Capture The Ride: The Best Tech For Motorcycle Travelers

Forbes

31-07-2025

Motorcycle driver riding in Alpine highway, handlebars view, Austria, central Europe. getty
There's something undeniably magical about the open road. The wind rushes past, the landscape unfolds before you, and you feel a sense of freedom on two wheels. Whether you're carving through mountain passes or cruising along coastal highways, motorcycle riding gives you a unique connection with your surroundings that few experiences can match. Today's riders are using technology to enhance these journeys without distracting from the ride itself. The right tech can capture memories, improve safety, and connect you with fellow riders while keeping the motorcycle experience at its core.
Cardo Packtalk Pro Shelby Knick
The Cardo PackTalk Pro represents the height of motorcycle communication technology. This premium headset includes a crash detection system that senses significant impacts and automatically alerts your emergency contacts—a reassuring feature, especially for solo riders on remote roads. The Pro delivers outstanding audio through powerful 45mm JBL speakers, cutting through wind and engine noise to keep your music and conversations crystal clear even at highway speeds. It features an Auto On/Off function that activates as soon as you start riding and conserves battery by shutting down when you're stopped.
Cardo Packtalk Pro Cardo / Chippy Wood
Designed for the road, the PackTalk Pro is IP67-rated for water and dust resistance, making it ideal for all-weather riding. Its magnetic Air Mount system allows for quick and secure attachment to your helmet. With Dynamic Mesh Communication, it connects up to 15 riders in a flexible, self-healing network with a range of up to a mile—ideal for staying in touch across shifting positions in group rides. You can also use natural voice commands to operate the system hands-free, and it supports seamless pairing with other major communication brands. With over-the-air software updates and a 3-year warranty, the PackTalk Pro is built for riders who demand both high performance and peace of mind.
For riders wanting similar performance at a lower price, the Cardo PackTalk Edge delivers many of the same benefits as the Pro. It features 40mm JBL speakers, second-generation Dynamic Mesh Communication for seamless group chats with up to 15 riders, and an IP67 waterproof rating for all-weather reliability. The standout magnetic Air Mount makes helmet installation fast and glove-friendly, and natural voice operation allows for hands-free control. With over-the-air software updates and a three-year warranty, the Edge is a robust, budget-conscious option that doesn't compromise on connectivity, durability, or audio performance.
Osmo Action 5 Pro shown with the Chest Strap Mount accessory (sold separately) Shelby Knick
To document your adventures, the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro offers professional-quality footage packed into a rugged, motorcycle-friendly design. This action camera records stunning 4K/60fps video with a great dynamic range, preserving details in both shadows and highlights, even in tough lighting. This means capturing scenes from the dramatic contrasts in mountain forests to the bright coastal roads without sacrificing detail. The Action 5 Pro's strong mounting system is versatile for helmet-top, chest, or handlebar positioning, while its durability withstands the vibrations and environmental challenges of motorcycle travel. The camera's advanced stabilization technology adjusts for the natural movement of a motorcycle, delivering smooth footage even on rough terrain.
While traditional action cameras capture what's directly ahead, the Insta360 X5 takes a completely immersive approach by recording everything around you in stunning 8K 360°. This means you can relive your entire ride—from the road ahead and fellow riders to your own expressions—without ever worrying about where the camera is pointed. Thanks to its dual 1/1.28' sensors and triple AI chip, the X5 delivers exceptional clarity, vivid colors, and superb low-light performance, making it ideal for both sunrise starts and twilight returns.
Insta360 X5 mounted on motorcycle handle bar. Insta360
For motorcyclists, features like FlowState Stabilization and 360° Horizon Lock ensure buttery smooth footage, even on rough or winding terrain. The Wind Guard and upgraded audio algorithm significantly reduce wind noise, capturing clearer sound even at highway speeds. And with the innovative InstaFrame Mode, you can simultaneously record a 360° video and a perfectly framed flat video—ideal for instant sharing with no post-editing required.
The X5 is built for the road: its scratch-resistant, replaceable lenses, magnetic mounting system, and 208-minute battery life mean it's rugged, adaptable, and ready for long-distance travel. When it's time to edit, the Insta360 Studio software and app provide AI-powered tools to effortlessly reframe your footage, apply creative effects, or export with one click. Whether you're riding solo through mountain passes or with a group on coastal highways, the X5 turns your ride into cinematic storytelling.
Peak Design Motorcycle Bar Mount with Charging Locking Qi2 Shelby Knick
The Peak Design Motorcycle Bar Mount with Charging Locking Qi2 changes how riders use their smartphones on the road. This well-made mount holds your device securely while providing 2x faster wireless charging, essential for GPS navigation during long rides where battery drain is a concern. The secure locking system keeps your phone in place over rough terrain, while the quick-release feature allows easy removal during stops. Its sturdy construction and thoughtful design tackle the frustrations of bulky, clumsy alternatives, creating a seamless connection between rider and technology. For riders relying on navigation apps, weather updates, or communication tools, having a secure and visible phone mount is not just a convenience but a safety necessity.
For those dramatic overhead shots showcasing your riding destinations, the DJI Air 3S drone delivers professional-quality imagery in a travel-friendly size. Its dual-camera system combines a 1-inch CMOS primary camera with a 70mm medium tele camera, both offering up to 14 stops of dynamic range. This captures everything from deep shadows to bright highlights in a single shot. The drone's nightscape obstacle sensing improves safety when capturing twilight rides, while its compact design easily fits in saddlebags or a backpack. Smart flight features like automated tracking and route-following make it ideal for filming action sequences—perfect for capturing cinematic moments when you stop to take in the view or document your journey from a scenic overlook.
Gear to capture your ride and stay connected on the road: Cardo Packtalk Pro, DJI Action 5 Pro with chest mount, Peak Design iPhone handlebar mount (Qi2 charging), and Insta360 X5. Shelby Knick
The challenge for tech-savvy riders isn't just acquiring these tools, but also integrating them into the riding experience in ways that enhance enjoyment instead of distracting. A thoughtful setup might include the Cardo communication system for constant connectivity, the Peak Design mount positioned for easy navigation glances, and the action camera secured to capture the journey. The 360-degree camera and drone can be saved for special moments when you've stopped to enjoy stunning locations. Pre-ride preparation is key—ensuring all devices are charged, storage cards are empty, and connections are made before kickstands go up. Many experienced riders develop routines that involve powering up their gear in a specific order, checking functionality, and then mentally setting it aside to focus on the ride.
Bixby Bridge on highway 1 near the rocky Big Sur coastline of the Pacific Ocean California, USA getty
The beauty of these technological tools is that they enhance the core motorcycle experience. Communication systems keep you connected with riding partners without needing to stop. Action cameras capture memories without interrupting your journey. A well-designed phone mount allows for navigation access without distraction. The 360-degree camera ensures you never miss a moment, no matter where you look. A portable drone captures the breathtaking context of your adventures during natural breaks. Together, these tools celebrate what motorcycle riding has always been about: freedom, connection with the environment, and the thrill of the journey. They enable you to share that experience more effectively, stay safe on the road, and preserve memories that might otherwise fade away. In the hands of thoughtful riders, technology doesn't take away from the motorcycle experience—it elevates it to new heights.