of choice for many adrenaline-junkies. The revenue from the global Mountain Bike market is set to reach $3585 million by 2026. If you’re looking to go outdoors, a bicycle video camera helps you create some beautiful memories. Want to know which one’s a good bicycle video camera for you? Here are some choices.
Part 1: Bicycle Videos Camera to Capture Your Ride
1. AKASO V50 Pro
The AKASO V50 Pro is a budget-friendly bicycle video camera that has a resolution of 20 MP. With a built-in Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS), it can detect changes in position and motion. Thus, even if you’re cycling through rocky terrain, this camera can produce stable videos. Other features such as built-in WiFi and HDMI Output allow users to connect their phones to their cameras via the app iSmart Pro+ and to the TV, respectively, to transfer photos and videos hassle-free.
Key Features
- 4K/30 FPS footage
- 6-axis gyroscope
- Adjustable viewing of the angles
- Waterproof case in the package
Why We Liked It - Its external storage is expandable up to 64 GB which allows you to take numerous photos and videos. It also offers features such as slow-motion and blur, helping create exciting and impactful videos.
2. Garmin Virb Ultra 30
The Garmin Virb Ultra 30 is a high-end action camera known for its Ultra HD and crystal clear resolution. A built-in GPS and voice-control feature make it the perfect new generation camera. You can shoot videos hands-free by commanding the device to start and stop the recording. It also comes with an accelerometer, altimeter, gyroscope, and compass to help generate your stats. WiFi connectivity makes it capable of connecting to other devices and applications.
Key Features
- Voice Control
- 4K/30 FPS footage, 1080p/120 FPS, 720p/240 FPS for slow motion
- Versatile external sensors for stats
- 3-axis image stabilizer
Why We Liked It - This action camera is compatible with other third-party batteries. They are also compatible with all GoPro Mounts.
3. GoPro Hero 9
The GoPro 9 is a top-of-the-range and one of the most well-renowned action cameras. With its 5K resolution, it is a class apart when it comes to image quality. Its HyperSmooth 3.0 feature excels at stabilizing footages, while TimeWarp 3.0 produces phenomenal time-lapse scenes.
Key Features
- 5K Videos
- Webcam for live streaming
- Waterproof
- 8x Slow Motion
Why We Liked It - The “Hindsight” feature lets you capture moments 30 seconds before pressing the button. With a highly customizable front screen, you can choose to mold it the way you wish to by having it on widescreen, fullscreen, or classic mode. (You May Like: Top 10 GoPro Alternatives for All Your Needs）
4. Olympus TG-Tracker Camera
Olympus made its debut into the action camera market with this camera, and it did so with a bang. Its camcorder-like design contrasts the box design preferred by other action cameras. These devices specialize in being ‘Tough’ and are completely waterproof and shockproof. It has a small LED lamp that helps produce better quality videos in the dark.
Key Features
- Waterproof and shockproof
- 128 GB Flash Drive
Why We Like It - You can use a particular setting that captures a frame every half setting. Doing so helps produce crisp, still images.
5. What should I look for in a cycling camera?
Flamboyant features in cameras might sway you from focusing on the appropriate specifications. Here are certain non-negotiable elements that you must consider when purchasing a cycling camera:
Video Quality
If you wish to produce videos of professional standards, you must invest in cameras that offer superior video quality. You can go for 4K for the best results, however, most displays are incapable of reproducing it. A 1080p FHD is ideal for those who wish to use the camera as a hobby.
The primary feature of any action camera is image stabilization, as you cannot get a good biking video without it. The bumps on the road or the track can make your recordings excessively shaky. Often, people sacrifice higher resolutions for better image stabilization.
Size & Weight
Action cameras are generally mounted on the head or the handlebar. A heavyweight camera can be highly discomforting, especially when mounted on the helmet. Thus, you must make sure that your camera is lightweight.
Battery life
You wouldn’t want your camera to stop working due to a low battery while recording your bike ride. Unfortunately, most high-quality cameras do not last beyond 4 hours. This is because smaller cameras with power-packed lenses tend to use more battery. If you do not require your videos to be high-end in quality, you can go for models that compromise resolution and fancier features for better battery life.
Waterproof
Most action cameras are equipped to handle medium-light rain or a splash of water since these are the two things cyclists experience frequently. Some cameras are waterproof and have depth capabilities. More expensive market models have an impermeable construction.
Storage Space
Videos recorded for long periods in High Definition or 4K will undoubtedly be big files, taking up a lot of space. Therefore, action cameras must have suitable storage spaces and expandable memory.
Part 2：Best Cycling Cameras for Safety
Cycling at late hours can make female cyclists feel unsafe. Adding to that, cyclists are often accident-prone. With technology, you can counter such adversities.
Here are some cameras that specialize in offering safety to their users:
1. Fly6 rear bicycle camera
The Fly6 rear bicycle camera is a cut above the rest when it comes to action cameras. It has a massive battery life of 7 hours. Its black box incident allows smart video looping, which means you are unlikely to run out of storage. Its 100-Lumen Light increases the visibility of the rider. The smart device automatically accesses the HomeSafe mode when the battery is running low.
Key Features
- 7-hour battery life in camera only mode
- Strava Integration
- ANT+
- Bike Alarm
Why We Like It - The wide-angle lens of the camera successfully captures both sides of the road. This can make the rider aware of any potential threat.
Hexagon rearview bike camera
Car accidents occurring from the back are commonplace. HEXAGON strives to control this in any country by displaying the traffic behind you on the screen. You can connect it to your smartphone to avail this.
Key Features
- Live Streaming
- In-built automatic turn and braking lights
- Automatically notifies your emergency contacts during an accident
Why We Like It - Apart from solving all the problems that come with having to cycle on a busy street, HEXAGON also happens to be power-packed with stats that track distance traveled and fitness activity, making it one of the most versatile cameras for cycling.
Fly12 CE Bike Camera with Safety Lights
The Fly12 CE Bike Camera comes with an incredibly bright 600-lumen front light that can help you see clearly in the dark. A massive battery of 8 hours (camera mode only) makes it a reliable device to have during longer trips.
Key Features
- 8-hour battery life (camera mode only)
- Black box incident protection technology
- Strava Integration
- In-built alarm
Why We Like It - This device works in both HDR and IS modes. You can shoot at 30 FPS for the former and 60 FPS for the latter. Unlike its predecessors, the FLY12 CE is lightweight and has a good grip.
