Motorcycle riding can be an exhilarating experience, but it also comes with its own set of risks. Whether you’re commuting through busy city streets, cruising along scenic highways, or navigating rough terrain, having a motorcycle dash cam can offer peace of mind. These devices provide valuable video footage in case of accidents, fraud, or disputes, and can also capture unforgettable moments during your ride. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll review the best motorcycle dash cam models for every budget, helping you choose the right one for your needs.
Why You Need a Motorcycle Dash Cam
Before diving into the reviews, let’s briefly discuss why a motorcycle dash cam is an essential investment for riders. These compact devices are designed to mount on your bike and record video footage of the road ahead, or even the rear in some models. The key benefits include:
- Accident Documentation: In the unfortunate event of an accident, having a dash cam can provide crucial video evidence to support your side of the story.
- Protection from Fraud: A dash cam can protect you from false claims made by other drivers who might attempt to stage accidents.
- Security: Many dash cams feature parking modes that allow them to record while the bike is stationary, offering protection against theft or vandalism.
- Adventure & Recording: Capture beautiful scenery or thrilling moments during your ride for personal enjoyment or to share with friends and family.
Now, let’s take a look at the best motorcycle dash cams available at different price points.
Best Budget Motorcycle Dash Cams
If you’re looking for a motorcycle dash cam that offers great value without breaking the bank, several budget-friendly options deliver reliable performance. Here are the top picks for those on a tight budget.
1. SJCAM M10 Motorcycle Dash Cam
Price: $69.99
Why It’s Great:
The SJCAM M10 is a compact and affordable motorcycle dash cam that offers solid features for a budget-friendly price. It records in 1080p HD resolution, ensuring that you capture clear and detailed footage during your ride. The camera’s wide-angle lens provides a broad view of the road ahead, while its weather-resistant design makes it durable enough for various riding conditions.
Key Features:
- 1080p HD video for clear recording.
- Wide-angle lens (170°) to capture a broad view.
- Waterproof and dustproof (IP67 rating).
- Loop recording ensures continuous footage without running out of storage.
- Compact and easy-to-mount design.
Why Choose It:
For riders on a budget, the SJCAM M10 provides excellent value. While it lacks advanced features like GPS tracking or dual cameras, it gets the job done by providing reliable video footage for accident documentation and security.
2. Viofo MC1 Motorcycle Dash Cam
Price: $89.99
Why It’s Great:
The Viofo MC1 is another excellent choice for budget-conscious riders. This model offers 1440p recording resolution, which is a step up from typical 1080p cameras. It also features a wide-angle lens to capture everything on the road, along with a robust design to withstand various weather conditions.
Key Features:
- 1440p HD video for sharper images.
- Wide 160° angle for more comprehensive coverage.
- Dual-channel recording (optional rear camera available).
- Built-in GPS to track your speed and location.
- IP65 water-resistant.
Why Choose It:
The Viofo MC1 is an excellent budget option for those who want higher resolution and additional features like GPS tracking without spending a lot. It’s a great balance of performance and affordability.
Mid-Range Motorcycle Dash Cams
For those who are willing to invest a bit more for additional features and better video quality, mid-range options offer enhanced performance and added functionality.
3. Insta360 One R Motorcycle Dash Cam
Price: $289.99
Why It’s Great:
The Insta360 One R is a modular action camera that doubles as a motorcycle dash cam. Its modular design allows riders to swap out lenses for different types of footage, such as wide-angle or 360-degree recording. The camera’s 4K video resolution ensures that you capture sharp and detailed footage, even in challenging lighting conditions.
Key Features:
- 4K video for ultra-clear recording.
- Modular design for flexible lens options.
- Waterproof and rugged (IPX8 rating).
- FlowState stabilization for smooth footage.
- Built-in GPS for tracking your location and speed.
Why Choose It:
The Insta360 One R is ideal for riders who want more flexibility and better image quality. Its modular design makes it highly customizable, allowing you to switch lenses or use it for other types of filming. The 4K resolution and stabilization features make it one of the best options in the mid-range category.
4. Thinkware F800 Pro Motorcycle Dash Cam
Price: $239.99
Why It’s Great:
The Thinkware F800 Pro is a premium motorcycle dash cam designed for those who want professional-grade features without spending an excessive amount. This camera offers 1080p Full HD recording, an advanced parking mode, and motion detection to capture incidents even when the bike is parked. Its built-in GPS also adds valuable data like speed and location to your footage.
Key Features:
- 1080p HD video with great night vision.
- Advanced parking mode with motion detection.
- GPS tracking to record your route and speed.
- G-sensor to automatically save footage in the event of an impact.
- Weatherproof design for all riding conditions.
Why Choose It:
The Thinkware F800 Pro is perfect for riders who want a reliable camera with advanced features like parking mode and impact detection. It’s an excellent option for those who want to ensure their bike is protected even when it’s parked.
High-End Motorcycle Dash Cams
For riders who want the absolute best in terms of video quality, features, and durability, high-end motorcycle dash cams provide top-tier performance.
5. Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 Motorcycle Dash Cam
Price: $399.99
Why It’s Great:
The Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 is a high-performance motorcycle dash cam that offers 4K video recording and superior stabilization technology. This camera is packed with features, including voice control, GPS tracking, and sensor integration, which allows it to gather data like speed, altitude, and G-forces.
Key Features:
- 4K video for stunning video quality.
- Voice control for hands-free operation.
- GPS and sensors for speed, altitude, and G-force data.
- Advanced image stabilization for smooth video.
- Waterproof up to 40 meters.
Why Choose It:
The Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 is perfect for riders who want professional-grade video quality and extensive data integration. It’s ideal for those who need superior stabilization and high-definition footage, making it one of the best choices for serious riders.
6. SJCAM RD10 Motorcycle Dash Cam
Price: $279
Why It’s Great:
The SJCAM RD10 is a versatile and feature-rich motorcycle dash cam that offers 1080p video recording, a wide-angle lens, and a dual-camera setup for front and rear coverage. It’s designed to be easy to install and is perfect for both seasoned riders and beginners.
Key Features:
- 1080p Full HD video for crisp recording.
- Dual-camera system (front and rear).
- Wide-angle lens for better coverage.
- Loop recording and G-sensor for added security.
- Weather-resistant (IP67 rating).
Why Choose It:
For those looking for a reliable dual-camera setup without breaking the bank, the SJCAM RD10 offers excellent value. Its dual-camera system allows you to record both the road ahead and behind you, ensuring comprehensive coverage during your ride.
Conclusion
Choosing the right motorcycle dash cam depends on your budget and the features that matter most to you. Budget models like the SJCAM M10 and Viofo MC1 offer great value with solid performance, while mid-range options like the Insta360 One R and Thinkware F800 Pro deliver enhanced features and better video quality. For those who demand the best, high-end models like the Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 provide top-tier resolution, stabilization, and data integration. Whatever your needs, there’s a motorcycle dash cam to fit your budget and keep you safe on the road.
Make the investment today to ensure your rides are always recorded, protected, and unforgettable.
