AUGUST 7, 2008
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Racer X Canada Tested Presented by Bicycle Works |
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Rob McCullough's testing assistant, Danny Brault, gives the GoPro camera an 8 out of 10! |
By Danny Brault
The Product: GoPro Helmet Hero Camera
The Weapon: Danny Brault and his Sturgess Cycle KX250F
Online: goprocamera.ca
Cost: $199 CDN
Helmet cameras have come a long way in motocross racing. I can still remember watching old supercross tapes and the guy wearing the camera looked like he had a watermelon stuck to his head. I’m guessing it was pretty heavy and uncomfortable to ride with. Helmet camera technology has now advanced to the point where you don’t even notice it’s there.
At least, we found this to be the case with our GoPro Helmet Hero. This teeny tiny camera can be stuck to your helmet (top or sides or back), head, front fender, handlebars—basically anywhere you want—and it records clear POV footage that easily transfers onto your laptop or TV screen.
Follow these links to watch footage from our GoPro camera at all of the Canadian National tracks: Ste-Julie, Gopher Dunes, Morden, Regina, and Nanaimo. [Note: Our helmet cam videos have been uploaded into a flash file rather than Quicktime, to ensure all users can view the videos.]
Likes
What really stands out with the GoPro camera is how light and small it is. It doesn’t cause any discomfort while riding and it stays put thanks to a super adhesive 3M patch. The camera doesn’t look like much, but it records quality footage for up to 56 minutes with an SD card. (To be bought separately.) By following instructions provided, it should take you no time at all to install the device and learn how to work it. Very simple!
Dislikes
The GoPro Camera needs a better microphone. It does pick up enough sound to know when you need to get on the gas, but it isn’t quite like being at the races.
Verdict
Helmet cameras can definitely benefit racers; you can review footage and find lines, see where guys are faster than you, and see where you need to improve. It’s also just cool to watch yourself ride! With the GoPro model, you receive clear, TV quality footage in a compact and light package, it’s easy to use, and it won’t break the bank.
Be sure to visit our Racer X Canada Tested's new sponsor, Bicycle Works' website at www.thebicycleworks.ca. They're motocross racers themselves and are the go-to bicycle shop for all of your spokes and pedal needs! Thanks for the support, guys!
