In this article: We examine some of the top dash cameras designed for use on motorcycles, scooters, golf carts, and all sorts of other ATVs. We will explain how a dash camera on a motorcycle works, what to look for when shopping for a motorcycle dash cam and give you some detailed descriptions of the motorcycle dash cameras that we think are good options.
How We Choose
Our extensive experiences with automotive dash cameras gave us an advantage when looking at the various products on the market. There are certain technologies that set regular dash cams apart, and so we looked for motorcycle cams with similar features. We then used hands-on reviews, information from riders who actually use these cameras, and the information provided by the manufacturers to determine the pros and cons of the products.
Best Motorcycle Dash Camera Picks
We are going to break this list down into three parts. We found that there are a couple of variations out there that can make a difference in the system you choose. First, we will look at our top picks, then we will look at some lower cost options. Finally, we will also explore the features of cameras that mount to the rider's helmet.
These are the best cameras on the market right now but are also at the top of the price range.
Looking for more stuff for your motorcycle? Check out these lists!
Best Overall Motorcycle Dash Camera System: Kenwood STZ-RF200WD
Key Features:
- 195-degree front and rear camera system
- 1920×1080 resolution, 27.5 FPS
- 2 mp CMOS sensor
- Image Stabilization Recording
- IP66/67 component ratings
- Up to 256 mb card capacity
- Time lapse, impact, manual modes
- GPS and G-sensor built-in
- Video files viewable on app
Latest Prices
Kenwood STZ-RF200WD Review
The Kenwood STZ-RF200WD is a two-channel system that is designed to be discreetly mounted to motorcycles, scooters, and other ATVs. It uses front and rear mini-cams that connect to a control box and has a remote trigger for entering manual recording mode.
The front and rear camera both capture video in 1920x1080p resolution at 27.5 frames per second that offers a crisp video with accurate capture of fine details, like license plate numbers. Both cameras record super wide images that measure at a 195-degree angle.
This is a much wider angle than most cameras and is ideal for capturing action on the far periphery of view. It will induce a small amount of “fish bowl effect,” however when we examined video taken by the camera, the edges of the image looked surprisingly good.
The front and rear camera connect to a control box that is intended to mount beneath the seat. A control wire routes to the handle bars for triggering manual recordings. The control box also connects to an included GPS antenna for adding location data to recordings and a G-sensor for triggering event recordings on impact. The cameras, trigger, and GPS antenna all carry an IP66/67 rating to prevent dust and moisture damage. They will withstand gentle washing, rain, fog, and dust storms. The main control unit is rated at IP55, so it isn’t as well protected, but will withstand some dust and moisture. Video files are stored on a MicroSD card. Kenwood includes a 32 mb card and the system can handle up to a 256 mb card, which is highly recommended.
Reasons to Buy
- Highly detailed images and fantastic technology that sets this system apart from others
- Perfect combination of features for fun and safety
- Excellent dust and water resistance
Reasons Not to Buy
- May be somewhat difficult to find suitable mounting locations and set up
- Limited effectiveness at night or in low-light situations
Innovv K5
Key Features:
- 4k front resolution, 1080p rear @ 30FPS
- 8mp front sensor, Sony CMOS rear sensor
- IP67 dust and moisture rating
- Up to 512mp MicroSD card capacity
- Time lapse, impact, manual, and parking modes
- Loop recording
- GPS, g-sensor, dual-band Wi-Fi built-in
- Video files viewable on app
Latest Prices
Innovv K5 Review
One of the things that we’ve learned using dash cams in cars is that the higher the quality of the video, the more useful it is when identifying key details is vital, such as when an accident happens. The INNOVV K5 is one of the latest systems to hit the market and features industry-leading 4k resolution. The camera records at 30 frames per second for smooth video playback.
The rear camera captures video at 1080p. Both front and rear cameras capture at a 120-degree diagonal angle which maximizes detail capture at the expense of peripheral images. The cameras connect to a central control unit and includes a remote trigger and a GPS antenna. All the components received an IP67 rating to prevent damage from dust, dirt, and water. It’ll withstand washing and off-road riding with ease.
Dual-band Wi-Fi allows for users to easily download videos to a smartphone for review and provides access to a number of interesting features. The cameras record in time lapse, impact, and manual recording. A built-in g-sensor provides impact detection recording.
One of the unique features with this system is also one of our favorites with automotive camera systems: parking mode. The camera goes into sleep mode when the bike is turned off but will automatically start recording if an impact is detected, giving you access to images even when you aren’t riding.
The system records videos to a MicroSD card. The control box can handle up to a 515 mb card, providing you with days of recordings even though the 4k files are massive. No card is included with the package, so plan ahead and buy the largest, highest-quality card you can.
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent, high-quality image resolution that produce clear videos
- High dust & moisture rating makes this appropriate even on a boat
- Parking mode is a great addition for enhanced security
Reasons Not to Buy
- No included storage card means additional costs before you can use it
- Somewhat narrow viewing angle risks missing impacts from the side
Best Low Cost Motorcycle Dash Camera Picks
REXING MTC1
Key Features:
- 2 mp front and rear cameras with 1080p resolution @ 30FPS
- Built-in GPS, Wi-Fi, g-sensor
- 170-degree viewing angle
- Stores files on MicroSD card up to 128 gb
- Time lapse, impact, manual, and parking modes
- IP67 rating
- Loop recording
Latest Prices
REXING MTC1 Review
This camera surprised us with the range of features and functions it has at the price point. It is a two-channel design that captures a wide 170-degree front and rear angle, which is a decent compromise between fine detail and a wide view. Both front and rear cameras use a 2 mp sensor to capture 1080p resolution at 30 frames per second.
Both cameras are miniature designs that are easy to find mounting locations for, however we don’t care for the mounts themselves. They lack the ability to rotate, making it essential to get the perfect alignment when installing or the camera will not capture straight. The cameras wire to a central controller that also includes a small IPS touch screen for watching videos directly. Built-in Wi-Fi allows the device to send content to your smartphone for more convenient viewing.
The REXING system also includes a built-in GPS logger and can capture video in parking mode, a feature usually seen on more costly options. The images are stored to a MicroSD card up to 128 gb and will loop record, overwriting non-protected videos. A g-sensor will automatically save videos that are triggered by an impact.
One of our favorite things about this camera is the focus on enhancing image quality at night. Many systems don’t do well in low light, but the REXING MTC1 does a superb job of enhancing the image for better viewability. It even captures high-quality images in parking mode.
The entire system received an IP67 rating that means it’ll withstand dust and dirt along with low-pressure sprays of water. You won’t have to worry about it failing in the rain or when you are cleaning your bike.
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent features and video quality
- Weatherproof rating is perfect for motorsports
Reasons Not to Buy
- Excellent features and video quality
- Weatherproof rating is perfect for motorsports
Thinkware M1
Key Features:
- Front and rear 170-degree cameras
- 1080p resolution at 30FPS
- Built-in GPS, g-sensor, Wi-Fi
- 32gb Micro SD card storage, maximum
- Electronic Image Stabilization
- Time lapse, impact, manual modes
- IP66 rating for dust and moisture resistance
- Loop recording
- Super Night Vision
Latest Prices
Thinkware M1 Review
Thinkware makes some of our favorite dash cams for cars and we were excited to check out the M1 to see how the features measure up. This is a system that blurs the line between action camera and dash cam with unique features and some of the best image stabilization tech we’ve seen.
Both front and rear cameras capture video at a 1080p resolution with a 30 frames per second rate. The camera's 170-degree viewing angle does an excellent job of capturing details and providing a broad field of view. When we looked at video files, we were surprised by the level of detail and quality of the images, even when compared to higher-priced options.
The camera equipment has an IP66 rating to prevent dust, dirt, and water from damaging the camera. The rating makes it a good choice for dirt bikes, cruisers, and everything in between. Even the design has a cool, tough look with threaded cases that make it look rugged.
The cameras connect to a central command unit and a trigger lets you manually record with the press of a button. It has built-in GPS, a g-sensor, and Wi-Fi to make viewing the video files fast and simple. Video files are loop-recorded on a MicroSD card except for manual and event-triggered videos.
We mentioned the image stabilization earlier, but we think this is really one of the features that sets this camera apart from other designs. It does a remarkable job when you are riding on rough roads, off-road, or fording streams on your bike or ATV. Super night vision gives the M1 some of the most impressive low-light conditions of any camera we’ve examined.
Reasons to Buy
- Rugged appearance and construction bodes well for long-term use
- Image stability is unreal
Reasons Not to Buy
- Card storage capacity is below-average
- Lacks parking mode feature
Best Motorcycle Helmet Cameras
Sena 10C Pro
Key Features:
- Quad-HD front-facing camera
- Fully contained unit mounts to helmet
- Time-lapse mode
- 64 gb MicroSD card storage
- 135–degree field of view
- Built-in rechargeable battery
Latest Prices
Sena 10C Pro Review
The Sena 10C Pro is the industry standard for motorcycle helmet cams with built-in communication capabilities. The 10C features a 2k front-facing camera with a controller built into the unit. The unit then attaches to your favorite helmet and you’re good to go. It’s rechargeable, so no wiring is required.
The front cam has a variety of settings for resolution to increase clarity or smoothness. At the top, it records in 1440p at 30 frames per second. By dropping resolution to 1080p, the camera can capture at 60FPS for smooth video.
Adding communications capabilities unlocks more fun on group rides and helps make for a safer journey when you can communicate with fellow riders. The 10C Pro can connect up to four units simultaneously. The communications system can connect to your smartphone using Bluetooth for hands-free calling with advanced noise cancellation and HD Voice for clear calls over the sound of your engine.
This camera has a time lapse mode you can set to record every one second or 10 seconds. Limitations of this camera include the lack of impact detection and GPS logging data. The trade-off is that this camera works with any helmet, any time, making it incredibly versatile.
Reasons to Buy
- Makes it simple to go from one machine to the next and always have a camera
- Adds convenient communications tech for rider safety and convenience
Reasons Not to Buy
- Lacks several key features such as impact detection and GPS logging
- No rear-facing camera leaves you unprotected
LKT DB-1 Pro
Key Features:
- Front and rear cameras
- 1920x1080p resolution
- Saves video to MicroSD card
- IP65 rating
- Quick release mount
- 1600mAh rechargeable battery
Latest Prices
LKT DB-1 Pro Review
This design is more appropriate for lower-speed motorsports, but it will work even on a high-performance sports bike to provide both a front and rear image. The cameras have a 1080p resolution. The rear cam has a built-in 15-degree angle to provide clear images of license plates.
This system uses a Sony MX307 sensor that does a good job capturing low-light images along with details in bright light. It is IP65 rated to provide you with good protection against the elements.
Built-in Wi-Fi makes sharing and viewing video files quick and simple. Video files are time-lapse recorded or continuous and are stored onto a MicroSD card. The camera can handle a maximum of a 128gb card.
We like the simplicity of this design. The mount uses any standard GoPro mount so it is easy to hook to any helmet, and it provides a surprisingly good image even when riding on bumpy roads. This is a great option for mountain bikes, snow mobiles, and scooters.
Reasons to Buy
- Easily switches from helmet to helmet
- Provides an excellent image capture for both fun and safety
Reasons Not to Buy
- Somewhat awkward when mounted
- No image stabilization can make videos difficult to watch
What to Look for in a Motorcycle Dash Camera
Each of the products on our list today have a particular aspect that makes them special. Our top pick does the best job of combining great tech with reliable function, two of the most important aspects of any dash cam.
Higher resolution cameras that shoot at faster frame rates will do a better job of capturing high-quality images at high rates of speed. With some of the 1080p cameras operating at 30fps, the image becomes muddied and hard to watch. Higher resolution cameras tend to cost more, but the advanced resolution is worth every penny.
Storage capacity is a significant concern, particularly when you are recording in 4k resolution. A 32gb card will fill up in a matter of hours on time lapse settings before beginning to overwrite. Always buy Class 10 cards that are designed for security cameras for the best resolution and compatibility.
Key features like impact triggering and parking mode provide huge amounts of versatility and an enhanced experience. These features also add to the cost and increase the amount of power they require to operate.
How Does a Motorcycle Dash Camera Work?
A dash cam for a motorcycle is very similar to designs intended for cars and trucks with a few important differences. Conventional dash cams are designed to mount to windshields and are specifically focused for capturing the ideal image from a car windshield. Motorcycle dash cams do not mount to a windshield, but instead will typically mount to the frame, handlebars, or fairing.
Motorcycle dash cams are usually hard-wired to the bike’s electrical system. They turn on automatically when you start the motorcycle and often have several different modes of capturing video. The modes include time lapse, impact, or manual modes to capture video.
Most dash cams for motorcycles use very small lenses that are wired to a controller box you’ll hide under your seat, behind the fairing, or in some other out-of-the-way location. Wiring is usually sized for average motorcycles and is significantly shorter than that of automotive dash cams.
Can a GoPro Camera Be Used for a Dash Cam?
GoPro cameras – and similar products – are typically known as “action cameras.” They are intended to be turned on and off to capture specific moments. The major limitation in using an action camera is that you’ll need to turn it on and off when you are riding. Using an action camera like this will give you typically about one-and-a-half to two hours of recording time.
Action cameras also lack most of the features that make dash cameras unique products, such as impact sensors, loop-recording, and the ability to protect important files automatically. Dash cameras are most frequently two-channel systems capturing video of the front and rear simultaneously, while an action camera is a single-direction device.
Conclusion
Adding a dash camera to your motorcycle or ATV will give you an enhanced amount of safety. These cameras make a perfect option for protecting yourself in case of an accident. Having the evidence of exactly how an accident occurs can make the difference in determining the outcome of a court case and can also help get you out of tickets when you are falsely accused.
The best cameras have excellent mounting features, special modes, and provide reliable service. Our top pick on this list meets all of those conditions, though we do wish that there was a 4k version available. We think that adding a dash camera to your motorcycle is a great idea for safety, but they also are a fun way to show friends places you ride or share fun aspects of a trip.
