Tips on Buying a Cycling Camera

There are a variety of durable and sport specific cameras available that are commonly being used in the cycling world. Whether you are on the trails or recording for added safety, there are many models of camera that are designed to suit your needs. Cameras can be worn on the helmet, in a chest harness, or on the handlebars of the bicycle. If you are considering the purchase of a camera to utilise while cycling, you may want to consider a few things before you buy.

With the advancement of the technology for cameras, video, and storage, the wide variety of cameras available with have significant range in price and capability.  Beyond the quality of the camera technology, there are other features that can increase the price but may be necessary for cameras used while cycling. Cameras or mounting systems that are waterproof, shock resistant, and otherwise able to resist the elements the camera once you have determined your budget for this purchase will be, you will have to weigh the features and quality you have to have in order to accomplish your needs and those that are unnecessary.

With the variety of cameras available you will want to consider whether you are purchasing a camera for recording the sport of monitoring your safety while cycling or commuting. Differences between the models that are most successful for one use or the other include aspects such as the video quality, storage capacity, and method of storage. Cameras designed to capture landscapes and action, or sport cams, will might have higher definition video and save the footage directly onto an SD card. Cameras designed to record for commuters, to monitor traffic, might include the capacity to record sound and record on a continuous loop on various cards in order to ensure you can maintain any important footage like that of an accident. Depending on the use of the camera you will want to determine the most effective place to mount the camera, a sport oriented camera might be best attached to the handlebars where one used for safety may want to be able to record what you are seeing and should be mounted on your head or to a helmet.

 

Depending on your intended use for the camera you will want to consider whether you need to purchase the hardware to mount it appropriately separately, or if this is included as a part of the camera. Cameras that are designed to face forward from handlebars, or ones that face backwards from the seat, will require different equipment to mount them appropriately. This can make a big difference in the price of the entire set up, and should therefore be a part of the decision when purchasing the camera.

You will want to consider the quality of the cameras lens and the footage it records, which can affect the quality of the resulting video. Numerous factors can affect the quality of the video, including the lens itself and the system through which it records. Typically, as you seek higher definition video with clearer picture, the price of the camera will increase accordingly. Even the way in which you mount the camera will have an effect on the video quality, whether or not the image is going to be shaky or whether it will maintain a single angle or adjust based on your movements. Ask yourself what your purpose for the video ultimately is, and determine which model camera and mounting option will best suit your needs.

Many cameras designed for use in an athletic activity can be waterproof or shockproof, and you will want to consider if these are going to be necessary. Some cameras themselves have these qualities built into their designs, and some require an extra waterproof or impact resistant housing in which they are kept while in use. The durability of the camera itself is an important consideration when purchasing a new camera to use while cycling. Basically, if you are going to be using the camera while cycling you will likely need to ensure it is not going to be damaged by getting wet from any potential rain.

There is newer technology available, typically at a higher cost, such as cameras that are built into sunglasses or other eye wear. You can have multiple cameras linked to a single storage device or system, or even get recorded automatically into an on line or cloud storage space. This type of technology is rapidly developing and is certainly worth considering if you will be using a camera and cycling often.

With the many options for cameras to use while cycling, you should give careful consideration when making the purchase. There are many factors to consider such as your available budget, the quality of the camera’s technology, the warranties that come with the product, and the durability of the camera will all impact the decision. Once a decision has been made, you can be confident with your purchase and will be able to quickly enjoy its use while cycling.