Hacker News Reader

Comment by maresca | Hacker News Reader

If I had the spare cash for 2 cams, I'd set them up on my motorcycle for insurance purposes. I've heard too many stories about motorcyclists getting hit and being blamed for the accidents. Or even worse, hit and runs. In the age of cell phones, distracted driving is the norm. I almost get hit by someone almost weekly. I really need some cameras soon :(

View on HN

Depending how long you ride for and how frequently, and if it's just for backup purposes, you could potentially use the Spy Gear Panosphere with a large MicroSD card.

http://www.amazon.com/Spy-Gear-Panosphere-360-Degree-Cam/dp/...

I have two of them and while the native recording is very fish-eye, the software that comes with the unit functions fine in focusing on a specific point.

With a 32 GB card and full charge, I think I've gotten about 45 minutes of recording. Might not be good for daily use, but for recreational outings it might be usable with some customization (e.g. super glue a mount to it). I've got one mounted on a swivel clip from a clip-on guitar tuner that broke and it's been a neat tool.

Edit: Example footage of using the camera: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cBpEGw3tTZ8

I'd imagine you'd want something good enough to be able to read license plates in case of a hit and run.

You're correct that it's not a true HD unit. It doesn't do well in low light either. I think if mounted in the right place though, it could potentially get that info in one of the frames.

I like the Replay cameras, you can set them to overwrite old files, and to turn on and start recording on external power. So basically I just had to plug it in every time I went out on the bike, and then unplug it when I was done.

Unfortunately after about 2 years the plug on my XD1080 stopped working so I can't reliably charge it :/ I'll probably replace it with the Prime X when my budget allows.

$50 cameras do the job well enough although they're probably not weatherproof enough for use a motorcycle with some sort of enclosure.

I know a few people who use Mobius cameras or newer mini-cams on their helmets. They usually have some sort of snap-on or strap to hold them in place but also allow for removal if you get caught in the rain.

Lower profile than strapping a GoPro to your head and cheaper too.

Reply on news.ycombinator.com