If you’re a proud motorcycle owner, you should consider buying a GoPro.
If you want a camera that can capture the beautiful scenery you ride through, or just as a means to capture the cars and traffic in case of an accident, GoPro is your best bet.
This article lists some of the best GoPro cameras for motorcycle owners and explains why we think they are good choices for you.
Let’s jump right in and see why they excel.
Contents
Who Should Get This
If you own a motorcycle, you need to buy yourself a GoPro. No matter if you ride every day, on the weekends, or once a month, being able to record your next trip will make it that much more enjoyable.
These cameras are also great options for those who want to vlog on the road. That may not be the main use for everyone, but the durable GoPros sound great no matter where you or how hard you ride.
Best GoPro for Motorcycle: Our Picks
If you need a good camera while you ride your motorcycle, the following models are the best of the best.
1. Hero7 White
- Best For: Overall
- Key Features: Strong, waterproof design. Full HD video. Photo timer. Video stabilization. Long lasting battery. 10MP photos.
- Weight: 4.16 ounces
- Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, WiFi
- Video Capture Resolution: 1080P
The Hero7 White is an excellent GoPro for riding because it does a good job of mixing power, toughness, and quality. Not only is it fully waterproof, giving you the ability to film on rainy days, but its rugged shell can take a lot of use outside without wearing down.
The video stabilization here is also excellent, and you can even take 10MP photos in normal or burst mode. The ability to shoot vertically works for when you’re not on your bike, and the touch screen offers a ton of functionality you won’t find in similar cameras.
That being said, this does have its own limitations. There’s no 4K video, and the frame rate tops out at 60. You still get quality, but you’re paying for the versatility here more than anything else.
2. GoPro Max
- Best For: 360 Video
- Key Features: 3-in-1 design. PowerPano technology. Horizontal leveling and live 1080P streaming. Max HyperSmooth.
- Weight: 5.43 ounces
- Battery Life: 78 minutes
- Video Capture Resolution: 1080P
If you’re interested in shooting something a little bit different, the GoPro Max is an excellent 360-degree camera. This model brings an entirely new level to your shots, offering full 360 visual and audio capabilities. It has unmatched video stabilization as well.
That’s then backed by PowerPano and Horizon Leveling technology. Both of those come together to give you amazing shots in a range of different environments. This has a true cinematic look, which is something you can’t always get when riding around.
The biggest issue with this unique camera is the low light capabilities. It’s not the best option for people who want to go out in the evening or early morning. The regular non-360 shooting could be better too.
3. Hero9 Black
- Best For: Resolution
- Key Features: Live stream capabilities. Stunning resolution. Great image stabilization. Portable. HyperSmooth 3.0
- Weight: 0.70 pounds
- Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth
- Video Capture Resolution: 5K
With the Hero9 Black, 5K never looked better. This model is all about the resolution, an area where it shines in a variety of different environments. Not only is it clear, but you get stellar results in different lighting conditions. It even holds up when zoomed in or out.
Of course, there are great GoPro features too. The 20MP photo with SuperPhoto is great when you aren’t recording, and the front display with a rear touch screen means you can use it in a variety of different conditions. There’s also HyperSmooth 3.0 and TimeWarp 3.0.
The only issue some riders may have with this option is that it’s slightly larger than other models. It’s not too bulky, but the bigger display might be too much for some.
4. GoPro H7 Black
- Best For: Lightweight
- Key Features: Streamlined build. Time Warp Video and Super Photo. Tough design. Waterproof shell. 12MP photos.
- Weight: 4.2 ounces
- Image Capture Speed: 12MP
- Video Capture Resolution: 4K
The H7 Black is an older GoPro model. Even so, it delivers a stellar mix of specs, durability, and power. It’s a tough device. The rugged exterior can take a beating out in the elements, while the waterproof shell can be submerged down to 33 feet without any additional housing.
In terms of shots, the 4K quality is perfectly backed by both Time Warp and Hypersmooth video stabilization. The 12MP photos are a nice bonus for when you aren’t riding, as is the included SD card. This is a great combination of quality and internal power.
This is a great choice for shorter rides, but the lower battery life means it’s not the best choice for longer trips. If you are taking it on an extended ride, have a charger or pack at the ready.
5. Hero10 Black
- Best For: Power
- Key Features: GP2 engine. High-res photos and videos. HyperSmooth 4.0 and strong connectivity. Powerful specs.
- Weight: 1.01 pounds
- Connectivity Technology: WiFi
- Video Capture Resolution: 2880P
If you’re after the best of the best, it’s hard to find better specs than the Hero10 Black. This GoPro goes a long way in terms of image quality and stabilization. The high-res videos and photos look incredible, and the HyperSmooth 4.0 lives up to expectations.
You can capture everything in crisp, stunning detail. The water-shedding hydrophobic lens cover actively repels water for those that like to ride in the rain, while the tough outer shell ensures you can take this on many rides without it ever breaking down.
Just note that, as this is one of the newest GoPros on the market, it’s one of the pricier models. You get a lot for that higher tag, but it’s still something to keep in mind when searching for your next camera.
6. Hero5 Black
- Best For: Budget
- Key Features: Stunning video quality. High frame rate and durable shell. Waterproof (33ft). Multiple shooting modes.
- Weight: 11.2 ounces
- Battery Life: 90 minutes
- Video Capture Resolution: 4K
If you want a good GoPro that won’t cost you an arm and a leg, the Hero5 Black is an older model that still delivers. It comes with 4K video, as well as 12MP photos. There are also three different (Single, Burst, Time Lapse) modes for when you want more options.
There’s a good amount of durability here. The shell can take a hit or be exposed to the open air without any problems, and it’s also waterproof down to 33 feet. A great model that you can take out just about anywhere.
The biggest con you’ll find with this model when compared to other top-of-the-line GoPros is the battery life. It lasts a good while, but you’re going to need a charger if you want to take it on even medium-length trips.
Picking a GoPro for Motorcycle: What to Consider
Durability
If you plan on taking your GoPro on your motorcycle, whether you mount it on your bike or on your helmet, durability is key. Not only does the shell need to stand up to the wind and high speeds, but it also helps to have something that won’t break if you drop it or it falls off.
Battery Life
If you plan on taking nice long rides on your motorcycle, you need a camera with great battery life. Nothing’s worse than going on a long, beautiful joy ride only to find out that your camera died halfway through.
Max Frame Rate
The last thing that you need to think about when picking your GoPro its max frame rate. The higher the frame rate goes, the more smooth the slow-motion footage will be. There’s nothing like a perfectly shot slow-motion video, especially when taken from the back of a bike.
If you were to prioritize the above three categories, durability should be at the top of the list. Behind that, good battery life, there’s no point in using a camera that dies quickly, and then max frame rate at the back of the pack.
Other Tips and Guides
If you plan on mounting your GoPro to your motorcycle helmet, you need to get a helmet mounting kit. This will give you everything you need to put your GoPro on either the top or the side of your helmet. That’s key in keeping the camera out of your way. It also helps capture stable footage.
If you would rather mount your GoPro to the motorcycle itself, grab the handlebar mount instead. That will allow you to clamp your GoPro right on the handlebars of your bike and capture awesome video from an entirely new angle.
Final Words
There are many great GoPro options for those who like to ride. The four above cameras above all have great qualities, and they would all make great companions for your motorcycle trips.
Never miss another awesome moment while out on a drive. Record it all with your GoPro camera!
What kind of motorcycle do you ride? Do you ever use a camera while out and about? Let us know in the comments below!
