It used to be that filming your ride was an expensive and difficult proposition. Not anymore. These little cameras now offer high-quality video, are easy to use and have become much more affordable. The GoPro Hero HD camera is proof.



Tech features: The $300 GoPro HD Helmet Hero is a 1080p HD video camera and a still-photo camera in one. The video camera shoots in 1080p, 960p or 720p HD resolutions and records at 30 or 60 frames per second (60 fps in 720p). You can record up to 2.5 hours on a single charge and up to nine hours using an optional 32GB SD card. The Helmet Hero also shoots 5MP still photographs at 2-, 5-, 10-, 30- or 60-second intervals. Helmet camera mount options include a head-lamp style head strap, a lace-through strap mount for vented helmets, and two curved and two flat adhesive mounts for attaching the camera to the bike.




Field test results: The mounting instructions are easy to follow. The hardest part is deciding where to mount the camera, since GoPro gives
you so many options. While the GoPro looks like a plastic toy, the video quality is absolutely stunning. We used it in every condition, from a snowstorm to summer riding, and the camera is bombproof. The camera’s fish-eye lens is perfect for capturing the action and encapsulates a large field of vision. If you have a gnarly wreck and destroy the camera’s waterproof housing, which seems difficult to do, you won’t break the bank at the same time. A replacement housing only costs $40. Speaking of replacements parts, the beauty of the Helmet Hero is the numerous add-ons that GoPro offers, like the $80 LCD BacPac. The LCD BacPac allows you to instantly play back your footage on the trail to ensure that you get the shot. For long days of filming, the $50 battery BacPac add-on is a must, as it doubles the camera’s battery life. Both BacPacs come with specific waterproof rear doors that easily attach to the camera housing and ensure your goods are protected. GoPro absolutely nailed it with the Hero HD camera and its add-ons. The Hero HD’s incredible video quality, versatility and ease of use easily earn this camera a five-star rating. Accompanied by a wide assortment of innovative and affordable mounting options, this camera system is just awesome. Hold off on the new iPad and get a GoPro Hero HD camera instead.

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