Video camera test

[Phill Griggs]

If you are thinking about a video camera for your bike. Here is a test I did. Both are entry level cameras
Well I bought the Midland XTC200 720HP to try it verses the gopro. It has a lot better user frendly qualities than the gopro. Here is a 10 min video 5 min with the midland and same route returning with the gopro videoing. So what do you think. I also can use my external power source with the midland.
https://vimeo.com/59616782

 

[champsman97045]

I think the Midland gives a sharper picture

 

[Gunslinger]

Hi Phil
I have a GoPro that I bought in 2011. The camera took great pictures and video but all the on/off indicators were on the front. Most of the time when I thought I was recording I really wasn't. Very disappointed with that part of it.

As far as your video the sound and video IMO was much better on the Midland. I also notice there was a lot of reflection from your windshield while using the GoPro. Based on your evaluation I would go with the Midland if all other specs are even.

 

[saab9k]

The midland looked good. Pic of mounting ?

 

[pmar6004]

If you are thinking about a video camera for your bike. Here is a test I did. Both are entry level cameras

Well I bought the Midland XTC200 720HP to try it verses the gopro. It has a lot better user frendly qualities than the gopro. Here is a 10 min video 5 min with the midland and same route returning with the gopro videoing. So what do you think. I also can use my external power source with the midland.

https://vimeo.com/59616782

Phil,

I'd have to give my vote to the Midland, both in sound quality and sharpness of imaging. There was a bit more reflection off your windshield on the return with the GoPro, but that could be more due to the suns location than a quality flaw with the GoPro. One of the biggest issues with action point of view cameras used on any open cockpit vehicle such as a motorcycle or trike, is how the wind affects the audio.

I'm assuming on your test that no remote mike was used on either camera, correct?

I'm just getting into action videoing and my camera of choice was the Drift Stealth HD170, by Drift Innovations (www.driftinnovation.com). I plan on doing quite a bit of videoing while attending our up and coming rally in Eureka Springs. I hope to share a few clips with everyone on the TT Forum upon my return.

Daydreamer

 

[Ed Hobgood]

I've been thinking about getting a camera and this helps out alot. How long of video does this record? I'm sure it will depend on the SD card but just asking to see how many SD cards I would need while taking a trip and getting some of the good stuff.

 

[SEABILL]

Phill,

Thank you for sharing the test. It is good to know that there are other options out there.

What are the mounting options?

 

[pmar6004]

Phill,

Thank you for sharing the test. It is good to know that there are other options out there.

What are the mounting options?

Handlebar, dash, windshield, helmet, just to name a few locations that most camera manufacturers have mounts for.

Daydreamer

 

[jaxbobg]

I agree with the other members who prefer the Midland video quality. I have an older Panasonic vidcam and didn't like the results shooting through the windshield. Yes, I know some people like to see the speedo and tach in the frame, but not for me.

Don't know the configuration of your GW, but I've found the best spot on my BMW is the driver's side wind wing, clear view of the road, very little vibration, easy to reach for start/stop of recording. I had to turn down the microphone volume on my cam because of all the road noise.

I download the video to my PC at home, then edit with Movie Maker and dub over with one of my favorite road tunes. I like oldies, and my latest dubbing music is "Goodbye Stranger" by Supertramp.

I'm one up on my rides, (wife died about 7 years ago), so I like the "moving on" songs, cut my own CDs to play on the road.

 

[oneup]

excellent useful post. im sure there will be plenty inspired and prepared to go look at cameras now..im one of them

 

[jaxbobg]

PS: I forgot to mention that I have a Pedco Ultraclamp that I bought on Amazon (less that $25). I really like it's versatility, much better than the suction clamps.

Oh, yes, always run a tether to your vidcam regardless of mounting clamp or position. It's really annoying to see your recorder flying off the bike at 80 mph and breaking into a thousand pieces!

 

[bikerbillone]

Looks good to me. Definition is good even through the windscreen.