Hey, motocross enthusiasts! You love tearing up the track, hitting those jumps, and getting covered in mud – it’s all part of the thrill, right? And what better way to relive those epic moments or share them with your buddies than by capturing the action with your trusty GoPro Hero 3? While the Hero 3 might be a classic, it’s still a fantastic camera for capturing your off-road exploits. But to truly unlock its potential and get the best GoPro Hero 3 for motocross footage, you’ll need the right accessories.
Your stock setup might be okay for casual use, but out on the dirt bike, you need gear that can handle the vibrations, the impacts, the dust, and the occasional splash. We’ve rounded up some essential accessories that will not only protect your camera but also help you snag those incredible, immersive POV shots that truly show what it’s like to be on the track. Let’s dive into the must-have kit to supercharge your GoPro Hero 3 for motocross!
1. Suptig Battery (2 Pack) and Dual Charger for GoPro Hero…
Running out of juice mid-ride is a total buzzkill. That’s where the Suptig Battery pack steps in, ensuring your recording doesn’t cut short just as you’re about to nail that sick jump. This pack offers two high-capacity batteries and a dual charger, meaning you can keep the action going longer without constantly worrying about battery life. It’s an absolute lifesaver for those long days at the track or when you’re out exploring new trails.
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Key Features:
- High-tech 1050mAh Li-ion batteries for extended recording.
- Dual charger allows simultaneous charging of two batteries.
- Unique PCB safety circuit design for secure charging.
- Compatible with HERO3 and HERO3+ models and original GoPro chargers.
- Versatile charging with MINI USB, MICRO USB, and iPhone 4 cable interfaces.
- Incredibly compact charger (1.9×1.77×0.51 in) for easy portability.
- Fully charges two batteries in approximately 2.5-3 hours with a 1A adapter.
- Package includes charger, two batteries, and a MINI USB cable.
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Pros:
- Significantly extends filming time.
- Charges two batteries at once, saving time.
- Compact and easy to carry on the go.
- Multiple charging interface options for convenience.
- Good value for money with two batteries included.
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Cons:
- 1A adapter not included, which is needed for optimal charging speed.
- May not be as robust as official GoPro brand batteries (though often performs similarly).
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User Impressions: Riders frequently praise this Suptig battery pack for its reliable performance and impressive value. Many have found the batteries hold up well, providing ample recording time, and the dual charger is a huge convenience for keeping multiple batteries topped off and ready for action. It’s a popular choice for those needing extra power without breaking the bank.
2. HONGDAK Waterproof Housing Case for GoPro Hero 4/3/3+…
When you’re tearing through mud, dust, and maybe even a creek crossing, your GoPro Hero 3 needs some serious protection. The HONGDAK Waterproof Housing Case is your camera’s personal bodyguard. It’s designed to keep your camera safe from water, dirt, and impacts, allowing you to focus on your ride, not on worrying about your gear. This case offers peace of mind, letting you capture all the gritty details of your motocross adventures without a hitch.
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Key Features:
- Perfectly compatible with GoPro Hero 4/Hero 3/ Hero 3+.
- Maintains easy access to power and mode buttons when camera is inserted.
- Provides ultimate protection for deep-water diving (60m/196ft) and extreme outdoor activities.
- Upgraded waterproof sealing ring and tight buckle prevent leaks and fogging.
- Main body made of high-quality PMMA plastic for robust protection against drops, dents, and scratches.
- Ultra-thick tempered glass lens with high light transmittance for clear photo and video quality.
- Includes a quick release buckle mount and screw for easy attachment to other accessories.
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Pros:
- Exceptional waterproofing and dust protection – crucial for motocross.
- Robust construction protects against impacts and scratches.
- High light transmittance ensures clear footage.
- Buttons remain accessible, making it user-friendly.
- Quick release mount adds versatility for mounting.
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Cons:
- Can sometimes cause audio muffling (common with most waterproof cases).
- Adds a bit of bulk to the camera.
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User Impressions: Customers love this housing for its reliable waterproof capabilities and robust build, making it a go-to for protecting their GoPros in harsh environments. Many note that it fits perfectly and truly seals out the elements, preserving their camera during even the most intense off-road rides and water sports.
3. GoPro Performance Chest Mount (All GoPro Cameras) – Official…
For those truly immersive, first-person shots that put viewers right in the rider’s seat, the GoPro Performance Chest Mount is unparalleled. It’s an official GoPro accessory, so you know it’s built to last and designed for serious action. This mount places your GoPro Hero 3 right on your chest, capturing an incredible view of your handlebars, arms, and the track ahead, making your motocross footage feel incredibly dynamic and real.
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Key Features:
- Lightweight, flexible construction for comfort and performance.
- Padded and breathable materials ensure comfort during extended use.
- Fully adjustable to fit a wide range of body types and over heavy jackets.
- Specially designed quick-release buckle for easy on/off, even with gloves.
- Provides a stable platform for capturing immersive, hands-free footage.
- Compatible with all GoPro cameras and Karma Grip.
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Pros:
- Official GoPro quality ensures durability and reliability.
- Highly immersive POV footage.
- Comfortable to wear for long periods.
- Adjustable and easy to use, even with riding gear.
- Offers a very stable filming angle.
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Cons:
- Can sometimes capture too much of the rider’s chest or arms if not positioned correctly.
- Might be slightly bulky under some chest protectors.
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User Impressions: Riders consistently rate the GoPro Chest Mount highly for its comfort and the unique perspective it offers. They appreciate its durable construction and ease of use, confirming it delivers stable and engaging footage that truly puts viewers in the moment, whether on a dirt bike or during other action sports.
4. GoPro 3-Way 2.0 (GoPro Official Mount), Black
While not for mounting directly on your bike during a high-speed run, the GoPro 3-Way 2.0 is an incredibly versatile tool for capturing all the moments around your motocross adventure. Think pre-ride vlogs, static shots of your bike, group photos with your riding crew, or getting unique angles for showcasing your setup. It effortlessly transforms from a camera grip to a tripod to an extension arm, making it an all-in-one solution for diverse shooting needs.
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Key Features:
- 3-in-1 design: functions as a camera grip, tripod, and extension arm.
- Integrated ball joint allows for quick camera angle changes without repositioning.
- Built-in tripod quickly folds out for stable time-lapse shots or group photos.
- Ergonomic design ensures comfortable use during long shoots.
- Folding extension arm acts as a handheld boom for selfies, overhead shots, and follow-cam footage.
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Pros:
- Extremely versatile for various shooting scenarios off the bike.
- Official GoPro build quality and durability.
- Compact and portable for easy transport.
- Ergonomic grip is comfortable for handheld use.
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Cons:
- Not suitable as a primary mount for active riding.
- Higher price point compared to single-function accessories.
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User Impressions: Users rave about the 3-Way 2.0’s incredible versatility and robust build. They find it indispensable for capturing a wide range of shots, from stable group photos with the built-in tripod to unique selfie angles with the extension arm. It’s often described as a must-have for any GoPro owner looking to expand their filming capabilities beyond just mounting on the bike.
5. GEPULY Frame Mount Protective Housing Case with Bracket…
Sometimes, you need to shed the bulk of a waterproof case but still want protection and full access to your camera’s ports. That’s where the GEPULY Frame Mount shines. It’s a minimal housing designed specifically for the GoPro Hero 3, Hero 3+, and Hero 4 Black/Silver, offering a lightweight alternative that protects the camera body while ensuring all buttons and slots remain accessible. This is ideal for capturing better audio during low-speed activities or while charging on the go.
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Key Features:
- Reserved holes for all buttons and slots, allowing full access to USB and HDMI ports.
- Ultra-big side opening for installing/uninstalling the USB side door without removing the frame.
- Enables optimal audio capture for low-speed activities.
- Compact and lightweight, designed for standard-size GoPro HERO3, HERO3+, HERO4 Black Silver cameras.
- Includes a silicone lens cap to protect your GoPro lens from dirt, dust, and scratches.
- Comes with a tripod adapter for connecting to tripods and monopods.
- Wide compatibility with GoPro Hero3, Hero 3+, Hero4 Black Silver cameras.
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Pros:
- Allows full port access for charging and data offload without removal.
- Enhances audio capture compared to a waterproof case.
- Lightweight and less bulky than full protective housings.
- Lens cap and tripod adapter included for added value.
- Ideal for less extreme conditions where maximum protection isn’t needed.
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Cons:
- Not suitable for heavy impacts or deep water (it’s not waterproof).
- Cannot be used with Bacpac LCD screens or Battery extensions.
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User Impressions: Customers appreciate this frame mount for its minimalist design and practicality. They often highlight the ability to access ports for charging and data transfer as a major convenience, especially for extended filming sessions or vlogging where audio quality is important. It’s a popular choice for those looking for basic protection and enhanced audio performance.
6. ParaPace Mountain Bike Mount for GoPro Hero…
For rock-solid handlebar footage, you need a mount that won’t budge, no matter how gnarly the terrain. The ParaPace Mountain Bike Mount is built from high-rigidity aluminum alloy, making it far more durable than typical plastic mounts. It’s designed to securely attach your GoPro Hero 3 to your handlebars or seat-post, providing stable footage even during the most aggressive motocross rides. Its 360-degree rotation feature means you can easily adjust your angle on the fly.
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Key Features:
- Constructed from high-rigidity aluminum alloy for superior durability.
- Features an anti-skid pad inside the clamp for secure grip.
- Allows 360-degree rotation for versatile shooting angles.
- Easily installs on any round or semi-round tube between 20mm-35mm.
- Widely used for bicycling, mountain biking, motocross, seat-posts, and other action activities.
- Perfectly compatible with all GoPro and GoPro-like action cameras.
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Pros:
- Incredibly durable metal construction, ideal for demanding sports.
- Anti-skid pad ensures a firm, stable mount.
- 360-degree rotation offers maximum flexibility for shot composition.
- Easy to install and adjust.
- Broad compatibility with various tube sizes.
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Cons:
- May be slightly heavier than plastic alternatives.
- Ensure proper tightening to prevent rotation on very rough trails.
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User Impressions: Users are highly impressed with the robust construction of this mount, often noting its superior durability compared to plastic versions. The 360-degree rotation is a favorite feature, allowing them to capture dynamic angles. Many praise its secure grip, stating their GoPro stays firmly in place even during intense mountain biking or motocross sessions.
7. VIZEMO 16PCS Adhesive Mounts Helmet GoPro Helmet Adhesive…
Having multiple strong adhesive mounts is a game-changer for capturing diverse angles. The VIZEMO 16PCS Adhesive Mounts pack gives you plenty of options for attaching your GoPro Hero 3 to your helmet, fenders, or any other smooth surface on your bike. These 3M-backed mounts are incredibly sticky, ensuring your camera stays put through bumps, jumps, and high speeds, making them an indispensable part of your gear for getting that perfect shot.
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Key Features:
- Compatible with ALL GoPro Cameras (including Hero 3, 3+, 4, etc.) and similar action cameras.
- Attaches firmly on almost any smooth surface.
- Pads are removable from surfaces by applying heat (e.g., hair dryer).
- Perfect for skiing, mountain biking, motocross, water sports, climbing, and other action sports.
- Includes 4 curved and 4 flat mounts in each pack, with 3M manufactured adhesive.
- Emphasizes cleaning the surface before attaching for optimal bond.
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Pros:
- Provides a variety of mounting options for different surfaces (curved for helmets, flat for tanks/fenders).
- Strong 3M adhesive ensures a secure hold, even in extreme conditions.
- Easy to apply and relatively easy to remove with heat.
- Versatile for multiple sports and angles.
- Comes in a generous pack of 16 pieces, offering great value.
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Cons:
- Requires a clean, dry, smooth surface for optimal adhesion.
- Once applied, repositioning isn’t ideal without new adhesive.
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User Impressions: Customers consistently praise these adhesive mounts for their exceptional holding power, especially when used on helmets and other high-vibration surfaces. They appreciate the mix of curved and flat mounts, which provides flexibility for different mounting points. The 3M adhesive is frequently highlighted as reliable and durable, giving users confidence their camera won’t detach mid-ride.
Frequently Asked Questions about GoPro Hero 3 and Motocross
Q1: Is the GoPro Hero 3 still good for motocross in 2024?
A1: Absolutely! While newer models offer more advanced features, the GoPro Hero 3 still provides excellent video quality (up to 1080p60 or 720p120) and is very capable of capturing thrilling motocross footage. With the right accessories, it’s a fantastic and budget-friendly option for action enthusiasts.
Q2: What’s the most important accessory for a GoPro Hero 3 used in motocross?
A2: A durable and protective housing (like the HONGDAK Waterproof Case) is paramount. Motocross involves a lot of dust, dirt, mud, and potential impacts, so keeping your camera safe is crucial. After that, a reliable mounting solution (chest mount, helmet mount) is key for great POV shots.
Q3: How can I improve the audio quality when recording motocross with my GoPro Hero 3?
A3: Waterproof housings significantly muffle audio. For better sound, consider using a frame mount (like the GEPULY Frame Mount) in dry conditions, or an external microphone designed for GoPros if your housing allows port access. Wind noise will still be a challenge at high speeds, but a good mic setup can help.
Q4: How long does a GoPro Hero 3 battery last during a motocross session?
A4: Battery life can vary based on recording resolution, frame rate, and temperature. Typically, a Hero 3 battery might last around 1-1.5 hours of continuous recording. This is why extra batteries and a dual charger, like the Suptig pack, are highly recommended to ensure you don’t miss any action.
Q5: What are the best mounting positions on a dirt bike for immersive footage?
A5:
* Helmet Chin Mount: Offers a true first-person perspective, showing handlebars and the rider’s movements.
* Chest Mount: Provides a stable view of the handlebars and the track ahead, capturing more of the rider’s body.
* Handlebar Mount: Great for stable shots looking forward or backward, capturing the front wheel or rider’s face.
* Fender Mount (adhesive): Gives a unique low-angle shot of the wheel and track.
Q6: How do I prevent my GoPro footage from being too shaky during motocross?
A6: Ensure your mounts are securely tightened and don’t have any play. Using a chest mount often provides more stable footage than a helmet mount due to the body acting as a natural shock absorber. Some post-production software also offers stabilization features, which can help smooth out minor jitters.
Q7: Can I use older GoPro Hero 3 accessories with newer GoPro models?
A7: Many accessories, especially mounts with the standard GoPro two-prong attachment system (like chest mounts, handlebar mounts, adhesive mounts), are universally compatible across almost all GoPro generations. However, specific housings or frame mounts are typically designed for particular camera models due to variations in size and port placement. Always check compatibility before purchasing.
Get Out There and Capture the Ride!
Equipping your GoPro Hero 3 with these accessories will truly elevate your motocross filming game. From ensuring you have enough power for those long days to protecting your camera from the elements and securing it for epic POV shots, these tools are essential. So go ahead, gear up, hit the dirt, and capture every adrenaline-pumping moment. Your future self (and your social media followers) will thank you!
