Best Way to Mount Action Camera on Motorcycle for Stunning Shots

The best way to mount an action camera on a motorcycle is using a vibration-dampened handlebar or fork mount for maximum stability and sharp, cinematic footage. This setup minimizes shake from road vibrations and allows for dynamic, low-angle shots that truly capture the thrill of the ride. For added versatility, consider a dual-mount system with both front and rear views to showcase speed, scenery, and rider perspective in one stunning video.

Key Takeaways

• Choose a secure mount: Opt for vibration-resistant, durable mounts to prevent shaky footage.
• Prioritize helmet placement: Capture immersive POV shots by mounting on the chin or side.
• Use handlebar mounts sparingly: Best for stable angles but avoid loose or bumpy setups.
• Test wind resistance: Ensure mounts stay firm at high speeds to avoid losing gear.
• Angle for dynamic shots: Tilt cameras slightly downward for optimal road and scenery framing.
• Secure with safety tethers: Always double-check mounts with backup straps for added protection.

The Thrill of Capturing the Ride

There’s nothing quite like the freedom of riding a motorcycle—the wind in your face, the roar of the engine, and the open road stretching out ahead. For many riders, capturing those moments is almost as important as living them. That’s where action cameras come in. Whether you’re chasing the perfect sunset shot on a mountain pass or recording your track day for review, the right mount can make the difference between a shaky mess and a cinematic masterpiece.

I remember my first attempt at mounting a camera on my bike. I used a cheap adhesive mount on the tank, thinking it would give me that cool POV shot. Five minutes into the ride, the camera flew off, landing somewhere in a ditch. I spent the next hour retracing my route, heart pounding, hoping it didn’t get crushed by a semi. That experience taught me one thing: mounting matters. The best way to mount an action camera on a motorcycle isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety, stability, and storytelling. In this guide, I’ll share the real-world solutions I’ve tested, the mistakes I’ve made, and the setups that actually work.

Why Mounting Matters: Safety, Stability, and Story

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” A poorly mounted action camera isn’t just a waste of footage—it’s a potential hazard. Loose cameras can become projectiles, and unstable shots ruin your content. But a well-mounted camera? That’s your ticket to sharing the thrill of riding with the world.

The Risks of a Bad Mount

• Camera Loss: Adhesive mounts can fail under vibration or heat. I’ve seen riders lose $400 cameras on highway exits.
• Distraction: A wobbly mount can shift during a ride, forcing you to stop and adjust—dangerous on busy roads.
• Damage to Bike: Some mounts require drilling or clamping, risking scratches or structural damage if installed incorrectly.

On the flip side, a secure mount lets you focus on the ride. No second-guessing, no sudden surprises. You’ll also get consistent, professional-looking footage—something that’s crucial if you’re building a YouTube channel or documenting adventures.

The Storytelling Advantage

Different mounts tell different stories. A chest mount captures the rider’s perspective—handlebars, body lean, road texture. A helmet mount shows the rider’s gaze, perfect for vlogs or scenic routes. A handlebar or fork mount? That’s ideal for tracking your speed, technique, or the bike’s response. The best way to mount an action camera on a motorcycle depends on what you want to say with your footage.

For example, during a group ride, I used a chest mount to show my reactions to a friend’s stunt. Later, I switched to a helmet mount to capture the group’s camaraderie and the road ahead. The combination told a richer story than any single angle could.

Top Mounting Locations and Their Pros & Cons

Not all spots on your bike are created equal. Each mounting location has trade-offs in stability, field of view, and ease of access. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular options—tested on everything from sport bikes to cruisers.

Helmet Mount: The Rider’s Perspective

Best for: First-person POV, vlogs, scenic routes.

Pros:

• Natural head movement matches your gaze.
• Compact and lightweight—minimal wind resistance.
• Easy to adjust mid-ride (if using a quick-release).

Cons:

• Can feel top-heavy, especially on lighter helmets.
• Risk of injury in a crash (though rare with proper mounts).
• Vibrations from helmet movement can blur footage.

Pro Tip: Use a chin mount instead of top-of-helmet for better stability. I once tried a top mount on a windy canyon ride—the camera wobbled so much, the footage looked like a horror movie. A chin mount fixed that instantly.

Chest Mount: Stability Meets Storytelling

Best for: Action shots, bike handling, group rides.

Pros:

• Low center of gravity reduces shake.
• Captures handlebars, body lean, and road texture.
• No risk of helmet interference.

Cons:

• Less natural field of view (you’re not looking at the camera).
• Can be bulky with heavy jackets or backpacks.
• Harder to access buttons while riding.

Pro Tip: Pair a chest mount with a handlebar mount for “dual-angle” footage. On a track day, I used this combo to show my body position and the bike’s response to turns. The result? A pro-level analysis video.

Handlebar Mount: The Classic Choice

Best for: Speed tracking, technique review, scenic rides.

Pros:

• Easy to install and remove.
• Stable (if clamped tightly).
• Perfect for dashcam-style footage.

Cons:

• Vibrations from engine and road can blur shots.
• Obstructs mirrors or controls if placed poorly.
• Wind noise can be loud in microphones.

Pro Tip: Use a rubberized clamp to reduce vibration. I upgraded to a silicone-padded mount after my GoPro’s audio became unusable on rough roads. The difference was night and day.

Fork or Fairing Mount: For the Adventurous

Best for: Dynamic angles, off-road rides, unique shots.

Pros:

• Captures suspension movement and road impact.
• Low, aggressive angle for cinematic shots.
• Great for off-road or stunt riding.

Cons:

• High risk of impact (potholes, debris).
• Installation can be tricky (some require drilling).
• Hard to adjust once mounted.

Pro Tip: Use a quick-release fork mount for off-road adventures. I used one during a dirt bike trip—the camera survived a 10-foot jump, but the mount’s rubber grommets saved it from cracking.

Tank Mount: The Forgotten Gem

Best for: Scenic rides, rider’s POV, vlogs.

Pros:

• Smooth, stable footage (tank absorbs vibrations).
• Natural rider’s eye view.
• Easy to access camera controls.

Cons:

• Adhesive mounts can fail (see my ditch story).
• Heat from engine can damage camera.
• Obstructs gauges on some bikes.

Pro Tip: Use a magnetic tank mount instead of adhesive. I switched to a MagMount Pro after my third camera loss. It’s held up through desert heat and rainstorms.

Choosing the Right Mount: Materials, Brands, and Hacks

Not all mounts are built the same. The best way to mount an action camera on a motorcycle depends on your bike, riding style, and budget. Let’s break down the key factors.

Material Matters: What Your Mount Is Made Of

• Plastic: Lightweight and cheap, but brittle. Avoid for off-road or high-speed use.
• Aluminum: Durable and vibration-resistant. My Peak Design handlebar mount has survived 30,000 miles.
• Carbon Fiber: Lightweight and rigid, but expensive. Ideal for track days.
• Rubber/Silicone: Reduces vibration and noise. Use for handlebar or fork mounts.

Real-World Example: My friend’s plastic fork mount cracked during a track day. The aluminum one I recommended? Still going strong.

Top Brands: What’s Worth the Investment

• GoPro: Reliable, but overpriced. Their Handlebar/Seatpost Mount is great for beginners.
• Peak Design: Premium build quality. Their Outdoor Mount is my go-to for chest shots.
• RAM Mounts: Modular and ultra-secure. Perfect for fork or fairing mounts.
• SP Gadgets: Budget-friendly with solid performance. Their Tank Mount beats most adhesives.

Pro Tip: Buy a universal mount with a quick-release system. I keep a Peak Design base on my chest, helmet, and handlebar. Swapping cameras takes 10 seconds.

DIY Hacks: When Off-the-Shelf Isn’t Enough

• 3D-Printed Mounts: Customize for your bike’s unique shape. I printed a fairing mount for my vintage café racer.
• Zip Ties + Foam: A temporary fix for rough rides. Wrap foam around the mount to reduce vibration.
• GoPro to 1/4” Screw Adapters: Use tripod-style mounts for unique angles. I attached a mini tripod to my rear fender for a “tail cam” shot.

Caution: DIY mounts are fun, but never compromise safety. Test every hack in a controlled environment first.

Stability Hacks: Eliminating Shake and Noise

Even the best mount can’t save you from shaky footage. Here’s how to stabilize your camera—without buying a gimbal.

Vibration Dampening

• Rubber Grommets: Insert between mount and camera. I use them on all my handlebar mounts.
• Foam Padding: Wrap the mount’s contact points. Works wonders for fork mounts.
• Weighted Mounts: Heavier mounts (like RAM’s) reduce shake. My 8oz aluminum mount is rock-solid.

Wind Noise Reduction

• Deadcat Wind Muff: A fuzzy cover for the mic. Saves 90% of wind noise.
• Mic Placement: Angle the mic away from airflow. On my helmet, I point it toward my chest.
• Post-Processing: Use apps like Descript to remove noise. Works better than you’d think.

Camera Settings for Stability

• HyperSmooth (GoPro): Enable stabilization. It’s a game-changer for bumpy roads.
• High FPS: Shoot at 60fps or higher. Slow-mo hides small shakes.
• Wide FOV: Less zoom = less shake. Use “Wide” or “SuperView” modes.

My Setup: GoPro 11 + RAM Mount + rubber grommet + Deadcat. The result? 95% shake-free footage on gravel roads.

Data: Mount Performance Comparison

Mount Type	Stability (1-5)	Ease of Install	Best Use Case	Price Range
Helmet (Chin)	4	Easy	Vlogs, scenic rides	$20-$50
Chest	5	Easy	Action shots, group rides	$30-$70
Handlebar	3	Easy	Dashcam, technique review	$15-$60
Fork	4	Moderate	Off-road, stunts	$40-$100
Tank (Magnetic)	4	Easy	Rider’s POV, vlogs	$50-$120

The Best Way to Mount: My Final Recommendations

After years of trial and error, here’s my take on the best way to mount an action camera on a motorcycle—based on your needs.

• For Beginners: Start with a chest mount. It’s stable, safe, and captures great footage.
• For Vloggers: Use a helmet chin mount + Deadcat wind muff. You’ll get natural audio and POV.
• For Track Days: Pair a handlebar mount (for speed) with a chest mount (for technique).
• For Off-Road: Go with a RAM fork mount + rubber grommets. It’s built for abuse.
• For Scenic Rides: Try a magnetic tank mount. The smooth footage is worth the investment.

Remember: the best mount is the one you’ll actually use. Don’t overcomplicate it. I’ve seen riders spend $200 on mounts and never record a single ride. Start simple, test your setup, and upgrade as needed.

And please—always prioritize safety. A camera isn’t worth a crash. Check your mount before every ride, and if something feels loose, fix it immediately. Your footage will be better, and you’ll sleep easier knowing your gear won’t become a roadside hazard.

Now get out there, mount up, and capture the ride. The road is waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to mount an action camera on a motorcycle?

The best way to mount an action camera on a motorcycle is using a secure, vibration-dampened handlebar or helmet mount. These provide stable footage while minimizing shakes caused by road vibrations.

Can I use a suction cup mount for my action camera on a motorcycle?

Suction cup mounts are convenient for smooth surfaces like windscreens or fairings but aren’t ideal for long rides or rough terrain. For the best way to mount action cameras, consider bolt-on or clamp mounts for added security.

Are helmet mounts safer than handlebar mounts for action cameras?

Helmet mounts offer dynamic angles and follow your line of sight, but ensure the camera is lightweight and securely fastened to avoid neck strain or accidents. Handlebar mounts are safer for heavier cameras and reduce rider fatigue.

How do I prevent my action camera from falling off while riding?

Use mounts with dual-locking mechanisms (e.g., twist-lock + adhesive) and regularly check tightness before rides. Opt for mounts with anti-vibration features to enhance the best way to mount action cameras for long-term reliability.

What’s the ideal angle for mounting an action camera on a motorcycle?

Aim for a slightly downward-facing angle (5–15 degrees) to capture the road, bike, and surroundings without excessive sky. Test angles beforehand to ensure the shot aligns with your storytelling needs.

Can I mount my action camera on a motorcycle mirror?

Mirror mounts are compact and great for side-angle shots, but ensure the camera doesn’t obstruct visibility or violate local laws. They’re a versatile option but may require a stabilizer for smooth footage.