I took a cheap BILT cover on a ride across the U.S. It hid the bike just fine, but it wasn’t waterproof. 

Every time it rained, my seat was soaked, and I had to stuff a wet cover into my bag before hitting the road. Not ideal.

So I started hunting for covers that actually hold up. 

Whether you’re parking curbside, commuting every day, or stashing your bike through winter, these are the covers I’d actually trust after putting them through real riding conditions.

Quick Picks by Scenario

Best Overall	Best Garage Protection	Best Daily Protection
Nelson Rigg Defender Extreme Motorcycle Cover	Oxford Dormex Indoor Cover	Tourmaster Elite WP Motorcycle Cover
4.6	4.7	4.6
Premium all-weather motorcycle cover with lifetime warranty and compact storage.	A premium breathable indoor motorcycle cover that protects your bike from dust and scratches.	A durable, all-weather motorcycle cover built to shield your ride from rain, UV rays, and dust.
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Best Overall

Nelson Rigg Defender Extreme Motorcycle Cover

4.6

Premium all-weather motorcycle cover with lifetime warranty and compact storage.

Check Price on Revzilla

Best Garage Protection

Oxford Dormex Indoor Cover

4.7

A premium breathable indoor motorcycle cover that protects your bike from dust and scratches.

Check Price on Revzilla

Best Daily Protection

Tourmaster Elite WP Motorcycle Cover

4.6

A durable, all-weather motorcycle cover built to shield your ride from rain, UV rays, and dust.

Check Price on Revzilla

Not sure which size or fit you need? Use RevZilla’s “Shop Your Ride” Tool to see only covers that match your exact bike.

Busting Myths About Motorcycle Covers

You’d think motorcycle covers would be pretty straightforward, just toss one on and you’re good, right? Not so fast. In reality, bad info and outdated advice are everywhere, and too many riders are still making the same rookie mistakes that leave their bikes vulnerable to sun damage, water leaks, or worse, corrosion.

Let’s break down some of the most persistent myths floating around in rider circles and forums. The kind of misconceptions that can cost you paint jobs, saddles, or even a full electrical teardown if you’re not careful.

Before we dive into the gear that actually works, here are the cover myths you’ll want to leave in the dust.

1. “Twenty-buck tarps do the trick.” Only if you want to replace them every season. Most cheap covers shred faster than a bald tire on a track day—and they sure won’t keep your paint or seat safe.
2. “One-size-fits-all means I’m good to go.” Not unless you enjoy your bike looking like it’s wrapped in a wrinkled tent. Bad fit = flapping, scratching, and zero actual protection.
3. “Garage covers work just fine outside.” If by “just fine” you mean letting rain soak through and cook your seat in the sun. Indoor covers aren’t made to face the elements, plain and simple.
4. “All covers are sweat boxes underneath.” That’s only true if you’re using one with the breathability of a trash bag. The good ones vent like a mesh jacket and keep your ride dry, not dank. 
5. “All covers trap moisture.” The bad ones, yes. But good covers have vent panels and breathable fabric that let your bike dry out underneath instead of turning into a mildew terrarium. All covers trap moisture. The good ones don’t. Vent panels and breathable materials help your bike stay dry underneath.

Best Motorcycle Covers 

Looking for a great cover that actually fits your ride and your lifestyle? These are our top-tested picks, whether you park indoors, outside, or live in your saddle.

Want something even more hands-off? Check out our guide to Best Motorcycle Shelters for long-term, structure-based protection.

Nelson Rigg Defender Extreme Motorcycle Cover

If your bike lives outdoors, this is the cover I’d actually bet on. The Nelson Rigg Defender Extreme is built like solid riding gear, UV-treated Tri-Max polyester that won’t fade or crack, heat-resistant panels that can sit on a hot exhaust, and electronically taped seams that actually block water, not just claim to.

It’s vented to keep condensation from cooking your seat, has reflective strips for night visibility, and uses elastic hems with adjustable belly straps so it doesn’t flap around in high winds. Lockable grommets add security, and the compression sack makes it easier to stash than you’d expect for a full-coverage cover. The fit is generous too, great if you’ve got bags or a tall windscreen.

The catch? It’s bulkier than travel covers and costs more than a big-box tarp. But you’re paying for serious, four-season protection that doesn’t quit.

Silver lining: A legit lifetime warranty. Most covers give up before your warranty claim even processes, this one’s built to last seasons, not weeks.

Alternative option: If you want something with similar waterproof performance that’s easier to pack and carry, try the Dowco Guardian Ultralite Plus. It’s not as rugged, but great for travel and quick cover-ups.

Nelson Rigg Defender Extreme Motorcycle Cover

Premium all-weather motorcycle cover with lifetime warranty and compact storage.

Pros:

• 100% waterproof Tri-Max polyester with heat-taped seams
• Perma-Venting system reduces condensation and allows airflow
• Soft windshield liner protects from scratches

Cons:

• Cable lock not included despite having grommets for one

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Our Rating: 4.6/5: The material feels tough, the seams hold up, and the bike stays dry, even when the weather’s throwing punches.Plenty of riders say this thing shrugs off wind, rain, and sun without breaking a sweat. 

Oxford Dormex Indoor Motorcycle Cover

Storing your bike in a garage and just want to keep the dust off? The Oxford Dormex nails that job with low-profile ease. It’s made for indoor use only, but it does it well. The soft-lined, stretchy, and breathable fabric won’t scratch your paint, trap moisture, or suffocate your bike under a plastic shell.

This cover is ideal for riders who want a fitted, polished look without the “tarp thrown over a lawn mower” vibe. The stretchy material hugs your bike’s curves and gives it a clean silhouette while still allowing airflow, which helps prevent condensation and mildew buildup during storage.

It works especially well for sportbikes, standards, and naked bikes, where the sleek fit really shines. And it’s lightweight and easy to stash, so pulling it off before a ride takes seconds, not effort.

The catch? This is not for outdoor use. Rain will soak right through.

Silver lining: Lightweight and compact, it’s ideal for riders who want protection without the bulk.

Alternative option: If you want a more breathable and minimal option for showrooms or rarely-used bikes, the Nelson Rigg Deluxe All Season cover in its indoor setup works well. It offers light dust protection with a looser fit and storage bag included.

Oxford Dormex Indoor Cover

A premium breathable indoor motorcycle cover that protects your bike from dust and scratches.

Pros:

• Soft breathable fabric prevents moisture buildup
• Elasticated fit ensures secure placement
• Comes with a compact storage case

Cons:

• Not suitable for outdoor use

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Our Rating: 4.7/5: It does a great job keeping dust off while showing off your bike’s lines. The fit is snug and clean, though some riders mention it can be a tight squeeze on baggers.

Tour Master Elite WP Motorcycle Cover

For riders who want extra protection from the elements but don’t want to mess with a bulky touring-style tarp, the Tour Master Elite WP hits a sweet spot. It’s tough enough for daily outdoor use, but not so oversized that it becomes a pain to handle. For commuters, apartment riders, and anyone parking curbside, this cover brings a great mix of durability, weather protection, and practicality.

The fabric is fully waterproof and UV-treated, meaning it stands up to rain, blazing sun, and overnight condensation. The inside has strategically placed heat-resistant panels, so you don’t have to wait for your exhaust to cool before throwing it on. There’s also a soft windshield liner, which is a smart touch for bikes with clear plastics or windshields prone to scratching.

Where this cover really shines is in its secure, weather-ready fit. Elastic hems keep it snug, while an under-bike belly strap helps it stay put in strong winds. It’s not going to flap loose or twist off in a storm, and that gives a lot of riders peace of mind when leaving their bike outside overnight.

The vent panels are another key feature. They help moisture escape and reduce the chances of condensation buildup that can lead to mold or corrosion. If you’ve ever lifted a cover and found your seat damp despite clear skies, you’ll appreciate how well this one breathes.

It also comes with a compression-style storage sack, which makes it easier to carry and stash than a typical heavy-duty cover. It’s not ultralight, but you can take it with you in a saddlebag or backpack with a little planning.

The catch? It’s bulkier than minimalist travel covers, and not something you’d want to pack for an ultra-light touring trip.

Silver lining: You’re getting premium weather protection without paying premium touring-cover prices.

Alternative option: If you’re just looking for a fast, lightweight cover to keep the rain and dust off during short stops, the Oxford Umbratex offers a more minimalist approach. It only covers the top half of the bike, but it’s compact, easy to throw on, and works well for commuters or riders who need quick protection without the bulk. Not ideal for long-term outdoor storage, but a solid grab-and-go option when full coverage isn’t critical.

Tourmaster Elite WP Motorcycle Cover

A durable, all-weather motorcycle cover built to shield your ride from rain, UV rays, and dust.

Pros:

• Fully waterproof with double-stitched, taped seams
• Heat-resistant panels protect against hot exhausts
• Includes venting and a compression bag for storage

Cons:

• Can be bulky to handle for quick daily use

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Our Rating: 4.3/5: It handles weather like a champ, fits most bikes without hassle, and hits that sweet spot between quality and cost. You get reliable everyday protection without paying top dollar or dealing with bulky touring covers.

Dowco Guardian Weatherall Plus Motorcycle Cover

This is the kind of cover you reach for when your bike stays outside and the weather doesn’t cut you any slack. The Dowco Guardian Weatherall Plus is made for long-term outdoor storage, with a focus on durability, solid materials, and weather resistance that actually holds up over time.

It uses a thick, UV- and water-resistant outer shell with a soft inner liner to help protect your paint and windscreen. The seams are double-stitched for added strength, and the heat panels let you cover your bike even if the exhaust’s still a little warm. Built-in vents reduce moisture buildup, which helps avoid that damp, musty feeling that cheaper covers can trap inside.

Fit is generous and full-coverage, especially for larger bikes with saddlebags or tall bars. Lockable grommets and an under-bike strap keep it from shifting around in the wind, and it reaches low enough to keep your wheels and lower frame shielded from road grime.

The catch? It’s not light or compact. This one’s best left in your regular parking spot, not stuffed into a saddlebag.

Silver lining: Incredible long-term durability. You can leave it outside for months and your bike will still be dry and protected.

Alternative option: For riders who want similar long-term protection but with less weight and easier handling, try the Tourmaster Elite Motorcycle Cover. It’s not quite as thick, but it’s still waterproof and built to last.

Dowco Guardian Weatherall Plus Motorcycle Cover

A rugged, all-season motorcycle cover built to withstand the elements and keep your bike protected year-round.

Pros:

• Heavy-duty UV-resistant polyester prevents fading
• Waterproof with taped seams and mildew-resistant coating
• Built-in vents and heat shield allow safe use on warm bikes

Cons:

• Sizing may be inaccurate for bikes with added accessories

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Our Rating: 4.6/5: With its thick materials and full-coverage design, this cover offers dependable protection against rain, sun, and snow. It’s a solid choice for long-term outdoor storage, especially if your bike stays parked outside for days or weeks at a time.

Yamaha All-Weather Motorcycle Cover

For Yamaha riders who want a clean, factory-style fit without second-guessing the size, this OEM cover keeps things simple. It’s designed specifically for Yamaha motorcycles, so you’re not dealing with excess fabric, awkward gaps, or generic sizing charts. Just a straightforward, brand-matched fit that looks good and gets the job done.

The materials feel solid for general outdoor use, with water resistance, decent UV protection, and enough coverage to handle everyday weather. It won’t compete with heavy-duty touring covers in long-term storage scenarios, but it’s more than capable for regular use—especially if your bike is parked under partial shelter or just needs a layer of defense from sun, rain, and dust.

It fits snugly around the bike, covers most key areas, and doesn’t flap around in the wind. Some riders do wish it came with stronger buckles or a more compact storage bag, but for an OEM solution, it’s practical and low-maintenance.

The catch? It’s made only for Yamaha bikes, and doesn’t include many of the bonus features found in high-end aftermarket covers.

Silver lining: It offers a no-hassle fit, clean lines, and brand consistency—ideal for Yamaha owners who want protection without digging through compatibility charts.

Alternative option: If you’re looking for something more rugged and customizable, the Nelson Rigg Defender comes in multiple sizes and offers full-weather protection for any brand.

Yamaha Cover

A sleek, model-specific cover designed to protect your Yamaha and proudly display the brand, even at rest.

Pros:

• Custom fit for Yamaha models
• Water- and UV-resistant with heat protection
• Integrated soft cotton panel prevents windshield scratches

Cons:

• Only fits Yamaha models—no universal sizing

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Our Rating: 4.6/5: Good quality, solid weather protection, and a sharp factory fit. A reliable choice for Yamaha owners who want something simple, effective, and built with their bike in mind.

Dowco Guardian Ultralite Plus Motorcycle Cover

If you need solid protection on the go without lugging around a bulky tarp, the Dowco Guardian Ultralite Plus is your new road trip essential. Think of it as the lightweight rain jacket for your bike, not your winter parka, but absolutely perfect for fast changes in weather when you’re traveling or commuting light.

Made from UV- and water-resistant polyester, it’s not built to survive blizzards or month-long storage, but it’s surprisingly tough for how compact it is. The seams are reinforced, and the material sheds water well enough to keep your seat and gauges dry during an unexpected downpour. The built-in compression storage pouch means you can stuff it into a side bag or backpack in seconds, ideal for riders who don’t want to sacrifice luggage space for protection.

It also includes lockable grommets and an elastic bottom hem to help secure it when winds pick up. Just don’t expect it to stand up to repeated long-term outdoor abuse, it’s not the kind of cover you leave on your bike all winter. But for weekend tours, daily city parking, or emergency rain shielding, this thing punches above its weight.

The catch? It’s not designed for long-term storage, this is a lightweight cover, not a bunker.

Silver lining: It packs down super small, making it easy to stash in a saddle bag or backpack for on-the-go use.

Alternative option: If you want a more rugged travel-friendly pick, the Tour Master Elite WP offers better weather protection with a bit more bulk.

Dowco Guardian Ultralite Plus Motorcycle Cover

A lightweight, travel-friendly cover ideal for on-the-go protection without the bulk.

Pros:

• Packs down small with compression bag included
• Rip-stop polyester resists tears and abrasion
• Quick-drying and UV/water repellent
• Sewn-in vents reduce moisture buildup

Cons:

• Not waterproof in heavy rain—best for light weather protection

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Our Rating: (4.4/5):  Riders love the portability and say it holds up better than expected for short-term outdoor use. Not a long-term warrior, but a trusted road companion.

Comparison Table: Best Motorcycle Covers

Buying Guide FAQ: How to Choose the Right Motorcycle Cover

How big of a motorcycle cover do I need?

Most manufacturers offer size charts based on the type of motorcycle—sportbike, cruiser, touring, or ADV. Always size up if your bike has added luggage or tall windshields. A good fit means full coverage without dragging on the ground or being so tight it tears.

How much should a motorcycle cover cost?

Entry-level covers for indoor dust protection can run $20–$40. Waterproof outdoor covers with UV and heat protection generally cost between $70–$130. Premium long-term storage covers top out around $150–$180, but they last for years.

Should I put a cover on my motorcycle?

Absolutely, especially if your bike sits outside or isn’t used daily. Covers protect from UV, rain, bird droppings, tree sap, dust, and nosy neighbors. Just make sure it fits properly and is designed for your storage situation—outdoor vs. indoor.

What are the best motorcycle cover brands?

Nelson Rigg and Dowco are the top dogs for all-weather outdoor protection. Oxford makes a solid option for indoor use. If you ride a Yamaha, the OEM all-weather cover is hard to beat for brand-specific fit.

How to choose a motorcycle cover?

Start with where and how often your bike is stored. If it’s outdoors full-time, go waterproof, UV-resistant, and strap-secure. For indoor bikes, prioritize softness, stretch, and breathability. Also factor in packability if you need to carry it with you.

How long do motorcycle covers last?

Budget covers might last a season or two. Quality ones with strong stitching, UV protection, and sealed seams can easily go 3–5 years or longer. A proper cleaning and storage routine extends their lifespan.

What is the best material to cover a motorcycle?

For outdoor use, heavy-duty polyester or ripstop with waterproof backing is ideal. Indoors, soft stretch fabrics with fleece lining work best. Avoid vinyl—it cracks quickly in heat or cold.

Is it bad to leave a motorcycle outside with a cover?

Not if the cover is made for it. Just make sure it has ventilation to prevent condensation buildup and heat panels to avoid melting on hot exhaust. Using the wrong cover outdoors can trap moisture and actually cause damage.

Looking for something more permanent? Check out our full guide on Best Motorcycle Shelters if you want to protect your ride long-term without daily cover duty.

Final Thoughts…

A motorcycle cover might not be the flashiest piece of gear you buy, but it just might be the one that saves your ride from the slow creep of damage. From sun-faded paint to soaked saddles and crusty dust layers, the elements never stop working against your bike. A good cover doesn’t just protect, it preserves.

The key is knowing what you need. Indoor vs. outdoor, daily commute vs. winter storage, full protection vs. travel convenience: there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and that’s exactly the point. Pick the right tool for the job, and your cover won’t just blend into the background. It’ll do its job so well, you’ll forget how bad things used to be.

So cover up the right way. Protect your machine. And next time the rain hits or the sun beats down, you’ll ride easy, knowing your bike’s ready when you are.

The post Best Motorcycle Covers for Any Weather, Anywhere first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

If your bike sleeps outside or anywhere rough, a proper shelter is not a luxury. It is what keeps your ride clean, dry, and ready to rip. Let’s break down what actually works so you can park smart, wherever you are.

Matching Shelter to Scenario

Before you click buy, take a minute to figure out your situation. Your cover needs to work for how and where you ride, not just look cool in product photos.

Apartment or Condo, No Garage	The Bike Shield Tourer (Large) Motorcycle Cover Shelter You need serious weather protection and something to keep curious eyes off your bike. If you’ve got a parking spot, look into a lockable, semi-permanent shelter. You want stability, coverage, and peace of mind. The Bike Shield Tourer Motorcycle Shelter provides all that.	Check Price on Amazon
Homeowner, No Garage	Quictent Motorcycle Storage Shelter You’ve got more space, but the same problems. Go for a shelter with real structure. Something that handles rain, wind, and sun without folding up or flying away. Think garage-level protection without pouring concrete.The Quictent Heavy Duty Motorcycle Shelter is a good option for you.	Check Price on Amazon
Garage Owner	Speedmetal Premium Stretch Motorcycle Cover You’re ahead of the game, but not off the hook. Dust piles up. Things fall over. Moisture builds up in the corners. A breathable indoor cover, like the Speedmetal Premium Stretch, protects from all that without suffocating your bike.	Check Price on Revzilla
Occasional Outdoor Parker	Nelson Rigg USA Defender Extreme Motorcycle Cover Maybe your bike usually lives indoors, but not always. Grab a solid outdoor cover that’s quick to throw on and tough enough to handle surprise storms. You don’t need full structure, just real protection when it counts. The Nelson Rigg Defender Extreme Motorcycle Cover fits your needs.	Check Price on Revzilla
Tourer or Long-Distance Rider	GARVEE Motorcycle Storage Heavy Duty Motorcycle Shelter Shed Cover Your ride sleeps wherever you do—motel lots, campgrounds, truck stops. You need more than a thin cover. You need real protection that’s still portable and easy to set up. The Garvee Motorcycle Storage Heavy Duty Motorcycle Shelter gives you a durable, foldable structure you can take on the road, keeping your bike safe no matter where you park.	Check Price on Amazon

Apartment or Condo, No Garage

The Bike Shield Tourer (Large) Motorcycle Cover Shelter

You need serious weather protection and something to keep curious eyes off your bike. If you’ve got a parking spot, look into a lockable, semi-permanent shelter. You want stability, coverage, and peace of mind. The Bike Shield Tourer Motorcycle Shelter provides all that.

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Homeowner, No Garage

Quictent Motorcycle Storage Shelter

You’ve got more space, but the same problems. Go for a shelter with real structure. Something that handles rain, wind, and sun without folding up or flying away. Think garage-level protection without pouring concrete.The Quictent Heavy Duty Motorcycle Shelter is a good option for you.

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Garage Owner

Speedmetal Premium Stretch Motorcycle Cover

You’re ahead of the game, but not off the hook. Dust piles up. Things fall over. Moisture builds up in the corners. A breathable indoor cover, like the Speedmetal Premium Stretch, protects from all that without suffocating your bike.

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Occasional Outdoor Parker

Nelson Rigg USA Defender Extreme Motorcycle Cover

Maybe your bike usually lives indoors, but not always. Grab a solid outdoor cover that’s quick to throw on and tough enough to handle surprise storms. You don’t need full structure, just real protection when it counts. The Nelson Rigg Defender Extreme Motorcycle Cover fits your needs.

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Tourer or Long-Distance Rider

GARVEE Motorcycle Storage Heavy Duty Motorcycle Shelter Shed Cover

Your ride sleeps wherever you do—motel lots, campgrounds, truck stops. You need more than a thin cover. You need real protection that’s still portable and easy to set up. The Garvee Motorcycle Storage Heavy Duty Motorcycle Shelter gives you a durable, foldable structure you can take on the road, keeping your bike safe no matter where you park.

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Think about your actual routine. Are you riding daily or just weekends? Is your climate wet, dry, or all over the place? Your cover should match that, not just the paint job.

Solid Structures: Built for Bikes That Sleep Outside

Sometimes a cover just won’t cut it. If your bike lives outside full-time or sits for weeks at a stretch, you need more than fabric flapping in the breeze. These setups are like mini garages, built just for your machine. They hold their ground, block the weather, and keep your ride safe till it’s time to fire it up again.

The Bike Shield Tourer Motorcycle Shelter

I checked out the Bike Shield Tourer, and if your ride’s living outside full-time, this setup brings some serious protection to the table. It’s not just a cheap pop-up or a glorified tarp. This thing folds over your bike like a mini garage, built with a solid steel frame and a waterproof, UV-resistant shell that snaps down tight when closed. You ride in, flip it shut, and your bike’s locked away from rain, sun, dust, and nosey neighbors.

You’ve got two sizes to pick from, which is a smart call. The regular fits most bikes without bags or with smaller setups. If you’re rolling a full-dress tourer with saddlebags and a big windshield, the XL version gives you the breathing room you need. Either way, your bike’s not getting crammed inside like it’s wearing skinny jeans.

The frame feels tough once you get it together, but I’m not gonna sugarcoat it. Setup takes some work. You’ll want a buddy to help hold things while you bolt it all up. A couple cold beers wouldn’t hurt either. Once built, though, it handles bad weather better than any soft cover I’ve messed with. The ventilation on both sides is key too. Keeps air moving so your bike isn’t sweating under there after a humid night.

It’s also lockable, which gives you a little extra peace of mind if you’re parking somewhere sketchy or just leaving the bike unattended for a while. The only thing to watch out for is strong winds. If you know a storm’s coming, anchor it down better than the basic setup out of the box.

If you don’t have a garage but still want real protection, the Bike Shield Tourer gets the job done. It keeps your bike clean, dry and ready to ride. Exactly how it should be.

The catch? It does take up a fixed amount of space, roughly the size of a small car slot, so you need a dedicated spot for it. And it’s not exactly cheap compared to a simple cover.

Silver Lining: You’re paying for convenience and a much higher level of protection than any standard cover can offer, plus potentially freeing up valuable garage space if you have one.

Alternative option: If the semi-permanent nature isn’t right, a top-tier weatherproof cover like the Nelson Rigg Defender Extreme (more on that later) is your “alternative option” for robust, albeit less convenient, protection.

The Bike Shield Tourer (Large) Motorcycle Cover Shelter

Heavy-duty, all-weather motorcycle shelter for instant, secure protection.

Pros:

• 100% waterproof with UV protection
• No contact with exhaust pipe—cover in just 3 seconds
• Strong galvanized frame for added security

Cons:

• Must be secured to the ground, limiting portability

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Our Review: We haven’t done a full hands-on review of The Bike Shield Tourer on It’s Better On The Road yet, but keep an eye out!

Quictent Heavy Duty Motorcycle Shelter

Checked out the Quictent Heavy Duty Motorcycle Shelter, and for the price, it punches above its weight. You’re not getting a clamshell-style fold-up garage here. What you do get is a rugged, tent-style setup with solid materials and legit protection for bikes that live outside full-time.

The frame’s built from powder-coated steel tubing, which holds up better than you’d expect when the wind kicks up. It’s reinforced with crossbars, so once it’s anchored down, this thing stays put. The fabric is heavy-duty 600D Oxford with a PU coating, and it’s UV-treated too. Basically, it’s like wrapping your bike in a waterproof jacket with built-in sunscreen.

Setup is not bad either. It’s more involved than something like the Bike Shield, but nothing crazy. Takes a bit of patience to get the fabric stretched tight, but you can get it done solo if you’re stubborn enough. Once it’s up, the ventilation windows help keep things dry inside so your bike’s not marinating in its own humidity.

What I like most is the space. You can actually move around inside without playing bike Tetris. That makes it easier to do quick checks or plug in a trickle charger without dragging the whole thing open.

It’s not flashy. But it works. If you need full protection without dropping serious cash, the Quictent gets the job done. Just anchor it right if you live where storms get rowdy. Clean, dry, and tucked away. That’s how a bike should rest.

The catch? Assembly takes more effort than a clamshell, and the aesthetics might not appeal to everyone, it looks more like a high-quality storage tent. 

Silver Lining: The sturdy, multi-point frame design contributes significantly to its weather resistance once assembled.

Alternative option: If you prefer the instant access of a clamshell and have the budget, you may want to consider the Bike Shield.

Quictent Motorcycle Storage Shelter

Spacious, weatherproof motorcycle tent with code lock and carry bag for secure outdoor storage.

Pros:

• Durable 600D Oxford cover with full waterproof and UV protection
• Stainless steel frame resists rust and extends lifespan
• Includes code lock, carry bag, and ventilation windows

Cons:

• Must be bolted down, limiting flexibility in placement

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Our Review: We’re planning a deep dive into various shelter structures soon. Stay tuned to It’s Better On The Road for our full Quictent review!

Garvee Motorcycle Storage Heavy Duty Motorcycle Shelter

I took a close look at the Garvee Motorcycle Storage Shelter, and for what it costs, it delivers more than you’d expect. It’s not a fancy clamshell or a fold-up structure, but if you need a solid, full-cover shed for your bike, this one earns its keep. The frame is powder-coated steel, which holds up decent in rough weather, and the cover is thick 600D Oxford fabric with a PU coating. It’s waterproof, UV-resistant, and feels tough enough to take a beating from rain and sun.

Setup is pretty straightforward. You’re not flipping this open like the Bike Shield, so expect to spend a little time connecting the frame and pulling the cover over. Having a second set of hands definitely helps. Once it’s up, the thing feels stable and well-sized. There’s enough room to fit a full-size cruiser without playing puzzle games, and the extra walk-around space makes life easier when you want to check the bike or hook up a battery tender.

I like that it includes ventilation panels on both sides. A lot of shelters forget this and end up turning into a sauna after a storm. This one actually breathes, which helps cut down on trapped moisture. It also comes with a combo lock and expansion bolts, which adds a little security and stability if you’re parking in a sketchy spot or expecting high winds.

It’s not the most premium build out there, but the Garvee gets the job done. If you’re after long-term protection and don’t want to drop premium coin, it’s a solid option. Just make sure to anchor it properly, and you’ve got yourself a weatherproof, full-cover bike garage that won’t quit after one season. Clean, dry, covered. That’s the way to keep your ride right.

The catch? The frame and fittings feel a bit light, so you’ll want to reinforce it if storms are common. The zippers can get sticky after some weather, which makes access a little annoying over time.

Silver Lining: You’re getting full bike protection without shelling out for a high-end setup. The materials hold up well against rain and sun, and it gives you garage-level coverage at a fraction of the cost.

Alternative option: If you can afford to spend a bit more, the Speed-Way Motorsport Shelter steps things up with a tougher frame and smoother roll-in setup. It’s built to last through rough weather and daily use, with better airflow and less hassle.

GARVEE Motorcycle Storage Heavy Duty Motorcycle Shelter Shed Cover

All-weather motorcycle storage tent with code lock, carry bag, and easy assembly.

Pros:

• 600D Oxford fabric with PU coating for strong rain and UV protection
• Includes code lock, carry bag, and ground bolts for added security
• Easy assembly with no extra tools required

Cons:

• Lower customer ratings suggest potential quality or durability issues

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Our Review: We haven’t put the latest Garvee model through its paces yet, but it’s on our list! Check It’s Better On The Road for updates.

Motorcycle Covers: The Flexible Protectors

Maybe a permanent structure isn’t practical, or perhaps you need protection while traveling. That’s where motorcycle covers come in. They range from simple dust shields to sophisticated, weatherproof barriers. Choosing the right one is key.

Nelson Rigg Defender Extreme Motorcycle Cover

If you’re looking for a bike cover that actually holds its own when the skies open up, the Nelson Rigg Defender Extreme is the one I’d trust. I’ve seen way too many covers turn into soggy, flappy messes, but this thing’s built right. It uses UltraMax fabric that’s tough as nails, waterproof, and blocks out UV like a champ, so your paint and plastics don’t cook in the sun.

The taped seams don’t let water sneak in, and it’s got a venting system that lets the thing breathe so your bike doesn’t wake up sweating after a humid night. There are heat-resistant panels too, so you’re not melting it over a warm exhaust if you toss it on right after parking. It even has reflective bits that help your bike be seen in dark lots, which isn’t a bad touch if you’re out on the road.

The fit’s solid. Elastic hem keeps it snug, and the belly strap stops it from flapping in heavy wind. It comes in sizes from M to XXL, and the big one even includes an antenna grommet if you’ve got a comms setup or a flag mount. What’s great is it packs down into a stuff sack that actually fits in your luggage. It’s lightweight, compact, and tough. You can toss it in a pannier and forget about it until the weather turns.

It costs more than the bargain-bin covers, but if your bike’s sleeping outside or doing miles with you, this is the kind of gear that keeps it looking sharp. Rain, sun, wind, whatever comes your way, this cover’s ready for it.

The catch? Well, because it’s made from such robust, waterproof material, it doesn’t pack down quite as small or light as a basic dust cover. It takes up a bit more space in your saddlebag. 

Silver Lining: That slight extra bulk is the direct result of the heavy-duty protection you need for genuine outdoor exposure. 

Alternative Option: If you only need indoor dust protection or something super lightweight for dry conditions, the Speedmetal Premium Stretch cover is a fantastic, more packable cover.

Nelson Rigg Defender Extreme Motorcycle Cover

Premium all-weather motorcycle cover with lifetime warranty and compact storage.

Pros:

• 100% waterproof Tri-Max polyester with heat-taped seams
• Perma-Venting system reduces condensation and allows airflow
• Soft windshield liner protects from scratches

Cons:

• Cable lock not included despite having grommets for one

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Our Review: We’ve used various Nelson Rigg covers over the years. Check out It’s Better On The Road for our thoughts on their latest gear!

Speedmetal Premium Stretch Motorcycle Cover

If you’re after a snug, no-nonsense cover that hugs your bike like a second skin, the Speedmetal Premium Stretch Motorcycle Cover is worth a look. Made from durable stretch polyester, it offers a form-fitting design that won’t scratch your paint. The material is soft yet robust, providing reliable protection against dust and light moisture.​

This cover features ventilation ports to prevent moisture buildup and a see-through back panel over the license plate, which is handy if you’re parking in areas where the plate needs to remain visible. It also includes pass-throughs at the wheels for easy locking with a chain or cable lock. The elastic hem and adjustable straps ensure a secure fit, even in windy conditions.​

While it doesn’t fold up as compactly as some other covers, it’s still manageable and can be compressed to a one-foot cube for storage. It’s available in multiple sizes to accommodate different bike types, including those with saddlebags or top cases. Overall, the Speedmetal Premium Stretch Motorcycle Cover offers a balance of protection and convenience, making it a solid choice for riders looking to keep their bikes clean and covered.

The catch? Its lack of weather protection. Take this cover outside in the rain, and your bike will get wet. Period. But that’s not what it’s for. 

Silver Lining: Its breathability and soft touch are superior for indoor environments compared to many heavy-duty outdoor covers. 

Alternative option: The Oxford Protex Stretch Cover offers a snug fit with tougher materials and built-in lock holes, making it a solid pick if you want indoor-level protection with a bit more durability than the Speedmetal.

Speedmetal Premium Stretch Motorcycle Cover

Stretch-fit weatherproof motorcycle cover with smart locking features.

Pros:

• Durable polyester stretch fabric prevents paint scratches
• Vented panels allow moisture escape to avoid mildew
• Pass-throughs for locks and clear license plate window

Cons:

• Not fully waterproof—offers weather protection but may not withstand heavy rain

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Our Review: Looking for the best way to keep your garaged bike dust-free? We’ll be reviewing indoor covers soon on It’s Better On The Road, including the Speedmetal Stretch! [Link placeholder – insert actual link if available]

Quick Comparison: Shelter vs. Cover

Buying Guide: Picking the Right Shelter for Your Bike

Alright, you’ve seen the options. Now it’s time to dial in what fits your life, your bike, and your wallet. Think of it like picking the right helmet. It is not about flash. It is about what actually works for you.

Where’s Your Bike Sleeping Most Nights?

• If your bike’s parked outside in a driveway, lot, or on the street, you need real weather defense. Look for solid waterproof materials like the Nelson Rigg covers or go big with a full shelter like a Quictent or Bike Shield. UV resistance is a must. Locking options matter too because a cover alone won’t stop a thief, but it sure slows them down.
• If you have a carport or something half-covered, you’re halfway there. Still need a good outdoor cover to fight off sideways rain and dust. Nelson Rigg is a smart move here.
• If your bike lives in a garage, dust and scratches are the real threats. A breathable stretch cover like the Speedmetal keeps it clean without trapping moisture underneath. Forget heavy waterproof covers indoors, they just make things worse.
• If you are touring, packability is king. The Nelson Rigg Defender Extreme covers your ass when the weather turns but still packs small enough to jam in a pannier.

What’s the Weather Like Where You Ride?

• If you’re battling rain or snow, you want fully waterproof gear. Look for taped seams and heavy coated fabric. For snow, you either clear it off quick or make sure your shelter can handle a little weight. Good venting keeps moisture from turning your bike into a rust bucket.
• If the sun’s brutal where you ride, UV protection is non-negotiable. Faded paint, cracked seats, and cooked plastics happen fast.
• If it gets windy, grab a cover with solid elastic hems and grommets to tie it down. Heavy shelters with good anchoring kits stay put better.
• If you are in dust or pollen country, even a garage bike needs a decent cover like the Speedmetal Stretch. Outdoor bikes need full protection without wide open vents that let the fine stuff in.

Need Portability or Set-and-Forget?

• If your bike stays home, structures like Bike Shield or Quictent are the best move. Set them up once and sleep easy.
• If you are hitting the road, a good packable cover is all you can realistically carry. Nelson Rigg if you are expecting weather, Speedmetal if you just need dust protection.

Security a Big Deal?

• If you are parking somewhere sketchy, a full shelter with a lock (like Bike Shield) makes your life easier. Hiding the bike under anything already cuts down on theft risks. Covers with grommets let you run a cable lock through the wheel and frame for an extra layer of hassle thieves do not want to deal with.

What’s the Budget Look Like?

• If you are scraping by, even a basic dust cover is better than leaving your bike naked indoors. Cheap outdoor covers might survive a season, but don’t expect miracles.
• If you are spending in the $50 to $150 range, you can get solid outdoor covers like the Nelson Rigg or a quality indoor setup like the Speedmetal.
• If you are ready to invest $200 to $600, you’re looking at real structures like Quictent and Bike Shield. That’s serious protection that pays off when your bike still looks new years down the line.

Materials and Features to Watch

• Polyester is standard. The higher the denier (like 600D), the tougher it is. PU coating adds waterproofing. Oxford weave lasts longer.
• Waterproof means it won’t leak. Water-resistant means it buys you time but will eventually soak through.
• UV resistance matters if your bike sees the sun. Look for covers that call it out directly.
• Vents stop your bike from steaming itself into a mildew pit.
• Heat shields let you cover your bike right after riding without melting the damn thing.
• Soft linings matter for keeping that shiny paint scratch-free, especially indoors.
• Fit matters too. Too tight and you will fight it every time. Too loose and the wind turns it into a parachute. Measure your bike and check the sizing charts before buying.

Getting the right shelter is not about looking cool parked up. It’s about keeping your bike clean, dry, safe, and ready to fire up when the next ride calls. 

Whether you’re throwing up a steel frame fortress or just wrapping it in a tough, breathable cover, picking the right gear saves you money, time, and a whole lot of headaches. 

The post Best Motorcycle Shelters to Keep Your Bike Covered and Ready to Ride first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

A reliable GPS keeps you locked on course through storms, washed-out roads, and maps that dissolve in the rain. It’s the one thing that holds the ride together when everything else starts coming apart.

No one’s debating whether you need one. The real challenge is finding a unit that can handle the same punishment you do.

So I’m cutting through the crap. Whether you’re chasing twisties or charging across borders, this guide is your map to finding the GPS that actually keeps up.

Motorcycle GPS Hard Truths

Now, let’s shake up the GPS talk with a few hard truths

1. Your smartphone can do more than most GPS units. But only if you keep it alive. Rain, heat, and vibration will kill it faster than a noob on slicks in the rain.
2. Spending big doesn’t make you a badass. Dropping a grand on a top-shelf unit means jack if you can’t load a GPX file or don’t carry a paper map as backup when tech craps out.
3. Visibility and usability matter more than you think. If you can’t read the screen in sunlight or it takes ten steps to enter an address, you’ll be halfway to chucking it into a ditch before you hit the gas.
4. Waterproof ratings mean nothing until tested. IPX7 looks good on the box. But let’s see how it holds up after a semi douses you in road spray at 70.

If any of this hits a nerve, good. You’re here to ride farther, not fumble with junk tech. Let’s find the GPS that won’t bail when things get dirty.

Best Overall	Best for Touring	Best for ADV
Garmin Zumo XT2 Motorcycle GPS	Aoocci C6 PRO	Garmin Tread 2 Powersport 6" GPS Navigator
The Zumo XT2 is a rugged 6" motorcycle GPS with a bright touchscreen, built for both road touring and off-road rides. It offers group tracking and smart navigation.	Dual 1080p front and rear dash cam with 6.25" touchscreen, GPS, and wireless CarPlay/Android Auto. Built for all-weather riding.	A rugged 6" GPS built for off-road and on-road powersports, with glove-friendly touchscreen, topo maps, and group ride tracking.
Bright, glove-friendly 6" HD screen Real-time group ride tracking Easy switch between street, topo, and satellite maps	Dual 1080p wide-angle cameras GPS and CarPlay/Android Auto support IP67 waterproof design	IP67 water and dust resistance Preloaded topo maps and satellite imagery Group ride tracking via Tread app
Tread app can be buggy Not compatible with Garmin BaseCamp Audio prompts may be too quiet over Bluetooth	Needs phone connection for maps Wiring can be tricky to install Touchscreen less responsive with gloves	Limited internal storage Touchscreen less responsive with gloves Handlebar remote sold separately
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Best Overall

Garmin Zumo XT2 Motorcycle GPS

The Zumo XT2 is a rugged 6" motorcycle GPS with a bright touchscreen, built for both road touring and off-road rides. It offers group tracking and smart navigation.

• Bright, glove-friendly 6" HD screen
• Real-time group ride tracking
• Easy switch between street, topo, and satellite maps

• Tread app can be buggy
• Not compatible with Garmin BaseCamp
• Audio prompts may be too quiet over Bluetooth

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Best for Touring

Aoocci C6 PRO

Dual 1080p front and rear dash cam with 6.25" touchscreen, GPS, and wireless CarPlay/Android Auto. Built for all-weather riding.

• Dual 1080p wide-angle cameras
• GPS and CarPlay/Android Auto support
• IP67 waterproof design

• Needs phone connection for maps
• Wiring can be tricky to install
• Touchscreen less responsive with gloves

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Best for ADV

Garmin Tread 2 Powersport 6" GPS Navigator

A rugged 6" GPS built for off-road and on-road powersports, with glove-friendly touchscreen, topo maps, and group ride tracking.

• IP67 water and dust resistance
• Preloaded topo maps and satellite imagery
• Group ride tracking via Tread app

• Limited internal storage
• Touchscreen less responsive with gloves
• Handlebar remote sold separately

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Motorcycle GPS for the Touring Rider: Smooth Sailing and Smart Screens

Lately, a new breed of device has hit the handlebars, and they’re making a lot of sense for road-focused riders. These units are essentially weatherproof touchscreens that mirror your smartphone, bringing Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to your cockpit. 

This means your familiar apps like Google Maps, Waze, Apple Maps, Spotify, and your phone and messaging apps are right there, big and bright. If you’re curious about how these compare to traditional GPS units and full-on adventure setups, check out this deep dive by Robert Baldinger.

Aoocci C6 Pro Motorcycle GPS

A good GPS setup should fade into the background and just work. Until you need it. And then it better deliver. The Aoocci C6 Pro nails that balance. Bright screen, clean interface, and a few bonus tricks that make it more than just a place to stare at maps.

The display punches through glare like it means it. We’re talking up to 1000 nits of brightness, which means you can still see your route even when the sun’s bouncing off your visor. It runs wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, so you’re using the nav apps you already know. No clunky proprietary junk to figure out.

Navigation feels smooth and responsive. Once paired, your phone handles the GPS brainwork, and the Aoocci just becomes your ultra-readable display. Dual Bluetooth gives you solid audio straight into your helmet while keeping your phone connection stable. That might sound small, but if you’ve ever lost directions mid-ride because your headset flaked, you know it matters.

Then there’s the bonus gear. Front and rear dashcams on select versions record your ride while you follow the route. Not just for accidents. This is perfect for reliving that mountain pass or covering your ass in traffic. You’ll spend more time installing the cameras, but the payoff is real.

This unit won’t get you home if your phone’s dead or off-grid. But if you’re plugged in and moving, it’s one of the cleanest GPS experiences out there.

The catch? No built-in GPS chip or offline maps. Phone signal and power are non-negotiable.

The Silver Lining: Sharp, ultra-bright screen with dual Bluetooth and optional dashcam recording. All in one waterproof setup built for the road.

Alternative Option: If you prefer a standalone GPS unit with built-in maps and offline navigation, the TomTom Rider 550 is designed specifically for motorcyclists seeking reliable navigation without relying on a smartphone.

Related: Check out this in-depth review of the Aoocci C9 Max from It’s Better on the Road.

Aoocci C6 Pro Motorcycle GPS

Dual 1080p front and rear dash cam with 6.25" touchscreen, GPS, and wireless CarPlay/Android Auto. Built for all-weather riding.

Pros:

• Dual 1080p wide-angle cameras
• GPS and CarPlay/Android Auto support
• IP67 waterproof design

Cons:

• Needs phone connection for maps
• Wiring can be tricky to install
• Touchscreen less responsive with gloves

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Our rating: 4.5/5. A slick touring setup for riders who live by their phone and want one screen that does it all without cluttering the dash.

LAMTTO RC19 Motorcycle Navigation

Riding into the unknown gets easier when your directions aren’t buried in a fogged-up phone screen or trapped behind a useless app crash. That’s where the LAMTTO RC19 comes in. It gives you a no-nonsense GPS interface built for two wheels—simple, sharp, and ready to roll.

The 7-inch anti-glare screen is the star here. It’s bright in direct sun, clear in rain, and tough enough to handle a few knocks without flinching. You don’t get built-in maps, but once you sync your phone over CarPlay or Android Auto, it becomes a full-blown navigation station. Google Maps, Waze, whatever you trust—it all runs smooth with voice commands and turn-by-turn routed straight into your headset.

The touchscreen works with gloves and reacts fast, even when temps drop. Pairing is clean once you’ve done it the first time, and the IP67 waterproof rating holds up when weather gets wild. Mounting it is straightforward, and once bolted in, it stays put without shaking itself loose on bad pavement.

There’s no internal battery, so it needs wired power at all times. And you’ll want to tweak brightness manually if you ride through changing light—no auto sensor here.

Still, this is the kind of screen that makes you forget your phone’s even on the bike. It does one thing and does it right: keep you pointed in the right direction when every other device flakes out.

The catch? No internal GPS or offline maps, and no battery backup. You need your phone and a constant power supply.

The Silver Lining: What it does, it does well. Clean, glove-friendly screen. Great visibility. Solid weatherproofing. It turns your phone into a proper nav rig.

Alternative option: If you want standalone routing without phone dependence, check out the Garmin Zumo XT2. Built-in maps and satellite support for true off-grid navigation.

LAMTTO RC19 Motorcycle Navigation

A 7" waterproof, anti-glare display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for hands-free navigation, calls, and music on your ride.

Pros:

• Bright screen with anti-glare coating
• Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto
• IP67 waterproof rating

Cons:

• No auto brightness adjustment
• Bluetooth pairing can be tricky
• Setup may be complex for beginners

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Our rating: 4.5/5. Reliable, focused, and tough enough for real-world riding. Not fancy, but damn useful.

Carpuride W702 Motorcycle GPS

The Carpuride W702 steps up as a reliable navigation companion, offering a bright display, seamless connectivity, and a few extra features that enhance your journey.

The 7-inch IPS touchscreen delivers up to 1000 nits of brightness, ensuring clear visibility even under direct sunlight. Its IP67 waterproof rating means it can handle heavy rain without issue. The screen is responsive and glove-friendly, allowing you to interact with it without removing your gear.

The W702 supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, letting you use your preferred navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze. Dual Bluetooth connectivity allows simultaneous pairing with your smartphone and helmet headset, ensuring you receive turn-by-turn directions and calls without interruption.

While the W702 doesn’t have built-in GPS or offline maps, it relies on your smartphone’s GPS capabilities. This setup provides a familiar interface and always-updated apps but requires a constant connection to your phone and power source.

The catch? No internal GPS or offline maps. You’ll need your smartphone connected at all times for navigation.

Silver lining: Bright, glove-friendly screen, reliable weather-proofing, and seamless integration with your smartphone’s navigation apps make the W702 a solid choice for riders who prefer using their phone for GPS.

Alternative option: If you want the same CarPlay nav experience but also value features like front and rear dashcams and optional TPMS integration, the Aoocci C6 Pro gives you more in one unit. It’s a bit more involved to set up but brings extra utility without cluttering your cockpit.

Carpuride W702 Motorcycle GPS

A 7" waterproof touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for easy, hands-free access to maps, music, and calls.

Pros:

• Bright anti-glare IPS display
• Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto
• IP67 waterproof rating

Cons:

• No auto brightness
• Bluetooth pairing can be tricky
• Setup may be complex for some users

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Our rating: 4.4 / 5. A dependable GPS display for riders who use their smartphone for navigation and want a screen that keeps up with their adventures.

TomTom Rider 550

Riding into the unknown gets easier when your GPS doesn’t flinch at sun glare, rain, or rough roads. The TomTom Rider 550 steps up as a reliable navigation companion, offering a bright display, seamless connectivity, and a few extra features that enhance your journey.

The 4.3-inch capacitive touchscreen delivers clear visibility even under direct sunlight. Its IPX7 waterproof rating means it can handle heavy rain without issue. The screen is responsive and glove-friendly, allowing you to interact with it without removing your gear.

The Rider 550 comes with pre-installed regional maps, and worldwide maps are available free of charge. This means you don’t need a data connection for navigation, as all the relevant information is on the device. The device also offers lifetime map updates and free speed camera alerts, ensuring you always have the latest information. 

The device supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to pair it with your smartphone for traffic updates and hands-free calling. It also features Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling you to download updates without connecting to a computer. The route planning options are extensive, including the ability to choose winding and hilly roads for a more thrilling ride. 

The catch? The screen size is 4.3 inches, which might be small for some riders. Additionally, while the device is waterproof, some users have reported condensation issues under certain conditions. 

Silver Lining: The Rider 550 offers a dedicated GPS experience with reliable performance, extensive map coverage, and features tailored for motorcyclists. Its rugged design and glove-friendly interface make it a dependable companion on the road.

Alternative Option: If you’re seeking a GPS unit with a larger screen and advanced features, the Garmin Zumo XT2 is a compelling choice. It boasts a 6-inch ultra-bright, glove-friendly display, built-in topographic and street maps, and supports satellite imagery.

TomTom Rider 550

A 4.3" rugged GPS with glove-friendly controls, Wi-Fi updates, and custom routes for winding and hilly roads.

Pros:

• Glove-friendly touchscreen
• Wi-Fi for easy updates
• Custom route planning

Cons:

• Bluetooth can be unreliable
• Limited off-road features
• Some screen condensation issues

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Our rating: 4.5 / 5. A great dedicated GPS for tourers who love twisty roads and prefer a standalone navigation solution.

Garmin Zūmo XT2

If you’re chasing horizon lines for days at a time, the Garmin Zumo XT2 is the kind of GPS that actually keeps up. This thing doesn’t just show you where to go. It turns the ride into something you plan, explore, and share like a pro.

The 6-inch HD display is bright enough to beat back sun glare, rain, dust, and anything else you throw at it. It’s glove-friendly, fully waterproof, and rated to survive drops, vibes, and weather that would make a smartphone cry. This is gear made for the long haul.

What sets it apart is the routing. You get full North American street maps preloaded, plus Garmin’s twisty road finder built in. Want to avoid highways and hit every backroad twist between states? Done. It throws in rider alerts too—tight turns, wildlife crossings, speed shifts. The Tread app syncs it with your phone for live traffic, weather, and shared group rides, but the core nav runs totally standalone.

Bluetooth support is tight. You can stream music and take calls through your helmet setup without weird delays or connection drops. And planning routes in the Garmin ecosystem is smoother than ever. Pick points of interest, adjust elevation profiles, and send it straight to the device.

This isn’t your budget-friendly display screen. But it earns its price by working when your phone’s toast and the trail’s gone to hell.

The catch? It costs more than most CarPlay setups, and there’s a bit of a learning curve if you’re used to phone apps only.

The Silver Lining: It’s a powerhouse GPS with no phone needed. Maps, routing, weather, and safety features baked in—and it holds up when everything else fails.

Alternative option: If you’re on a tighter budget and okay relying on your phone for navigation, the Carpuride W702 offers wireless CarPlay and Android Auto in a bright, waterproof 7-inch package.

Garmin Zumo XT2 Motorcycle GPS

The Zumo XT2 is a rugged 6" motorcycle GPS with a bright touchscreen, built for both road touring and off-road rides. It offers group tracking and smart navigation.

Pros:

• Bright, glove-friendly 6" HD screen
• Real-time group ride tracking
• Easy switch between street, topo, and satellite maps

Cons:

• Tread app can be buggy
• Not compatible with Garmin BaseCamp
• Audio prompts may be too quiet over Bluetooth

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Our rating: 4.8 / 5. The Zumo XT2 is the go-to GPS if you want bulletproof touring tech with serious off-road chops on the side.

Motorcycle GPS for the Adventure Rider: Built Tough for the Rough Stuff

If you ride ADV, you already know. It’s not just about getting there. It’s about getting lost, finding weird roads, and pushing past where the map ends. Dirt, gravel, river crossings, goat trails. That’s the good stuff. But to pull it off, your GPS needs to be more than a pretty screen. It needs to take hits, run complex GPX tracks, and keep you locked in when cell signal is just a rumor.

Robert Baldinger gets it. He’s a machine when it comes to adventure nav setups. His breakdowns, like Mastering Adventure Ride Navigation: Syncing, Gpx Files, Routes, are pure gold. Whether you’re strapping a phone to your bars or building a full custom rig, he lays it out clean. And if you’re riding off-pavement, learning how to load, edit, and follow GPX files isn’t optional. Robert drills that in and he’s dead right. If your GPS can’t handle a loop through nowhere, it’s not built for this game.

Garmin Tread 2 Powersport 6″ GPS Navigator

When the trail disappears and the map turns to guesswork, the Garmin Tread 2 keeps you locked in. This thing isn’t just built tough, it’s built smart, with the kind of off-road brains that make it a must-have for riders who live for the backcountry.

The 6-inch HD screen is glove-friendly and bright enough to cut through sun glare, rain, and dust. It’s IPX7 waterproof, IPX6 dustproof, and MIL-STD-810 rated for drops. That means it shrugs off the kind of abuse that would send your phone crying back to the glovebox.

But it’s the mapping that sets it apart. The Tread 2 comes preloaded with topographic maps, public and private land boundaries, and off-road points of interest. It even includes USFS Motor Vehicle Use Maps and Garmin’s Adventure Roads and Trails network. And if that’s not enough, you can download satellite imagery without a subscription, so you’re never riding blind.

Planning routes is a breeze with the Tread app. You can design your own or download GPX tracks, and the Tread 2 will give you turn-by-turn directions—even on unpaved roads and trails. Pair it with a Bluetooth helmet comm, and you’ll get voice prompts so you can keep your eyes on the trail.

The Tread 2 also plays nice with Garmin’s other gear. You can control your vehicle’s light bars, sound system, or onboard cameras right from the device. And if you’re riding with friends, the Group Ride feature lets you share GPX files and track each other in real time, provided you have a data connection.

The catch? While the Tread app is powerful, it has a learning curve that might frustrate some users.

Silver lining: The Tread 2 offers a rugged, feature-rich navigation experience that doesn’t rely on your phone. With detailed maps, satellite imagery, and seamless integration with other Garmin devices, it’s a solid choice for serious off-road adventurers.

Alternative option: If you’re looking for a more road-focused GPS with a larger screen, the Garmin Zumo XT2 offers similar features tailored for on-road touring.

Garmin Tread 2 Powersport 6" GPS Navigator

A rugged 6" GPS built for off-road and on-road powersports, with glove-friendly touchscreen, topo maps, and group ride tracking.

Pros:

• IP67 water and dust resistance
• Preloaded topo maps and satellite imagery
• Group ride tracking via Tread app

Cons:

• Limited internal storage
• Touchscreen less responsive with gloves
• Handlebar remote sold separately

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Our rating: 4.7 / 5 – A robust and intelligent GPS that excels in off-road navigation, making it a great option for adventure riders.

Trail Tech Voyager Pro GPS Kit

When you’re deep in the backcountry, far from cell towers and paved roads, you need a GPS that won’t quit. The Trail Tech Voyager Pro is built for riders who thrive off the grid. It’s not just a navigation device; it’s a rugged companion designed to keep you connected and informed in the most remote terrains.

The 4-inch color touchscreen is glove-friendly and remains visible under direct sunlight. It comes preloaded with topographic maps and allows for GPX file import/export, enabling you to plan and record entire trail systems. The device also displays critical data like speed, temperature, distance, elevation, and voltage, ensuring you’re always aware of your ride’s status.

One standout feature is the Buddy Tracking system. Using sub-gigahertz radio signals, it connects up to 20 riders without relying on cellular service. This mesh network lets you see your group’s location in real-time, enhancing safety and coordination during group rides. An emergency beacon function adds an extra layer of security, signaling your location to your buddies if needed.

Bluetooth connectivity allows for seamless integration with your phone and headset. You can control music, adjust volume levels, and access call and messaging features directly from the Voyager Pro. It’s compatible with popular headset brands, ensuring you stay connected without distractions.

The catch? The Voyager Pro lacks turn-by-turn navigation, which might be a drawback for those accustomed to that feature. Additionally, the device can be power-hungry, especially with Buddy Tracking active, so it’s advisable to wire it to a switched power source to prevent battery drain.

Silver lining: For off-road enthusiasts, the Voyager Pro offers a comprehensive suite of features tailored to rugged adventures. Its robust build, real-time group tracking, and detailed ride data make it an invaluable tool for serious riders.

Alternative option: If you’re seeking a GPS with turn-by-turn navigation, consider the Garmin Montana 700i. This rugged device features a 5-inch glove-friendly touchscreen, preloaded topographic maps, and supports satellite imagery.The Montana 700i offers inReach technology for two-way messaging and SOS alerts, making it a reliable companion for remote adventures. It’s designed to withstand harsh conditions, ensuring durability on your rides.

Trail Tech Voyager Pro GPS Kit

A rugged 4" off-road GPS with real-time Buddy Tracking, Bluetooth connectivity, and vehicle sensor integration.

Pros:

• Real-time group tracking (no cell needed)
• Bluetooth for music and comms
• IP67 waterproof touchscreen

Cons:

• No turn-by-turn navigation
• High power usage with tracking
• Dock connection can loosen over time

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Our rating: 4.6 / 5 – A reliable and feature-rich GPS designed for off-road adventures, offering real-time tracking and comprehensive ride data for the dedicated rider.

Special Mention: Your Lifeline When Things Go Sideways

Garmin inReach Mini 2

This isn’t your main nav tool, and it doesn’t try to be. But when the ride takes you past the last cell tower and into true nowhere, the Garmin inReach Mini 2 becomes the most important piece of gear you’re carrying.

It’s a satellite communicator the size of a granola bar, built to keep you alive when things go sideways. You can trigger an SOS from anywhere on earth, and it pings Garmin’s 24/7 emergency coordination center. Break a leg. Bike dies. Lost in the woods. Doesn’t matter. Help will know where you are, and they’ll come.

You can also send and receive texts through the Iridium network. Let folks know you’re okay, drop an update on your progress, or just say you’ll be late to camp. It tracks your route, marks waypoints, and can pair with your phone or a Garmin GPS for easier messaging and trip planning.

Battery life is long. Build quality is tough. It’s waterproof, compact, and designed to work where your phone just gives up. Yes, it needs a satellite subscription, but that price is nothing compared to the peace of mind it buys.

The catch? No full-color maps, no fancy routing. Messaging on the device is slow and clunky. You’ll want to pair it with your phone or GPS to get the most out of it.

Silver Lining: It does one thing and does it flawlessly. You’re never truly out of reach with this clipped to your kit.

Alternative option: There isn’t a real substitute, but you may consider the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator, which offers similar two-way messaging and SOS capabilities.

Garmin inReach Mini 2

A compact satellite communicator offering global two-way messaging, SOS alerts, and GPS tracking—ideal for off-grid adventures.

Pros:

• Reliable global Iridium satellite coverage
• Long battery life (up to 30 days)
• Lightweight and rugged (3.5 oz, IPX7 rated)
• Garmin

Cons:

• Messaging is easier via paired smartphone
• Requires a monthly subscription
• No built-in maps or color display

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Our rating: 4.9 / 5. A must-have for riders who disappear into the wild. It’s small, quiet, and absolutely clutch when everything else goes wrong.

Comparison Table

👉 Slide table → to see more ➡️

Buying Guide: Picking Your Perfect Motorcycle GPS

Okay, that was a lot of info! So, how do you choose the right GPS for your ride? Let’s break it down:

What Kind of Riding Do You Actually Do?

• Mostly Road Touring, Day Trips, Commuting: If you stick to the tarmac and love the convenience of your phone’s apps, a CarPlay/Android Auto screen (LAMTTO, Aoocci, Carpuride) is probably your best bet. They’re relatively affordable, offer great screen visibility, and use the navigation apps you already know and love. The TomTom Rider 550 is also a great choice here if you prefer a dedicated GPS and love its “winding roads” feature.
• Serious Adventure & Off-Road: If you’re hitting BDRs, exploring remote trails, and need robust GPX support and detailed off-road maps, you need something tougher. The Garmin zūmo XT2 is the king here for its blend of usability and capability. The Garmin Tread 2 is even more specialized for off-road and group rides. For dirt bike riders wanting bike data, the Trail Tech Voyager Pro is unique. The Magellan TR7 Cam is an option if US trail maps and a built-in camera appeal.

• A Bit of Everything (Touring with some Light Adventure): The Garmin zūmo XT2 shines brightly here. It’s fantastic on the road and equally competent when the pavement ends.

How Important is Smartphone Integration?

• Love CarPlay/Android Auto: Then the choice is clear: LAMTTO, Aoocci, or Carpuride. You get seamless integration with your phone for maps, music, calls, and texts.
• Prefer a Standalone Unit: If you want your GPS to be self-sufficient and not reliant on your phone (or you often ride where there’s no cell signal for app-based enhancements), then a dedicated unit like the TomTom Rider 550, Garmin zūmo XT2, or Garmin Tread 2 is the way to go. These have all the maps and core navigation built-in.

What’s Your Budget?

• Budget-Conscious: The CarPlay/Android Auto units generally offer the best bang for your buck for on-road navigation.
• Mid-Range: The TomTom Rider 550 and Trail Tech Voyager Pro sit here.
• Premium/Invest for the Long Haul: The Garmin zūmo XT2 and Tread 2 are top-tier investments but offer incredible features and durability. Remember, the Garmin inReach Mini 2 also has an upfront cost plus a recurring subscription, but its safety value is immense.

Key Features to Consider:

• Screen Size & Visibility: Bigger isn’t always better if it obstructs your view, but for easy glances, a 5-7 inch screen is great. Brightness (measured in nits) is crucial for sunlight readability.
• Ruggedness & Waterproofing: Look for at least an IPX7 rating for waterproofing. For adventure riding, MIL-STD-810 (military standard for toughness) is a big plus (found on the XT2 and Tread 2).
• GPX Route Handling: Essential for adventure riding. Check how easy it is to import, manage, and follow GPX tracks. Garmin’s Tread app ecosystem is very good for this.

• Battery Life & Power: Most units are designed to be hardwired to your bike’s battery for continuous power. Internal battery life is more for short stops or planning off the bike.
• Ease of Use: A complicated interface is frustrating and distracting. CarPlay/Android Auto units are generally very intuitive if you’re used to your phone. Garmins have a learning curve but are very powerful once mastered.

Don’t Forget the “What Ifs”

For any kind of remote riding, even if it’s just a day trip into areas with spotty cell service, seriously consider a satellite communicator like the Garmin inReach Mini 2. It’s not for navigation, but for getting help when you absolutely need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a motorcycle GPS worth it?

If you ride often, especially outside city limits or into unfamiliar terrain, absolutely. A good moto GPS is built to survive weather, vibration, and gloves. Unlike a phone, it won’t overheat, die in the rain, or lose signal when you need it most.

How accurate are GPS bike computers?

They’re usually spot-on for location and tracking, especially when they lock into multiple satellite networks like GPS, GLONASS, or Galileo. You’ll get reliable data for speed, route, and elevation. Just don’t expect pinpoint lane guidance in a canyon at 80 mph.

How accurate is Google Maps for bikes?

Pretty solid on pavement. Not so great off-road or in the backcountry. It’s built for traffic and cars, so when the trail turns rough or disappears, you’re better off with GPX tracks or topo maps.

Which GPS app is most accurate?

If you’re sticking to pavement, Google Maps or Waze will get you there clean. Off-road? Go with Gaia GPS, OsmAnd, or Garmin’s Explore app. They’re built for the wild and don’t bail when things get bumpy.

Ultimately, the “best” motorcycle GPS is the one that fits your specific needs, riding style, and budget. Hopefully, this guide has given you a much clearer picture of what’s out there and what to look for. Do your research, maybe watch a few video reviews of your top choices, and then get ready to explore with more confidence than ever before.

Happy navigating!

The post Best Motorcycle GPS Units for Touring and ADV in 2025 first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

1. Phone Safety First: Ditch the phone mounts! Seriously, those vibrating, precarious contraptions are accidents waiting to happen for your precious, data-packed smartphone. We’re talking about a dedicated screen that keeps your phone safe and sound in your pocket.
2. Integrated Awesomeness: This isn’t just a screen; it’s a smart hub. Think navigation, music, tire pressure monitoring, and get this – built-in front and rear cameras! It’s like strapping a digital Swiss Army knife to your handlebars.
3. Wiring Made Easy: No more wrestling with your bike’s wiring harness and questionable splicing. We’re talking plug-and-play simplicity thanks to some clever tech that’ll have you powered up in minutes, not hours.

Ready to see what all the fuss is about? Let’s get into it!

If you’d rather watch this review, here’s my original video on the topic:

Unboxing the Aoocci C9 Max Smart Screen: First Impressions

Right then, let’s get down to business. You know me, always tinkering in the garage, and today is no different. Fresh off the back of getting all the mud off the 690 and 950 after that off-road escapade (that’s a story for another time!), we’re onto the next bit of kit. And this, my friends, is something I’ve been itching to try.

Behold! The Aoocci C9 Max connected smart screen. Yeah, one of those screens. Now, I’ve been around the block when it comes to mounting stuff on bikes. I’ve used the SP Connect, Quad Lock, even those dodgy Amazon clamps that feel like they’re about to fling your phone into the next county at any moment. And let me tell you, my phone is basically my life. Finances, banking, kids’ school stuff, the whole shebang. The last thing I want to do is wreck it bouncing around on the handlebars.

I’ve always been intrigued by these dedicated smart screens. I saw Lamb Chop’s review of something similar, and if he rates it, it’s definitely worth a look. So, I thought, “Right, let’s give this a blast.”

Let’s crack this box open and see what we’ve got. This is the C9 Max model, and blimey, it’s got a massive screen! Proper iPhone/Samsung size. Looks good straight out of the box. Digging deeper, we’ve got a front-facing camera, a rear-facing camera, tire pressure sensors, power cables, clamps for fitting it to the bike, and a bag of accessories. Not bad, not bad at all.

Aoocci C6 Pro All-in-One Motorcycle Dash Cam

Ultimate smart riding companion with dual cameras, GPS, and anti-theft security.

Pros:

• Crisp 1080P front and rear recording with HDR and low-light support
• Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless connectivity
• Built-in GPS with route tracking and tire pressure monitoring

Cons:

• Wired remote may feel bulky for riders preferring a fully wireless setup

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Mounting and Initial Setup: Where Does This Thing Go?

Okay, so the big question is, where does this all go on the bike? Seat off, battery’s exposed at the rear… For the rear camera, I’m thinking just sticking it on the underside of the license plate bracket. Shouldn’t be too intrusive there. Now, the front camera… I think I’ll stick it right on the front fairing, with one of the included adhesive mounts. Just have it pointing forward.

For the main screen unit, I reckon mounting it just above the dash, right in the center, is the way to go. Screen facing up like this. Then, it’s just a case of figuring out the wiring. Looks like I’ll need to take some fairings off and get creative with cable routing.

Right, quick mock-up. I’ve just clamped the screen onto the handlebar clamp for now, just to get a feel for positioning. Sat on the bike, looking forward… yeah, I can still see the dash, and the screen is nicely in view. Not too bad at all.

Wiring-wise, it seems straightforward enough. One wire for the front camera, one for the rear, and then power. I’ve run the wires down through this gap here, behind the instrument cluster. Just took a couple of screws out, moved the panel forward a bit, and tucked the wires down. Seems tidy enough for now.

The HeelTech Thunderbox: Wiring Made Easy

Now, to make life easier, I’ve ordered a HeelTech Thunderbox. This little beauty should save me a ton of faffing around with splicing wires. For power, I’m just going to plug into the Thunderbox, then that plugs into the battery. Simple as that. Then, stick the rear camera on, and we’ll see if this whole thing powers up.

When the bike is off, it’s got a flashing green light. That means it’s not powered on yet. Start the bike…

…you should see it start flashing really fast, and then solid green light. Powered on. Now, when I turn the bike off, that green light should go off, start flashing again, and then cut the power completely. Saves draining the battery. Brilliant bit of kit.

For the rear camera, I’m just going to leave it loose for now, but that’s going to sit nicely under the license plate, facing backwards.

Apple CarPlay and Camera Test: Does It Actually Work?

Right, moment of truth. Let’s see if Apple CarPlay works. Bluetooth… straight to it! “Do you want to use Apple CarPlay?” Bloody job done! Simple.

Let’s check out the cameras. Tap the screen… Yep, that’s the front one. And… rear camera! Boom! Got both working.

Quick test of the whole system now. Device is on the bike, powered up. Tire pressure sensors are working – front showing 34 PSI, rear 32 PSI. Temperature reading too, 11 degrees – nippy out here today!

Tap the screen… camera view! Rear-facing camera is working perfectly. That’s awesome. I can even see the car behind me in the garage. It’s like having a digital rear-view mirror! Swipe across… front camera view. Not bad, not bad at all. A bit dark and gloomy in here, but the view is decent. Not sure about running both front and rear views on screen all the time – looks a bit mad. But for now, let’s just get back to the home screen.

Now on my ride I can pull up Google Maps, get it right on that big screen. Perfect for navigation. Can also still listen to the radio, and pull up the rearview camera.

And getting to that camera doesn’t take a whole bunch of fiddling on the touchscreen… just find the physical button here on the side… press that… straight to the cameras! Boom! Rear-view camera at a touch. Awesome! That’s going to be so handy. Little rear-view camera on the bike! Woo!

Navigation and music are the main things I wanted this for. Being able to see maps clearly and listen to music or podcasts while riding. Screen is nice and bright, even in the garage light. Maps are working perfectly. Position of the screen feels spot on too. Just there, nicely in view, but not blocking the main dash.

First Ride and Verdict: Works a Treat!

Right then, time for a quick spin. Just a little test ride to see how this thing performs on the road. Let’s get the lid on and get going.

Out on the road… First impressions? This little device works the business, mate! Works the absolute business!

(Bike sputters and pops) Oh, fuel light’s on! Blimey, running on fumes! Little pops and bangs from the exhaust though, sounding good!

This little test ride is cool. And this little device is awesome, man. Perfect! This is exactly what I wanted.

Get Yours

So there you have it. My first impressions of the Aoocci C9 Max smart screen. This little device is awesome. If you fancy one of these for yourself, pick it up at the links below.

If you’re thinking about getting one, just have a go, man. Have a go! Get it! You will not be disappointed.

Aoocci C6 Pro All-in-One Motorcycle Dash Cam

Ultimate smart riding companion with dual cameras, GPS, and anti-theft security.

Pros:

• Crisp 1080P front and rear recording with HDR and low-light support
• Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless connectivity
• Built-in GPS with route tracking and tire pressure monitoring

Cons:

• Wired remote may feel bulky for riders preferring a fully wireless setup

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Helmet cams are fine, but mounting a camera to the bike just works better. You get steadier footage, better angles, and you don’t have to mess with your helmet every time you ride.

If you want to catch the good stuff, or you just want proof in court if you’re hit by a car, having a camera on the bike makes a lot of sense.

Top Motorcycle Cameras & Dash Cams for 2025

Best Footage Quality	Capture Everything	Set-and-Forget Safety
Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Motorcycle Camera Bundle	Insta360 X5	INNOVV K6 Motorcycle Dash Cam
Description: The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Motorcycle Camera Bundle delivers 8K video, AI-enhanced stabilization, and a flip-up touchscreen—designed specifically for riders who want high-quality, easy-to-use action footage.	Description: The Insta360 X5 is a premium 360° action cam with dual 1/1.28" sensors, capturing sharp 8K video even in low light. Built tough with replaceable lenses and waterproofing up to 15m, it’s made for extreme rides.	Description: The INNOVV K6 is a dual-camera dash cam with 2K front and 1080p rear recording, built for clear footage in any weather. Compact, waterproof, and easy to install.
Pros: Excellent low-light performance Rock-steady image stabilization Flip-up screen for easy framing	Pros: Crisp 8K video, great in low light Swap-out, scratch-resistant lenses Strong stabilization & wind reduction	Pros: Sharp 2K + 1080p video with great night performance Weatherproof (IP67-rated) Simple, clean installation
Cons: Large file sizes Slightly bulky for helmet use No built-in storage	Cons: Not compatible with older X-series gear Can overheat on long 8K shoots More expensive than some rivals	Cons: No remote for manual control Awkward microSD card access App can be clunky
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Best Footage Quality

Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Motorcycle Camera Bundle

Description:

The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Motorcycle Camera Bundle delivers 8K video, AI-enhanced stabilization, and a flip-up touchscreen—designed specifically for riders who want high-quality, easy-to-use action footage.

Pros:

• Excellent low-light performance
• Rock-steady image stabilization
• Flip-up screen for easy framing

Cons:

• Large file sizes
• Slightly bulky for helmet use
• No built-in storage

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Capture Everything

Insta360 X5

Description:

The Insta360 X5 is a premium 360° action cam with dual 1/1.28" sensors, capturing sharp 8K video even in low light. Built tough with replaceable lenses and waterproofing up to 15m, it’s made for extreme rides.

Pros:

• Crisp 8K video, great in low light
• Swap-out, scratch-resistant lenses
• Strong stabilization & wind reduction

Cons:

• Not compatible with older X-series gear
• Can overheat on long 8K shoots
• More expensive than some rivals

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Set-and-Forget Safety

INNOVV K6 Motorcycle Dash Cam

Description:

The INNOVV K6 is a dual-camera dash cam with 2K front and 1080p rear recording, built for clear footage in any weather. Compact, waterproof, and easy to install.

Pros:

• Sharp 2K + 1080p video with great night performance
• Weatherproof (IP67-rated)
• Simple, clean installation

Cons:

• No remote for manual control
• Awkward microSD card access
• App can be clunky

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These picks are built for real riding: vibes, weather, long miles, the works. Let’s dive in.

Before we get into the full list, let’s clear up a few myths about running cameras on bikes:

1. “Any action camera works fine on a bike.” Nope. Motorcycle vibrations are brutal. A camera without top-tier electronic image stabilization will produce jittery, unwatchable footage, no matter how expensive it is. Smooth footage is paramount.
2. “Dash cams are just for cars.” Increasingly false. With crazy drivers out there, having front and rear facing, always-on cameras recording your ride provides invaluable evidence and peace of mind. Motorcycle-specific dash cams are becoming essential safety gear.
3. “Voice control is the best way to operate a camera while riding.” Sounds great in theory, but wind noise, engine noise, and helmet buffeting often make voice commands frustratingly unreliable on a motorcycle. Simple buttons or a dedicated remote are usually more dependable.
4. “Just stick it anywhere!” Bad idea. Mounting location drastically affects footage quality (vibration, angle) and camera safety. Using robust, motorcycle-specific mounts in smart locations is critical.

Ready to capture your ride like never before, or add a silent witness to your daily commute? Let’s roll the cameras.

Choosing Your Lens: Action Cam vs. Dash cam?

The “best” motorcycle camera depends entirely on your goal:

• Action Cameras (For Documenting Rides): If you want high-quality, cinematic footage of your epic rides, track days, or adventures, an action camera is your tool. They prioritize image quality, advanced stabilization, user control (start/stop recording, changing modes), and often have features like removable batteries and versatile mounting. You actively choose when and what to record.

• Motorcycle Dash Cams (For Safety & Security): If your main goal is a “set-it-and-forget-it” system that automatically records everything as potential evidence or for incident review, a dedicated motorcycle dash cam is the way to go. These typically hardwire to the bike’s power, feature front and rear cameras, loop recording (overwriting old footage), G-sensors (to lock crash footage), and GPS logging. They turn on and off with the bike, recording continuously without rider input.

Let’s look at top contenders in both categories.

Best Action Cameras for Documenting Your Ride

If you want clean, steady footage that actually does your ride justice, these are the cameras to look at. Mount them solid, kill the vibes, and you’re good to go.

Insta360 Ace Pro 2

The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is a slick setup if you want clean, sharp footage without overthinking it. Built with Leica’s help, it steps things up from the original Ace Pro with better low-light performance, stronger stabilization, faster AI processing, and longer battery life. You still get that big 1/1.3-inch sensor and now you can pull sharper, cleaner footage whether you are riding under wide-open skies or sketchy streetlights.

The flip-up screen is a game-changer out on the bike. You can mount the camera wherever you want, whether it is on the helmet, bars, or tail, and still frame your shot without guessing. FlowState stabilization and Horizon Lock keep everything smooth even when the road turns rough. Voice and gesture controls make it easy to record without letting go of the bars. It is waterproof right out of the box and built tougher against dust and splashes compared to the old model.

Battery life holds up better than the first Ace Pro, but 8K still eats through storage and juice if you are hammering on it. A good vibration-damped mount is still a smart move if you want the footage to stay clean. Some of the new AI tricks kick in more during editing than live, but they are easy enough to play with when you are off the bike.

The Catch? It is still not as plug-and-play for bikers as a GoPro. You might have to piece together your perfect setup with a few extra mounts or adapters to really dial it in. 

Silver Lining: You get upgraded image quality, a flip screen that actually makes life easier, better stabilization, stronger low-light shots, and smart features that help your footage look sharp without making it a full project every time you ride. For riders who want pro-level footage without the pro-level hassle, the Ace Pro 2 is a solid pick.

Alternative Option: Insta360 X5 (reviewed below) for full 360 capture. Or any GoPro/DJI (mentioned in this list) for more established traditional action cam ecosystems.

Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Motorcycle Camera Bundle

The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Motorcycle Camera Bundle delivers 8K video, AI-enhanced stabilization, and a flip-up touchscreen—designed specifically for riders who want high-quality, easy-to-use action footage.

Pros:

• Excellent low-light performance
• Rock-steady image stabilization
• Flip-up screen for easy framing

Cons:

• Large file sizes
• Slightly bulky for helmet use
• No built-in storage

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Our Review: That flip screen is handy! The Insta360 Ace Pro combines great image quality, solid stabilization, and unique features perfect for creative ride capture.

GoPro HERO13 Black

We’ve dragged GoPro a bit in our other helmet cam roundup, and fair enough, they haven’t been leading the innovation charge like Insta360 lately. But the HERO13 Black still slaps when it comes to reliable, high-quality footage.

It’s got razor-sharp 5.3K video, buttery-smooth HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, and a pile of mounts that work for just about every bike setup out there. Mount it to your fairing or crash bars and you’ll get rock-solid footage, even on rough backroads. Just skip the handlebar unless a shaky cam is your thing.

Horizon Lock keeps your footage level when you’re leaning through corners, and voice control actually works pretty well—when the wind isn’t screaming. The Quik app is solid for quick tweaks or tossing together edits, and the Enduro battery handles cold mornings way better than older GoPros.

It’s waterproof out of the box, tough enough for road grime and rain, and still the easiest to use for riders who just want to hit record and ride.

The Catch? GoPro still doesn’t offer a motorcycle-specific vibration-dampened mount, so long-term use without one can mess with the image sensor. Also: voice control can choke in windy conditions, and you’ll need to buy mounts separately. Price is premium too.

Silver Lining: The HERO13 Black delivers one of the cleanest, most stabilized clips you’ll get from any action cam—when mounted right. It’s still the go-to for a reason: easy, dependable, and tons of support gear available.

Alternative option: If you’re looking for better low-light footage and a sleeker mount setup, the DJI Osmo Action 5 offers competitive stabilization and potentially better low-light performance with a convenient magnetic mounting system.

GoPro HERO13 Black

The GoPro HERO13 Black is a top-tier action camera designed for adventurers and content creators seeking high-quality, stabilized footage.It features 5.3K60 video recording, HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, and compatibility with new HB-Series lens mods, enhancing its versatility for various shooting scenarios.

Pros:

• High-resolution 5.3K60 video with improved stabilization
• Interchangeable HB-Series lens mods for creative flexibility
• Enhanced battery life with the 1900mAh Enduro battery

Cons:

• Incompatibility with older GoPro batteries
• Limited improvements over the HERO12 Black for existing users
• Low-light video quality could be better

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Our Review: Despite falling behind in innovation, GoPro nails the basics. The HERO13 Black captures incredible footage, and if you use a proper mount, it’s hard to beat for ease of use and overall quality.

DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro

DJI really brought their A-game with the Osmo Action 5 Pro. Battery life, low-light footage, and how easy it is to mount are all dialed in. The magnetic quick-release mount is slick, makes it super easy to move the camera around on your bike without messing with tools.

The bigger 1/1.3-inch sensor makes a real difference when you are riding at dawn or pushing it late into the evening. Battery life is strong too, easily getting over two hours shooting at 4K/60.

RockSteady 3.0+ keeps the footage nice and smooth, the dual OLED screens are bright and easy to see even in sunlight, and you get 47 gigs of built-in storage plus microSD support. It is waterproof straight out of the box down to 65 feet, no extra case needed.

The Catch? Mount ecosystem is slightly smaller than GoPro’s. Still absolutely requires a vibration-damped mount for camera longevity. Max resolution is 4K/120fps (vs GoPro’s 5.3K). 

Silver Lining: Offers industry-leading battery life, superb low-light performance, excellent stabilization, deeper waterproofing, and unmatched mounting convenience via its magnetic system. Great value proposition. 

Alternative Option: GoPro HERO13 offers higher resolution. Insta360 Ace Pro has a flip screen for selfie mode. 

DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro

DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is a rugged 4K action camera built for stunning footage, even in extreme conditions.

Pros:

• Crisp 4K/120fps with top-tier stabilization
• Dual OLED screens for easy control
• Up to 4-hour battery life

Cons:

• DJI Mimo editing app not on Google Play

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Our Review: Battery king with low-light chops! The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro’s endurance, image quality, and magnetic mount make it a fantastic, convenient choice for bike-mounted recording.

Insta360 X5 (360 Camera)

If you want the sharpest, craziest 360 footage of your rides, the Insta360 X5 is the heavy hitter right now. It pulls full 8K 360 video at 30fps, so you mount it once, bars, tail, helmet, wherever, and it grabs every damn angle in crystal-clear detail. Building upon the strengths of its predecessor, the X4, the X5 introduces sharper 8K capture, bigger low-light sensors, longer battery life, tougher waterproofing, and the game-changing ability to swap out busted lenses without sending the whole thing in. It is built for riders who want to capture it all without messing around.

Night rides? No sweat. The bigger sensors and PureVideo mode actually make low-light shots usable instead of a grainy mess. One of the best upgrades is the new replaceable lenses. You wreck one, you swap it yourself and get back out there. No downtime, no expensive repairs. Battery life is stronger too. You get around 185 minutes recording at 5.7K, which means way less stressing about your battery dying halfway through a ride.

FlowState stabilization and 360 Horizon Lock keep everything butter-smooth even when the road turns to garbage. You can flip it into single-lens mode if you do not need full 360 and just want a solid 4K cam. Plus, it is built tough with an IP68 rating, so rain, dust, even an accidental drop in a puddle will not kill it.

The Catch? Editing 360 footage requires an extra step (reframing) compared to standard video. While 8K capture is impressive, the final reframed flat video quality might not be quite as sharp as native 5.3K/4K from the best dedicated flat action cams. The dual lenses are inherently vulnerable (though guards help). Premium price. 

Silver Lining: You get insane creative freedom. Shoot first, figure it out later. Impossible drone-like shots, crazy rearward or side angles, smooth tracking, all without a camera crew or sketchy mounts. If you want next-level footage that actually makes your rides look as good as they feel, the X5 is the way to go. For a more portable flying option, check out our full HoverAir X1 Pro Drone Review.

Alternative Option: The GoPro MAX offers 360 capture within the GoPro ecosystem, though typically at lower resolutions than the X5.

Insta360 X5

Premium 360° action cam with dual 1/1.28" sensors, capturing sharp 8K video even in low light. Built tough with replaceable lenses and waterproofing up to 15m, it’s made for all kinds of riding.

Pros:

• Crisp 8K video, great in low light
• Swap-out, scratch-resistant lenses
• Strong stabilization & wind reduction

Cons:

• Not compatible with older X-series gear
• Can overheat on long 8K shoots
• More expensive than some rivals

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Our Review: The Insta360 X5’s 8K 360 capture, amazing stabilization, and reframing freedom make it incredibly versatile for unique bike footage.

Best Motorcycle Dash Cams for Safety & Security

Sometimes it’s not about getting the perfect shot. It’s about having proof when things go wrong. These bike-mounted dash cams run in the background, recording everything so you can just focus on the ride.

INNOVV K5/K6 Motorcycle Dash Cam

When you start talking about real-deal motorcycle dash cams, INNOVV is a name that keeps coming up. 

Their setups, like the K5 and the newer K6 and K7, are built for bikes from the ground up. Dual cameras, solid construction, and all the safety features you actually want.

It’s like having a front and rear witness rolling the whole time you ride. The main DVR usually tucks under the seat, and then you run little weatherproof cameras up front and out back.

The K5 shoots 4K up front and 1080p out back, which is plenty sharp for catching plates and traffic. They hardwire into your ignition, so they fire up and start recording when you turn the key. You also get stuff like loop recording, crash detection with a G-sensor, GPS tracking, WiFi connection to your phone, and even parking mode if you want to keep an eye on things when you are parked.

The Catch? Installation is involved (wiring, component placement). Premium price. Requires a good microSD card (sold separately). 

Silver Lining: Provides dedicated, automatic, dual-channel recording designed for motorcycles. Offers crucial safety features in a reliable, set-and-forget system. 

Alternative Option: Thinkware is another reputable brand offering dedicated powersports dash cams like their M1 model. It provides similar dual-channel, hardwired recording with weatherproofing, GPS, and stabilization features, often presenting a strong alternative to INNOVV systems for riders seeking set-and-forget protection.

INNOVV K6 Motorcycle Dash Cam

The INNOVV K6 is a dual-camera dash cam with 2K front and 1080p rear recording, built for clear footage in any weather. Compact, waterproof, and easy to install.

Pros:

• Sharp 2K + 1080p video with great night performance
• Weatherproof (IP67-rated)
• Simple, clean installation

Cons:

• No remote for manual control
• Awkward microSD card access
• App can be clunky

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Our Review: Set-and-forget safety. INNOVV systems like the K-series are top choices for dedicated, reliable motorcycle dash cam recording, front and rear.

Thinkware M1 Motorsport Dash Cam 

The Thinkware M1 is another solid setup built for bikes and powersports. It gives you dual 1080p recording front and rear, using good Sony STARVIS sensors that keep footage sharp day or night.

One thing that stands out is the built-in electronic image stabilization. It does a good job smoothing out the bumps and vibration from the road, so your footage stays clear even when the ride gets rough.

The cameras and DVR are all IP66 rated, so no worries about rain or dust killing your system. 

Like most good setups, it hardwired into your ignition for automatic start and stop, runs loop recording, logs GPS speed and location, and hooks up to your phone with WiFi. Most kits also pack a G-sensor to lock footage if you take a hit, but it is always good to double-check depending on the package you get.

The Catch? Max resolution is 1080p, lower than the INNOVV K5’s 4K front camera. Installation still requires careful wiring and placement of the components. Max supported SD card size might be smaller than some competitors (the last upgrade supports 128GB). 

Silver Lining: Offers excellent full-system weatherproofing (IP66), crucial Electronic Image Stabilization for smoother video, and core dashcam features (Dual 1080p, GPS, WiFi, Auto Record) from a highly reputable dash cam brand. Strong reliability. 

Alternative Option: INNOVV K-series offers 4K front resolution potential. Budget brands like VSYSTO offer more features for less money but they not match the advanced stabilization features of the M1.

Thinkware M1 Motorsport Dash Cam

The Thinkware M1 is a rugged dual-channel dash cam for motorcycles, offering 1080p front and rear recording with image stabilization and night vision. Built tough with an IP66 weatherproof rating.

Pros:

• Clear dual 1080p footage with wide-angle lenses
• Stabilized video and enhanced night clarity
• Weatherproof and built for rough conditions

Cons:

• Max 1080p resolution only
• Limited to 64GB microSD storage
• App interface isn’t very user-friendly

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Our Review: The Thinkware M1 is a robust, weatherproof, dual-channel dashcam with vital EIS, making it a top contender for reliable ride recording.  

Motorcycle Camera Comparison

Action & 360 Camera Comparison:

*Note: GoPro HERO13 Black HB-Series Lenses sold separately. Check specific models for exact specs, features, and current pricing.

Motorcycle Dashcam Comparison:

Note: Check specific models for exact specs, features, and current pricing.

Buying Guide: Choosing Your Motorcycle Camera

Picking the right camera depends on why you want one. Below are the key factors to consider:

Use Case

• Documenting rides? Prioritize image quality (resolution, color), stabilization, user control (remote/voice), battery life, and mounting flexibility. Popular options include GoPro, DJI, and Insta360.
• Recording for safety? Look for hardwired setups with loop recording, G-sensor, dual channels (front/rear), GPS, and strong weatherproofing. Dash cam examples: INNOVV, Blueskysea.

Image Quality

• Higher resolution (4K+) and frame rates (60fps+) improve detail, especially for slow-motion footage.
• Low-light performance matters if you ride at dawn or dusk.
• Dash cams may sacrifice some visual quality in favor of reliability and features.
• Higher resolution (like 4K) captures sharper detail and better color — especially noticeable when riding or recording slow-motion footage.

Stabilization (CRITICAL for Bike Mounts)

• Top-tier stabilization tech (HyperSmooth, RockSteady, FlowState) is a must for watchable footage.
• Action cams benefit from vibration-damped mounts to protect the sensor over time.
• Dash cams are less sensitive but still need stable mounting for clear footage.

Mounting

• Choose smart mount locations: handlebars, frame, fairing stay, under-tail.
• Avoid plastic mounts in high-stress areas.
• Make sure your chosen location doesn’t block controls or suspension.
• Dash cams require discreet, secure placement for front/rear lenses.

Power

• Action cams typically run for 1–1.5 hours on battery.
• For longer rides, use a power bank in a tank bag or tap into the bike’s USB port (ensure weatherproofing).
• Dash cams should be hardwired into the bike’s switched power so they turn on/off with the ignition.
• This setup is more reliable but requires a proper wiring install.

Control (While Riding)

• Buttons: Simple and reliable, but might require stopping or reaching awkwardly.
• Voice Control: Convenient when it works, but often struggles with wind/engine noise.
• Remote Control: Dedicated Bluetooth remotes (often wrist-mounted) are usually the most reliable way to control action cams while riding.
• App Control: Good for setup and reviewing footage when stopped.
• Dash cams: Set-and-forget, no control needed while riding.

Dash cam Specific Features:

• Loop Recording: Automatically overwrites oldest footage when card is full. Essential.
• G-Sensor: Detects impacts and automatically locks the current video file from being overwritten.
• GPS: Records speed and location data alongside video. Useful for context/evidence.
• Dual Channel: Records front and rear simultaneously. Highly recommended.
• Parking Mode: Records if impact is detected while parked (requires constant power connection/battery management).

Weatherproofing

• Action cams should be IPX7/IPX8 rated or use waterproof housings.
• Dash cams often have IP67/IP68-rated lens housings.
• Make sure any power or audio ports used are also sealed or weatherproofed.

Storage

• Both camera types use microSD cards.
• Look for high-endurance V30+ cards to handle constant recording/rewriting.
• Larger capacities let you record more before looping or offloading is needed.

FAQs: Motorcycle Camera Questions Answered

Are motorcycle dash cams worth it?

Absolutely, for many riders. They provide objective evidence in case of accidents, disputes, or insurance claims (“he said, she said”). Front and rear cameras offer the best protection against being wrongly blamed. The peace of mind alone is often worth the investment.

Where is the best place to mount a camera on a motorcycle?

Mounting depends on your goal.

• Action Cams (Documenting): Handlebars (can be vibey), frame sliders, engine guards, fairing stays, swingarms, under-tail – experiment for unique, stable angles. Avoid direct engine/exhaust mounting due to heat/vibration.
• Dash cams: Front lens usually near the headlight/forks, rear lens near the license plate/tail light. DVR unit typically under the seat or in storage. Aim for discreet, protected locations with clear views.

How do motorcycle dash cams get power?

Dash cams are typically hardwired to the bike’s electrical system. One wire connects to a switched power source (live only when the ignition is on), another to constant power (for parking mode), and one to ground. This setup allows the dash cam to automatically turn on and off with the bike.

Can action cameras be used as dash cams?

Yes, but with limitations. Most action cams can loop record, but lack features like automatic ignition-based start/stop, G-sensor event locking, and simultaneous front/rear recording (unless using two cameras). Battery life and weatherproofing external power are also concerns for continuous use. A dedicated dash cam is generally better for set-and-forget safety recording.

Whether you are chasing views or just covering your ass, getting a camera on the bike has never been easier.

Ride safe out there.

The post Best Motorcycle Cameras 2025: Action Cams, 360 & Dash cams first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

There are a lot of garbage mounts out there, but there are also some seriously good setups built for real riding. 

In this guide, we’re digging into the best phone mounts you can trust:  from Quad Lock to RAM, Peak Design to SP Connect. 

I’ll walk you through how they work, the gear you actually need (hint: don’t skip the vibration dampeners), and how to pick the right setup for your bike. 

But before, let’s clear the air on some common phone mount debates and misconceptions:

1. “My phone camera got wrecked after mounting it!” Yes, this is REAL. Modern phone cameras with optical image stabilization (OIS) are incredibly sensitive to high-frequency vibrations from motorcycle engines. Using a mount without a dedicated vibration dampener is asking for trouble, it’s practically mandatory now.
2. “It holds the phone, so it must be secure, right?” Nope. A mount needs a positive locking mechanism designed to withstand bumps, G-forces, and constant vibration. Simple friction or spring clamps often aren’t enough for the rigors of motorcycling.
3. “Wireless charging is the future!” It’s convenient, for sure, but often slower than wired charging on a bike, can generate extra heat, and weatherproof wireless charging heads are typically more expensive and sometimes bulkier than a simple USB port.
4. “Any handlebar mount will work.” Not quite. Handlebar space, bar diameter, viewing angle, and potential interference with controls or tank bags all play a role. Choosing the right type of mount for your specific bike setup is key.

Quick Picks: Best Motorcycle Phone Mounts

Not here to read a novel? Here’s the fast breakdown for riders who just want the quick answers:

Best All-Around	Most Versatile	Premium Design
Quad Lock	RAM Mounts (X-Grip)	Peak Design
Rock-solid security, huge range of mounts and accessories, proven track record. Just don't skip the vibration dampener.	Tough, endlessly adjustable, fits almost any phone without a special case. Add the tether for peace of mind.	Sleek magnetic-mechanical lock, top-shelf materials, slim stylish cases. Looks as good off the bike as it works on it.
Easy one hand operation Super strong hold Great vibration dampener Super customizable (mounts, wireless chargers)	Strong vibration damping with Vibe-Safe Includes tether and multiple install parts Endless adjustability with RAM ball and sockets Universal, doesn’t require special case	Weatherproof aluminum with stainless steel Fast and secure mounting with one hand Infinitely adjustable viewing angle Built in vibration dampener Beautiful look fits any bike
Viewing angle not adjustable Requires Quad Lock phone case or adapter	Not the strongest hold Pincher arms can set off buttons	Requires Peak Design phone case or adapter
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Best All-Around

Quad Lock

Rock-solid security, huge range of mounts and accessories, proven track record. Just don't skip the vibration dampener.

• Easy one hand operation
• Super strong hold
• Great vibration dampener
• Super customizable (mounts, wireless chargers)

• Viewing angle not adjustable
• Requires Quad Lock phone case or adapter

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Most Versatile

RAM Mounts (X-Grip)

Tough, endlessly adjustable, fits almost any phone without a special case. Add the tether for peace of mind.

• Strong vibration damping with Vibe-Safe
• Includes tether and multiple install parts
• Endless adjustability with RAM ball and sockets
• Universal, doesn’t require special case

• Not the strongest hold
• Pincher arms can set off buttons

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Premium Design

Peak Design

Sleek magnetic-mechanical lock, top-shelf materials, slim stylish cases. Looks as good off the bike as it works on it.

• Weatherproof aluminum with stainless steel
• Fast and secure mounting with one hand
• Infinitely adjustable viewing angle
• Built in vibration dampener
• Beautiful look fits any bike

• Requires Peak Design phone case or adapter

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Quad Lock Kits – Click and Go!

Includes everything you need to mount your iPhone or Samsung Galaxy to your handlebar, including the bar mount, vibration dampener, and case to fit your phone. 

Do You Need a Real Motorcycle Phone Mount? Yes!

Look, a cheap car mount or bicycle clamp has no business on a motorcycle. They are just not built for what we put our bikes and gear through. If you want to keep your phone where it belongs, here’s why you need a proper setup made for riding:

Security: A real moto mount locks your phone down tight. Twist-locks, clamps, magnetic locks with mechanical backup. Built to handle vibrations, potholes, and hard pulls on the throttle. Cheap mounts wiggle, shift, and eventually fail.

Vibration Protection: Modern phone cameras are crazy sensitive. One ride without a proper vibration dampener and you can toast your phone’s image stabilization. A good moto mount system comes with (sometimes as an optional add-on), a dampener. Non-negotiable.

Built for the Elements: Rain, sun, dust, constant shaking. Bike-specific mounts are made tough to survive it all. The good ones even offer weatherproof charging if you need power on the go.

Mounts That Actually Fit Your Bike: Whether you need a handlebar clamp, fork stem mount, mirror mount, or clutch perch setup, real moto systems are designed to fit clean and stay put.

Worth Every Penny: Yeah, good gear isn’t cheap. But it is a hell of a lot cheaper than replacing a wrecked $1000 phone because you trusted some janky $15 special off the internet.

Motorcycle Phone Mount Systems Reviewed

Instead of individual mounts, it’s best to think in terms of systems or ecosystems. Most require a specific case or adapter from the same brand. Let’s look at the major players available on Revzilla and Amazon:

Quad Lock: The Popular All-Rounder

Quad Lock is hands-down one of the most popular setups out there, and for good reason. I’ve put a lot of miles on their system and never had a single issue.

Once you click your phone into the mount, it’s locked in tight. Doesn’t matter if you hit potholes, rough trails, whatever. It just stays put. After a few rides, the twist-lock feels natural enough to do one-handed without even thinking about it.

The cases are solid too, not just for riding but for daily use. Plus, they’ve got a ton of mounting options whether you’re on a naked, an ADV bike, or just commuting on a scooter.

One thing you have to grab with it is the vibration dampener. Modern phone cameras don’t stand a chance without it.

The System: You typically buy a Quad Lock Case specific to your phone model (they cover iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel). These cases are slim, protective for daily use, and have the patented Quad Lock interface built-in. Alternatively, they offer a Universal Adaptor that sticks onto your existing phone case (using strong 3M VHB adhesive, make sure your case material is compatible).

Mounting: They offer a huge range of mounts: Handlebar (various sizes), Mirror, Fork Stem, Clutch/Brake Perch, Ball Adaptor (to use with RAM Mount arms), even scooter mirror mounts. The mount features the female part of the lock; you simply press your phone case onto it, twist, and it locks securely. Releasing is easy with the blue lever.

Accessories:

• Vibration Dampener: Essential! Reduces damaging high-frequency vibrations by up to 90%. Integrates easily between the mount head and the base.
• Weatherproof Wireless Charging Head: Qi-certified charger that replaces the standard mount head. Provides charging in rain or shine (check phone compatibility). Also offers standard USB chargers.
• Poncho: A clear, slip-on rain cover for added water resistance for your phone screen when using their standard cases (less necessary if your phone is rugged).

The Catch: You’re mostly locked into their case system (unless using the Universal Adaptor, which adds bulk). The system, especially with dampener and charger, gets pricey. Wireless charger requires specific wiring.

Silver Lining: Offers arguably the most secure-feeling mechanical lock, a huge range of mounting options, excellent accessories (especially the dampener), and a proven track record with countless riders. The ecosystem is vast. However, one of my small gripes is that all the mounts (aside from the ball mount) don’t allow for easy tilting and adjustment of the phone’s angle (like Peak Design does). 

Alternative Option: SP Connect offers a very similar twist-lock system with its own range of cases and mounts. For a more visually beautiful (and adjustable) mount take a look at Peak Design. 

Quad Lock Phone Mount System

The best phone mount on the market. Quick to mount / unmount, minimal on the motorcycle, and super secure. Just make sure you get the mount, case, and all-important vibration dampener!

Pros:

• Easy one hand operation
• Super strong hold
• Great vibration dampener
• Super customizable (mounts, wireless chargers)

Cons:

• Viewing angle not adjustable

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Our Review: While we haven’t published a full test on the Quad Lock, I’ve personally been riding with their system for over three years now and included it in my personally recommended gear. 

RAM Mounts: Versatility

RAM Mounts have been around forever and built a reputation on their tough-as-nails ball-and-socket setups. 

Their X-Grip phone holder is probably the one most riders know. I’ll be straight with you, I haven’t run the X-Grip long-term for my phone, but I’ve used plenty of RAM arms, bases, and ball mounts for GPS units and cameras. Their stuff is seriously tough. Built to take a beating and keep working.

And the amount of times I see X-Grips on other people’s bikes – especially true adventure warriors thrashing BDR and TET trails – says a lot.

The System: RAM is modular. You choose a base (handlebar U-bolt, clutch/brake perch, mirror base, stem mount, Tough-Claw™, etc.), an arm (short, medium, long), and a holder.

• X-Grip: The classic spring-loaded ‘X’ design grips the sides of your phone. Comes in different sizes. Includes a rubber tether for extra security.
• Quick-Grip XL: Another spring-loaded option, holds the phone more like a cradle. Good for larger phones.
• Wireless Charging Holders: They also offer holders with integrated Qi wireless charging (like the Tough-Charge).

Mounting: The beauty is the modularity. The ball-and-socket system allows almost infinite adjustment for positioning your phone perfectly. Components are typically made from marine-grade aluminum and high-strength composites.

Accessories:

• Tether: Included with X-Grip for added security.
• Wireless Charging: Available via specific holders like the Tough-Charge X-Grip.
• Vibration Damping: RAM offers various damping ball bases (like the RAM® Torque™ with Pin-Lock™ & Vibration Damping) designed to reduce vibrations, though perhaps not as specifically tuned for phone cameras as some competitor add-on modules.

The Catch: The X-Grip/Quick-Grip doesn’t offer the same positive ‘locked-in’ feeling as case-based systems. The X-Grip arms can sometimes press side buttons on certain phones. Vibration damping solutions might be less specific than add-on modules from others. Looks bulkier than integrated case systems.

Silver Lining: Offers unmatched mounting versatility and adjustability, legendary durability, holds almost any phone without a special case, and components are readily available and interchangeable. Excellent value for the mounting components.

Alternative Option: If you prefer a different clamp mechanism than the X-Grip, check out holders from Ciro, like their Premium Smartphone Holder or Constrictor Phone Holder. These typically use a lever-actuated cradle or clamp design for a very secure grip on various phone sizes and are popular in the cruiser scene.

RAM Mounts Vibe X-Grip Phone Holder

The RAM Vibe X-Grip securely holds your phone and shields it from harsh motorcycle vibrations.

Pros:

• Strong vibration damping with Vibe-Safe
• Includes tether and multiple install parts
• Endless adjustability with RAM ball and sockets
• Universal, doesn’t require special case

Cons:

• Not the strongest hold
• Pincher arms can set off buttons

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Our Review: I trust RAM Mounts with anything and have used them over thousands of hours riding with action cameras and phone mounts. Their mounts are tougher than nails, with ultimate adjustability! RAM Mounts offer bombproof components and the X-Grip provides universal phone compatibility, though lacks a positive lock.

Peak Design Mobile: Mechanical Security

Peak Design, known for high-end camera gear, entered the mobile market with a sleek ecosystem built around their SlimLink™ magnetic and mechanical locking system. It’s a premium offering focused on design and seamless integration.

The System: Requires a Peak Design Everyday Case (known for being slim, stylish, and protective with a fabric finish) or their Universal Adapter (sticks to other cases). The case has a square magnetic mounting point on the back.

Mounting: Their Motorcycle Mounts (Bar Mount or Stem Mount) feature the SlimLink connector. The phone snaps on magnetically for easy alignment, then mechanically locks into place for security. Releasing involves pressing dual side buttons. The mounts themselves are beautifully machined from anodized aluminum and look very premium.

Perfect fit for sleek sportbikes, or classic cafe or vintage bikes where you want the modern convenience of a phone mount without ruining the look of your bike. 

Accessories:

• Vibration Isolator: A crucial add-on that installs between the mount base and head to dampen engine vibrations and protect your phone’s camera. 
• Wireless Charging: Their car mount offers wireless charging, and while a dedicated weatherproof motorcycle charging head wasn’t initially offered, solutions might exist or be adaptable. They also offer standard charging cables. Their mounts often allow easy cable routing.

The Catch: Premium price point. Ecosystem is newer and smaller than Quad Lock or RAM. Case selection is limited to newer iPhones, Samsungs, Pixels (or Universal Adapter). Weatherproof wireless charging specifically for the motorcycle mount might be less established than Quad Lock’s.

Silver Lining: Offers a fantastic blend of elegant design, premium materials, convenient magnetic alignment, and secure mechanical locking. The vibration isolator is well-regarded. Great for riders who value aesthetics and a slim case.

Alternative Option: For another excellent system that also features slim cases and secure mounting, check out SP Connect, which is down below. 

Peak Design Mounts

A rugged and easy-to-use motorcycle phone mount with secure magnetic-mechanical attachment and adjustable positioning. Get a mount and a phone case or adapter.

Pros:

• Weatherproof aluminum with stainless steel
• Fast and secure mounting with one hand
• Infinitely adjustable viewing angle
• Built in vibration dampener
• Beautiful look fits any bike

Cons:

• Requires a Peak Design case or adapter for phone

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Our Review: Slick and secure! Peak Design brings premium design and a clever magnetic/mechanical lock to motorcycle mounting, paired with an essential vibration isolator.

SP Connect: Slim Cases, Secure Mounting

SP Connect is another big name in the game. They run their own twist-to-lock setup, kind of like Quad Lock but with a different mount design. Their cases are slim, and they’ve got a solid range of mounting options to fit pretty much any bike.

SP Connect provides a really solid, secure system with very slim cases, which is a big plus for pocketability off the bike. The twist-lock feels secure, and they offer a good range of mounts and essential accessories like the anti-vibration module and wireless charger.

The System: You typically use an SP Connect Phone Case specific to your phone model (iPhone, Samsung, Google). These cases are known for being quite thin and low-profile. They also offer a Universal Interface or Universal Phone Clamp for broader compatibility.

Mounting: The system involves a 90-degree twist to lock the case onto the mount head. They offer various motorcycle mounts: Moto Mount Pro (handlebar), Bar Clamp Mount, Mirror Mount, Brake Mount, Stem Mount, Clutch Mount, and Ball Head Mount (for RAM compatibility). 

Accessories:

• Anti Vibration Module: Similar to Quad Lock and Peak Design, this module inserts between the mount head and base to dampen engine vibrations and protect the camera. Comes in different colors.
• Charging Module: Offers weatherproof wireless charging (Qi compatible) that integrates directly with their mount heads. They also have weatherproof cable charging options (like their Cable Wireless Charger).
• Weather Cover: A slip-on transparent cover for added rain/dust protection when using their standard cases.

The Catch: Locked into their proprietary case/mount system (unless using universal options). Some users find the 90-degree twist slightly less intuitive initially than Quad Lock’s push-twist. Can get expensive once you add the essential modules (dampener, charger).

Silver Lining: Offers a secure twist-lock system with notably slim phone cases, a wide range of quality mounting options, and crucial vibration damping and wireless charging accessories. Great ecosystem choice.

Alternative Option: Quad Lock is the most direct competitor with a similar twist-lock concept and accessory range. 

SP Connect Moto Mount Pro

The SP Connect Moto Mount Pro is a sleek, durable phone mount with built-in vibration damping and full adjustability.

Pros:

• CNC-machined aluminum = premium build
• Rotates 360° with secure 6° clicks
• Works with all SP Connect cases

Cons:

• Phone case not included—sold separately

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Our Review: Slim, secure, and system-ready. SP Connect offers a great twist-lock mount with low-profile cases and the vital anti-vibration add-on.

Motorcycle Phone Mount System Comparison

Note: Price ranges estimate a typical setup (case/adapter, mount, dampener). RAM is cheaper for the holder but quality bases/arms add up. Weatherproof refers mostly to charging heads/mounts, not necessarily the phone itself without a case/cover.

Key Features & Must-Have Accessories

When comparing systems, look for these:

• Secure Locking Mechanism: How does the phone attach? Twist-lock (Quad Lock, SP Connect), Magnetic + Mechanical Lock (Peak Design), Clamp (RAM X-Grip)? Ensure it feels positive and secure.
• Case System: Dedicated Case (Quad Lock, SP Connect, Peak Design) offers the slimmest, most integrated fit but requires buying their specific case. Universal Adapters stick to your existing case but add bulk. Clamp systems (RAM X-Grip) hold the phone itself.
• Vibration Dampener: Non-negotiable for modern smartphones. Reduces high-frequency vibrations that damage camera OIS. All major brands offer these now.
• Charging Options: Wireless charging heads (check weatherproof rating, Qi compatibility, charging speed) or integrated USB ports on the mount/nearby.
• Mounting Base: Choose the base that fits your bike best (handlebar, stem, mirror, etc.). RAM ball compatibility offers flexibility.

Buying Guide: Choosing Your Motorcycle Phone Mount

Okay, lots of great systems. How do you pick the right one?

1. Security is #1: How confident do you feel trusting your phone to it? Positive locking systems (Quad Lock, SP Connect, Peak Design) generally offer more peace of mind than friction/spring clamps (RAM X-Grip), especially for bumpy roads or aggressive riding. But RAM with a tether is still very popular and trusted by many.
2. Vibration Damping (The MUST-HAVE): If you have a smartphone made in the last 5-6 years with Optical Image Stabilization (most iPhones, Galaxies, Pixels do), you NEED a vibration dampener. Don’t skip this accessory from whichever brand you choose. It’s cheaper than a phone repair bill.
3. Case Preference: Do you mind using a brand-specific case? Dedicated cases (Quad Lock, SP Connect, Peak Design) offer the slimmest and most secure connection. If you love your current case, a RAM X-Grip (no case needed) or a Universal Adapter (Quad Lock, SP Connect, Peak Design – adds bulk) is your path.
4. Mounting Location & Bike: Where do you want the phone? Handlebars (check diameter and available space)? Mirror stem? Fork stem? Brake/clutch perch? Choose a system that offers a secure base mount for your specific bike. RAM offers the most flexibility here due to its ball-and-arm system.
5. Charging Needs: Do you need power on the go? Wireless: Convenient, less cable clutter. Look for weatherproof heads (Quad Lock, SP Connect offer good ones). Can be slower and generate heat. Wired: Faster, more reliable charging. Requires running a USB cable. Look for mounts with cable routing or integrated USB ports (like Quad Lock, or some RAM holders).
6. Ease of Use: How easy is it to get the phone on and off the mount, especially with gloves? Twist-locks become second nature. Peak Design’s magnetic assist is very slick. RAM X-Grip requires two hands to open the clamp.
7. Budget vs. Value: Don’t go cheap! A quality system (case/adapter, mount, dampener) will likely cost $100-$200+. Remember, you’re protecting a device worth potentially $1000 or more. The cost of a dropped phone far outweighs the cost of a secure mount.

What About Legality? (Phone Use & Mounting in USA)

This is a tricky area as laws vary significantly by state. Here’s the general picture:

• Federal Law: There’s no federal law specifically prohibiting mounting a phone on a motorcycle.
• Handheld Use: Virtually all states prohibit handheld cell phone use while operating a vehicle, including motorcycles. Don’t ride while holding your phone!
• Mounted Use (for GPS/Info): Most states allow the use of a mounted phone for navigation or displaying information, provided it doesn’t distract the rider.
• Texting/Typing: Usually illegal while riding, even if mounted.
• Mounting Restrictions: Some states may have laws about where you can mount a device (e.g., not obstructing view) or how you interact with it (e.g., single tap/swipe allowed).
• Best Advice: Check the specific laws for YOUR state and any state you plan to ride through. Websites like the AAA Digest of Motor Laws or your state’s DMV/State Patrol website are good resources. When in doubt, operate the phone only when stopped safely off the roadway. Safety and focus should always be your priority.

Choosing the right motorcycle phone mount comes down to balancing security, convenience, protection (for the phone!), and budget. 

All the major systems (Quad Lock, RAM Mounts, Peak Design, SP Connect) offer solid solutions when paired with their essential vibration dampeners. Pick the ecosystem that best fits your needs, install it correctly, and ride on with your tech safely in view!

Ride safe!

The post Best Motorcycle Phone Mounts in 2025: Quad Lock, RAM, Peak & More first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

Good speakers turn the ride into more than just miles ticking by. Music and radio keep the energy up, break up the long stretches, and make every trip hit harder. It is not just about background noise — the right sound makes the whole ride better..

Most stock setups sound decent sitting still, but once you’re running 70 into a headwind, they don’t stand a chance – especially with bass. Plus, wind, rain, and road miles will chew up speakers over time. 

You need a setup that stays loud, clear, and keeps working no matter what you throw at it – whether that’s clamped to the bars, built into your fairing, or tucked into the bags. No excuses.

In this guide, we’re cutting through the junk and getting straight to the systems that actually work. Here are our top picks, with more details below. 

Budget	Premium
Kuryakyn Road Thunder Bluetooth Sound Bar	Rockford Fosgate Gen-3 Audio Kit
Powerful, weather-resistant sound bar built for high-performance audio on the road. Quick to mount.	An 800-watt premium audio upgrade built to deliver crystal-clear sound even at highway speeds. Seamlessly installed.
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Budget

Kuryakyn Road Thunder Bluetooth Sound Bar

Powerful, weather-resistant sound bar built for high-performance audio on the road. Quick to mount.

Check Price on Revzilla

Check Price on Amazon

Premium

Rockford Fosgate Gen-3 Audio Kit

An 800-watt premium audio upgrade built to deliver crystal-clear sound even at highway speeds. Seamlessly installed.

Check Price on Revzilla

Check Price on Amazon

If none of these options fit your bike, you can search Revzilla for matches to your exact make and model.

But first, let’s address some things you hear rumble around about motorcycle audio:

1. “Waterproof” means nothing if the speakers can’t survive vibration, sun, grime, and rain. Cheap speakers often fail from exposure long before water gets in. “Marine grade” is often what you’re looking for. 
2. Just swapping to “louder” speakers without ensuring your amplifier (factory or aftermarket) can properly power them is a recipe for distortion and disappointment, not better sound. Power matching is key.
3. Helmet speakers fall short when the ride gets loud and fast. They work for quick GPS directions, callouts, and staying in touch with the group, but when you need real volume, clarity, and sound that cuts through wind and engine noise, you need proper bike-mounted speakers.
4. That factory “premium” sound system upgrade you paid big bucks for doesn’t hold a candle to well-chosen aftermarket speakers and amps when it comes to clarity and volume at speed.

Let’s check out the options.

Motorcycle Speaker Categories

Getting tunes on your bike generally falls into two main approaches, especially for cruiser and Harley riders:

Handlebar / Portable Bluetooth Speakers:

These are typically self-contained units with built-in amplifiers and Bluetooth connectivity. They mount to your handlebars or other frame parts.

• Pros: Easy to install (often tool-less), affordable, portable (can sometimes be removed easily), no complex wiring into the bike’s system.
• Cons: Usually lower power/volume than integrated systems, sound quality can vary, appearance might not be as clean, often relies on battery power.

Integrated Speaker Systems:

These involve replacing or adding speakers directly to your bike’s fairing, lower fairings, or saddlebags, often powered by the bike’s electrical system and sometimes requiring an aftermarket amplifier.

• Pros: Much higher potential for volume and sound quality, cleaner look, powered by the bike, designed specifically for the motorcycle environment.
• Cons: More expensive, installation is more complex (often requiring fairing removal, wiring, maybe cutting), less portable, system matching (speakers, amp, head unit) is important.

Let’s look at some standouts in both categories.

Handlebar / Portable Bluetooth Speakers

Easy installation and Bluetooth convenience for getting tunes on almost any bike. 

If you want quick tunes without tearing into your bike, clamp-on and portable speakers are the way to go. 

They’re easy to bolt on, easy to pair with your phone, and perfect for riders who want sound without the hassle. Let’s check out a few that are actually worth your time.

Lexin S35 Bluetooth Handlebar Speakers

Sometimes you just want real sound on your bars without pulling half your bike apart.

The Lexin S35s do exactly that. They hit harder than the old Q3s, with louder, cleaner sound you can actually hear at highway speeds. Perfect if you are riding a cruiser or a Harley and you are tired of earbuds and weak setups.

Installation is easy. Clamp them on, run the harness to your battery or a tender lead, and you are ready to roll. The thumb controller mounts clean to the bars, and Bluetooth pairing is quick and automatic. They also cut power when the bike is off, so you don’t have to worry about killing your battery.

These speakers are a clear step up from most clamp-on/handlebar options. Bigger than the Q3s, louder, and built to survive real riding. Sound holds up even at 75 to 80 mph without needing a giant windshield. They are IP67-rated too, so rain, dust, and grime are not going to scare them off.

The Catch? While the S35s crank loud for bar-mounted speakers, they still won’t match a full bagger system when it comes to deep bass. Also, they cost a bit more than the old Q3s — but in this case, you’re paying for a real upgrade.

Silver lining: The Lexin S35s are easily one of the best ways to add serious Bluetooth sound to your handlebars without getting into a full stereo install. Clean, loud, weatherproof, and tough enough for real-world riding.

Alternative Option: The Boss Audio Rebel 600 is another solid option if you’re looking for a clamp-on system with a little different mounting flexibility. They include a 600 Watt max 2 channel amp with Bluetooth receiver.

Lexin S35 Bluetooth Handlebar Speakers

Lexin S35 delivers loud, clear sound with added style and safety features.

Pros:

• Powerful 200W sound
• Bluetooth 5.1 + FM radio
• Water-resistant with turn signals

Cons:

• Needs hardwiring to ignition

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Our Review: The Lexin S35s hits a sweet spot for value and ease of use in handlebar speakers. We’ll be checking them out to come back with a full review. 

Kuryakyn Road Thunder Bluetooth Sound Bar Plus by MTX

The Kuryakyn Road Thunder Bluetooth Sound Bar Plus is a full sound system built into a compact handlebar-mounted unit. Powered by MTX, it packs two tweeters, four mid-range drivers, and a built-in amplifier delivering 150 watts RMS, giving it real strength and clarity at speed.

It mounts securely to your handlebars with minimal hassle, as long as you check your fitment (see Revzilla’s fitment tab). Bluetooth connectivity comes standard, and it includes a USB port to keep your phone charged during longer rides. The bar is rated IP66 for weather resistance and built to handle rain, dust, and road grime without a problem. An integrated heat sink helps keep the amp cool even after hours on the road.

The Road Thunder is a solid choice for riders who want better sound and real volume without going for a full fairing or bagger system.

The Catch? It’s significantly more expensive than basic handlebar speakers. The sound bar form factor might not appeal to everyone aesthetically. While powerful for a handlebar unit, it still won’t match the bass response or overall output of a multi-speaker fairing/bag system. Installation is slightly more involved due to wiring for power. 

Silver Lining: Packs serious volume, decent sound quality with multiple drivers, and convenient features like USB charging into a single, robust, weather-resistant handlebar unit. It’s a powerful all-in-one audio solution. 

Alternative Option: You can opt for separate amplifier and speaker kits like Boss Audio – it offers potentially more placement flexibility but requires more complex installation than the all-in-one soundbar.

Kuryakyn Road Thunder Bluetooth Sound Bar

Powerful, weather-resistant sound bar built for high-performance audio on the road.

Pros:

• Crisp and loud audio with dual speakers and four tweeters
• Built-in Bluetooth and USB charging port for convenience
• Weather-resistant design ideal for all riding conditions

Cons:

• Volume may vary depending on the Bluetooth device used

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We may earn commissions if you make a purchase. This keeps our site ad-free and never sponsored.

Our Review: The Road Thunder Sound Bar Plus is a popular choice for riders wanting big sound without a full fairing system. We’re aiming to review it on It’s Better On The Road. 

Best Integrated Motorcycle Audio Systems

Getting real sound out of your bike means moving past clamp-on speakers and building something solid. Integrated audio systems give you way better volume, cleaner sound, and a setup that actually looks like it belongs on the bike, not something you slapped on last minute.

You’ve got two ways to go about it:

Building your own setup: This is where you piece it together yourself. Pick your own speakers (usually marine or powersports gear that can handle weather) and your own amp, then figure out the mounting and wiring for your bike. Takes more time and a little more know-how, but you can build it exactly how you want it and make it work on pretty much any bike.

Buying a bike-specific kit: If you’re on something like a Harley Touring model, there are full kits that bundle speakers, amps, and all the wiring you need. They are designed to bolt right in without a lot of headaches. You lose a little flexibility because they’re built for certain bikes, but you save a ton of install time.

Wild Boar By Hogtunes 6.5″ Speakers & 400 Watt Amp Kit (Harley ’14+)

Hogtunes’ Wild Boar Audio kit upgrades your front fairing with real power and clarity. It pairs a set of high-efficiency 6.5-inch speakers with a compact 400-watt, 2-channel amp built to cut through road and wind noise without breaking a sweat.

The kit fits Harley Touring bikes (typically ’14 and up, check fitment tab on Revzilla to see if it fits your bike) and drops straight into the fairing. The Wild Boar speakers are built tough with carbon fiber cones and big magnets, giving you stronger sound and better power handling than stock. The amp pushes 200 watts RMS per channel and is tuned to work cleanly with the bike’s charging system. It also uses R.E.M.I.T. tech to keep FM radio interference down. Install is straight-up plug-and-play with bike-specific brackets and wiring harnesses.

This setup gives you loud, clear sound aimed right at you, built to hold up when you’re cranking it down the highway.

The Catch? This kit only upgrades the front speakers; you won’t get sound from the rear. Installation still requires fairing removal. While powerful, it’s a 2-channel system, limiting future expansion to rear speakers without adding another amp or swapping this one. 

Silver Lining: Delivers a high-quality audio upgrade focused entirely on the front fairing speakers. Uses bike-specific components and harnesses for easier installation than universal parts. Excellent way to get truly audible sound upfront. 

Alternative Option: Rockford Fosgate offers similar Stage 2 kits which include their amp and TMS65 speakers. 

Wild Boar By Hogtunes

Premium sound upgrade built specifically for Harley Road Glide models with powerful, clean audio performance.

Pros:

• High-output 400-watt amplifier delivers loud and clear sound
• Premium 6.5" speakers with titanium tweeters and carbon fiber cones
• Plug-and-play design with all mounting hardware included

Cons:

• May require a dealer radio software re-flash for compatibility

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Our Review: Focusing power on the front stage makes a huge difference. Wild Boar/Hogtunes kits are well-regarded in the Harley community. We’re exploring various stage kits to be able to share a review in the future.

Rockford Fosgate Gen-3 Stage 3 Audio Kit For Harley (Harley ’14+)

Rockford Fosgate’s Gen-3 Stage 3 kit is what you throw on when you’re done messing around. This setup gives you real amplified sound in the fairing and the bags, built to crush highway noise and keep it clear mile after mile. It’s made for Harley Touring bikes (mostly ’14 and up — see Revzilla’s fitment tab to double-check if it fits your bike) and comes with everything you need.

Up front, you get their TMS65 6.5-inch fairing speakers. Out back, a pair of TMS69 6x9s designed to drop right into saddlebag lids, usually with grilles, cutting templates, or even replacement lids depending on the kit. Running it all is the M5-800X4 amp, a true 800-watt, 4-channel beast that brings real volume without distortion. Every piece of the kit is Element Ready™, built to take rain, heat, and vibration without falling apart. The bike-specific wiring harnesses make installation way cleaner too, no crazy splicing or guesswork.

This setup surrounds you with sound. Crisp highs and mids blasting out the front, real mid-bass and punch coming from the bags. It turns your ride into a rolling concert hall you can actually hear at 80 miles an hour.

The Catch? This is a premium, expensive kit. Installation is complex, involving fairing removal, wiring front-to-back, and potentially cutting your saddlebag lids (unless the specific kit includes replacement lids). The powerful amp draws significant current. May require a dealer radio flash for optimal performance (like enabling fader). 

Silver Lining: Delivers an incredibly powerful, clear, and full audio experience specifically tuned for your Harley. Uses top-quality, weather-resistant components designed for plug-and-play integration (relative to fully custom). It’s the benchmark for many riders seeking the ultimate factory-integrated sound. 

Alternative Option: The Hogtunes Quadcast 500 is a serious setup if you want to go even bigger. It runs six speakers powered by two separate amplifiers, giving you a full front and rear sound stage with plenty of clean volume to beat wind and road noise.

Rockford Fosgate Gen-3 Stage 3 Audio Kit For Harley

An 800-watt premium audio upgrade built to deliver crystal-clear sound even at highway speeds.

Pros:

• 800-watt amp with 4 channels for powerful and expandable sound
• Tuned speakers designed to cut through wind and road noise up to 75 MPH
• Plug-and-play installation with factory mounting compatibility

Cons:

• Optional digital signal processor (DSR1) sold separately for full system optimization

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Our Review: A full Stage 3 system transforms your bike’s audio. Rockford Fosgate kits are industry leaders. We’re exploring high-end setups on It’s Better On The Road. Stay tuned!

Boss Audio MC900B 4-Channel Weatherproof Amplifier

If you’re putting together a real speaker setup, you’re gonna need an amp. Stock head units just don’t have the muscle to push aftermarket speakers loud and clean at highway speeds. That’s where something like the Boss Audio MC900B comes in. It’s a compact, weatherproof amp built for powersports and marine use, which means it’s tough enough to survive motorcycle life.

This is basically the heart of your custom system. It grabs the signal from your phone over Bluetooth if you’re running without a head unit, or it can take RCA or speaker-level inputs if you already have a stereo. 

From there, it bumps it up to real volume — pushing up to 500W max across four channels. Real-world power matters more though, and you’re looking at around 60 to 75 watts RMS per channel at 4 ohms, which is plenty to get your speakers cutting through wind and pipe noise. It’s small enough to tuck under the seat, inside a fairing, or even in a saddlebag if you’re tight on space. 

Plus, it’s weather-resistant and comes with a wired remote you can mount on your bars to control volume without fumbling around.

The Catch? Installation requires tapping into your bike’s electrical system for power and running speaker wires, this is not plug-and-play. Needs careful setup to match speaker impedance and power handling. Sound quality is good for its class, but high-end audio enthusiasts might seek more premium amplifier brands. 

Silver Lining: Provides essential amplification needed for aftermarket speakers in a compact, weather-resistant package, with flexible input options (including Bluetooth) making it adaptable to many custom motorcycle audio projects. It’s a popular and affordable core component. 

Alternative Option: Kicker’s PXA series amplifiers offer similar compact, weatherproof performance, often with slightly higher RMS power ratings and different features.

BOSS Audio Systems MC900B 4 Channel Amplifier

A compact, affordable, and Bluetooth-enabled amp designed for ATVs, UTVs, boats, and more.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly 4-channel amp with Bluetooth streaming capability
• Weatherproof design ideal for marine and powersport use
• No head unit required — Bluetooth remote handles streaming directly

Cons:

• Lower power output compared to premium systems (94W RMS per channel)

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Our Review: A compact, weatherproof amp is required for custom systems. We’re looking forward to testing it. 

Motorcycle Speaker Specs: Quick Comparison

*IP rating (Ingress Protection) shows how well something blocks dust (first number) and water (second number), with 6 being the highest for dust and 8 for water. An “X” means that part was not tested.

**In motorcycle audio, “Stage” means how big the upgrade is. Stage 1 is a basic speaker swap, higher stages add amps, more speakers, and more power. The bigger the stage, the louder and cleaner the sound at speed.

Note: Check specific kit details for exact components and fitment. Power ratings are approximate RMS figures where available; RMS for clamp-on units can be hard to verify vs. peak ratings. Install difficulty is relative. Price ranges are relative.

Buying Guide: Choosing Motorcycle Speakers That Rock

Want tunes that truly enhance your ride? Here’s what cruiser and Harley riders need to consider:

1. Volume & Clarity at Speed: This is #1. Don’t just look at peak watts (often inflated marketing). Look for RMS wattage (continuous power) and speaker sensitivity (how loud it gets with 1 watt of power). Higher sensitivity is better. You need enough power to overcome wind, engine, and exhaust noise clearly without distortion. Speaker placement (fairing vs. handlebars vs. bags) also drastically affects perceived volume.
2. Weather & Durability: Speakers live a hard life on a bike. Look for IP ratings (like IP66/IP67) indicating dust and water resistance. “Marine Grade” often means better resistance to moisture and UV rays. Components should also handle constant vibration. Rockford Fosgate’s “Element Ready™” designation is a good indicator.
3. Installation & Integration:
   • Clamp-ons: Easiest. Check handlebar diameter and wiring needs (usually just power/ground).
   • Integrated Systems: Much harder. Does it require cutting? Are bike-specific mounting adapters needed? Are plug-and-play harnesses available for your model (huge plus for Harleys!)? Assess your technical skills honestly – pro installation might be worth it. Always verify compatibility with your exact bike year and model.
4. Amplifier Needed?
   • Most clamp-on speakers have built-in amps.
   • Upgrading factory speakers (especially on Harleys) almost always benefits hugely from adding an amplifier. The stock head unit rarely provides enough clean power.
   • Adding saddlebag speakers definitely requires an amplifier. Ensure the amp has enough channels and power (RMS watts) for all your speakers.
5. Speaker Size & Placement: Bigger speakers generally produce more bass and volume (e.g., 6×9″ in bags vs. 6.5″ in fairing). Consider where you want the sound coming from – just the front, or front and rear? Fairing speakers provide direct sound; bag speakers add fill and bass reinforcement.
6. Connectivity: Clamp-ons use Bluetooth – check version for range/stability. Integrated systems need to work with your bike’s head unit (stock or aftermarket). Check input/output compatibility if mixing brands or adding amps.
7. Budget: Clamp-ons offer the cheapest entry point ($100-$400). Fairing speaker upgrades are next ($200-$500+). Adding bag speakers/amps significantly increases cost ($500-$1000+). Full high-end systems can run well over $1500-$2000+.

Don’t just buy the loudest or cheapest option. Consider how clear the sound needs to be for you at your typical riding speeds, how weatherproof it needs to be, and how complex an installation you’re willing to tackle. 

Getting the right motorcycle speaker setup can transform your ride, choose wisely!

The post Best Motorcycle Speakers 2025: Sound Systems for Cruisers & Harleys first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

Regular backpacks just are not made for riding. They shift, they catch wind, they dig into your shoulders, and when the rain shows up, forget about keeping your gear dry. Commuting with a school backpack usually means showing up sweaty and frustrated, with your laptop trying to punch a hole through your back.

I dug through the noise to find the motorcycle backpacks that actually work. 

Real comfort, real stability, real protection from the weather. 

Myths About Motorcycle Backpacks

• “Water-resistant is good enough.” Spray-on coatings on cheap bags might survive a light drizzle, but one good downpour will soak your gear. True waterproofing means roll-tops, waterproof liners, and sealed zippers.
• “More pockets = better.” More pockets are not always better if you cannot access them easily with gloves or if the layout is confusing. Smart organization is more important than having extra compartments.
• “Straps are overkill.” A backpack without a sternum strap and ideally a waist strap will move around under braking or cornering. Straps keep everything stable and secure.
• “Hard shell backpacks are the ultimate.” Hard shells stay stable at speed and look great but are often a hassle for carrying bulkier or awkward items. Flexibility matters for daily rides, not just aerodynamics.

Top Picks: Best Motorcycle Backpacks

These two backpacks stand out for daily riding and commuting:

Best Overall	Most Rugged
Kriega R25 V2	Shad SW45
Secure comfort with the Quadloc harness, bombproof construction, and modular add-ons. A proven favorite among riders.	Rugged, simple, and built for keeping gear dry. Offers 45 liters of waterproof storage with a clean roll-top design. Wear as a backpack or strap down as a tail bag.
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Best Overall

Kriega R25 V2

Secure comfort with the Quadloc harness, bombproof construction, and modular add-ons. A proven favorite among riders.

Check Price on Revzilla

Most Rugged

Shad SW45

Rugged, simple, and built for keeping gear dry. Offers 45 liters of waterproof storage with a clean roll-top design. Wear as a backpack or strap down as a tail bag.

Check Price on Revzilla

Choosing the Right Pack: Motorcycle Backpack Styles

• Daily Commuter or Laptop Backpacks:
  Focus on comfort, stability, weather resistance, and secure storage for laptops and daily gear. Kriega and Alpinestars do a great job here.
• Roll-Top or Waterproof Backpacks:
  Best for riders who need serious weather protection. Flexible capacity and full waterproofing. Shad and Kriega are top choices.
• Performance or Aerodynamic Backpacks:
  Designed for better aerodynamics and stability at higher speeds. Ideal for faster rides but less flexible for bulky cargo. Ogio’s Mach series is a strong option.
• Airbag Backpacks:
  Integrate personal airbag systems with storage space for better rider safety. Helite leads this category.

Here is a closer look at the top picks and other options to help you find the right setup for your rides.

Best Daily Commuter / Laptop Backpacks

Dragging a laptop, a change of clothes, or your daily haul across town is way easier when your backpack actually fits the job. These packs are built for comfort, stability, and keeping your gear dry without making every ride a chore.

Kriega R25 V2 Backpack (Top Pick – Overall Commuter)

I was a big fan of the original R25, but the V2 fixes the one thing that bugged me: it finally has a fully waterproof main compartment. No rain covers, no sketchy seams. Just roll it down and everything inside stays dry, no drama.

The 20-liter main roll-top has a removable liner, so if it ever wears out, swapping it is easy. Stuff your laptop and gear in it for daily rides, and it handles whatever the weather throws at you.

Kriega did not cut corners with the materials either. You are getting Schoeller DynaTech, 1000D Cordura, and ripstop nylon where it matters. It feels bombproof without being overbuilt.

Comfort is still a strong point. The Quadloc harness shifts weight onto your chest instead of killing your shoulders, and the pivoting buckles move naturally when leaning or working through traffic.

The side laptop pocket is handy for quick grabs, but anything you really care about goes up top in the waterproof compartment. Reflective hits, strap keepers, hydration-ready options — it is all there without overcomplicating things.

Yeah, the price is up compared to the old model, but I would call it money well spent. If you need a pack that can take a beating and still feel good after a long day in the saddle, the R25 V2 is worth it.

The Catch? The roll-top design, while providing waterproofing, can be slightly more cumbersome to access compared to traditional zippers . The Quadloc harness, while comfortable, can take a moment to get used to clipping in. Organization is fairly simple inside the main compartment compared to some hyper-organized packs.

Silver Lining: Offers unparalleled riding comfort and stability due to the Quadloc harness, exceptional durability, and modular expandability. It’s an investment that will likely outlast several motorcycles.​

Alternative Option: Although it has a slightly smaller capacity, the Alpinestars City Hunter V2  has been designed to maximize comfort and is also waterproof.

Kriega R25 V2 Backpack

A rugged, waterproof motorcycle backpack designed for comfort on long rides.

Pros:

• Quadloc harness system reduces shoulder strain for better long-distance comfort
• Waterproof rolltop main compartment keeps gear dry
• Fits laptops up to 17" and is hydration compatible

Cons:

• No waist strap, which may reduce stability at higher speeds

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Our review: We are putting miles on the Kriega R25 V2 and testing how it handles commuting and longer rides. Stay tuned for the full review and find out why this updated classic could be your next go-to pack.

Alpinestars Charger Pro Backpack

The Alpinestars Charger Pro is way more than just a bag to haul gear. It has a semi-rigid shell that holds its shape, a full-size laptop sleeve, a built-in rain cover, and even a hidden helmet carrier for when you are off the bike.

One thing I really like is the option to add a CE-certified back protector. It comes with a solid foam pad already, but you can slide in a real back protector and get serious coverage without layering up under your jacket.

The magnetic chest buckle is slick too. It clicks in fast, the straps are easy to adjust, and there is a zippered expansion if you need to stuff more gear in. Plus, the little padded pockets up front are perfect for stashing your phone or keys without digging around.

The Charger Pro feels tough and ready to handle daily abuse. It keeps its shape even when empty, which might not be everybody’s thing, but I like the way it adds to the technical, dialed-in feel.

If you are looking for a pack that can take daily rides, random weather, and still carry your helmet when you are off the bike, the Charger Pro is one of the smartest setups on the market.

The Catch? While the fabric offers some water resistance, it’s not fully waterproof without a rain cover (sometimes included, check listing). The semi-rigid design might not accommodate bulky items as easily as a soft roll-top. Styling is distinctly sporty Alpinestars. 

Silver Lining: Provides excellent organization, a secure and comfortable harness system for riding, a dedicated laptop sleeve, and thoughtful features like the helmet carrier, making it a very practical daily commuter pack. 

Alternative Option: The Ogio No Drag Mach series offers a more aerodynamic hard-shell design with similar organizational focus.

Alpinestars Charger Pro Backpack

A semi-rigid, aerodynamic backpack built for comfort, durability, and long-distance riding.

Pros:

• Semi-rigid front panel minimizes drag and maintains shape
• Adjustable harness and magnetic buckle offer a secure, ergonomic fit
• Includes rain cover, laptop pocket, and built-in helmet carrier

Cons:

• Back protector sold separately despite having a dedicated compartment

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Our Review: Alpinestars makes solid gear, and the Charger Pro looks like a well-equipped commuter option. We’re checking it out for It’s Better On The Road. 

Best Roll-Top / Waterproof Backpacks

When the sky opens up, you need a bag that can take a beating and keep everything inside bone dry. Roll-top designs and real waterproofing make sure your gear stays safe no matter how nasty the ride gets.

Shad SW45 Waterproof Rear Bag / Backpack (Versatile Capacity – Dual Use)

The Shad SW45 nails it if you are looking for waterproof storage without burning through your entire gear budget. This bag pulls double duty as a rear tail bag or a backpack, giving you real flexibility whether you are commuting, touring, or just bouncing around town.

Mounting it to the bike with the included straps is quick and solid, and when you are off the bike, the padded backpack straps and sternum strap make it easy to haul without feeling like you are carrying a rock. The heavy-duty 3-layer PVC tarpaulin shell, welded seams, and waterproof main zipper earn the bag an IPX5 rating, meaning your gear stays dry without needing a bunch of extra liners or covers.

You get a solid 40 liters of storage, which is more than enough for daily rides or multi-day trips. Two external pockets give quick access for small essentials, and the Molle loops let you tack on extra gear if you need it. Build quality feels tough enough to survive real-world abuse without complaining.

If you want rugged, waterproof storage that plays nice both on and off the bike, the Shad SW45 is a smart, no-nonsense choice.

The Catch? It’s a functional workhorse, not a premium statement piece. The backpack harness, while comfortable, isn’t as specialized for dynamic riding ergonomics as dedicated high-end motorcycle backpacks. The external pockets likely aren’t fully waterproof like the main compartment, and watertight zippers can sometimes be stiffer to operate than standard ones. 

Silver Lining: Offers truly waterproof main storage at a great price point, impressive 40L+ capacity, excellent versatility between tail bag and backpack modes, and durable construction suitable for regular use. It’s built to haul gear reliably in wet weather. 

Alternative Option: Givi waterproof tail bags offer similar PVC construction and waterproofing in various sizes, often focusing solely on tail mounting. Kriega offer renowned modularity and waterproofing, usable as tail bags or convertible to backpacks, typically at a higher price point.

Shad SW45 Waterproof Rear Bag / Backpack

A versatile, fully waterproof bag that functions as both a tail bag and a backpack.

Pros:

• 100% waterproof main compartment with roll-top closure for ultimate protection
• Converts easily between tail bag and backpack for added convenience
• Durable three-layer PVC construction with aluminum clips for rugged use

Cons:

• External pockets are only water-resistant, not fully waterproof

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Our Review: The Shad SW45 is a seriously impressive piece of engineering for riders who demand the best in waterproofing and stability. We’re hoping to get one for review on It’s Better On The Road. 

Givi CRM101 Waterproof 18 Liter Backpack / Saddlebag

The Givi CRM101 is proof that you do not have to sacrifice style to get real-world versatility. It brings classic looks and practical design together in a way that just works, whether you are commuting through city streets or heading out for a weekend ride.

This pack flips easily between backpack and saddlebag duty. Retractable shoulder straps keep it clean when you mount it to the bike using the included straps, and swapping back takes just a minute. It is the kind of flexibility that makes a difference when you live on two wheels.

The construction feels tough and ready for the grind. You get high-tenacity 1200D water-resistant polyester combined with dark brown and black vegan leather, giving it both ruggedness and a timeless look. Inside, a removable waterproof liner with an IPX5 rating keeps your gear dry when the weather gets nasty, and the roll-top closure seals it tight.

At 18 liters, it is sized right for daily essentials without feeling bulky. The CRM101 might not scream for attention, but it quietly delivers everything you need for daily rides, backed by Givi’s reputation for making gear that holds up.

The Catch? While the CRM101 excels in versatility and style, its 18-liter capacity might be limiting for those requiring more storage space. Additionally, the classic design, while appealing to many, may not suit riders seeking a more modern aesthetic.​

Silver Lining: The CRM101 offers a harmonious blend of form and function, making it a valuable companion for riders who appreciate classic design without compromising on practicality.​

Alternative Option: The Kriega R22 Backpack offers a sleek design with 18 liters of waterproof storage and Kriega’s patented Quadloc harness to keep it snug to your body while riding. 

Givi CRM101 Waterproof 18 Liter Backpack

A stylish, dual-purpose waterproof pack designed for modern classic riders who value both function and aesthetics.

Pros:

• Elegant vintage design with vegan leather accents
• Fully waterproof roll-top main compartment and removable inner liner (IPX5)
• Convertible between backpack and saddlebag with retractable straps

Cons:

• Lacks a dedicated laptop compartment and waist strap for long-haul support

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Our Review: The Givi CRM101 stands as a testament to thoughtful design and functional versatility. Stay tuned for our in-depth insights based on its performance and features.​

Best Performance / Aerodynamic Backpacks

When you are cranking up the speed, stability matters just as much as storage. These aerodynamic packs cut through the wind and stay locked down tight without throwing off your balance.

Ogio No Drag Mach 5 Backpack

I have been riding with the Ogio No Drag Mach 5, and if you like going fast, this thing just makes sense. The molded shell cuts through the wind clean and stays glued to your back, even when you are cranking it up on the freeway or ripping on a sportbike.

That hard shell does more than look cool. It gives your gear some real protection and keeps the pack from flopping around when you are leaned over. Inside, it is packed with smart details. I can stash a laptop, a tablet, even a pair of shoes without everything getting crushed or lost in a black hole.

The harness setup is solid too. Good adjustability, a sternum strap that locks you down, and a waist strap you can pull off if you do not need it.

What I like most is that it actually feels like a riding backpack, not something repurposed from hiking or school runs. If you are the kind of rider who likes pushing a little harder and hates feeling your bag dance around behind you, the Mach 5 just works.

The Catch? The rigid shell offers less flexibility for carrying bulky or odd-shaped items compared to soft bags or roll-tops. While water-resistant, it’s not fully waterproof and relies on the shell deflecting rain – heavy downpours can still find ingress points, especially around zippers. Can feel bulkier off the bike. 

Silver Lining: Provides excellent aerodynamic stability at speed, great organization for tech and essentials, and a protective shell in a unique, iconic design. Perfect for riders prioritizing stability and organization, especially on sportier bikes.

Alternative Option: The smaller options in the OGIO No Drag series like the Mach 1 and Mach 3 (both 18L instead of 24L for the Mach 5) offer the same streamlined look and aerodynamics just with less features and without that beautiful carbon weave. Perfect for commuting and rides around town. 

OGIO No Drag Mach 5 Backpack

A high-performance, aerodynamic backpack built for sportbike riders who need storage without sacrificing speed or style.

Pros:

• Sleek, wind-tunnel-tested design reduces drag
• Tons of compartments: laptop (15"), tablet, shoes, visor, and valuables
• Expandable capacity (22L–24L) + removable helmet carry strap
• Ergonomic with removable waist/chest straps and padded support

Cons:

• Not fully waterproof (weather-resistant shell only)
• Heavier than average at 3.7 lbs

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Our Review: The Ogio No Drag series is iconic for a reason. We’ll be testing its practicality vs. aero benefits on It’s Better On The Road. 

Best Airbag Backpack

Riding gear is all about stacking the odds in your favor, and an airbag backpack takes that protection up a notch. These packs give you solid storage plus an extra layer of safety when things go sideways.

Helite H-Moov Tethered Airbag Backpack

The Helite H-Moov is not your regular riding backpack, and honestly, that is why I am into it. You get a real airbag system built right in, giving you serious protection if you get thrown off. They make a tethered version if you like keeping it simple, or you can go with the electronic one that uses sensors.

As a backpack, it is surprisingly solid. I have been able to fit my laptop, some daily gear, and it even comes with a rain cover and a helmet carrier. If you want to travel light, you can strip the backpack off completely and just wear it as an airbag vest. That is a pretty slick move if you ask me.

Deployment is fast, about 100 milliseconds, and swapping the CO2 cartridge is something you can do yourself. Helite says you can reuse the bag as long as it looks clean after a hit, but I would definitely give it a good inspection every time.

Between the two versions, I like how simple the tethered one is. The electronic one is cool, but it may not fire if you get rear-ended while sitting still at a light, which feels like a miss. Either way, if you want real crash protection without having to wear a whole extra vest under your jacket, the H-Moov is pretty much the only option out there right now.

The Catch? Significantly more expensive than any non-airbag backpack due to the safety technology. It’s heavier and bulkier than standard backpacks. The airbag system requires maintenance (checking CO2 cartridge, battery for electronic versions). Backpack capacity might be limited by the airbag components. Requires re-arming after a deployment (new CO2 cartridge). 

Silver Lining: Provides a significant, potentially life-saving level of upper body protection integrated directly into your daily commuter backpack. Offers peace of mind alongside carrying capacity. 

Alternative Option: There is no real alternative to the Helite H-Moov. If you want better protection and more flexibility, most riders just run a standalone airbag vest, like the Klim Ai-1 or Helite Turtle 2, and throw on a solid backpack like the Kriega R25. Two pieces of gear instead of one, but you get way better coverage.

Helite H-Moov Tethered Airbag Backpack

A premium safety-first riding backpack that integrates a CE-certified airbag system with everyday practicality.

Pros:

• Integrated airbag with fast deployment
• Reusable with replaceable CO₂ cartridge
• Includes back protector, rain cover, and helmet holder

Cons:

• Expensive
• Requires tether to bike

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Our Review: Airbag technology is a major safety advancement. Integrating it into a backpack like the Helite H-Moov is clever, and we look forward to covering more. We’re covering airbag tech like this on It’s Better On The Road. 

Motorcycle Backpack Comparison: Key Specs

Note: Check specific product listings for exact features like included liners/rain covers. Laptop sleeve compatibility varies. Price ranges are relative.

Buying Guide: How to Pick Your Motorcycle Backpack

Not every pack is built for life on two wheels. Here is what to look for when choosing one that can actually handle the ride:

Comfort and Stability:

A good harness setup changes everything. Systems like Kriega’s Quadloc or Velomacchi’s pivoting harness shift the weight off your shoulders and keep the load planted, even when you are hammering through traffic. 

At minimum, you want decent padding and straps that do not dig in. A sternum strap is a must to lock everything down tight. A waist strap is a smart call for heavier hauls and should be removable when you are just out for a quick rip.

A padded back panel with some breathing room helps you avoid the sweaty back swamp on hot days.

Waterproofing:

This comes in many flavors…

• Fully waterproof: Best when you have a roll-top, welded seams, and burly zippers.
• Internal waterproof liner: Tough outer shells with removable liners, like what Kriega does, work great for staying dry without extra fuss.
• Rain covers: Handy for quick showers but not bulletproof.
• Water-resistant: Fine if you only hit the occasional sprinkle, not enough if you are caught in a full-blown storm.

Capacity and Organization:

Commuters usually do fine with 20 to 30 liters for a laptop, clothes, and some extras. A padded, suspended laptop sleeve keeps your tech from getting rattled.

Quick-access pockets you can open with gloves on are a huge win. Internal organizers keep all the small stuff from floating around like loose change in your tank bag.

Durability and Materials:

You want tough stuff like 1000D Cordura, ballistic nylon, or Hypalon. Check the stitching and buckles too. If it feels cheap in your hands, it is going to bail on you fast once you start logging real miles.

Safety Features:

Reflective hits are key for dodging cagers in low light or nasty weather. Airbag setups like Helite’s add serious crash protection but expect a little more bulk and weight.

Aerodynamics and Practicality:

Hard-shell packs like Ogio’s Mach series are slick and stable when you are twisting the throttle. 

Soft bags flex better when you are hauling weird-shaped gear but might flap if you don’t cinch them down right.

Pick what matches how you ride.

Final Tip:

Figure out what you haul, how often you ride through crap weather, and whether you care more about feeling streamlined on the bike or being comfy off it.

Dial that in, and you will find the pack that makes carrying your gear feel like part of the ride, not a chore.

The post Best Motorcycle Backpacks for Commuting and Adventure first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

Today, we’re diving deep into motorcycle navigation, and I’m going to guide you through a journey from the very basics to a pro-level setup. Forget rigid, one-size-fits-all solutions, because what I’m about to share will likely challenge your initial assumptions. Here are three key unconventional takeaways to keep in mind:

• Your smartphone is a surprisingly capable starting point, but it comes with risk and serious limitations. We’ll explore how to use it effectively, but more importantly, when to recognize its limitations for serious adventure riding.
• Android devices offer a flexibility and ruggedness that Apple currently doesn’t for on-bike navigation. Prepare to reconsider your tech loyalties as we delve into why Android is the right choice for navigation.
• Building a navigation system is modular, not monolithic. You don’t need to jump straight to the most expensive, feature-packed GPS unit. We’ll break down a step-by-step progression, allowing you to upgrade as your needs and riding style evolve.

Let’s explore the world of motorcycle navigation, starting from the ground level and ascending to the heights of advanced setups.

If you’d rather watch this guide, here’s my original video on the topic:

Navigation Options: Beyond the Beaten Path

Before we chart our course through my preferred navigation journey, let’s quickly survey the landscape of available options. It’s good to know what’s out there, even the seemingly old-fashioned methods.

Paper Maps: The Old School Charm

Yes, paper maps. In this digital age, it might seem almost comical to even mention them, conjuring images of navigating by the stars and compass. And while I’m not personally relying on celestial navigation, I can’t dismiss paper maps entirely. In fact, I always bring one along on my trips.

They are not about replacing technology, but rather offering a unique, almost social advantage. Pulling out a paper map is a fantastic icebreaker. It’s an invitation for locals to gather around, offer advice, and share their insights on the best routes and hidden gems.

In a world increasingly dominated by screens, a paper map becomes a tangible, human connection to the place you’re exploring. So, while it might not be your primary navigation tool, don’t rule out the humble paper map. It’s more valuable than you might think.

Dedicated GPS Devices: The Single-Purpose Box

Then we have dedicated GPS devices. These are purpose-built gadgets designed solely for navigation. They remind me a bit of those old handheld game devices from my childhood – you know, the kind where you bought a separate device for each game. If you wanted more functionality, you had to buy another box.

Back in the 90s, I was a proper tech enthusiast, just like I am now. I had my Nokia phone, my Palm Pilot, a MiniDisc player for music, and, of course, a dedicated GPS device. Like this Garmin.

Garmin Zumo XT Motorcycle GPS

Rugged GPS with a bright 5.5” display, built for any adventure.

Pros:

• Durable and weather-resistant (IPX7)
• Preloaded on-road and off-road maps
• Hands-free calling and live traffic updates

Cons:

• Limited battery life at max brightness (but supports bike plug-in)

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Even then, I had this vision of the future where all these separate gadgets would somehow merge into one magical device. Fast forward just a few years and a few pounds of gadgets lighter, and here we are – the smartphone era.

From Smartphone Simplicity to Professional Setups

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of my navigation progression, starting with the device most of us already have in our pockets: the smartphone. We’ll then gradually move towards more specialized and robust solutions.

Step 1: The Smartphone Starter Kit

The beauty of a smartphone for navigation is its versatility. Unlike a dedicated GPS unit, your phone isn’t limited to just one navigation app. The app stores are brimming with options, allowing you to pick and choose based on your riding style and needs. You can experiment with different apps, even use multiple ones depending on the type of riding you’re doing.

There’s a whole ecosystem of navigation apps out there. Many of the popular ones offer both online and offline map capabilities. Offline maps are crucial, especially when you venture into areas with no cellular service.

Many also provide online planning tools, allowing you to meticulously plot your routes on a computer and then seamlessly sync them to your phone. Whether you’re an Apple iOS or Android user, you’ll find a plethora of compatible apps, and some even offer integration with systems like CarPlay.

Personally, I find myself frequently using a few key apps: Stegra.io, DMD2 (which we’ll delve into more later), and good old Google Maps.

For the casual rider, the setup is incredibly simple: mount your phone, plug it into a charger, launch your navigation app, and ride. This is perfectly adequate for sunshine weekend rides, shorter trips in good weather, and familiar routes. But, as you push your riding further, venture into more challenging conditions, or rely more heavily on navigation, the limitations of this basic setup will start to surface.

The Smartphone Drawbacks: When Things Get Real

Using your personal phone for navigation works great, until it doesn’t. And the issues tend to arise when you need your navigation the most – in challenging conditions or when things go wrong.

The biggest problem is that your phone is your lifeline. It’s your communication hub, your wallet, your camera – everything.

Let’s paint a little scenario: Imagine you’re riding a challenging trail, pushing your limits, and then… whoops. Down you go, bike and all, tumbling into a ravine. Your first thought? “I need to call for help!” But wait… where’s your phone? Still mounted on the bike, probably somewhere at the bottom of that ravine. Not ideal.

Beyond catastrophic crashes, even everyday rain presents significant challenges. Touchscreens and rain are not friends. Raindrops on the screen make it difficult, sometimes impossible, to operate the touchscreen, especially with riding gloves on. You need to keep the screen relatively dry to maintain any semblance of control. And raindrops themselves can be misinterpreted as touch inputs, causing phantom taps and triggering unintended actions on your phone. Apps might close, routes might change, chaos can ensue.

While a waterproof case can mitigate some of the rain issues, it introduces another problem: charging. Standard cable chargers and rain are a recipe for disaster. Moisture in the phone’s charging port can halt charging altogether. On a long day of riding, especially with power-hungry navigation apps running, your battery will drain. And once it’s dead, it’s dead until that charging port is completely dry, as phones often refuse to charge with any moisture detected in the port.

To address the charging in wet conditions, wireless charging mounts are a good step up. You simply place your phone on the mount, and it charges inductively, without a direct port connection. Pair this with a port plug to physically block water ingress into the charging port, and you’re in much better shape for wet weather riding.

Finally, vibration is a silent but significant threat to your smartphone, especially if you have a newer model with advanced camera stabilization. These cameras have incredibly sensitive internal mechanics. Prolonged exposure to motorcycle vibrations, particularly on rough roads, is known to damage these stabilization systems, potentially ruining your phone’s camera.

So, if you’re sticking with your smartphone for navigation, invest in a quality vibration-damping mount. It’s a small price to pay to protect your expensive and essential device.

In summary, for smartphone navigation step one, prioritize a vibration-damping mount and explore wireless charging solutions with a charging port plug for wet weather. This will extend the usability of your phone as a navigation device, but it’s still not a perfect long-term solution for serious adventure riding.

Quad Lock Phone Mount System

The best phone mount on the market. Quick to mount / unmount, minimal on the motorcycle, and super secure. Just make sure you get the mount, case, and all-important vibration dampener!

Pros:

• Easy one hand operation
• Super strong hold
• Great vibration dampener
• Super customizable (mounts, wireless chargers)

Cons:

• Viewing angle not adjustable

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Step 2: Dedicated Android Device – Embracing Ruggedness

Step two involves a shift in philosophy. We move your personal phone to a safe pocket on your body and introduce a dedicated device specifically for motorcycle navigation. This could be any spare phone or tablet you have lying around, or a new, budget-friendly device purchased solely for this purpose.

The key here is that it’s separate from your primary phone, so camera vibration damage becomes less of a concern, and if it gets damaged or lost on a ride, you still have your main communication device.

Now, for the potentially controversial part: I recommend going with an Android device for your dedicated motorcycle navigator. I know, I know, Apple aficionados might be bristling right now, but hear me out.

The core reason for leaning towards Android is ruggedness and device variety. Apple’s product line-up simply doesn’t offer devices suited for the rigors of motorcycle mounting and outdoor use. They have the iPhone, which we’ve already discussed the limitations of, and the iPad, which is too large and not designed for harsh environments. There are no ruggedized iPads or iPhones readily available.

Android, on the other hand, has a vast ecosystem of manufacturers producing rugged devices. From brands like Ulefone to Samsung with their Galaxy Active Tab series, you have a range of tablets and phones specifically built to withstand drops, water, dust, and vibrations.

SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab Active5

A rugged, high-performance tablet built for industrial and field work.

Pros:

• Water, dust, and shock resistant
• 5G ready for fast streaming and downloads
• Replaceable battery for all-day power

Cons:

• More expensive than regular tablets

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This is the approach famously adopted by Itchy Boots. She uses a rugged Android tablet running OsmAnd, a popular offline navigation app. A dedicated Android device opens up possibilities for a more permanent and robust mounting system, along with reliable, hard-wired charging directly from your bike’s power.

Another significant advantage of Android is its open nature. Android allows developers deeper system access compared to iOS. This enables specialized motorcycle navigation apps to take over the entire device interface, creating a dedicated “drive mode” or dashboard experience. Apps like DMD2 can transform an Android tablet into a fully customized motorcycle computer. Upon startup, you’re greeted with a bike-centric dashboard, displaying relevant information and navigation tools immediately.

I plan to create a separate video delving into navigation software and planning tools, as today’s focus is more on the hardware side. However, it’s worth emphasizing the software flexibility Android provides.

Even with a dedicated Android tablet like a Samsung Galaxy Active Tab, we still face the challenge of water droplets on the screen. While these tablets are rugged and water-resistant to a degree, they aren’t designed for constant, direct rainfall on the touchscreen while in operation. Raindrops can still trigger unwanted inputs and disrupt navigation, although rugged tablets are generally more resistant to this than standard smartphones.

Some apps offer features to lock parts of the screen to prevent accidental touches. I’ve experimented with these, but in heavy rain, it’s still possible for a persistent raindrop to find that one crucial button in the corner and cause issues. For truly uncompromising wet weather performance, we need to move to the next level.

But before we move on, I want to briefly mention CarPlay devices. With your phone safely tucked away, you could consider a standalone CarPlay unit. Some motorcycles even come with integrated CarPlay support in their factory displays. CarPlay essentially mirrors your iPhone’s interface onto a separate screen. Devices like the CapriRide unit act as intermediaries, displaying your phone’s CarPlay interface.

While CarPlay offers a familiar interface, I’m not personally a huge fan for dedicated motorcycle navigation. My preference stems from app limitations. Not all navigation apps are compatible with CarPlay, and even those that are can sometimes be buggy or less feature-rich compared to their standalone versions.

2025 CARPURIDE 9 Inch Car Play Screen

A feature-packed upgrade for any vehicle.

Pros:

• Wireless and wired Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• Real-time GPS navigation with a 9” HD touchscreen
• Hands-free voice control with Siri & Google Assistant

Cons:

• Backup camera not included

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I prefer the dedicated and fully customizable experience of running a navigation system directly on a device mounted to the bike. However, CarPlay can be a viable option for riders already heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem and who prioritize simplicity and familiarity.

Step 3: Purpose-Built Motorcycle Navigation – The Thork T865

Step 3 is where we transition to devices and mounting systems specifically engineered for the demands of off-road motorcycle adventuring. This brings us to the Thork Racing T865 tablet.

Yes, the T865 is also an Android tablet, but it’s a different breed altogether. When I say it’s “made for motorcycling and navigation,” I mean it’s designed from the ground up to address the specific challenges we face as riders.

Consider the GPS receiver. Compared to a typical tablet like a Samsung Active Tab, the T865’s GPS circuit updates its position a staggering 10 times per second. Standard tablets usually update just once per second. This tenfold increase in GPS update frequency translates to significantly smoother and more accurate tracking, especially in demanding off-road environments where quick changes in direction are common.

Another key differentiator is the inclusion of physical, programmable hardware buttons on the top of the device. Standard tablets lack these dedicated buttons. On the T865, these buttons are a game-changer. I’ve programmed one button to activate a unique screen lock feature. Unlike typical screen locks that just dim the display, this lock completely disables all touch input. Once activated, the screen becomes impervious to rain, accidental touches, or anything else. The only way to re-enable the screen is by pressing the hardware button again. This effectively eliminates rain-induced navigation chaos, if you choose to use it.

The T865 also comes pre-installed with DMD2 (Drive Mode Dashboard 2), a powerful and highly customizable motorcycle navigation software. This means you have access to advanced features, offline maps, roadbook capabilities, and a dedicated motorcycle dashboard right out of the box. I won’t delve into all the DMD2 features in this video, but it’s a comprehensive navigation solution tailored for adventure riders.

Being an Android device, the T865 retains Android’s inherent versatility. You’re not locked into DMD2. You can install and use any other Android navigation app you prefer.

Want to run Stegra alongside DMD2? No problem.

Need access to weather apps or satellite imagery? It’s all possible.

The customization is extensive. I’ve even programmed the hardware buttons to quickly switch between different navigation apps – one press for DMD2, another for Stegra, for example. You can seamlessly transition between different navigation styles, even rally roadbook navigation, all on one device.

While you can purchase DMD2 software separately and install it on any Android phone or tablet, the Thork T865 package offers a significant advantage: lifetime DMD2 license included with the hardware purchase. It’s a one-time payment for both the dedicated hardware and the premium software, forever.

The T865 also comes with a complete installation kit, including a robust power harness with bayonet connectors for easy and secure wiring to your bike’s electrical system. Mounting solutions are also readily available specifically designed for the T865. Compared to rigging up a generic tablet, the T865 offers a much more integrated and professional installation experience.

Step 4: Pro-Level Navigation – Modules and Control

Now we arrive at the “full Monty Pro level.” This step is about maximizing the potential of a dedicated motorcycle navigation setup like the Thork T865 by adding modular accessories. You already have the core – the rugged, motorcycle-specific device and screen. Now we enhance its functionality and control.

The first, and in my opinion, most transformative module is a handlebar controller.

The handlebar controller I use is the Thork Racing DMD Remote 2. While other brands and models exist, I’ve found this one particularly well-suited to my needs. It features a joystick on top and two buttons. The joystick is perfect for map zooming and panning, or for roadbook scrolling in rally navigation.

Using a handlebar controller becomes incredibly intuitive. You can manipulate the navigation interface – zoom in and out, pan across the map, switch between screens, navigate menus – all with your thumb, without ever taking your hands off the grips or your eyes off the road. It’s a true game-changer in terms of control and safety, especially in challenging riding conditions.

The handlebar controller also unlocks the full potential of the T865’s screen lock feature. You can keep the screen locked and impervious to rain or accidental touches at all times, relying solely on the handlebar controller for all navigation interactions.

Another powerful accessory to consider is an OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) reader. Thork Racing offers a dedicated OBD reader designed for seamless integration with their system, although compatible readers from other brands can also be used.

The Thork OBD reader is designed with motorcycle use in mind, featuring rapid data update frequency and intelligent auto shut-off to prevent battery drain when the bike is off.

Connecting an OBD reader allows you to tap into your bike’s ECU (Engine Control Unit) and display real-time bike data directly within the DMD2 navigation system.

Let’s fire up the bike and see it in action.

Bike data isn’t confined to a separate data screen. You can overlay data fields directly onto the navigation map. For example, I can choose to display coolant temperature or any other available bike parameter directly on the map screen, keeping critical information in my line of sight. The specific data available depends on your motorcycle model and what its ECU broadcasts.

Beyond live data, an OBD reader can also be used to read and clear engine error codes. If a warning light pops up on your dash while you’re on a trip, you can use the DMD2 system to diagnose the issue and potentially clear the code, which can be incredibly helpful when you’re far from service centers.

Finally, let’s talk tire pressure monitoring. I’m using TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensors that replace the valve caps on my tires. These are small, screw-on sensors.

With these sensors installed, real-time tire pressure readings are transmitted wirelessly to the DMD2 system and displayed on the T865 screen. I can see my front tire pressure at 1.8 bar and the rear at 2.2 bar, for example. Like the OBD data, tire pressure information can be overlaid on the map or displayed in dedicated data screens. I also have tire pressures displayed persistently at the top of the screen, visible on every page, so I always have that information at a glance.

I’m a big fan of this modular approach. The Thork system is constantly evolving, with new features, modules, and possibilities being added. It’s a system you can grow with, adding functionality as your needs expand and technology advances.

I hope this overview has been helpful and perhaps shed some light on the different levels of motorcycle navigation. Of course, Garmin and CarPlay devices, and even paper maps, all have their place and are still preferred by many riders. This is simply my journey and my perspective. Take what resonates with you and build the navigation setup that best suits your riding style and adventures.

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1. Motorcycle noise is LOUD. Like, jackhammer-next-to-your-head loud. Even with a helmet.
2. Hearing damage is permanent. Those ringing ears after a long ride? That’s not a badge of honor, it’s your hearing throwing in the towel – for good.
3. Comfortable earplugs exist. You don’t have to choose between hearing and enjoying your ride. In fact, comfortable earplugs can make your ride more enjoyable.

Motorcycle earplugs should make it easier to hear the sounds that matter: sirens, approaching cars, your GPS, your music coming through your speaker system, a nice slice of your engine’s roar and your wife calling you. All while cutting out the noise you don’t want: the wind, the noise of your tires on the pavement, and the penetrating crack of your Vance and Hines pipes. 

Finding Your Perfect Silence: Types of Motorcycle Earplugs

Before we dive into specific product recommendations, let’s break down the main types of motorcycle earplugs. Understanding these categories will help you narrow down what’s best for your riding style and needs.

• Foam Earplugs: The OGs of hearing protection. Cheap, readily available, and offering high Noise Reduction Ratings (NRR). They work by simply blocking the ear canal. Great for maximum noise blocking on a budget, but can be less comfortable for small ear canals and muffle all sounds – even the ones you want to hear. 
• Filtered/Hi-Fidelity Earplugs: These use acoustic filters to reduce noise at certain frequencies, meaning they lower the volume of unwanted noises without affecting  without drastically distorting sound. You still hear your surroundings, just quieter and clearer. Ideal for riders who want to protect their hearing but still need to hear traffic, intercoms, and engine feedback. Usually made of silicone.
• Custom Molded Earplugs: The gold standard in comfort and fit. These are custom fit to your own ears, usually with a DIY process you do at home, providing a perfect seal and maximum comfort for all-day riding. Usually some kind of flexible plastic material, and can be filtered or unfiltered. More expensive upfront, but reusable and often last for years.

Check out other ways besides earplugs to make a motorcycle helmet quieter – much of it has to do with fit. 

The Top Contenders: Best Motorcycle Earplugs of 2025

Here are my top picks for the best motorcycle earplugs to keep your ears happy and your rides comfortable.

Loop Earplugs

I did not have an ear plug company being one of the hottest consumer brands on my bingo card for this year, but here we are. Loop deserves the praise, to be honest – like Dyson did to the hairdryer and Solo Stove to the fire pit, Loop has taken a product category that had zero innovation for decades and decided to completely reinvent it.

Loop is famous for creating different levels of sound filtering to their headphones, each attuned for different activities – from loud concert venues to even conversations in a busy restaurant.

Their newest line, the Switch 2, even allows you to switch between each of three modes for different sound reduction, from lighter-duty 20dB reduction to 26dB reduction on part with racing earplugs down below.

With a 100-day money back guarantee and four eartip sizes included in every box, there’s very little risk in just trying them out. These are the most versatile plugs on our list, and worth your money.

The Best for Riding

Loop Switch 2 Earplugs

You get 3 noise filters in one set of comfortable earplugs with 4 ear tip sizes included. Get a carrying case, lanyard and more. Buy through our link for 100 day return policy. 

Pros:

• 3 sound filter modes
• 4 ear tip sizes included
• Multiple color options

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Decibullz Custom Molded Earplugs

If you’re after a truly personalized fit and serious noise blocking, Decibullz Custom Molded Earplugs are the answer. These aren’t your grandpa’s foam plugs. Decibullz uses a unique thermoplastic material that you mold to the exact shape of your ears in boiling water. 

Our contributor Alan has these and swears by them. He rides all kinds of bikes for enduros to ADV bikes and Harleys, and he’s also a private jet pilot. He uses them on the airstrip and the road. 

Decibullz - Custom Molded Earplugs

Decibullz Custom Molded Earplugs offer a perfect fit for superior noise reduction and comfort.

Pros:

• Easily moldable for a custom fit
• Provides 31dB Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)
• Re-moldable for repeated use

Cons:

• Initial molding process requires boiling water

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Benefit Breakdown:

• Custom Comfort: Because they’re molded to your ears, Decibullz eliminate pressure points and discomfort, even after hours in the saddle. Say goodbye to that “stuffed ear” feeling you get with generic plugs.
• High Noise Reduction (NRR 31dB): These plugs mean business when it comes to silencing the roar. The custom fit creates a tight seal, blocking out wind noise, engine drone, and road racket effectively.
• Remoldable: Messed up the molding process? No worries. Decibullz are remoldable. Just reheat and try again until you get the perfect fit. 
• Versatile: Great for more than just riding. Use them for shooting, concerts, sleeping, or any loud environment. One pair, multiple uses.

NoNoise Motorsport Noise Filter Earplugs

NoNoise Motorsport Noise Filter Ear Protection earplugs are designed for comfort and convenience. While they might not have the Noise Reduction Rating of Decibullz or foam earplugs, they filter that noise exceptionally well for motorcycle use. They’re also washable, reusable, and come with a small metal case to store them.  Ready to go right out of the box.

NoNoise Motorsport Noise Filter Ear Protection

NoNoise Motorsport Earplugs reduce wind noise while preserving important sounds for motorcyclists.

Pros:

• Reduces wind and road noise for a safer ride
• Allows communication and situational awareness
• Comfortable, washable, and reusable

Cons:

• May not block all high-frequency noises

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Benefit Breakdown:

• Acoustic Filtering (NRR 29dB): NoNoise earplugs utilize a ceramic filter designed to reduce wind and engine noise while allowing speech, sirens, and other important sounds to be heard. These aren’t going to reduce as much noise as a foam or custom earplug that isn’t filtered, they’re built to filter out the noises you don’t want to hear. 
• Comfortable and Discreet: Made from soft, hypoallergenic silicone, NoNoise earplugs are designed for extended wear. Their small size and low-profile design make them unobtrusive and comfortable under helmets.
• Ready-to-Wear Fit: No molding or sizing needed. NoNoise earplugs come ready to use, making them incredibly convenient for riders on the go. They include multiple sizes of ear tips to accommodate different ear sizes.  
• Reusable and Durable: These earplugs are reusable and come with a storage tube to keep them clean and protected when not in use.  

EarPeace Moto Pro Ear Plugs

EarPeace Moto Pro earplugs are laser-focused on the needs of motorcycle riders. These filtered earplugs are specifically engineered to combat wind noise and engine drone, while still allowing you to hear important sounds on the road.

The key feature here is the specially designed noise filter, which cuts out low frequency wind noise while allowing high frequency noises – like sirens or voices – right through.

EARPEACE Moto PRO

$39.95

EARPEACE Moto PRO earplugs provide high-fidelity wind noise protection for motorcyclists.

Pros:

• Reduces wind noise up to 24dB while preserving clear sound
• Comfortable silicone fit for long rides under a helmet
• Includes interchangeable sizes and a durable carrying cas

Cons:

• May not fit all ear shapes perfectly

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06/07/2025 04:10 am GMT

Benefit Breakdown:

• Motorcycle-Specific Filters (NRR 24dB with PRO filters): EarPeace Moto Pro comes with a single filter that cuts out wind noise while keeping comms and music clear. EarPeace also sells another model with three filter sets: 17dB, 20dB, and 26dB. 
• Comfort Focused Design: Ergonomically shaped and made from soft silicone, EarPeace Moto Pro earplugs are designed to be comfortable under a helmet, even for long days.
• Two Sizes Included: Each set comes with two sets of earplugs, one standard and one large, to ensure a proper fit.
• Reusable and Durable: Built to last, these earplugs are reusable and come with a handy aluminum carrying case to keep them protected.

Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs

And finally we have foam earplugs. What foam lacks in fancy filters, it makes up for in convenience and the constant cleanliness of new, new, new. 

Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs are the classic choice for a reason: they offer incredible noise reduction at a price that’s hard to beat. If your primary goal is to block out as much noise as possible without breaking the bank, these are your go-to.

These are the earplugs I give out on my tours. 

Mack s Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs

$14.98

Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs offer maximum noise reduction (33dB NRR) for sleeping, travel, and loud environments.

Pros:

• Ultra-soft, low-pressure foam for comfort
• Blocks noise effectively for better sleep and focus
• #1 doctor-recommended foam earplugs

Cons:

• Disposable, so not ideal for long-term use

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06/07/2025 04:46 am GMT

Benefit Breakdown:

• Maximum Noise Reduction (NRR 33dB): With an NRR of 33dB, Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs offer the highest noise reduction of any earplug on this list. They’ll effectively silence wind noise, engine roar, and just about everything else.
• Ultra Comfortable Foam: Made from super-soft, slow-releasing foam, these plugs are surprisingly comfortable, even for extended wear.
• Disposable and Inexpensive: Designed for single use, Mack’s foam earplugs are incredibly affordable. Keep a stash in your tank bag and you’re always prepared.
• Easy to Use: Just roll, insert, and let them expand to fill your ear canal. No fuss, no muss.

Downsides: Foam earplugs block all sound frequencies pretty equally, which can muffle sound quality and might be too quiet for safe riding. You might find it harder to hear the traffic around you compared to filtered options. You also should toss them out after every ride, as they can harbor bacteria that could then in turn cause hearing loss, defeating the whole purpose of earplugs… though many riders (myself included) reuse them a few times.

Buy them in bulk for savings!

Buying Guide: Finding the Right Plugs for Your Ride

Choosing the best motorcycle earplugs isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here’s what to consider to find your perfect pair:

• Noise Reduction Rating (NRR): This number indicates how many decibels of noise the earplugs reduce. Higher NRR means more noise reduction, though it’s not the whole story as filters can mean a lower NRR that’s actually better for the reality of riding, where you want to hear traffic around you. For motorcycle riding, aim for an NRR of at least 20dB, and ideally 25dB or higher for highway speeds or louder bikes. 
• Comfort: If your earplugs are uncomfortable, you won’t wear them. Consider the material (foam, silicone, thermoplastic), shape, and sizes available. Custom molded earplugs offer the best comfort for long rides.
• Sound Fidelity: Do you want to block out as much noise as possible, or maintain some sound clarity? Filtered earplugs are better for preserving sound quality, while foam plugs offer maximum noise blocking but can muffle sound.
• Reusability vs. Disposable: Foam plugs are typically disposable (though some can be reused a few times). Silicone, thermoplastic, and custom plugs are reusable. Reusable plugs are more eco-friendly and often more comfortable in the long run.
• Ease of Use: Consider how easy the earplugs are to insert and remove, especially with gloves on. Loop’s circular design and EarPeace’s tabs are designed for easy handling. Custom molded plugs, once molded, are also very easy to insert.
• Price: Foam plugs are the cheapest, followed by filtered earplugs, DIY molded, and then professional custom molded earplugs which are the most expensive. Balance your budget with your needs and how often you ride.
• Riding Style: Highway riders and those with loud bikes will benefit from higher NRR earplugs. Commuters and city riders might prioritize filtered earplugs to maintain awareness of their surroundings.

Comparison Table

Why Your Ears Will Thank You for Motorcycle Earplugs

Wind noise at highway speeds is LOUD. Like, jackhammer-next-to-your-head loud. We’re talking 95 to 115 decibels, easy. And spending hours in that kind of noise is like inviting hearing damage to move in rent-free. Tinnitus, hearing loss – not fun, and definitely not part of the biker lifestyle we signed up for.

But it’s not just about avoiding the bad stuff. Good earplugs make your ride better now. Ever get off a long ride feeling totally drained, even if you were just cruising? A lot of that fatigue comes from wind noise beating you up for hours. Earplugs cut that noise, meaning you arrive fresher, more focused, and actually ready to enjoy the rest of your day, instead of just collapsing in a heap.

And here’s a thought: ever missed a turn because you couldn’t hear your GPS? Or struggled to chat with your riding buddy on your headset because of the wind roar? Earplugs can fix that too. The right ones knock down the bad noise but let you hear what you need to hear.

Earplugs protect your hearing, reduce fatigue, and can even make your ride safer and more enjoyable. 

Don’t be the rider who learns about hearing protection the hard way, years down the road when the damage is done. Investing in a good set of motorcycle earplugs is one of the smartest and simplest things you can do to improve your riding experience now and protect your hearing for the long haul.

Whether you choose custom-molded comfort, hi-fidelity clarity, motorcycle-specific filters, or budget-friendly foam, the important thing is to wear earplugs every time you ride. Your ears will thank you, your rides will be more enjoyable, and you’ll be able to hear the birds chirping (or your grandkids yelling) for many years to come. Now go enjoy the ride, in comfortable silence!

The post The Best Motorcycle Ear Plugs – For Hearing the RIGHT Sounds first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

1. Most helmet cam footage is boring. Yep, harsh but true. Just strapping a camera on and riding doesn’t automatically make for captivating content. 360 cameras like the Insta360 X5 solve this to some extent just by giving you more shots to choose from.
2. The “best” camera is different for every rider. It’s all about what you need, not what some tech reviewer says is the top of the line. Making ride videos vs capturing potential accidents call for two very different setups. 
3. GoPro is no longer the king. The company that defined the action camera category doesn’t even make this list – plagued by battery problems, constant freezing / crashing and camera sensors that just can’t keep up with Insta360 and DJI’s offerings. 
4. Mounting can be a headache. Get ready to wrestle with sticky pads and straps that look like they were designed by a caffeinated spider. We’ll cut through all the junk below (motorcycle-mounted cameras are easier).

Intrigued? Good. Because by the end of this article, you’ll not only understand why I just dropped those truth bombs, but you’ll be armed to choose the perfect helmet camera for your ride, your style, and your budget. Let’s get rolling.

Which Helmet Camera is Right for You? It Depends…

Just like bikes, cameras aren’t one-size-fits-all. Are you a weekend warrior carving canyons? A daily commuter battling traffic who wants to record in the event of a crash? Or a motovlogger chasing internet stardom? Your riding style dictates your camera needs.

• For the Everyday Rider/Commuter: You need something reliable, easy to use, and maybe with safety features in mind. Think clear footage for insurance purposes, good battery life for the daily grind, and simple controls you can manage with gloves on. 
• For the Adventure Junkie/Off-Roader: Durability is king. Your camera needs to withstand dust, mud, rain, and definitely a tumble or two. Stabilization is crucial for bumpy trails, and battery life for long days off the grid.
• For the Motovlogger/Content Creator: Video quality is paramount. You’re chasing cinematic shots, crisp audio, and features that make editing a breeze. 360 capabilities, excellent stabilization, and external mic support might be on your wishlist.

Let’s dive into some cameras that nail these different scenarios.

Insta360 Ace Pro 2: Best Image Quality

Best for: The best image quality for all types of riders wanting to capture their ride in a traditional action cam format. 

The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 isn’t playing around – it is going for GoPro’s jugular. This camera is gunning for the action cam crown, boasting some serious tech in the light balancing, low light and stabilization departments to set it apart. 

While Insta360 is known for it’s 360-degree cameras like the X4 (we’ll get to that later) that grab everything, the Ace Pro 2 aims to capture clarity and detail, especially when the light gets tricky.

Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Dual Battery Bundle

The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is an advanced 8K waterproof action camera co-engineered with Leica for superior imaging and low-light performance.

Ultimate Bundle Includes

The 8K waterproof action camera, multiple batteries, a fast charger, a lens guard, a selfie stick, a mounting kit, and other essential accessories for an all-in-one motovlogging or adventure setup.

Pros:

• 8K video with Leica optics and dual AI chips for enhanced quality
• PureVideo mode for exceptional low-light performance
• Wind Guard technology for improved audio clarity

Cons:

• Premium Price
• Not the longest battery life

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The Breakdown:

• Mind-Blowing Low-Light Performance: This is the Ace Pro 2’s killer app. It sports a larger 1/1.3″ sensor and a dedicated AI chip designed to make night rides look like daytime (almost). Expect cleaner footage in dusk, dawn, and even under streetlights. For riders who log miles before sunrise or after sunset, this is a huge advantage.
• 4K 120fps Video: Capture super smooth slow-motion in glorious 4K. Highlight those knee-down moments or trail riding jumps with buttery smoothness. The high frame rate is also great for general action capture, giving your videos a professional polish.
• “Pure Video” Mode: This mode leverages the AI chip to reduce noise and boost detail, especially in low light. It’s like having a built-in video enhancer that works its magic in real-time. Reviewers rave about the improved dynamic range and clarity this mode provides.
• Horizon Lock: Keep your horizons level, even if your helmet is bouncing around. This feature is crucial for motorcycle footage, ensuring your videos don’t induce seasickness.
• “Clarity Zoom”: Digitally zoom in without losing detail, thanks to that beefy sensor. Punch in on points of interest without your footage turning to mush.
• Flip Screen: A vlogger’s best friend. Frame yourself perfectly when talking to the camera, or easily check your shot while handlebar-mounted.
• Action Ready: It’s waterproof, shockproof and stabilized as you’d expect from an action camera. 

Downsides and Alternatives:

• Price: Top-tier tech comes at a price. The Ace Pro 2 is positioned as a premium action camera, putting it head-to-head with GoPro. Probably overkill if you just want to record in the event of a crash – something like the Go 3S or a bike-mounted system might work better.
• Battery Life (vs. Osmo Action 5): While improved from the original Ace Pro, battery life is still not class-leading at about 1.5 hours in ideal conditions, especially when pushing high frame rates and using Pure Video mode. That’s compared to DJI’s stunning 4 hours of battery life with the Osmo Action 5. Silver Lining: Fast charging gets you back in action quickly, and you can power the camera externally – like via a USB charging port on your bike. 

Mounting: The Ace Pro 2 uses the standard action camera two-prong mount, making it compatible with GoPro-style mounts. You’ve got a massive ecosystem of options for helmet, bike, and body mounting.

DJI Osmo Action 5: Best Battery Life

Best for: Long-haul riders, adventure touring, those who value battery life above all else, and users already in the DJI ecosystem.

DJI is known for drones and gimbals, and their Osmo Action line brings that expertise to action cameras. The Osmo Action 5 is all about endurance and ease of use.

DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro

DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is a rugged 4K action camera built for stunning footage, even in extreme conditions.

Pros:

• Crisp 4K/120fps with top-tier stabilization
• Dual OLED screens for easy control
• Up to 4-hour battery life

Cons:

• DJI Mimo editing app not on Google Play

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The Breakdown:

• Epic 4-Hour Battery Life: Four hours! Let that sink in. That’s a full day of riding for many of us, all on a single charge. Forget battery swaps and power banks – the Osmo Action 5 Pro is built for marathons, not sprints. For adventure riders and tourers, this is a huge plus. And, DJI offers Extreme Batteries designed for sub zero temperatures, and a battery case that functions as a fast charger for those batteries (not available for the 5 yet, but hopefully coming soon)
• 4K 120fps Video with HorizonSteady 360°: Yes, it shoots stunning 4K at a super smooth 120fps for epic slow-mo. But the real kicker is the 360° HorizonSteady stabilization. That locks the horizon to show off your lean. 
• Built-in 47GB Storage: Running out of SD card space mid-ride? You have some breathing room. The Osmo Action 5 Pro has a whopping 47GB of internal storage to back you up. Extra peace of mind, and super convenient for quick grabs without needing to swap cards.
• Dual OLED Touchscreens (Front & Rear): Crystal-clear OLED screens front and back for perfect framing, no matter which way you’re facing. The front screen is especially brilliant for handlebar-mounted vlogging.
• DJI Mic Integration: Seamlessly connect DJI Mics for pro-level audio. If you’re serious about motovlogging sound, this is a huge advantage, streamlining your audio setup and ensuring top-notch quality.
• Intelligent Subject Tracking: The Osmo Action 5 Pro can intelligently track subjects, so you can capture your buddy from behind even when you’re weaving through traffic or hitting bumpy trails. DJI’s practice in the drone game applies to their cameras as well.
• Action Ready: It’s waterproof (up to 20 meters), shockproof and stabilized – everything you expect from an action camera. 

Downsides and Alternatives

• Low-Light Performance (vs. Ace Pro 2): While the Osmo Action 5 Pro’s low-light is good, it doesn’t reach the AI-enhanced levels of the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 in extreme darkness.
• Price: If the Osmo Action 5 is too much for you, check out the older Action 4 and Action 3 models – they’re still great cameras that offer a budget-friendly entry point into the DJI ecosystem, though with less impressive battery life and features.
• Size/Weight: Packing in that massive battery and internal storage might make the Osmo Action 5 Pro slightly larger or heavier than some competitors. But that could be worth it for you given how long that battery life is. Alternative: Insta360 GO 3 is the smallest and lightest option, though with significantly different features and battery life.

Mounting: The Osmo Action 5 Pro uses DJI’s magnetic mounting system, which is incredibly quick and convenient. It’s also compatible with standard action camera mounts via an adapter (included), giving you tons of flexibility.

Sena 50C: Best for Ease of Use

Best for: Riders who don’t want another device hanging off their helmet.

The Sena 50C is more than a camera, it’s a motorcycle comms device. And while I’m a bigger fan of Cardo for comms, I can appreciate the 50C if you don’t want another device hanging off your helmet to capture your rides and use comms.

So Sena squashed a top-of-the-line 50S Bluetooth and Mesh communicator and a 4K action camera into one device that slides on to the side of your helmet. 

This has some benefits – allowing better control of footage capture, for instance, with voice commands. 

Sena 50C Harman Kardon Mesh Intercom & Camera

A premium helmet communication system with Mesh and Bluetooth intercom, Harman Kardon audio, and an integrated 4K camera.

Pros:

• Crystal-clear sound with Harman Kardon speakers and microphone
• Seamless Mesh and Bluetooth intercom for reliable connectivity
• Integrated 4K camera for high-quality video recording

Cons:

• Premium price compared to standard communication systems

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The Breakdown:

• Integrated 4K Camera and Communication: Clean helmet setup. One device for talking and filming. Makes capturing group rides super simple, and allows for voiceover in motovlogs without any extra messing with microphones. 
• Sena Mesh 2.0 Intercom: Rock-solid communication with a huge range (over a mile between each of virtually unlimited riders) and crystal-clear audio. Speakers and microphone designed by Harman Kardon, so you know it’s bumpin’. 
• 4K Video Recording: Sharp, detailed video at 30fps. Not quite the 120fps of dedicated action cams, but for simple recording of rides or motovlogs it’ll do. 
• Voice Commands: Control the camera and comms with your voice. “Hey Sena, start recording.” Hands-free operation is a huge plus on a bike. Voice commands work in 8 languages too. 
• Bluetooth 5.0: Fast, stable connection to your phone for music, calls, and app control.

Downsides and Alternatives

• Price: Integrated tech comes at a premium. You’re going to pay about as much for this as you would for an equally capable Sena 50S with a standalone action camera that’s only one generation older than the newest (like the DJI Osmo Action 4). But you get the convenience and sleekness of having it all in one device. 
• Camera Specs Not Top-Tier: The 4K camera is good, but not class-leading in video quality or features compared to dedicated action cams. If camera quality is your absolute top priority, a dedicated action camera will offer more features and better image quality plus stabilization.

Mounting: The Sena 50C integrates directly onto the side of any motorcycle helmet, with the speakers and microphone mounted inside. It’s designed for seamless integration, minimizing bulk.

Our Review: We haven’t reviewed the Sena 50C specifically, but we have compared Senas to other communication devices on the market. Check out our Comms section!

Insta360 X4: Easiest to Capture

Best for: Motovloggers, creators, those wanting maximum perspective or “set and forget” recording.

This isn’t a helmet camera – it’s better. 

If you haven’t tried a 360 camera yet, you’re missing out. Insta360’s signature camera’s really break everything you think you know about capturing a ride. Forget about aiming – this thing records everything around you in glorious 5.7K at 60fps. Then you can choose in production which angles you want to focus on when, and whether you want a fisheye look or a normal linear one. 

Editing is simple too: use Insta360s own video editor, or use the plugin with Adobe Premiere Pro to manipulate your 360 footage however you like. I’ve done it a bunch and so has our in-house video editor at It’s Better On The Road – both novice and professional can handle it. 

Insta360 X4 Bundles

The Insta360 X4 is a powerful 8K 360 action camera designed for immersive and ultra-stable video capture.

Included in the Bundle:

Motorcycle Bundle includes the camera, lens guards, Invisible Selfie Stick, clamp and 256gb SD card. You're gonna want more batteries, or plug in to your bike!

Pros:

• Stunning 8K 360° video with AI-powered reframing
• Invisible Selfie Stick effect for dynamic third-person shots
• Advanced stabilization with FlowState and Horizon Lock

Cons:

• Get the right bundle - Motorcycle Bundle recommended. Selfie Stick not available with standard bundle.

Motorcycle Bundle Standard Bundle

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The Breakdown:

• 5.7K 360° Video at 60fps: Crisp, detailed footage that looks pro. The 60fps is key for smooth slow-motion shots, perfect for highlighting those riding moments.
• “Invisible Selfie Stick” Effect: Mount it right off your bike, and in your videos the stick magically disappears. It’s like drone footage without the drone hassle. This is gold for motovlogging – clean, immersive shots that put viewers right in the scene. 
• Reframing Magic: This is where the X4 shines. Shoot first, point later. Missed that deer darting across the road? Reframe in post. Want to change the angle or shot style for different platforms (YouTube vs. TikTok)? Reframe. It’s editing freedom on steroids.
• Improved Ruggedness: Insta360 listened to riders. The X4 is tougher, ready for more demanding rides. While not indestructible, it’s built to handle the bumps and splashes of motorcycle life. I have the X2 and I’ve put it through a lot – the lens is truly difficult to scratch, and you can buy protective covers for it. 
• FlowState Stabilization: Insta360’s stabilization is legendary, and the X4 is even better. Bumpy roads? No problem. Your footage stays buttery smooth, which is crucial for watchable motorcycle videos.

Downsides and Alternatives

• Price: 360° magic comes at a cost. The X4 is pricier than standard action cams, but you’re also capturing what would take 6 cameras to achieve. One camera, endless angles. The Insta360 GO 3 is smaller and cheaper, still offering 360 capture, though with slightly lower specs.
• Battery Life: The battery only lasts 60 minutes, which for a ride is pretty short. That said you can charge it off your bike while you ride, which I’ve done and works like a charm for unlimited recording. 
• Editing Learning Curve: Reframing 360° footage takes a bit of practice, but like I said, achievable even for a novice. Insta360’s software is user-friendly, and the creative possibilities are huge. 

Mounting: The X4 plays nice with any mount thanks to the industry-standard 1/4inch screw mounts Chin mounts, side helmet mounts, even handlebar mounts – you’ve got options. The “invisible selfie stick” is best for that floating perspective.

Our Review: I use an Insta360 X2 regularly and have tried the X4, but haven’t put out a review yet. Editing takes some time to get used to, but the footage and ability to capture any angle is amazing.

INNOVV K5: Motorcycle Dash Cam

Best for: Commuters and riders who want to always record their rides to cover themselves in the case of a crash.

The INNOVV K5 is different from the rest – it’s not an action camera, and its focus is not on image quality. It’s designed like a dashcam – an always-on witness, constantly recording your rides for safety and security. Rather than mounting to your helmet, it mounts in your bike itself, recording the front and rear while saving the recording on-device in a loop.  

INNOVV also have motorcycle dash cams that mount to your bike and use your motorcycle’s power to always record, usually front and back. You can find their K5, K6, and K7 dash cams at various price points here. The H5 we’re talking about here is helmet mounted.  

INNOVV K5 Dash Cam

A high-quality 4K front and 1080p rear dash cam with dual-band Wi-Fi, GPS, and waterproof durability for any ride.

Pros:

• Clear 4K front and 1080p rear recording
• Always on recording, built in to your bike.
• Smart remote control and mobile app with customizable recording setup

Cons:

• Stabilization and night view not as clear as DJI and Insta360 options

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• 4K Front Camera and 1080p Rear: Crystal-clear footage from both front and rear perspectives to capture license plates, road signs, and any details you’d want in an incident. Two cameras Gives you almost complete coverage of what’s happening around your bike. 
• Powered by the Bike: THe unit connects to your bike’s battery, so when your bike is on, it’s on. 
• Automatic Loop Recording: Records continuously, overwriting old footage. Set it and forget it – the system is always recording whenever your bike is on. Ensures you never miss an incident, and you don’t have to constantly manage storage space.
• Impact Detection (G-Sensor): Built-in G-sensor detects sudden impacts (like accidents) and automatically locks and saves the relevant footage, preventing it from being overwritten by loop recording. Critical incident footage is protected.
• Dedicated Control Unit: The K5 features a small handlebar-mounted control you can use to snap pictures or save recordings while enjoying your ride. 
• GPS Tracking: Built-in GPS logs your speed and location data, embedding it into the video footage. This can be invaluable in case of disputes or insurance claims, providing verifiable data about your ride. 
• Weatherproof and Rugged System: Designed for motorcycle use, the entire K5 system (cameras, DVR, wiring) is built to withstand rain, dust, vibrations, and temperature extremes. 
• Mobile App Connectivity (Wi-Fi): Connect to the DVR via Wi-Fi using a smartphone app to review footage, adjust settings, and download videos. So you can still grab videos of a nice ride. 

Silver Linings and Alternatives:

• Complex Installation: Setting up the K5 is significantly more involved than mounting a single action camera. Wiring to the bike’s battery, finding locations for two cameras and the DVR unit takes a bit of time and wrenching. But once it’s installed, it’s a “fit and forget” system that operates automatically. No charging, mounting, starting or stopping. 
• Video Quality (vs. Top Action Cams): While 4K at the front is decent, this camera is not going to match the flagship action cameras in terms of detail and dynamic range, especially in challenging lighting. So you may want an action camera for making ride videos. 

Mounting:

• Camera Mounting: The K5 cameras are designed to be mounted to your motorcycle frame or fairing at the front and rear. The front camera is a small box housing the DVR, while the rear is a compact cylinder allowing for discreet placement. Metal brackets and adhesive pads are included for secure mounting wherever they might fit on your bike. Keep in mind the DVR should be relatively accessible for SD card access, but also protected from the elements and vibrations.
• Wired Power and Connections: Installation involves routing wires from the rear camera to the DVR unit, and then wiring the DVR to your bike’s battery. This is more complex than a simple action camera and requires careful planning and cable management.

In many regions, dashcam footage is admissible as evidence in accidents. Having a multi-camera system like the K5 could be particularly beneficial in documenting incidents from multiple angles.

Buying Guide: Zeroing In On Your Perfect Helmet Cam

Okay, you’ve seen some cameras. But how do you pick the one? Let’s break it down:

Your Riding Style and Needs:

• Commuting/Daily Riding: Reliability, ease of use, loop recording (dashcam function), decent battery life. Consider INNOVV K5, Sena 50C, or DJI Osmo Action 5 with its juicy battery. 
• Adventure/Off-Road: Durability, ruggedness, excellent stabilization, long battery life. DJI Osmo Action 5, Insta360 X4 (so you always have the right perspective).
• Motovlogging/Content Creation: Top-notch video quality, excellent stabilization, external mic support, front-facing screen (optional but helpful), 360° capabilities (Insta360 X4). Consider Insta360 X4 (so you can get forward facing shots as well as shots facing you, with one camera!), Insta360 Ace Pro 2 or the Sena 50C (for integrated microphone).

 Key Features to Scrutinize:

• Video Resolution and Frame Rate: 4K is the sweet spot now. 60fps is ideal for smooth motion and slow-motion potential. Keep in mind the 5.7K of the Insta360 X4 is over the whole 360 degrees, so it’s more like 4K when looking in one direction – but you do get that reframing flexibility. 1080p (INNOVV K5) is sufficient for dashcam purposes.
• Stabilization: Crucial for motorcycle footage. RockSteady (DJI) and FlowState (Insta360) are both excellent.
• Battery Life: Consider your typical ride length. Dashcams (INNOVV K5) offer continuous power options. DJI Osmo Action 5 leads in battery life. Insta360 may require extra batteries or power banks for longer rides. Keep in mind you can power these devices during usage from your bike. 
• Durability and Weatherproofing: Essential for motorcycle use. Look for waterproof ratings and rugged build quality. Everything on this list makes that cut. 
• Mounting Options: Think about helmet placement. Chin mounts offer a great POV perspective. Side mounts are less obtrusive. Consider the camera’s mounting system and accessory availability.
• Audio: Built-in mics are okay for basic capture, but external mic support is a must for serious motovlogging. Sena 50C integrates audio directly with comms in your helmet, and DJI works seamlessly with DJI’s own (incredibly good) microphones. 
• Ease of Use: Can you operate the camera with gloves on? Is the interface intuitive? Voice commands are a bonus.

Camera Comparison Table

Are Helmet Cams Legal in the USA?

The short answer: Generally, yes, but with caveats.

There are no federal laws in the USA specifically banning helmet cameras when riding a motorcycle. However, state and local laws can vary, and often relate to obstruction of view.

Key Considerations:

• Obstruction of View: Laws prohibit obstructing a rider’s vision. Large or poorly placed cameras could be considered a violation. Keep your camera mounted relatively low-profile and out of your direct line of sight. Chin mounts still give that first person look, and naturally lead to a better sensation of speed and riding than top-mounted camera angles. Just don’t be an idiot and mount in front of your eyes – that’s when you’re gonna get pulled over. 
• Audio Recording: “Wiretapping” or eavesdropping laws exist in some states regarding audio recording without consent. This is more relevant if you’re recording conversations with other people, less so for simply recording your ride audio.
• Privacy: Be mindful of privacy concerns when recording in public places. Generally, recording in public is legal, but be respectful of individuals’ privacy.

Disclaimer: I am not a lawyer, and this is not legal advice. Always do your own research and consult with legal professionals if you have specific legal questions.

Mounting Advice for Action Cameras

Mounting your helmet camera might seem simple, but it can be trickier than you think. Here’s the rundown on common methods:

Adhesive Mounts (3M VHB Tape): Sticking a three-prong action cam mount on to the top, side, or chin of a helmet. 

• Pros: Very secure, low-profile, versatile placement (chin, side, top). The industry standard for action cams.
• Cons: Permanent (difficult to remove), requires a clean, flat surface, can damage helmet finish if removed improperly.
• Best For: Most action cameras (GoPro, DJI, Insta360). Chin mounts are popular for POV shots. Side mounts are less obtrusive. If you have vents on the chin of your helmet that make a direct chin mount tough, you can also mount slightly to the side and use an extender arm to get the camera to sit directly in front of your chin. This is what I did on my Shoei RF-SR when riding across the USA. .

Strap Mounts: Use straps to attach to your helmet (usually the chin bar) or somewhere else on your bike. 

• Pros: Non-permanent, easy to move between helmets, versatile placement (vents, chin bar).
• Cons: Can be bulkier than adhesive mounts, may shift or loosen during your ride, less secure for extreme riding.
• Best For: Experimenting with placement, quickly swapping cameras between helmets, helmets with limited flat surfaces. I have this one and love it. 

Clamp Mounts (Handlebar, Mirror Stem): Good if you want a different perspective than just the helmet. 

• Pros: Non-helmet mounting options, different perspectives, can be used with various cameras.
• Cons: Less immersive POV than helmet mounts, can vibrate more.
• Best For: Secondary camera angles, capturing bike details, riders who prefer not to mount cameras on their helmets.

I am a huge fan of RAM Mounts for this – at first I balked at the price, but after trying cheaper knockoffs, I am willing to pay their prices for the quality you get. I’ve used their Tough Claws for years through punishing weather and offroad, and never had it move a millimeter. Make sure you get all the parts you need for your setup, like extender arms and action camera adapters. 

Adhesive Mounting Tips:

• Clean the Surface: Use isopropyl alcohol to clean the helmet surface before applying adhesive mounts.
• Warm the Adhesive: Use a hairdryer to warm the adhesive tape for better adhesion, especially in cold weather.
• Apply Pressure: Press firmly on adhesive mounts for at least 30 seconds to ensure a strong bond. Leave for 12 hours before you put a camera on it and go for a ride – do not skip this step – seems like overkill but I’ve lost cameras to the excitement of getting on the road before. 
• Use Tethers: Always use camera tethers as a backup safety measure, especially with adhesive mounts.
• Test Your Mount: Before a long ride, test your mount at low speeds to ensure it’s secure and doesn’t obstruct your vision.
• Consider Helmet Shape: Some helmets have more curved surfaces than others. Choose mounts that are compatible with your helmet shape.

The post Best Motorcycle Helmet Cameras from Action to Dashcam first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

But tinny helmet speakers or blown out earbuds? Like nails on a chalkboard. Want my honest recommendation right up front? Pick up some AirPods Pros. They are durable, simple to use, pump out great audio with incredible noise canceling, the battery lasts long enough for any ride and they will last you years. They’re also a whole lot cheaper than a whole-motorcycle speaker system.

I’ve been using mine almost daily on and off the bike for 4 years now. And no, they do not fall out of my ears when taking off my helmet.

Before we get into the rest of the best motorcycle earbuds, let’s get a few things straight: 

1. You don’t need to buy motorcycle-specific earbuds. The best earbuds for riding are those that are best at cutting out unwanted sounds, while preserving the sounds you do want to hear (like passing traffic). Those can be general use earbuds. 
2. Noise cancelling is nice but you don’t need it. Passive noise canceling from in-ear buds is often enough. We’ll go through some options below. Some modern noise canceling is so good, you shouldn’t use it on the bike.
3. Hearing damage sucks. So all of our picks below focus on saving your hearing while amplifying your music and your ride. 

Good earbuds make riding safer, more enjoyable and less tiring. 

Top Earbuds for Motorcycle Riders in 2025

After countless miles testing different earbuds and hours of research, here are my top picks for the best earbuds for motorcycle riders right now. 

Best: Apple AirPods Pro

You might be surprised to see these on the list, but hear me out. I’ve personally used my AirPods Pro across much of my riding career in tons of different helmets, and they consistently impress.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds

$249.00 $169.00

High-performance earbuds with personalized sound, noise cancellation, and hearing-enhancing features.

Pros:

• 24+ hours charge with case
• Active noise cancelling
• USB-C and Magsafe charging
• Works with Apple and Android

Cons:

• High price for casual users

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06/07/2025 08:05 am GMT

Why They’re Great for Riders:

• Excellent Noise Cancellation: The active noise cancellation on these is top-notch – so good that it will block out all noise including traffic, horns, and trucks coming up behind you. However, the new Adaptive Audio mode might pull in more outside audio, and you can always turn off noise cancellation. Getting the balance of noise cancelling right, for me, means I’m more aware while riding and less fatigued overall. Plus my music can be played at a reasonable volume, even when riding at significant speed. 
• Transparency Mode: This is a lifesaver in urban environments or when you need more awareness of your surroundings and wind noise is less of an issue. With a toggle on your phone, you can let more outside sounds in without removing your earbuds.
• Comfortable and Secure Fit: With multiple ear tip sizes, you can usually find a snug and comfortable fit that stays put even under a tight helmet. They’re small and don’t protrude much, which makes them fit most heads in most helmets. 
• Great Sound Quality: For enjoying your favorite tunes on those long stretches of highway, the AirPods Pro deliver rich and detailed audio.
• Good Battery Life: You’ll typically get around 6 hours of listening time with noise cancelling enabled, and the charging case provides around 4 additional charges, perfect for a full day of riding. I’ve tested these numbers for years, and even now the battery life on a single charge is still around 5 hours. 
• Decent Ruggedness: Apple devices aren’t known for their durability, but I’ve used my set of Airpods Pro on and off the bike for four years now – they’ve bathed in sweat more times than I can count, and they’re still running smoothly. 

Potential Downsides:

• Pricey: They’re definitely expensive as earbuds go, but you’re getting a premium product that you can also use for everyday life. If you’re on a tighter budget, check out the Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC, which offers similar features at a lower price point (more on those later).
• Controls aren’t Motorcycle Friendly: The buds can be controlled with taps and touches, which is useful when walking but of course they’re of no use in a helmet. You’ll have to use your phone to skip tracks, adjust volume, and change the noise cancelling mode. By the way: I’ve never had my Airpods controls accidentally trigger in the helmet, so that’s not a concern. 

Our Review: I haven’t done a dedicated review of the AirPods Pro specifically for motorcycle riding, but you’ll hear them mentioned throughout the site. They’re a nice hack for riding, and were my mainstay audio option before I started using comms systems. 

Good Value: Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC

If you’re looking for premium features without the premium price tag, the Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC earbuds are a fantastic option.

Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC

Premium noise-canceling earbuds with hi-res audio and long battery life.

Pros:

• Adaptive noise cancellation for a distraction-free experience
• Hi-Res sound with LDAC for crisp, detailed audio
• Up to 50-hour battery life with wireless charging

Cons:

• Not as reliable with iPhones as AirPods

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Why They’re Great for Riders:

• Excellent Noise Cancellation (for the Price): These earbuds offer surprisingly effective active noise cancellation that rivals some of the more expensive options out there. This is a huge plus for reducing wind noise while riding.
• Comfortable Fit: They come with multiple ear tip sizes to help you find a secure and comfortable fit under your helmet.
• Good Sound Quality: You’ll get rich and detailed sound that makes your music enjoyable on the road. I’ve used these off the bike before and they sound just as good as my AirPods – that said I don’t know how they perform when battling wind noise. 
• Long Battery Life: These boast an impressive battery life of up to 10 hours on a single charge (8 hours with ANC), and the charging case provides even more juice, making them ideal for longer rides.
• Transparency Mode: Just like the AirPods Pro, they have a transparency mode that allows you to hear your surroundings when needed.
• More Glove-Friendly Buttons: Some users report that the physical buttons on these are easier to operate with gloves compared to touch controls.

Potential Downsides (and Silver Linings/Alternatives):

• Bulkier Than AirPods Pro: They might protrude slightly more, which could be an issue for very tight helmets. But that’s the tradeoff for better battery life. If a super low profile is a top priority for you, the Sony WF-1000XM5 might be a better fit (though they come with a higher price tag).
• Noise Cancellation Not Quite as Strong as AirPods Pro: While very good, the ANC might not be quite as effective in extremely noisy environments as the AirPods Pro. If your bike has a windscreen and wind noise isn’t a huge deal for you, the difference will be negligible, especially considering the price difference.

Slim: Sony WF-1000XM5

If you want slim earbuds that don’t come from Apple’s evil empire, but still have top notch sound quality and noise cancellation: check out the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds. They are hard to beat.

Sony WF-1000XM5

Premium noise-canceling wireless earbuds with superior sound and Alexa built-in.

Pros:

• Industry-leading noise cancellation for immersive audio
• High-resolution sound with deep bass and crisp details
• Crystal-clear call quality with advanced voice pickup

Cons:

• Expensive compared to competitors

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