Ever spent more on gear than your bike’s fuel for a month? You’re not alone. With the rise of motovlogging, it’s easy to get caught up in buying flashy tools that promise cinematic glory. But here’s the truth: your content’s quality depends more on smart gear choices than sheer quantity. This guide helps you navigate the essentials, cut through the clutter, and get rolling with confidence.
2. Must-Have Gear (Beginner to Intermediate Levels)
Camera: An action camera is your best friend. GoPro (Hero 9 and above), Insta360, and DJI Osmo Action are top choices. Prioritize image stabilization, 4K recording, and reliability. Don’t fall for cheap knockoffs.
Mounts: Start with a solid helmet chin mount for that immersive POV. Chest mounts give great stability but can obstruct your view. Handlebar mounts are great for bike-centric shots but can be shaky.
Microphones: A good external mic with a wind muff (“deadcat”) is crucial. Your audience may forgive a shaky video, but never bad audio. Also, check if your action cam needs a mic adapter (GoPro notoriously does).
Storage: Use SD cards with UHS-I or UHS-II speed ratings (V30 or higher). Bring at least 2-3 128GB cards and carry them in a waterproof case. Also, keep 2-3 spare batteries and a portable SSD for offloading footage.
Power: Power banks with bike-compatible USB outputs are a lifesaver on long rides. Carry cable organizers to avoid tangles, especially when riding and filming simultaneously.
Helmet & Jacket: Look for helmets with built-in mic ports or good ventilation to reduce wind noise. A lightweight jacket with camera-friendly pockets also helps for on-the-go shots.
3. Optional but Useful Gear
- Drones: Great for cinematic B-roll, especially in scenic areas. But check local drone laws.
- Handlebar Gimbal: Adds professional smoothness to handlebar-mounted shots.
- Modular Helmet Lights: Helpful for night rides and visibility.
- Voice Recorders: Handy as a backup audio source, especially when your mic fails or during helmet-off segments.
4. What You Don’t Need (at Least Right Away)
- Overpriced action cam mounts. Start simple and test what works for you.
- Studio lighting. You’re on the road—natural light is your stage.
- Advanced editing setups. For now, a solid laptop and apps like CapCut, VN, or LumaFusion on mobile will do just fine.
5. Budget Recommendations
Entry-Level (Under $300):
- Akaso Brave 7 or older GoPro Hero
- Basic chin mount set
- Lavalier mic with deadcat
- 64GB UHS-I SD card + 1 spare battery
Mid-Range (Under $800):
- GoPro Hero 11 or DJI Osmo Action 4
- Helmet + handlebar mount kit
- Rode Wireless Go II or Purple Panda mic
- 2x 128GB SD cards, Power bank
Pro Setup:
- Insta360 X4 + GoPro Hero 12 combo
- Full gimbal setup + drone (DJI Mini 3 Pro)
- Tascam or Zoom H1n voice recorder
- High-performance laptop or tablet with SSD
6. Bonus Tips
- Test your gear on short rides before long trips.
- Use a tank bag or tail bag to organize and protect gear.
- Clean your lens regularly; bugs and dust love action cams.
- Check audio levels before riding. Nothing stings like a mute vlog.
7. Conclusion
You don’t need a suitcase full of gear to start motovlogging. Just smart, strategic picks. Start small, learn what fits your style, and build from there. The best stories are told through experiences, not expensive equipment.
Have a gear regret or must-have to share? Drop it in the comments and help the community ride smarter!