Capture every ride: TOP action cameras for cyclists in 2025

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro’s newest flagship, the HERO13 Black remains the benchmark for image quality and stabilization. HyperSmooth 6.0 delivers buttery-smooth 5.3K footage even while riding on cobbles, while improved power efficiency gives more than 90 minutes of recording. The vivid dual displays, waterproof body and extensive mount ecosystem make it perfect for racers, commuters and filmmakers alike. GoPro’s Quik app offers effortless editing and automatic highlights, turning raw rides into shareable stories within minutes.

DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro

DJI’s Osmo Action 5 Pro excels at colour fidelity and versatility. RockSteady 3.0+ and HorizonSteady keep your footage level through switchbacks, while the large 1/1.3-inch sensor shines in low light. The magnetic quick-release mount makes angle changes instant and its battery can stretch to four hours in economy modes. For gravel adventurers and endurance cyclists wanting superb clarity and ease of use, this camera is a rock-solid, lightweight partner.

Insta360 Ace Pro 2

Insta360’s 8K Ace Pro 2 blends cinematic sharpness with clever automation. FlowState stabilization and Active HDR deliver vivid, balanced images whether you’re climbing or sprinting. Cyclists can shoot at 4K 120 fps for slow-motion training analysis, while the flip-up touchscreen makes self-filming effortless. Built to survive wet, dusty roads, it’s ideal for creators seeking professional quality in a compact, durable form.

GoPro MAX 2

The redesigned GoPro MAX 2 brings true 8K 360° recording to cycling. Dual lenses capture every direction, allowing you to re-frame any perspective after the ride. HyperSmooth 360 keeps horizons steady, and voice commands allow hands-free control mid-effort. Its improved audio system records immersive wind-balanced sound, and enhanced low-light performance means early-morning and twilight rides look spectacular.

Insta360 X5

With modular 8K capture, replaceable lenses and long battery life, the Insta360 X5 is a creative powerhouse for cyclists. FlowState stabilization ensures smooth shots on rough gravel, while IP68 waterproofing and durable construction make it dependable in all weather. The companion app simplifies reframing and colour correction, helping you craft immersive route previews or cinematic highlight reels after every adventure.

Insta360 X3

A popular 360-degree camera, the X3 by Insta360 captures everything around you in 5.7K detail. FlowState stabilization ensures steady imagery on rough roads, and dual touchscreens make framing intuitive. It’s waterproof, lightweight and easily fits in a jersey pocket. Perfect for riders who enjoy creative editing and want panoramic coverage of group rides without complex gear.

AKASO Brave 8

AKASO’s Brave 8 delivers impressive 4K 60 fps video and “SuperSmooth” EIS for crisp, shake-free footage. Dual colour screens simplify framing and the robust shell handles rain and dust. Bundled mounts provide instant setup on bars, bike helmets or seatposts, making it an ideal first camera for cyclists documenting rides, analyzing technique or capturing stunning vistas without overspending.

DJI Osmo Action 4

DJI’s compact hero, the Osmo Action 4 continues to impress with sharp 4K 120 fps footage and long battery life. RockSteady 3.0 and HorizonSteady maintain ultra-smooth framing across cobblestones or descents. Quick magnetic mounting and waterproof construction add convenience, while its natural colour rendering flatters both bright alpine light and gloomy lanes. A balanced, professional-feeling camera at a friendly price.

SJCAM SJ8 Pro

Small but capable, the SJ8 Pro by SJCAM shoots detailed 4K 60 fps video with 6-axis EIS that evens out vibration from rough tarmac. The responsive touchscreen interface and included waterproof case make it versatile in all conditions. Excellent for commuters or recreational riders seeking stabilized, clear footage and basic audio recording in a simple, low-cost package.

Best cameras for creating ROUVY Route Creator content

A GoPro camera with GPS is required for use with the ROUVY Route Creator tool, so choose from the models below when filming rides for upload.

GoPro HERO13 Black

The HERO13 Black is the gold standard for ROUVY Route Creator content. Its 5.3K resolution and HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization deliver crisp, cinematic footage that looks flawless on virtual roads. Built-in GPS ensures precise elevation and location tracking, while the Enduro battery excels in both heat and cold. Waterproof to 10 metres and easy to mount, it’s built for real-world rides. The improved Quik app streamlines editing and uploading, letting cyclists turn any route into an indoor experience that other ROUVY riders can enjoy.

GoPro MAX 2

GoPro’s MAX 2 adds creative depth to route recording with 8K 360-degree capture, letting you re-frame perfectly stable forward views afterwards. HyperSmooth 360 technology locks horizons even over cobbles, and GPS data embeds seamlessly into your video files. Its intuitive touchscreen and voice commands allow hands-free operation, while enhanced microphones record immersive wind-balanced audio. Longer battery life and improved heat management mean you can record extended rides with confidence and produce virtual ROUVY routes that immerse viewers in your favourite terrain.

GoPro HERO11 Black

A proven favourite among cyclists, the HERO11 Black combines 5.3K clarity with HyperSmooth 5.0 stabilization and horizon-locking for level, realistic footage. Its integrated GPS records ride telemetry for accurate gradient and speed data. Compact and rugged, it handles everything from rainy commutes to mountain switchbacks. The simple interface, vibrant screens and broad mount support make it a workhorse for cyclists wanting high-quality output without the price tag of the latest model. Reliability and versatility remain its core strengths.

GoPro HERO10 Black

The GoPro HERO10 Black, now discontinued, continues to deliver results for ROUVY creators. It records sharp 5.3 K 60 fps video with HyperSmooth 4.0 stabilization and built-in GPS. Though no longer sold new, it’s still available through some retailers or second hand, offering excellent value and dependable performance.

Tips for filming ROUVY routes

When filming for the ROUVY Route Creator, it’s best to use a stable out-front mount, record at 4K 30 or 5.3K 30 fps, keep exposure consistent, and let your camera acquire a strong GPS lock before riding. Avoid vibrations, clean the lens frequently, and follow ROUVY’s guide to recording the best possible videos, and guide to editing in the ROUVY Route Creator.

Helmet vs. bike mount: What’s better?

Helmet mounts capture the cyclist’s natural line of sight, making viewers feel they’re in the saddle. The downside is extra wind noise and head weight. Bike mounts offer steadier framing and are preferred for ROUVY or safety use, though they pick up more vibration. Many cyclists combine both – a bar-mounted front camera for smooth, level footage and a helmet or rear cam for dynamic cutaways and situational awareness.

Using action cams for safety & training

Rear-facing cameras act as digital mirrors, capturing aggressive overtakes and number plates for evidence. Forward cameras double as self-analysis tools: by reviewing clips, riders can spot posture drift, pedal-stroke asymmetry or aero position changes. Overlaying GPS and power data turns a ride into a moving cycling training report.

Action cam accessories cyclists should consider

Power banks and spare Enduro batteries extend recording time. Quick-release mounts simplify angle changes. ND filters reduce glare; Bluetooth remotes or voice commands keep your hands on the handlebars. Extra memory cards, protective lens covers and anti-fog inserts help keep footage clear and equipment safe.

Tips for capturing better footage on the bike

Frame slightly lower than eye level to include the road ahead without excessive sky. Lock horizon stabilization when available and clean lenses before every ride. For smoother playback, use 4K 30-60 fps and the “linear” lens mode. Keep audio usable by shielding mic ports from wind or using an external microphone. In low light, cap ISO to reduce noise and maintain consistent exposure for better editing continuity.

Final thoughts: Ride, record, repeat

The best action cameras for cyclists in 2025 aren’t just for professionals – they’re tools for every rider who wants to capture and share the joy of cycling. Choose your camera according to your goals: storytelling, virtual route creation, training analysis or safety.

Whatever you pick, stabilization, clear framing and consistency matter more than megapixels. Record your rides, share your story on social media or YouTube and – when you’re ready – upload them to the ROUVY Route Creator so others can experience your rides indoors.

The motto for 2025? Ride, record, repeat.

Further reading

• ROUVY, “The ROUVY Route Creator Community Corner”
• ROUVY, “How To Record A ROUVY Route: Tips & Tricks From The Experts”
• ROUVy, “Best Bike Computers: Top GPA & Smart Picks For Cyclists”
• ROUVY, ”Best Bike Phone Mounts For Road, Gravel And Indoor Cycling”