Introduction: Why You Need a Motorcycle Dash Cam
If you’re a motorcycle rider, you know how thrilling (and sometimes risky) the open road can be. Whether you’re cruising through the city or exploring scenic routes, a dash cam for your motorcycle is becoming more than just a nice-to-have—it’s a must-have. It helps record your rides, protect you in case of accidents, and even capture those unforgettable moments on the road.
Check out Why Every Motorcycle Rider Needs a Portable Dash Cam with CarPlay for a deeper dive into CarPlay integration. And if you're ready to choose the perfect model, our 2025 Rider-Tested Guide to the Best Motorcycle Dash Cams compares top picks for every budget and riding style.
In this blog, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about motorcycle dash cams, including the best options, where to mount them, and how they compare to other cameras. Let’s get started!
What is a Motorcycle Dash Cam?
A motorcycle dash cam is similar to a car dash cam but built for two wheels. Learn more about how they work, key components, and installation basics in our dedicated guide. It records video footage of your ride, both front and rear, to help protect you from accidents, disputes, or even just to relive your adventures. Whether it’s a small crash, an unexpected hazard, or simply capturing beautiful scenery, having a dash cam can make all the difference.
Why Should You Get a Motorcycle Dash Cam?
There are several reasons why you might want to invest in a motorcycle dash cam. Here are a few:
- Safety First: If anything happens on the road, dash cam footage can be your best buddy. It can help prove what really happened, especially in tricky situations.
- Peace of mind: Ditch shaky phone mounts. A dash cam with CarPlay integration lets you navigate, stream music, and record rides—all without touching your phone."
- Capture the Ride: Love scenic routes? A dash cam lets you record your adventures in stunning detail.
- Evidence for Insurance: Having footage of a crash can be a game-changer when dealing with insurance companies. And the emergency recording function, your dash cam can automatically save important clips in case of an incident.
- Multi-Functional: With features like TPMS, GPS, handlebar control, and navigation, a dash cam with CarPlay adds several layers of convenience and safety to your ride.
What to look for in a motorcycle dash cam?
Not all dash cams are created equal. Here's what to keep in mind:
- Video quality: You want clear footage, day and night. Look for a dash cam with good resolution and night vision.
- Durability: Motorcycles are exposed to the elements, so your dash cam needs to be tough. Look for one that's waterproof and can handle bumps and vibrations.
- Ease of use: Nobody wants to mess with a complicated gadget while riding. Choose a dash cam that's easy to install and operate.
- Features: Some dash cams have extra features like GPS, Wi-Fi, or even voice control. Decide which ones are important to you.
Motorcycle Dash Cam Front and Rear: Do You Need Both?
A common question when buying a motorcycle dash cam is whether you really need front and rear cameras. Here's the breakdown:
- Front Camera: Records what’s happening ahead of you, helping you capture accidents, close calls, and road conditions.
- Rear Camera: Records what's behind you, giving you protection in case someone rear-ends you or you’re involved in a collision from behind.
Pro Tip: Having both front and rear cameras gives you comprehensive coverage, which can be crucial for your safety. It’s especially helpful for insurance claims if you need to prove who was at fault in an accident.
Where to Mount a Dash Cam on a Motorcycle
Mounting your dash cam correctly is essential for clear footage and stability. Here are a few key places to consider:
- Display Screen: If your dash cam has a display screen, consider mounting it in the center of the handlebars for easy access and control.
- Front Camera: Mount it on the handlebars or near the headlight for a clear view of the road.
- Rear Camera: Attach it to the tail or under the seat for a view of what’s behind you.
Pro Tip:
- Make sure the screen is secure and doesn’t obstruct your view or controls.
- Anywhere that vibrates too much, as it can mess with the video quality.
- Consider getting a memory card with plenty of storage space.
- If you're involved in an accident, don't tamper with the footage. Let the authorities handle it.
Motorcycle Dash Cam vs Action Camera: What's the Difference?
You might wonder, 'Can’t I use a GoPro instead?' For a detailed side-by-side comparison of dash cams vs. action cameras—including battery life, mounting, and legal use cases—read our full breakdown. While action cameras are great for recording your rides, they’re not designed to function as dash cams. Here’s the difference:
Feature |
Motorcycle Dash Cam |
Action Camera |
Loop Recording |
Yes (automatically overwrites old footage) |
No (requires manual management) |
Emergency recording and locking |
Yes (Lock the video of the accident with sensors) |
No (Not supported) |
Weatherproof |
Built for all weather conditions |
May need additional housing |
Power Source |
Connects to bike’s battery |
Requires frequent charging |
Purpose |
Safety and evidence |
Adventure and creativity |
So, while an action camera is fun for capturing epic rides, a motorcycle dash cam is the pro tip for safety and convenience. |
Best Motorcycle Dash Cam: Our Top Picks
Not all dash cams are created equal. While we highlight a few favorites below, our 2025 Rider-Tested Guide to the Best Motorcycle Dash Cams dives deeper into 15+ models, including hidden gems for adventure touring and commuters.
1. KeepFeel Pro Motorcycle Dash Cam
- Key Features: Front and rear cameras, waterproof, night vision, GPS tracking, easy installation.
- Why It's Great: The KeepFeel Pro offers crystal-clear video, even at night, with a sleek design that fits any motorcycle. It's perfect for those who want top-quality footage without breaking the bank.
2. VIOFO MC1 Motorcycle Dash Cam
- Key Features: 1080p HD, 2-channel recording, loop recording, parking mode.
- Why It's Great: A great mid-range option, the VIOFO MC1 provides excellent clarity and is a favorite for riders looking for reliable performance at a reasonable price.
3 Insta360 ONE R Action Camera (with Motorcycle Mount Kit)
- Key Features: 4K video, modular system, waterproof, action camera versatility.
- Why It's Great: This one is for riders who want a multi-purpose camera. Not only can you mount it on your bike, but you can also take it off for other uses, like action shots or vlogging.
4. Innovv K3
- Why It’s Great: Waterproof, front and rear cameras, and easy installation.
- Best For: Riders who want a sleek, dual-camera setup.
5. Blueskysea B1W
- Why It’s Great: Compact, affordable, and has night vision.
- Best For: Budget-conscious riders.
6. Sena Prism Tube
- Why It’s Great: Easy to mount, good video quality, and integrates with Sena headsets.
- Best For: Riders who already use Sena gear.
Are Motorcycle Cameras Worth It?
A motorcycle dash cam isn’t just a gadget - it’s your safety net on the road. Whether you’re navigating city traffic or exploring winding country roads, having a dash cam can make all the difference. So, why wait? Check out our top picks, find the perfect one for your bike, and hit the road with confidence.
Want to know more? Check out our other blogs on motorcycle safety or browse our selection of the best dash cam for motorcycles. Don’t forget to drop a comment below or share this post with your fellow riders!
FAQ
1. Do motorbikes have a dash cam?
Yes! Many riders use dash cams specifically designed for motorcycles to record their rides and enhance safety.
2. Where to mount a dash cam on a motorcycle?
The front camera is best mounted on the handlebars or near the headlight, while the rear camera can go on the tail or under the seat.
3. What’s the difference between a motorcycle dash cam and an action camera?
We break down the pros, cons, and ideal use cases in our Motorcycle Dash Cam vs Action Camera guide.
4. Are motorcycle cameras worth it?
Definitely! They provide evidence in accidents, deter theft, and let you capture your rides.
5. Where not to put a dash cam?
Avoid placing it on the windshield or any spot that vibrates too much, as it can affect video quality.
6. Where should I place my camera on my motorcycle?
For the best results, mount the front camera on the handlebars and the rear camera on the tail or under the seat.