Motorcycle dash cams are highly recommended and often considered necessary for modern riders. They provide crucial, objective evidence in accidents, insurance disputes, and protection against reckless drivers.
For many riders, a motorcycle dash cam feels like insurance: it seems like an extra expense when things are going well, but the moment an accident happens, you wish you had bought it yesterday.
Whether you’re touring cross-country or navigating city streets, a reliable recording device isn’t a luxury—it’s a layer of essential protection. In this guide, we’ll explore why a dash cam is a must-have and whether you should choose an action camera or a dedicated system.
Why Every Rider Needs a Dash Cam
1. The Ultimate Insurance Policy
In an incident, footage is undeniable proof. This is crucial in blind spots, on roads without traffic cameras, or in common “close call” situations with other vehicles. On a bike, having your own record isn’t just smart; it’s a safety net.
2. Capturing the Beauty of the Ride
Beyond safety, a dash cam is a memory keeper. It automatically captures the stunning mountain passes and coastal sunsets you encounter, allowing you to relive the journey without needing to stop and pull out a camera.
Action Camera vs Motorcycle Dash Cam
Many riders struggle with the same question: Should I buy an action camera, or a front-and-rear motorcycle dash cam? Both have strengths and weaknesses.
Option 1: Action Cameras (GoPro, Drift, etc.)
✅ Pros
- Easy to install and remove
- Excellent video quality and stabilization
- Can record first-person or third-person perspectives
- Great for social media and riding vlogs
❌ Cons
- Limited battery life (usually 1–2 hours)
- No rear view recording
- Adds weight to your helmet
- Easy to forget to turn on — or run out of battery
Best for: Riders who want to record their riding life, create content, and share videos online.
Option 2: Motorcycle Dash Cams (Front & Rear)
✅ Pros
- Powered by the motorcycle battery — no battery anxiety
- Front and rear cameras record traffic behind you
- Automatically turns on when the bike starts, off when the bike stops
- Always installed, always ready
- Ideal for accident evidence
❌ Cons
- Installation is more complex (wiring to the battery)
- Fixed camera angles
Best for: Riders who prioritize safety, legal protection, and peace of mind.
Top Action Camera Picks for Content Creators
1. Insta360 X5
If creative freedom matters most, the Insta360 X5 is hard to beat. Its 360° capture lets you record everything around you and decide on the framing later, which is perfect for fast-paced rides where you don’t have time to think about camera angles.
With up to 8K 360° video or crisp 4K single-lens footage, it offers plenty of resolution for reframing clips into different formats for YouTube, Instagram, or Shorts. Paired with the invisible selfie stick, it can create dramatic third-person, almost drone-like shots—something traditional action cameras simply can’t replicate.
Best for: Riders who focus on cinematic shots, creative angles, and social media content.
2. DJI Osmo Action 6 Combo
The DJI Osmo Action 6 stands out for riders who often film in challenging lighting conditions. Thanks to its large sensor and adjustable aperture, it delivers cleaner, brighter footage during early morning rides, tunnels, or overcast days where many action cameras struggle.
It’s also extremely practical for vlog-style content. Both the front and rear screens are touch-enabled, making it easy to adjust settings on the fly, and the direct compatibility with DJI’s wireless mic system is a big plus for creators who care about clear narration. Add in excellent battery life and strong waterproofing, and it’s a very reliable all-rounder.
Best for: Moto vloggers, daily riders, and anyone who values usability and audio quality.
3. GoPro HERO 13 Black
GoPro remains the benchmark for pure action reliability, and the HERO 13 Black continues that tradition. Its unique 8:7 sensor gives creators maximum flexibility in post-production, allowing footage to be cropped into widescreen, vertical, or classic formats without sacrificing quality.
With high-resolution video, rich color depth, and industry-leading stabilization, it delivers consistently smooth results—even on rough roads or off-road trails. GoPro’s massive ecosystem of mounts and accessories also makes it easy to integrate the camera into almost any riding setup.
Best for: Riders who want dependable performance, excellent stabilization, and the widest accessory support.
Top Motorcycle Dash Cam Picks for Maximum Safety
1. INNOVV K6: The Discreet Dash Cam
If you want a simple, “install and forget” dash cam, the Innovv K6 delivers reliable, always-on recording.
The INNOVV K6 is built for riders who want durable, always-on protection without the fuss. It's a discreet dual-channel system that records sharp 2K (1440P) footage in the front and solid 1080P in the rear, powered directly by your bike's battery for unlimited recording. Key features include a compact IP67 waterproof design, Sony Starvis sensors for improved night vision, and Wi-Fi connectivity for managing footage via a phone app.
While video clarity is excellent for evidence, it may show motion blur in fast action and doesn't match the cinematic quality of a high-end action camera. The app can sometimes be finicky, and the rear camera is noticeably less detailed than the front.
In short: Choose the K6 if you prioritize a low-profile, hardwired system for safety evidence over creating polished video content.
2. CPMC X6 All-in-One Dash Cam & CarPlay System
If the INNOVV K6 is your “set it and forget it” sentinel, then the CPMC X6 All in one Motorcycle Dash Cam is the mission control center on your handlebars. Designed for riders who see their motorcycle not just as transport, but as a platform for integrated technology, the X6 elevates both safety and convenience in one sleek package.
The CPMC X6 seamlessly fuses a crystal-clear 2K dual-channel dash cam with a vibrant 6.25-inch touchscreen display featuring full CarPlay & Android Auto integration. Ditch the precarious phone mount; access navigation, music, and communication through a safer, dedicated interface.
But it goes beyond connectivity. The X6 proactively enhances your safety with integrated Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)—features that bring automotive-grade awareness to two wheels. Encased in a robust IP67 waterproof shell, it’s built to endure the elements as reliably as it protects you.
Final Gear Advice
Consider how you ride. Are you capturing epic adventures for YouTube, or do you want peace of mind on your daily commute? Answer that, and the choice between an action camera and a dedicated dash cam becomes clear. For many riders, the combination of a dash cam for constant protection and occasionally mounting an action camera for that perfect shot offers the best of both worlds.
Ready to equip your bike? Explore our full range of motorcycle dash cams and CarPlay systems designed for riders, by riders at CPMC.
