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Other Resources => After The Ride => Topic started by: 00Garza on May 12, 2023, 03:47:02 PM

Title: Action cameras
Post by: 00Garza on May 12, 2023, 03:47:02 PM
Thinking of recording rides.  Are any of the Chinese action cameras worth looking at? Something like a SJcam or should I save up for save up for a DJI/GoPro/Insta360?
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: ChrisB on May 17, 2023, 02:03:45 AM
I used some Akaso Cameras: The V50X and the Brave 7.
Generally they work until they don't...

The V50x was a good buy for the money but image quality and stabilisation is not even up to par with a GoPro9.

The Brave 7 is better in terms of image quality and for 150US$ at the time seemed to be a good choice.
However after 2 months the battery lifetime reduced dramatically and finally I found the problem is not the battery but in the electronic that measures the battery state.
Contacting Akaso was useless, they refused to replace the defective camera even after proving the defect by video to them. They just wanted to offer a 50 buck discount when buying a new camera....
Here the video I did showing the problem: https://youtu.be/GCuzpWcQtNg

My personal advice is to try a cheap Chinese camera if you want to experiment... Once you decided it is something you really want to do with good image quality, go with GoPro/DJI or Insta360.
I am very happy with a GoPro9, stabilisation even on rough roads is way better than on the Akaso cameras.

When it comes to accessories, e.g. camera mounts or charger and batteries, you will get good deals from 3rd parties on AliExpress.
No need to spend extra money on original accessories at least in my opinion.

BR Chris
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: Tijoe on May 17, 2023, 11:47:25 AM
I've used one of these for about 2 years now on my road rides where traffic is questionable, and I want to have a record if a vehicle driver forces me off the road or hits me.

I used it a few times on local mtn bike trails, but it bounces around some.

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256804600374995.html?spm=a2g0o.cart.0.0.65b138daqWntQY&mp=1&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa

Edit:  this is the camera only version.

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256804695104331.html?spm=a2g0o.detail.1000060.1.7368169bDVKg6p&gps-id=pcDetailBottomMoreThisSeller&scm=1007.13339.291025.0&scm_id=1007.13339.291025.0&scm-url=1007.13339.291025.0&pvid=411bf425-1fd4-4910-bd39-097e433d1d12&_t=gps-id%3ApcDetailBottomMoreThisSeller%2Cscm-url%3A1007.13339.291025.0%2Cpvid%3A411bf425-1fd4-4910-bd39-097e433d1d12%2Ctpp_buckets%3A668%232846%238115%232000&pdp_npi=3%40dis%21USD%2150.47%2125.23%21%21%21%21%21%402103247916843420881371080ea5de%2112000030875186523%21rec%21US%21122805404&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa


Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: coffeebreak on May 17, 2023, 03:47:35 PM
I've used one of these for about 2 years now on my road rides where traffic is questionable, and I want to have a record if a vehicle driver forces me off the road or hits me.

I used it a few times on local mtn bike trails, but it bounces around some.

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256804600374995.html?spm=a2g0o.cart.0.0.65b138daqWntQY&mp=1&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa

THis is the exact form factor I wanted. How is the battery life and video quality, can you make out number plates of vehicles?
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: Tijoe on September 17, 2025, 03:38:50 PM
THis is the exact form factor I wanted. How is the battery life and video quality, can you make out number plates of vehicles?

I stopped using it for road riding after the outer lens cap vibrated/ unscrewed and fell off and I lost the outer glass that protects the LED and camera.   These days I still occasionally use it for other activities and on hikes.  I never had any road incidents while using it, so I never saved any of the recordings.  In general, the recording quality is really good for the price point.
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: kwantani on September 22, 2025, 01:15:34 PM
I used this one. Not chinese, but japanese.
https://www.amazon.com/AKEEYO-710Pro-Waterproof-Anti-Shake-Function-G-Sensor/dp/B0DP2DWBNV?th=1

recording time around 4 hrs with HD res. It does 4k nevertheless and have stabilization/anti shake.

check out the video footages I recorded using this cam:
https://www.youtube.com/@kwantani-cycling/videos
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: 00Garza on October 07, 2025, 02:45:05 PM
I ended up splurging on a Insta360 Ace Pro 2. Used some random influencer's code for a free bike accessory kit.
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: kwantani on November 03, 2025, 12:51:34 PM
Check out this "RIPOON Q100 Rear Light Bicycle Dash Cam". Inexpensive rear view DV recorder, not exactly an action camera, but providing some form of video footages for incidents.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1767732-REG/a02_ur_ripoon_q100_y_q100_smart_bike_dash.html/?kw=RIQ100Y&ap=y&smp=y&store=420&smpm=ba_f2_lar&BI=5451&ap=y&smp=y&lsft=BI:5451&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=12706497822&gbraid=0AAAAAD7yMh1Y3PSLJPvLJVduAsLyPyndC&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIj5SL19LWkAMVBx6tBh1V7jBpEAQYAyABEgKMGvD_BwE

I think AE also have it too.
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: robinoco on November 05, 2025, 01:13:21 PM
Check out this "RIPOON Q100 Rear Light Bicycle Dash Cam". Inexpensive rear view DV recorder, not exactly an action camera, but providing some form of video footages for incidents.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1767732-REG/a02_ur_ripoon_q100_y_q100_smart_bike_dash.html/?kw=RIQ100Y&ap=y&smp=y&store=420&smpm=ba_f2_lar&BI=5451&ap=y&smp=y&lsft=BI:5451&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=12706497822&gbraid=0AAAAAD7yMh1Y3PSLJPvLJVduAsLyPyndC&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIj5SL19LWkAMVBx6tBh1V7jBpEAQYAyABEgKMGvD_BwE

I think AE also have it too.
Looks good but I can't get in UK - Anyone have the AE link?
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: kwantani on November 05, 2025, 02:46:54 PM
so far only Ebay: https://www.ebay.com/itm/388300869672?chn=ps&mkcid=28&google_free_listing_action=view_item
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: BatmanLoko on December 09, 2025, 02:59:44 AM
good info here thanks
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: kwantani on December 19, 2025, 04:36:59 PM
There's a proliferation of actions cameras, so many options, and they doesn't cost an arms and legs....

https://www.svbony.com/products/svgo-c1-cycling-camera?srsltid=AfmBOoqEr6rd-HWQ82REsSXFzKC118cTLz82HuCfqu_LGdVPIbK8Na0b

https://shopakaso.com/products/akaso-360?srsltid=AfmBOopjVYuIA6sur2VmFzLqWYpDpIs76GcK4-ce2UqwVRdwidomETHV
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: jonathanf2 on January 23, 2026, 01:42:27 PM
Has anyone tried sunglasses with built-in cameras? I'm also considering a magnetic camera that attaches to a jersey. I don't need fancy video, just enough so I can record some action of the mountain trails or fast road bike descents. I've been using my phone, but I'd like to keep both hands on the handle bars for some of the more sketchier riding!
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: jhearrtot on January 23, 2026, 02:24:11 PM
Has anyone tried sunglasses with built-in cameras? I'm also considering a magnetic camera that attaches to a jersey. I don't need fancy video, just enough so I can record some action of the mountain trails or fast road bike descents. I've been using my phone, but I'd like to keep both hands on the handle bars for some of the more sketchier riding!

I've had my meta ray ban for a year now and used it to record videos while cycling and running. They're pretty good in terms of video quality, though limited to 3 mins recording for the 1st gen and the battery life is just 'okay' so you'll need to bring the bulky case to top up the charge when needed.
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: CycOps on January 24, 2026, 05:14:18 AM
Thanks for the Ripoon link on eBay. I've seen it in an US webshop before and found it very interesting, as it claims battery life of 9 hours. Does it really last so long, at least in warm weather conditions?
I'm thinking of recording my commute and training rides for having evidence on dangerous traffic situation for a long time now. But I know I'd be filing complaints on a weekly basis if I'd take it serious.
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: jonathanf2 on January 25, 2026, 11:14:58 AM
Has anyone tried one of these headset mount cameras? I think I'd prefer this over built-in camera glasses. This way I can use whichever glasses I prefer while still getting that first person perspective.

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256807283613542.html (https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256807283613542.html)
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: kwantani on January 26, 2026, 06:58:32 PM
Mine lasted 3 hrs+ for the whole ride and still have lot's of battery left.
Paved road ride is ok.
Gravel ride is pretty shaky footage since it has no stabilization.
perfect as dashcam footage for evidence.
Attachment is using two tiny rubber bands, which is kind of flimsy. Otherwise is usable.

Thanks for the Ripoon link on eBay. I've seen it in an US webshop before and found it very interesting, as it claims battery life of 9 hours. Does it really last so long, at least in warm weather conditions?
I'm thinking of recording my commute and training rides for having evidence on dangerous traffic situation for a long time now. But I know I'd be filing complaints on a weekly basis if I'd take it serious.
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: kwantani on January 26, 2026, 07:00:21 PM
Problem with Ali action cams is they've no stabilization. Very shaky footage if you go over bumpy roads/gravels.

Has anyone tried one of these headset mount cameras? I think I'd prefer this over built-in camera glasses. This way I can use whichever glasses I prefer while still getting that first person perspective.

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256807283613542.html (https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256807283613542.html)
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: jonathanf2 on February 03, 2026, 02:25:44 PM
Problem with Ali action cams is they've no stabilization. Very shaky footage if you go over bumpy roads/gravels.

What do you think about just using a phone? These magnetic chest mounts seem reasonable and I already carry my phone with me.  :)

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256810347458599.html (https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256810347458599.html)
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: gauomzei on February 07, 2026, 08:48:56 AM
In topic of cameras, I recently bought Ravemen NT301, which is a rear light with a video recorder (around $100 from official Ravemen shop on Ali). Picture quality is quite good, it lasts long (I have yet to test if 13h of runtime declared by manufacturer is realistic), and the light is more than bright enough. Though it's definitely not an action camera, video is shaky and color balance is kinda weird, good for getting license plates but not for making nice videos for Instargram. Now I'm looking for a similar solution for the front, something that would last 5-10 hours, record in good enough quality to get plates, preferably record sound since my Ravemen doesn't have a microphone, and could be installed underneath the computer mount (that's te only space I have on my handlebar). Video stabilization and front light functions are optional, I can use a separate light. I was thinking about getting an action camera, but battery runtime on these is not long enough for longer rides, and I don't want to carry spare batteries nor a powerbank. Same issue with motorcycle recorders, it seems all of them require an external power source. I know there are front lights like Garmin Varia Vue or Cycliq Fly12, but these are too pricey for me, I'm looking for something below $150. It's kinda weird that there are several rear bike lights with a camera, a lot of them for less than $100, but there's not a single front video recorder aside the expensive ones. Do you think something will appear in the near future, or maybe there's already a solution I overlooked?
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: CycOps on February 09, 2026, 06:05:15 AM
In topic of cameras, I recently bought Ravemen NT301, which is a rear light with a video recorder (around $100 from official Ravemen shop on Ali). Picture quality is quite good, it lasts long (I have yet to test if 13h of runtime declared by manufacturer is realistic), and the light is more than bright enough.

@Gauomzei - I have a question, does the Ravmen NT301 has a Garmin compatible mount/attachment? that would allow to use third party Garmin style areo seat post mounts and a big plus IMHO.
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: gauomzei on February 09, 2026, 04:29:46 PM
Unfortunately no, it has some proprietary mount - worth noting it that it's different mount than the one they used in their NT201 radar, which I bought last year. I guess they needed to redesign the mount to be more robust, since NT301 is heavier, too bad they didn't just use Garmin standard. On the flipside, there's a saddle rail mount included this time (NT201 came only with a rubber band), which can also be used separately with any Gopro-style mount, so if you can fit some camera attachment to your seatpost or saddle, you can use it to install this light/camera device too. I'll try to install it directly to my seatpost, which is aero-shaped but flat on the rear, I'll post some pictures if I succeed.
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: CycOps on February 11, 2026, 09:37:14 AM
On the flipside, there's a saddle rail mount included this time (NT201 came only with a rubber band), which can also be used separately with any Gopro-style mount, so if you can fit some camera attachment to your seatpost or saddle, you can use it to install this light/camera device too.

I just checked their website, and the saddle mount for the NT301, called ABM21, looks like to be one pice (not screed to thegether), without the posibility to use the mount part on other garmin-ish devices?
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: gauomzei on February 11, 2026, 05:09:07 PM
I can confirm it's two piece, with Gopro-style interface connecting them. If it was one piece, you wouldn't be able to rotate the camera to get a good view of the road behind you. I'll post a picture how it looks once I'm finished with attaching it to the seatpost, which I hope should be by the weekend.
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: kwantani on February 13, 2026, 01:26:20 PM
Check this one out: https://www.svbony.com/products/svgo-c1-cycling-camera

front video recorder with stabilization, computer, lights, gps, less than $100.
Specifically designed for cycling use.


In topic of cameras, I recently bought Ravemen NT301, which is a rear light with a video recorder (around $100 from official Ravemen shop on Ali). Picture quality is quite good, it lasts long (I have yet to test if 13h of runtime declared by manufacturer is realistic), and the light is more than bright enough. Though it's definitely not an action camera, video is shaky and color balance is kinda weird, good for getting license plates but not for making nice videos for Instargram. Now I'm looking for a similar solution for the front, something that would last 5-10 hours, record in good enough quality to get plates, preferably record sound since my Ravemen doesn't have a microphone, and could be installed underneath the computer mount (that's te only space I have on my handlebar). Video stabilization and front light functions are optional, I can use a separate light. I was thinking about getting an action camera, but battery runtime on these is not long enough for longer rides, and I don't want to carry spare batteries nor a powerbank. Same issue with motorcycle recorders, it seems all of them require an external power source. I know there are front lights like Garmin Varia Vue or Cycliq Fly12, but these are too pricey for me, I'm looking for something below $150. It's kinda weird that there are several rear bike lights with a camera, a lot of them for less than $100, but there's not a single front video recorder aside the expensive ones. Do you think something will appear in the near future, or maybe there's already a solution I overlooked?
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: 00Garza on February 17, 2026, 11:27:07 AM
Check this one out: https://www.svbony.com/products/svgo-c1-cycling-camera

front video recorder with stabilization, computer, lights, gps, less than $100.
Specifically designed for cycling use.

Wow they really packed everything into one little unit. I'd prefer no horn and a better mounting system to be honest. And the stabilization is pretty underwhelming, but for the price not too shabby.
https://youtu.be/fqWFATcaVxI?si=kQ78d9-AUHopYVul
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: kwantani on February 17, 2026, 05:01:55 PM
Agreed, the EIS stabilization is ok on smooth paved road, prob not useable on gravel.  BTW SVBONY is a name brand on spotting and astronomy gears.

Wow they really packed everything into one little unit. I'd prefer no horn and a better mounting system to be honest. And the stabilization is pretty underwhelming, but for the price not too shabby.
https://youtu.be/fqWFATcaVxI?si=kQ78d9-AUHopYVul
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: jonathanf2 on February 25, 2026, 01:39:15 PM
I'm probably just going to get an Insta 360. My road rides are boring as heck, but all the fun rides and descents are when I ride gravel. The stabilization is probably the biggest priority and from most the footage I've seen the Insta 360 does the best for those conditions. Unless there are some other recommendations specifically for off-road riding?
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: 00Garza on February 25, 2026, 02:56:38 PM
I'm probably just going to get an Insta 360. My road rides are boring as heck, but all the fun rides and descents are when I ride gravel. The stabilization is probably the biggest priority and from most the footage I've seen the Insta 360 does the best for those conditions. Unless there are some other recommendations specifically for off-road riding?

Very pleased with my Ace Pro 2. Used some random affiliate link to get a free bike mounting kit.
Title: Re: Action cameras
Post by: alfiomotrambo on March 16, 2026, 09:16:25 AM
There are huge discounts on DJI products on Alix these days https://it.aliexpress.com/item/1005011584731160.html (https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c44D9aqr)