When you’re tearing down a singletrack, catching air, or navigating a rocky descent on your mountain bike, the last thing you want to worry about is your GoPro Hero 3 bouncing around or, worse, falling off. Capturing those epic moments requires a rock-solid mount, one that can withstand the vibrations, impacts, and general gnarliness of off-road riding. You need a mount that gives you peace of mind, letting you focus on the trail while your camera gets the shot.
Finding the best for GoPro Hero 3 mountain biking isn’t just about sticking your camera to your bike; it’s about choosing the right accessory that offers stability, versatility, and durability. Your Hero 3, while an older model, is still a fantastic little workhorse, and pairing it with a top-notch mount can bring new life to your old footage. We’ve scoured the market for the top mounts that are perfect for your Hero 3 and ready to take on whatever the mountain throws at them. Let’s dive in!
Why a Good Mount is Crucial for Your GoPro Hero 3 Mountain Biking Adventures
Mountain biking is an intense sport. The bumps, jolts, and high speeds can put tremendous stress on your equipment. A flimsy mount can lead to shaky, unwatchable footage, or even worse, a lost camera. The mounts we’ve picked out are designed to provide a stable platform, reduce vibration, and keep your precious GoPro Hero 3 secure, ensuring you capture all the action with crisp, clear footage. These are truly some of the best for GoPro Hero 3 mountain biking thanks to their robust design and compatibility.
1. ParaPace Mountain Bike Mount for GoPro Hero…
This ParaPace handlebar mount is a real standout for its robust construction, moving away from the common plastic designs. Crafted from high-rigidity aluminum alloy, it promises superior durability, ensuring your GoPro Hero 3 stays put even during the most aggressive rides. The thoughtful inclusion of an anti-skid pad on the inside of the clamp adds an extra layer of security, protecting your handlebars while providing a firm grip. Plus, its 360-degree rotation feature means you can easily adjust your camera’s angle on the fly, capturing dynamic shots from any perspective.
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Key Features:
- Made of high-rigidity aluminum alloy for enhanced durability
- 360-degree rotation for versatile shooting angles
- Anti-skid pad inside the clamp for secure grip and protection
- Easy installation on 20mm-35mm round/semi-round tubes
- Wide compatibility with all GoPro and GoPro-like action cameras
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Pros:
- Extremely durable due to aluminum alloy construction
- Excellent stability, minimizing camera shake
- Flexible 360-degree adjustment for perfect framing
- Protects handlebars from scratches with anti-skid pad
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Cons:
- Might be slightly heavier than plastic alternatives
- Requires an Allen key (though typically included) for secure tightening
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User Impressions: Riders often commend this mount for its solid feel and reliability. Many appreciate the peace of mind that comes with an aluminum build, especially on rough trails. The anti-skid pad is frequently mentioned as a bonus for preventing slippage and protecting bike finishes.
2. GoPro Performance Chest Mount (All GoPro Cameras) – Official…
For truly immersive, hands-free footage that puts viewers right in your shoes, the official GoPro Performance Chest Mount is hard to beat. Designed with a lightweight, flexible, and breathable construction, it balances comfort with performance, making it ideal for long days on the trails. It’s fully adjustable to fit a wide range of body types, even over bulky winter jackets, and features a specially designed quick-release buckle for easy on-and-off, even with gloves. This mount provides a stable platform for capturing incredibly engaging point-of-view shots, perfect for showcasing your riding skills and the trail ahead.
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Key Features:
- Lightweight, flexible, and breathable construction
- Padded materials for comfort during extended use
- Fully adjustable to fit various body types and over outerwear
- Quick-release buckle for easy attachment and removal
- Stable platform for immersive hands-free footage
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Pros:
- Delivers authentic, immersive POV footage
- Extremely comfortable for long rides
- Official GoPro quality ensures reliability
- Easy to put on and take off quickly
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Cons:
- May not be ideal for shots looking directly at handlebars/wheels
- Can feel warm in hot weather, despite breathable materials
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise the comfort and stability of this official chest mount. It’s a favorite for capturing dynamic first-person footage, with many noting how natural and immersive their videos turn out. The ease of adjustment and quick-release buckle are also frequently highlighted.
3. Sametop Handlebar Bike Pole Mount Motorcycle Clamp Mount…
The Sametop Handlebar Mount stands out for its exceptional adaptability, allowing you to clamp your GoPro Hero 3 onto a wide range of tubes, from bike handlebars and seatposts to ski poles, with diameters ranging from 0.35 to 1.4 inches (9 to 35mm). Its 360-degree rotation feature is a game-changer, providing ultimate flexibility to capture every angle and perspective imaginable. Designed with excellent performance in mind, it features a non-slip interior to protect your poles and a light, durable construction that minimizes vibration and camera shake, ensuring your footage remains steady and clear.
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Key Features:
- Great adaptability for 0.35-1.4in (9-35mm) diameter tubes
- 360° adjustment for dynamic shooting angles
- Non-slip design inside protects poles from scratches
- Light and durable construction minimizes vibration
- Wide compatibility with all GoPro and most action cameras
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Pros:
- Highly versatile, fitting a broad range of tube sizes
- Superior 360° rotation for creative shot composition
- Effectively reduces camera shake for smoother footage
- Protects bike components with non-slip padding
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Cons:
- Plastic construction might not feel as robust as metal options for some users
- Can take a moment to achieve the perfect angle with the 360-degree adjustment
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User Impressions: Many riders appreciate the wide range of uses this mount offers, from handlebars to seatposts, making it a versatile choice. Its ability to minimize vibration and protect surfaces is also frequently praised, contributing to more stable footage and well-maintained gear.
4. MiPremium Bike Handlebar Pole Mount for GoPro Hero 13 12…
The MiPremium Bike Handlebar Pole Mount is built like a tank, designed specifically to prevent your action camera from breaking or falling during thrilling rides. Made from heavy-duty lightweight PC plastic and featuring a 100% anti-rust aluminum alloy thumbscrew, this mount promises durability in all weather conditions. It boasts broad compatibility, securely holding your GoPro Hero 3 and a host of other action cameras. Its standout feature is its ease of use: no complicated setup, just quick and simple installation, along with 360-degree rotation and a 1/4-20 camera mount adapter, offering both stability and versatility.
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Key Features:
- Heavy-duty lightweight PC plastic construction with anti-rust aluminum alloy thumbscrew
- Broad range compatibility with GoPro Hero 3 and many other action cameras
- Quick and easy installation with no complicated setup
- 360-degree rotation and 1/4-20 camera mount adapter
- Fits tubes 22-32mm in diameter
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Pros:
- Exceptionally durable and built to last
- Rust-proof thumbscrew is excellent for outdoor use
- Very easy and quick to install or remove
- Versatile with 360-degree rotation and universal adapter
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Cons:
- Plastic material, though heavy-duty, may still be perceived as less premium than metal
- Specific diameter range (22-32mm) might not fit all handlebar sizes
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User Impressions: Customers often highlight the MiPremium mount’s robust build and the peace of mind it provides knowing their camera is secure. The included anti-rust thumbscrew is a big plus for outdoor enthusiasts, and its straightforward installation process is frequently praised.
5. ChromLives Bike Mount for Gopro, Camera Handlebar Mount…
ChromLives offers a bike mount that emphasizes durability and versatility. Constructed from aluminum alloy, it’s significantly more robust than typical plastic mounts, promising greater longevity and stability for your GoPro Hero 3 during demanding rides. This mount stands out with its 360-degree rotation capability, allowing you to capture stunning footage from virtually any angle. Installation is made simple with the included hexagon wrench, enabling a quick and secure attachment to any round or semi-round rods between 20mm-35mm in diameter. Plus, anti-skid pads ensure your camera stays firmly in place without scratching your bike.
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Key Features:
- Made of durable aluminum alloy
- 360-degree rotation for versatile shooting angles
- Easy installation with included hexagon wrench
- Anti-skid pads for secure grip and pole protection
- Fits 20mm-35mm diameter rods
- Includes 1/4 inch camera adapter
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Pros:
- Highly durable metal construction
- Provides excellent stability for clearer footage
- Simple and quick to install using the wrench
- Versatile 360-degree adjustability
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Cons:
- Requires a wrench for installation, unlike tool-free options
- May add a bit more weight compared to plastic mounts
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User Impressions: Users consistently rate this mount highly for its premium feel and durability, thanks to its aluminum construction. The secure grip provided by the anti-skid pads is a frequently appreciated feature, ensuring the camera remains stable even on rough trails. The included tools for installation are also a nice touch.
6. KDD Action Camera Clamp Mount – Adjustable Bike Handlebar…
The KDD Action Camera Clamp Mount redefines security for your GoPro Hero 3. Its unique full-wrap design, combined with non-slip silicone padding, ensures your handlebars are protected while providing an ironclad grip. The standout feature is its anti-wobble locking knob, which guarantees superior stability during even the most high-intensity mountain biking activities. This mount is designed to keep your camera locked securely in place, preventing accidental falls, whether you’re tackling rugged trails or uneven roads. It’s incredibly versatile, fitting tubes from 0.6 to 1.26 inches, and boasts a tool-free, easy installation for hassle-free use.
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Key Features:
- Full wrap design with non-slip silicone padding for ultimate grip and protection
- Unique anti-wobble locking knob for superior stability
- Wide compatibility with GoPro Hero 3 and many other action cameras
- Versatile use, fits tubes from 0.6 to 1.26 inches (15mm-32mm)
- Easy, tool-free installation and removal
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Pros:
- Exceptional stability due to anti-wobble locking knob
- Protects handlebars while providing a secure hold
- Extremely quick and easy to install without tools
- Very wide compatibility with various action cameras
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Cons:
- Limited to the specified tube diameter range
- May take some trial and error to find the perfect angle without 360-degree rotation
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User Impressions: Riders are particularly impressed by the KDD mount’s unwavering stability and the robust locking mechanism. The tool-free installation is a huge plus for those who want to quickly attach and detach their camera. Many feel it offers genuine peace of mind on challenging terrain.
7. Sametop Helmet Adhesive Sticky Mounts Curved Attachment…
For those looking for a different perspective on their mountain biking adventures, the Sametop Helmet Adhesive Sticky Mounts offer a fantastic solution. These mounts utilize industrial-strength 3M VHB 4991 adhesive pads, renowned for their incredible strength, waterproofing, and durability against temperature extremes and moisture. Perfect for mounting your GoPro Hero 3 directly onto your helmet, they provide a stable and reliable platform for incredibly immersive POV footage. The pack includes both curved and flat mounts, ensuring compatibility with various helmet shapes, and can be cleanly removed with heat, leaving no residue.
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Key Features:
- Industrial-strength 3M VHB 4991 adhesive pads for maximum hold
- Waterproof and resistant to high/low temperatures
- Includes 3 curved and 3 flat adhesive mounts for versatility
- Easy to use and can be cleanly removed with heat
- Wide compatibility with GoPro Hero 3 and many other action cameras
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Pros:
- Provides highly stable and immersive helmet POV footage
- Extremely strong and durable adhesive bond
- Versatile for use on curved and flat surfaces
- Easy, residue-free removal with heat
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Cons:
- Permanent once applied unless heat is used for removal
- Requires a clean, dry surface and 24 hours of curing time before use
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise the incredible sticking power of these 3M adhesive mounts, noting how securely they hold the GoPro Hero 3 even through rough rides. The ability to achieve a true helmet-mounted perspective is a major draw, and the inclusion of both curved and flat mounts is highly valued.
Conclusion
Choosing the best for GoPro Hero 3 mountain biking really comes down to finding a mount that matches your riding style and the kind of footage you want to capture. Whether you prefer the rock-solid stability of an aluminum handlebar mount, the immersive perspective of a chest harness, or the direct view from a helmet mount, there’s a perfect option out there for your GoPro Hero 3. Each of these mounts offers unique advantages, ensuring your camera stays secure and your footage stays epic, no matter how wild the trail gets. So, gear up, pick your mount, and go capture those unforgettable moments!
FAQ Section
Q1: Why do I need a specific mount for mountain biking with my GoPro Hero 3?
A1: Mountain biking involves significant vibrations, impacts, and often high speeds. A dedicated mount designed for action sports offers superior stability, durability, and a secure grip, preventing your GoPro Hero 3 from shaking excessively, falling off, or getting damaged, ensuring high-quality footage.
Q2: What’s the best type of mount for immersive point-of-view (POV) shots while mountain biking?
A2: For truly immersive POV shots, a chest mount or a helmet mount is generally recommended. Chest mounts place the camera low for a good view of the handlebars and trail, while helmet mounts offer a true “rider’s eye” perspective, capturing exactly what you see.
Q3: How can I ensure my GoPro Hero 3 is truly secure on the mount during intense rides?
A3: Always ensure the mount is tightly fastened to your bike or body. Check for anti-slip padding or robust locking mechanisms. For handlebar mounts, confirm the clamp size matches your tube diameter. For adhesive mounts, ensure the surface is clean, dry, and allow sufficient curing time (e.g., 24 hours for 3M adhesives) before riding.
Q4: Are these mounts compatible with other GoPro models or just the Hero 3?
A4: Most modern GoPro mounts, including those reviewed, are designed with broad compatibility across various GoPro models (Hero 3, 4, 5, Session, etc., up to the latest Hero 12/13) and often other action camera brands due to standardized mounting interfaces. Always check the specific product’s compatibility list.
Q5: How can I reduce camera shake and vibration in my mountain biking footage?
A5: Choose mounts made from rigid materials (like aluminum alloy) or those with anti-wobble designs. Ensure all screws are tightened firmly. Some riders also use foam inserts or rubber shims to further reduce micro-vibrations, or utilize GoPro’s in-camera stabilization features (if available on your model) or post-production stabilization software.
Q6: Are adhesive mounts reliable enough for mountain biking, especially on helmets?
A6: Yes, high-quality adhesive mounts, especially those utilizing 3M VHB (Very High Bond) adhesives, are extremely reliable and strong enough for mountain biking. They are designed to withstand extreme conditions, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. Proper application (clean surface, firm press, adequate curing time) is key to their effectiveness.
Q7: What diameter handlebars do most bike mounts accommodate?
A7: Most universal bike handlebar mounts are designed to fit standard handlebar diameters, typically ranging from 20mm to 35mm (approximately 0.8 inches to 1.4 inches). Always measure your bike’s handlebar or seatpost diameter before purchasing to ensure a perfect fit.
