Do you like riding your motorcycle in off-road terrains? Or, do you use your bike for daily commute in an area where it often rains? Then, a traditional dash cam might not be ideal to suit your riding needs. That’s because it can get affected by weather and outdoor elements, leading to pricey repairs. Hence, the perfect solution in this case would be a waterproof dash cam for motorcycle!
You will find many dash cameras with different waterproof grading. Finding the right one depends on your specific requirements. That includes your region’s weather, road conditions, and your riding habits. Here’s everything you need to know about it!
Benefits Of a Waterproof Dash Cam for Motorcycle
Let’s look at some benefits of a waterproof dash cam for motorcycles to provide you with a clearer picture:
1. Works in All Weather Conditions
A traditional dash cam might not work effectively during rain, snow, etc. Why is that? Well, because these conventional systems don’t have the best waterproof grading. So, their cameras easily get affected by moisture, leading to blurry and inaccurate results.
A waterproof dash cam works in all weather conditions, including rainstorms, snow, fog, etc. Its lenses are made of durable materials that remain unaffected by moisture. As a result, you get a crystal-clear display of the road!
2. Resists Outdoor Elements
Many recreational and tourist riders prefer a waterproof motorcycle camera. That’s because they ride in off-road and scenic terrains that necessarily don’t have the best conditions. Their traditional cameras frequently face water splashes, wet dirt, etc.
Waterproof dash cameras can resist these elements. It continuously offers an unobstructed vision of the road. Furthermore, you can check the recorded footage later on and find no tampering in the video evidence.
3. Less Maintenance than Usual
Conventional dash cameras require cleaning every now and then. Since their cameras can catch outdoor elements, these systems demand frequent maintenance. Alternatively, a waterproof dash camera’s lenses don’t accumulate dirt, debris, or other elements. It simply washes these unwanted materials off the surface, giving you ease in maintenance.
How to Install a Waterproof Dash Cam for Motorcycle
Installing a waterproof dash cam for a motorcycle is pretty simple. Many people prefer to do it by themselves due to its ease. However, it is not recommended for people with no technical experience. Alternatively, you can opt for professional installation.
That said, the installation process can vary depending on the system specifications. However, most systems use the following installation process:
Camera Setup
Cameras are the most important parts of a dash cam. They record footage of the road, which is the primary feature of any dash camera system. The ideal mounting location for the front camera is the front bezel. In contrast, the rear camera mounts ideally above the license plate of your motorcycle. Here’s how to set up the cameras:
- Use adhesives on the front bezel and above the rear license plate of your motorcycle.
- Then, install the mounting brackets on both the adhesives.
- Lastly, mount the cameras on these mounting brackets.
Make sure the cameras are perfectly mounted and fixed on their respective brackets. Otherwise, the lenses can reposition automatically during windy conditions.
Screen Setup
The screen is another integral part of the system. Generally, most traditional dash camera systems include this component. Newer systems have eliminated the use of screens. Instead, the cameras pair with your cameras via a mobile app to allow viewing recorded footage more easily. That said, here’s what to do with the screen if your system has one:
- Mount the handlebar bracket on your motorcycle’s handle.
- Now, fix the screen on the bracket and ensure it is fixed.
Routing Cables
The number and type of cables you get with the system can vary depending on your system. Usually, you get the following ones:
- The front lens cable connects to the front camera.
- The rear lens cable connects to the rear camera.
- The power cord connects to the screen.
The Line Controller
The line controller typically works as the remote controller of your dash camera. It helps you navigate through the different settings of your system. Additionally, you can change the video modes if your cameras allow it.
You don’t have to mount the line controller anywhere. You can keep it with you while riding to change the settings on the go!
Maintenance of a Motorcycle Camera
While a waterproof dash cam for motorcycle requires less frequent maintenance, there are still a few steps to take. Ensuring a few things can help you prolong the lifespan of your motorcycle camera. Here’s everything you need to know:
1. Cleaning the Cameras
Although the lenses are waterproof, the camera bodies may require cleaning. You can do that by using a soft cloth with a cleaning agent solution. Gently wipe the camera body using the cloth every couple of months. Similarly, ensure the mounting brackets have not accumulated any unwanted particles.
2. Application Updates
Most modern dash cameras come with a mobile application. You have to install them to synchronize the system with your mobile phone. However, installation of the app isn’t enough. You also have to ensure it stays updated.
Check the App Store or Google Play Store to see if there are any updates. Otherwise, you can contact the manufacturer for firmware updates.
3. Managing Memory
Memory can play a make-or-break role in your motorcycle dash cam. Replacing the storage cards frequently can be pretty expensive. Hence, you can manage the memory by performing format when necessary. It can prevent storage issues, like file fragmentation, data corruption, etc.
Transfer all the data from the memory card to another device. Then, perform a full memory format to record new videos.
4. Secure Mounting Brackets
Do you often ride in off-road terrains at high speeds? Then, your cameras might get repositioned and affected by the vibrations. So, regularly check your camera positioning and mounting brackets. If they have moved from their original position, reposition them. Similarly, check the camera lenses to see if they have also been affected.
Tips to Make the Most Out of Your Waterproof Dash Cam for Motorcycle
The waterproof dash cam for motorcycle is a very effective riding tool. While you may know its features, some tips can maximize the output you get from the system. So, let’s look at how to make the most of your motorcycle dash cam:
Manual & Professional Inspection
Not many people know the importance of regular inspections. They can help you prevent bigger problems that cost a fortune to fix. Generally, there are two types of inspections; manual and professional.
Manual inspection means examining the system by yourself. Make sure everything is working properly. Besides the camera and screen, also examine the wiring. Identifying the fault in wiring and connections can prevent electrical issues in your system.
Alternatively, professional inspection involves setting appointments and letting a professional take a look at your dash cam. As you may expect, it can be costly but proves to be cost-effective in the long run.
Having Extra Batteries
Most motorcycle dash cameras work with batteries instead of the vehicle’s primary power source. While it is more accessible, there is an issue. Sometimes, the batteries can stop working in the middle of your ride. If that happens, you are left with an idle system that doesn’t do anything.
That is why keeping extra batteries by your side is highly recommended. Let’s say you are going on a scenic bike tour. If your batteries run out, you can easily replace them if you have some spare.
Position the Cameras Well
One pro tip you can get from a professional or experienced dash cam user is correct camera positioning. What does that mean? You might think that every dash camera has its designated location to mount the cameras, right? Well, yes and no.
Usually, the product manual included in dash cameras only tells you the location to place the cameras. For instance, it might say to install the rear camera above the license plate. But how high above? That’s your call! Make sure to choose an optimal location to install the cameras. Position them effectively so that they can cover a large area and minimize your motorcycle’s blind spots.
Conclusion
Are you currently using an old-fashioned camera system for your bike? It might be an excellent idea to switch to a waterproof dash cam for motorcycle. This system is significantly more versatile and offers increased resistance against outdoor elements like rain, dirt, snow, fog, etc. Even better, it works effectively for all riders, including recreational, daily, and professional motorcyclists.
But how to buy the best dash cam for motorcycle? You have to consider your requirements, including your riding preferences, budget, and a reliable manufacturer. Luckily, we have the last one sorted out for you. You can buy high-quality, durable, and well-tested waterproof dash cams for motorcycles from OYI Electronic at factory prices.
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