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Forbes
31-07-2025
- Automotive
- Forbes
Capture The Ride: The Best Tech For Motorcycle Travelers
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.
Yahoo
24-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Stay Connected: Experts Pick the Best Motorcycle Phone Mounts
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." This article was updated in March 2025 with new products and information. The Best Overall motorcycle phone mount is ; of course, it's secure—but it's the variety of placement, size, and phone cases that make it the preferred choice for motorcyclists (a Quad Lock phone case is required). RAM Mounts is one of the foremost names in the game, and its is one of the most popular—and Easiest to Use—motorcycle phone mounts you can buy. For an Affordable Charging Mount, you can't go wrong with the ; it's a Revzilla "Staff Pick." Motorcyclists who use their phones to listen to music, follow navigation, or stay connected while riding know that having a secure phone mount is critical. If a driver's phone falls off its mount in a car, they can just pick it up and put it back on; if your phone falls off your motorcycle, though, it's a goner. A simple bicycle phone mount won't do. Motorcycle phone mounts run the gamut in style, mounting, and affordability, and with so many on the market these days, which one should you trust? We asked the experts at Revzilla for their recommendations; here's what they told us. More Motorcycle Gear: Best Moto Helmets | Best Moto Backpacks | Best Moto Jackets "Getting lost" is still one of our favorite ways to ride our motorcycle, but there's no reason to disconnect completely anymore. Listening to music and chatting with your riding buddies about where to stop for gas or lunch is a convenience, to be sure. But even if you prefer to ride in silence, being able to quickly glance at a map or check for important messages without stopping is something riders couldn't do even just a few years ago. Today, any motorcyclist can stay connected if they choose to. In-helmet communications systems like Cardo and Sena allow riders to follow audio directions, listen to music, and even chat on the phone and with other riders in the group while in the saddle. Many faired touring and cruising motorcycles come complete with full-color infotainment screens, replete with CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. But a cheap bicycle phone mount isn't secure enough; on a motorcycle, you need a solid, well-made mount that bolts on securely and can withstand high wind speeds, road bumps, trail moguls, and the constant vibration of high-RPM engines. Motorcycle mounts run the gamut in style, quality, and price. But which one is right for you? To find the answer, we reached out to Patrick McHugh, the manager of product research and testing at Comoto, the parent company of popular motorcycle parts, gear, and apparel retailers , Cycle Gear, and J&P Cycles. "My job is to use and evaluate every piece of motorcycle gear and apparel on the market, whether we sell it or not," McHugh says. Patrick previously helped us bring you a roundup of the best motorcycle helmets, and we trust his expertise when it comes to motorcycle gear. When it comes to motorcycle phone mounts, "There really aren't that many [trusted] players in the game," McHugh says. He recommends choosing a brand that riders know and trust. "Quad Lock and RAM Mounts are the most popular with our readers," he told us. But there are plenty of others out there, and new brands come to market all the time as technology advances and smartphones become ever more crucial to our daily lives. How do you know which one is right for you? Trust the experts. Here's what they told us. From zipping a YZ-80 around El Mirage Dry Lake as a kid to cruising the Catskills on Harleys and Indians, from carving Alpine passes on a Ducati to exploring Ecuador on a BMW GS, I've been riding and writing about motorcycles and gear for decades.—Jon Langston"[Quad Lock is] by far the biggest name in the game right now," Comoto's McHugh says. "The new vibration dampener alleviates the iPhone issues. Awesome pick for the money." Quad Lock mounts are made for all types and models of smartphones, from iPhones to Galaxies to Pixels. The key is a proprietary polycarbonate phone case that twists and locks onto the sleek and simple mount. The mount bolts almost anywhere onto the bike, including handlebars from 22-51mm diameters, the handlebar clamp, fork stem, brake/clutch perches, mirror stems, and more. Simply choose your phone and pick your mounting point. You can even choose chrome or black. Quad Lock was among the first companies to address the smartphone camera issue (see below) with its vibration dampener. The mounts are easy to bolt on and hold your smartphone at an ideal height. The Quad Lock system also features an optional Weatherproof Wireless Charging Head to keep your phone juiced up while you're riding. The only drawback is, you're stuck with the Quad Lock case whether you're riding or not—unless you opt for the stick-on Universal Adapter or want to switch phone cases every time you ride. $69.99 at OG motorcycle phone mount. The X-Grip from RAM Mounts was one of the first motorcycle phone mounts that many riders ever trusted, and it's only gotten better over the years. It works by clamping to your phone with a claw, so there's no case or adapter required. Almost any phone will fit, and tons of optional features let you customize it to your liking. You can even buy several mounts but only one X-Grip claw, allowing you to move the same claw around to multiple bikes. The only thing is, the claw and the mounting mechanism are sold separately and features and options all cost extra, so the total cost can add up quickly. RAM Mounts are available in fork-stem and mirror styles, with basic bolt-on u-bolt clamps or pricier clip-on Tough Claw bases. Plenty of extenders and RAM's innovative ball base attachment are also available. Finally, RAMs come in large to accommodate today's bigger smartphones. Pick up the X-Grip Tether for extra security against drops. $70.99 at you're looking for a top-of-the-line motorcycle phone mount that wirelessly charges your phone, this is it. RAM Mounts' new(ish) Quick-Grip mount system is a step above its popular X-Grip, and this bundle includes a wireless charging adapter. RAM Mounts attach to your motorcycle in various ways. We selected the U-bolt mount here, but it's also available in fork-stem mounts and clip-on Tough Claw bases. RAM also offers numerous optional arm extenders and even a ball-joint socket that lets you angle your phone so you can see it clearly. McHugh did point out that while RAM's rubber ball-and-socket system does a good job of tempering vibrations, RAM won't guarantee that your iPhone won't be damaged. $220.49 at is renowned for having numerous phone-case options for both Apple and Samsung Galaxy phones. (Those with another type of phone can opt for its universal adapter.) No matter which you use, the Pro Series Perch Mount bolts directly to the clutch or brake-lever mechanism on Harley, Indian, and even metric cruisers like Honda for a secure mount at the perfect height. Made of CNC-machined 6061 T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, it's available in either anodized black or polished aluminum to maintain the custom look cruiser riders crave. For those looking to move their mount among various bikes, a versatile bar clip mount is also available. Best of all, gets rave reviews from users. $99.00 at cycle gearIdeal for sport and street bikes with clip-on style handlebars, this low-profile stem mount from Peak Design keeps your phone rigidly mounted, easily viewable, and instantly accessible. An ultra-strong magnetic/mechanical mounting technology called SlimLink grabs and locks your phone in portrait or landscape modes. The rigid adjustment arm lets you customize your phone position and viewing angle. A vibration isolator prevents camera damage. It's made with machined and anodized aluminum construction and stainless steel fasteners. Installation requires a Peak Design Case or Universal Adapter. $99.95 at Revzilla staff pick, the RidePower 3.0 connects to any 12V to 32V power source to keep your phone charged and safely mounted to your bike. It has built-in wireless charging with a durable construction so you can quickly grab or install your device. With a 72-inch-long power cable, it fits handlebars from 7/8 through 1-1/4 inches. An on/off switch has an indicator light so you know when power is being drawn. We especially like that it comes with both handlebar and perch mounts, with metal hardware, and that it costs about forty bucks less than comparable wireless charging mounts. The kit includes a mount with cable, a sling for security, hardware with articulating ball for both handlebar and perch mounting, and an instruction sheet. $139.95 at revzillaIf we have to choose a budget option for this list, we're going to opt for the one with nearly 40K Amazon user reviews and an eye-popping sub-$20 price. The Lamicall clamps onto most handlebars up to 1.5 inches and fits a wide variety of phones. Let's be clear: We don't recommend this phone mount for motorcycling. Plenty of reviewers claim to use it on their motorcycles, citing its ease and versatility. But we generally don't trust Amazon reviews and certainly wouldn't trust it to hold our $750 iPhone. McHugh refused to even comment on it. But if you're willing to risk it, it's certainly affordable. $18.99 at phone mounts usually attach to the handlebar or the fork stem of a bike. Some mount to existing devices on the bars, such as the mirrors or hand control levers. No matter which type you choose, make sure your smartphone will be easily visible at a quick glance when mounted, preferably near your gauges or above the level of your handgrips. Notably, you'll probably need to pony up a bit of extra money for a brand-specific adapter (or phone case) that lets you attach your type and size of smartphone to the mounting unit itself. This added cost is fairly minimal—usually between $25 and $40. We recommend looking for a phone mount that lets you adjust the angle of your phone to account for reflections from the sun, streetlights, and other potential visual issues. Articulating ball mounts are popular for this reason. Bar mounts are made for a specific diameter (or range of diameter) of handlebar, so make sure to buy one that fits your bike. If you own more than one motorcycle or regularly ride a variety of bikes (lucky you!), consider buying a universal bar mount, such as a U-bolt type, that you can easily move among bikes. Fork-Stem mounts are ideal for sport bikes and standards with clip-on handlebars. They attach via an expansion plug that screws down into the hole on your steering stem. Fork-stem mounts are definitely size-specific, so be sure you're buying the right size. Clutch or Brake Lever mounts bolt directly to the bracket that holds your clutch or brake lever to the handlebar. is the most well-known brand. They have the sleekest, most integrated look, blending well with almost any bike's existing hand controls. The main drawback with this type of mount is they can't readily be switched from one motorcycle to another. Mirror Mounts attach via U-bolt or clamp to your bike's mirror stem. These are more difficult to maintain a secure grip because of the thin diameter of most mirror stems. How your phone attaches to the motorcycle phone mount you buy is an extremely important consideration. RAM Mount, a pioneer in motorcycle phone mounts, uses a proprietary claw mechanism that securely holds your phone in place; its X-Grip is the most popular—and the most mimicked among knock-off brands. Others, like the popular Quad Lock, utilize a universal adapter that attaches to the back of any phone or its case. Still other phone mounts require you to buy a model-specific phone case—which may be inconvenient when you're not riding your motorcycle. RAM Mount takes security a step further by offering an optional rubberized super-tough tether that stretches over both the phone and the mount, providing an extra level of confidence against accidental drops. You can buy aftermarket tethers on Amazon for cheap that supposedly work with almost any phone and mount setup. But (again) you get what you pay for. Next to a failed mount that leaves your phone shattered on the pavement behind you, vibration damage is the biggest issue with motorcycle phone mounts. A few years back, occasional chirping on motorcycle forums and Reddit soon swelled into a full-blown roar of angry riders with expensive smartphones whose cameras suddenly wouldn't focus. At first, it seemed like mainly iPhones were affected—but plenty of disgruntled Android riders have since come forth with camera malfunctions. Tech-savvy motorcyclists suspected the vibration and exposure of motorcycle and scooter riding were damaging their smartphones. They were right. The uproar got to the point where Apple had to release an official statement in June of 2022 admitting that engine vibrations can damage the magnetic sensors and tiny gyroscopes that make iPhone camera features like image stabilization and auto-focus work so well in everyday applications. Naturally, Apple wouldn't fix the problem under warranty because the issue wasn't its fault, leaving plenty of riders with pricey iPhones with useless cameras and an awful taste in their mouths. Apple's suggestion? Buy a vibration dampener. Frankly, that's good advice no matter what operating system you prefer or which phone mount you select. There are plenty of aftermarket vibration dampeners on Amazon but your best bet is to go with a motorcycle phone mount company that manufactures its own model-specific vibration dampeners, such as Quad Lock. You'll get a better fit, and better vibration dampening. Whether wireless or corded, if you want a mount that will keep your phone charged while you ride, you'll need to get electrical power to that phone mount. The cost is higher, and installation, naturally, can be a bit more involved—especially if you need to hard-wire the mount to your bike's battery. The convenience, though, is undeniable. Of course, any quality motorcycle phone mount will be weatherproof and waterproof. But if you're considering mounting your smartphone to your motorcycle, you should also consider getting a waterproof phone case, which might make your phone slightly larger—possibly necessitating a larger phone mount. Perhaps it's wise to settle on a waterproof phone case before purchasing your a motorcycle phone mount. They come in many types and styles so which one you choose is up to you. But experts like Revzilla's Pat McHugh recommend sticking with a trusted brand like Quad Lock or RAM Mount. No, but it might render your iPhone's camera useless. Apple issued a disclaimer in 2022 admitting that high-rev vibrations can damage sensitive components that are essential to the auto-focus and image stabilization functions. Apple recommends that motorcyclists who mount their iPhones to their bikes use a vibration dampener to mitigate as much vibration as possible. Be advised that Android users are not immune to this effect! If you can afford it, all riders who mount their phones to their bikes should spend the extra bucks on a vibration dampener. Most any motorcycle should be able to accommodate a phone mount, but fitment is the main issue here. Cruiser-style bikes such as Harley-Davidson and Indian can use a handlebar or other type of clamping mount, and the clamp can be placed almost anywhere along the handlebar that safe. Mirror and lever mounts are also popular with these types of bikes. Motorcycles with a clip-on style handlebar, such as sport and standard bikes, should use a fork-stem mount. Wherever you place your phone mount, it should be readily and easily viewable at a quick glance. Near your gauges or handgrips is ideal. You can, but what if the magnet fails or a road bump knocks your phone loose? Today's smartphones are worth $500 or more, so a secure locking function, such as Quad Lock's and Rokform's, or a tightly squeezing mechanism that holds your phone in place, such as RAM Mounts', is the smarter and its sibling publications at Hearst Autos represent three of the most influential automotive publications in the world. The Gear Team relies on decades of experience in the automotive and gear spaces to help readers make informed purchasing choices about products such as Rooftop Cargo Carriers, Action Cameras for Cars, and Bike Racks for Cars. With the legacies of Autoweek, Car and Driver, and Road & Track behind us, the Hearst Autos Gear Team is more concerned with the trust our readers have in us than our bottom line. We won't tell you to buy something if we wouldn't buy it ourselves or recommend it to our friends, and we'll never claim to have used or tested something if we haven't. Our picks and recommendations of products and gear are based on testing and knowledge, not hype. Read more about our testing process here.
