If you’re anything like I am and enjoy taking out your bike to explore different destinations, you are on the right page. A cycling camera is a nifty gadget that most cyclists don’t even know they need until they have to narrate the events of their bike ride to other parties. Cycling cameras help you document the events of your ride either to look back on or if God forbid you want to use it to make an insurance claim. If the priority given to cycling cameras is anything to go by it would be safe to say that most individuals never have a budget for cycling cameras. Because of this we scoured the internet and to create a list of the best cameras for cycling that meet users needs and do not break the bank.
GoPro Hero 7
Intro
This is one camera that is frequently used by individuals who engage in action-packed activities, and cycling is no different. However, the main reason we included the Hero 7 in the list is because it provides users with exceptional video quality that is unmatched. As a cyclist one of the key features you should look out for when choosing a camera is image stabilization, and the Hero 7 has a HyperSmooth feature that facilitates this.
Additionally, you get other benefits such as slow-motion, time-lapse, live streaming, voice-controlled operation amongst others. The camera is well designed, and its small, lightweight and rugged nature make it ideal for cycling. Additionally, you can use it regardless of the weather condition.
Pros
- It is waterproof and can, therefore, be used in any weather condition.
- The voice control operation makes it easy to operate the camera hands-free.
- In comparison to its competitors, the 4K video quality remains unrivaled.
- Image stabilization feature ensures you capture silky smooth videos.
Cons
- It’s slightly expensive than some of the other cameras in our list below.
YI 4K Action and Sport camera
Intro
Striking the perfect balance between features and price the YI 4K Action and Sports Camera is another great cycling camera as it is capable of capturing excellent 4K and 1080p quality videos at 30 fps and 120fps respectively.
Like the GoPro Hero 7, the YI 4K camera brags hands-free voice-controlled operation, video stabilization, Bluetooth, a 2.2” highly responsive LCD touchscreen and lots more. It is the perfect little camera for cycling as it is light, small and has a bunch of features that come in handy for cyclists. Users can customize this camera to further suit their needs by purchasing additional accessories which is a major plus. For its price range, other cameras have a hard time competing with the YI 4K Action and Sports Camera.
Pros
- The cameras touchscreen is made using Gorilla Glass Retina, which makes it scratch-resistant and safe from the impact the camera gets as you cycle.
- The camera allows for instant sharing of captured footage which include livestreaming to social media.
- The camera has a high-performance cooling system that ensures it does not overheat when it is used continuously.
- Its battery life is great.
Cons
- It is not waterproof and as such users have to consider buying a housing in order to use it all weather conditions.
- The Micro SD slot is a little difficult to access.
Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 Action Camera
Intro
Equipped with built-in GPS, the Garmin VIRB camera is our ultimate cycling camera for the mere reason that you can use it to get around when exploring new cycling routes. This camera brags features such as internal image stabilization, microphone to capture audio, sensors that measure altitude and speed, hands-free control amongst other features. The package includes a couple of exciting accessories which enhance the functionality and usability of the camera. The Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 Action Camera is a must-buy device for cyclist as it is, in our opinion, the best overall cycling camera.
Pros
- It has a decent battery life that can last for up to 135 minutes.
- Users can live stream to YouTube if the camera is connected to a Wi-Fi network.
- You can use the devices GPS to map out your cycling route.
Cons
- It is one of the costlier cycling cameras and cost a few dollars more than the Hero 7.
- The image stabilization feature does not work when shooting 4K quality videos.
- It cannot be used in all weather conditions unless the protective housing is included.
Cycliq Fly12
Intro
The Cycliq Fly 12 was intended as a cycling camera, and it is hard to miss why it is a crowd favorite amongst cyclists. The Camera with integrated lighting is designed to be mounted at the front of your bike and illuminate your path as you go. The camera captures full HD 1080p videos and brags 6-axis image stabilization, 8-hour battery life, Bluetooth connectivity, USB-C compatibility, ANT+ amongst other impressive features. This camera is ideal for cyclist as it is lightweight has a great build and integrated lights that cyclists will appreciate.
Pros
- It has an inbuilt alarm system that informs you in case your bike is moved.
- Mounting the light is extremely easy and straightforward.
- Thanks to its nanotechnology protection, it can be used in all weather conditions.
- It has one of the best battery lives we have come across in the market so far.
Cons
- The mounts included in the cameras package could certainly be much better.
- Users have to purchase their own SD card as the lamp does not come with one.
- The camera is rather bulky in comparison to others in the same range.
Conclusion
Choosing a camera for cycling does not have to be complicated. Different models have different features but some of the key considerations to make when choosing a cycling camera include; video and image quality, image stabilization, camera run time, ease of use and the camera’s field of view. If you find a model that performs decently when those features are put to test, you should certainly consider purchasing it. All the cameras discussed above meet the aforementioned standards, which is why we included them in the list.
