Sports Cameras for Motorcycle Helmets

A helmet camera is the perfect accessory to capture a rider's tricks, stunts and experiences. Helmet cameras record a rider's point of view for a thrilling perspective. They can be used to make videos or movies, or to analyse individual riders' performances from their own viewpoint. Helmet cameras are small devices that are attached to a motorcycle helmet. The devices feature hooks and clamps that are used to secure the camera onto helmets. They are designed specifically for sport, which means they are durable and effective thanks to image stabilisation, shock-resistant and water-resistant features. Sports cameras can also be attached to a bike's handlebar. Choosing a sports camera for a motorcycle helmet often depends on a number of factors, including size and cost.

Types of Mounted Cameras

Mounting systems for sports cameras use either suction cups or straps. Suction cups allow the camera to be attached anywhere on the motorcycle helmet. Generally, they are designed to remain attached even at high speeds. Brackets or screws are also incorporated to secure the camera to the helmet. By comparison, strap mounted cameras are fitted over the helmet. Straps are tightened to secure the camera onto the motorbike helmet.

A front helmet mount camera provides the closest account of a rider's experience from their own perspective. Cameras can be adjusted against the helmet, giving viewers almost an exact vantage point from what a rider experiences. Cameras can also be angled out and away from the helmet. For example, the camera can be angled downward to see a rider's face and expressions during a trick or ride.

A side mount camera brings the viewer along on a ride or stunt. This perspective gives viewers the impression that they are riding alongside the bike. This type of camera is attached to the side of the helmet rather than the front. Other models are designed with different mounts so that they can be attached to the front, side or back of a helmet. These versatile devices are great for capturing different angles when creating movies.

Common Features

A common feature of helmet cameras is their ease of use. Once fitted, users typically do not need to adjust any settings found on ordinary camcorders, such as zoom or focus. Their bare-bones design also means there are few accessories, such as a LDC screen. Cameras are also fitted with microphones. These devices generally have limited features typically limited to power and record buttons. Cameras are available in standard and high definition formats, with HD formats best suited for riders who want to create professional-looking videos. In terms of memory, most helmet cameras feature a removable memory card that is compatible with SDHC or microSD memory card formats. Helmet cameras are also shock and water resistant. Waterproof cameras are also available to provide greater protection.

Certain helmet camera models also incorporate more advanced features, such as GPS for geo-tagging videos or Bluetooth for streaming and previewing videos. Other cameras may feature a remote. Sports cameras also have the ability to take still photographs. Like regular cameras, devices are available in a wide range of megapixels. The higher the megapixel, the greater the quality of the image. Wireless or Wi-Fi remotes can be used to switch the device from video to photo mode when trying to capture still photographs. This avoids riders from having to fiddle with camera controls while riding their motorbike. More advanced cameras may also have a built-in LCD screen for video playback.

Common Characteristics

Not all cameras have the same field of view. Certain cameras feature a narrow field of view with just 50 degrees, while others offer up to 170 degrees. To catch surrounding action, opt for a helmet camera with a larger field of view. The size of helmet cameras also varies. Compact sports cameras are lightweight and feature integrated systems within a single unit. Two-piece cameras have a separate recording device that is connected to the camera with a cable. These cameras have better optics for higher quality videos. A downside of a two-piece camera is that they are bulkier and the cable can get caught.

Choosing a Helmet Camera

Leading manufacturers of helmet cameras include GoPro, Drift and Liquid Image. Other manufactures of sport helmet cameras include Contour, VholdR, Tachyon XC, Hoyttech, Epic Cams and Oregon Scientific. When choosing a camera, look at product reviews and comparisons or speak to experts in shops that sell sporting goods, motorcycles or cameras. Setting a budget will also help with narrowing down options. While many entry-level cameras might sell for about £50, professional cameras may sell for over £1,000 pounds. Other factors that will influence the choice of helmet camera include image quality (that is, HD or standard definition and number of megapixels), as well as the size and weight of the device.

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