Filming with a Gopro on motorbike in Thailand mounts

The hum of the engine, the wind in your face, the endless ribbon of road unwinding through emerald jungles and past golden temples. Riding a motorbike through Thailand is an experience that imprints itself on your soul. And if you’re like most riders, you’ll want to capture every moment of it.

But here’s the challenge: how do you get stable, cinematic footage without ending up with a blurry, shaky mess that looks like it was filmed during an earthquake? The answer lies in choosing the right mount and understanding the unique dynamics of filming on two wheels.

Thailand’s roads offer a spectacular variety of filming opportunities—from the hairpin turns of the Mae Hong Son loop to the coastal highways of the Andaman coast. But they also present challenges: unpredictable road surfaces, tropical heat, and the ever-present risk of vibration ruining your perfect shot. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about mounting your GoPro on a Thai motorbike adventure.

Part 1: Understanding the Vibration Challenge

Before we dive into specific mounts, it’s essential to understand the enemy: vibration. Motorcycles, particularly the ubiquitous 125cc–150cc rental bikes that populate Thailand’s tourist hubs, are vibration machines. Single-cylinder engines transmit a constant buzz through the frame, handlebars, and every mounting point.

This vibration creates what’s known in the action camera world as the “jello effect” —a wobbling distortion that occurs when high-frequency vibrations interact with the camera’s rolling shutter . The result is footage that looks unprofessional and, in severe cases, unwatchable.

The Physics of Shake:

• Low-frequency vibrations come from road bumps and potholes—Thailand has plenty of both
• High-frequency vibrations come from the engine, especially at cruising speeds
• Wind buffeting adds another layer of instability, particularly at highway speeds

The good news? With the right mount and setup, these issues are entirely manageable. As one experienced rider noted, using a solid, well-designed mount can make the difference between “unwatchable” footage and “smooth as butter” results .

Part 2: The Mounting Menu – Your Options Explained

When it comes to mounting your GoPro on a motorbike in Thailand, you have several options. Each has its strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases.

1. Handlebar Mounts – The All-Rounder

Handlebar mounts are the most popular choice for good reason. They’re versatile, easy to install, and put the camera in a position that captures both the road ahead and the rider’s input.

The RAM Mount System: Among handlebar mounts, RAM Mounts are legendary for their build quality and stability. The system uses a rubber ball-and-socket design that provides excellent vibration damping while maintaining adjustability . Users consistently praise RAM Mounts for being “very stable and without shaking” even on powerful bikes like Ducati Streetfighters .

For GoPro users specifically, RAM offers a dedicated GoPro Mount (RAP-B-202U-GOP1) that attaches directly to the camera body and integrates with their arm system . Made from high-strength composite materials, it’s lightweight (41g) but incredibly durable.

What Users Say:

• “The rubber balls on the RAM mounts combined with the stout center assembly are the biggest selling points. It puts the other brands to shame!”
• “With other GoPro mounts, the height was not high enough for the handlebar. The RamMount has a standard setting and was easy to install”

Pros:

• Excellent stability
• Highly adjustable
• Quick to install and remove
• Proven track record

Cons:

• Can be pricey
• Some users report the included hardware could be better

2. Helmet Mounts – The Point-of-View Experience

For immersive footage that captures exactly what you’re seeing, helmet mounts are unmatched. GoPro offers several dedicated helmet mounting solutions.

Front & Side Mount: The official GoPro Helmet Front & Side Mount (AHFSM-001) includes a swivel mount assembly that lets you easily adjust, rotate, and aim the camera while it’s mounted . It comes with two curved base mounts suitable for most helmet contours, plus a compact buckle and knob screw.

Vented Helmet Strap: For helmets with ventilation, the Vented Helmet Strap Mount is a brilliant solution. Adjustable straps thread through helmet vents, providing a secure fit without adhesives . It’s particularly useful for rental helmets or if you’re hesitant about sticking permanent mounts to your gear.

Side Mount: The Side Mount accessory offers three-way adjustability and can be attached to the side of helmets, vehicles, or gear .

Pros:

• Footage follows your head movements—very natural perspective
• No bike vibration transmitted to camera
• Lightweight and unobtrusive

Cons:

• Can be uncomfortable on long rides
• Wind noise can be an issue
• Safety considerations (see Part 4)

3. Suction Cup Mounts – The Surprising Contender

Conventional wisdom might suggest that suction cups are unreliable on motorcycles. Experienced riders disagree.

The GoPro suction cup mount has proven itself surprisingly capable. One long-time user who exclusively uses suction mounts for all their videos points out: “I would question who advised you about the suction mount not being the best—do they even use a GoPro? It is ALL I use” .

Their footage, shot on bumpy roads and over cattle grids, remains impressively stable. The theory is that the suction mount acts as a “mini bump equalizer”—the bike moves before the mount does, smoothing out the transfer of vibrations .

Pros:

• No permanent adhesive
• Can be repositioned easily
• Surprisingly effective damping
• Works on tanks, fairings, and other smooth surfaces

Cons:

• Requires clean, smooth surface
• Some riders remain skeptical
• Not suitable for off-road

4. Fork and Frame Mounts – The Pro Perspective

For riders seeking the ultimate in stability, mounts that attach to the motorcycle’s fork or frame offer a rigid connection that eliminates the relative motion seen in other mounting points.

The Leader Motorcycle GoPro Mount system takes this approach, offering up to five swivel and pivot points with three height options—shortie (close to mounting), medium (5 inches), and tall (8 inches) . Built with stainless steel mounting rods (rust-proof and slim) and featuring “UltraSecurity” and “Get the Vibe Out” vibration-damping technology, these mounts are designed for serious videographers .

Pros:

• Extremely stable
• Professional-grade footage
• Multiple adjustment points
• Corrosion-resistant materials

Cons:

• More complex installation
• Higher cost
• May require tools to adjust

5. Advanced Vibration-Control Mounts

For the footage-obsessed, specialized shock mounts offer the ultimate in vibration control.

The Rollei Hell Rider is a CNC-machined aluminum mount with integrated damping technology specifically designed for motorcycles . It features:

• 360-degree spherical head for precise angle adjustment
• Clamping range of 24–42mm (fits most handlebars)
• Load capacity of several hundred kilograms
• Aerospace-grade anodized aluminum construction
• Weight: just 168 grams

This type of mount uses what’s called “elastic suspension” technology—isolating the camera from surface vibrations through specialized materials and design .

Part 3: Materials Matter – What Your Mount Is Made Of

Understanding mount materials helps you make an informed choice, especially in Thailand’s tropical climate.

The Thailand Factor: With intense sun, humidity, and occasional rain, material choice matters. Aluminum and stainless steel resist corrosion better than untreated metals. High-quality composites handle heat without deforming. Cheap plastic mounts may fail unexpectedly—a risk not worth taking when your expensive camera is involved .

Part 4: The Safety Imperative – Riding Smart

Filming is exciting, but safety must always come first—especially on unfamiliar roads in a foreign country.

Helmet Mounts and Safety Standards

If you choose a helmet mount, there’s a critical warning you must heed. As GoPro itself states: “Always select a helmet that meets the applicable safety standard when you attach a GoPro to a helmet. Follow the helmet manufacturer’s instructions on safe helmet use” .

Adding a mount and camera to your helmet:

• Changes the helmet’s aerodynamics
• Adds weight that can affect neck strain in a crash
• May interfere with the helmet’s intended energy absorption

Never operate or adjust your mount while riding. As RAM Mounts warns, “Do not operate or adjust the mounting object or the ram mount product while riding, as it is dangerous” .

The Tether Rule

A golden rule among experienced riders: always use a safety tether. RAM Mounts explicitly advises customers to “secure the device with a strap to prevent it from falling off” . A simple lanyard or fishing line attached from the camera to your bike can save your GoPro if the primary mount fails—a small investment in peace of mind.

Regular Inspection

Thailand’s roads can be rough. RAM Mounts recommends: “Always be sure to check for any looseness or cracks when using the product. Depending on driving conditions, the aforementioned symptoms may occur” . A quick pre-ride check of your mount takes seconds and could prevent disaster.

Part 5: Real-World Wisdom – Learning from Riders

The motorcycle community is generous with experience. Here’s what actual riders have learned about filming on two wheels.

The Suction Cup Success Story

One rider who extensively uses suction mounts shares: “On my GS videos I used the Standard Def GoPro wideangle (170°). On my 919 I use the HD GoPro set at R2 (which is 120° and not 170°) and don’t have the issues you have and use the same suction mount system. You’ll see I use the same set up as the picture above and go over some quite bumpy road (note the instrument cluster moving around) but the footage is pretty stable” .

The Wide-Angle Advantage

The same rider offers a clever tip: using the widest angle setting (170°) can actually make footage appear smoother. The logic? “170° gives the smoothest image. Try it. You’ll be pleasantly surprised with the results” . When small movements are spread across an ultra-wide frame, they become less noticeable.

The Solid Mount Debate

There’s an ongoing discussion in the community about rigid vs. dampened mounts. Some argue: “If you make the mount solid (no rubber bushings or suction cups or anything) then your picture will be smoother” . Others counter that on a motorcycle, some damping is essential.

The truth likely depends on your specific bike, the roads you’re riding, and personal preference. The best approach is to experiment.

Part 6: Practical Setup Tips for Thailand

Dealing with the 3M Adhesive

If you’ve applied a permanent adhesive mount and want to reposition it, one rider suggests: “will probably need to use hot water or something to get rid of the 3M mount that I stuck onto the tank lol” . Heat softens the adhesive, making removal easier without damaging surfaces.

Camera Settings for Smooth Footage

• Frame rate: 60fps or higher allows for smooth slow-motion in post-production
• Field of view: Wider angles hide minor shake
• Stabilization: Enable GoPro’s built-in stabilization if available
• Protune: Consider using Protune for more control over color grading

Weather Considerations

Thailand’s tropical climate demands attention to:

• Heat: Don’t leave your GoPro in direct sunlight when not in use
• Rain: Ensure your housing is properly sealed
• Humidity: Silica gel packs in your camera bag help prevent internal fogging

Mount Positioning Ideas

• Low on tank: Captures the bike leaning through corners
• Handlebar: Classic point-of-view, shows rider input
• Rear-facing: Catch your own riding style or following friends
• Chin of helmet: Most natural first-person perspective

Part 7: Where to Buy in Thailand

If you’re already in Thailand or planning your trip, here’s where to find quality mounts:

• Webike Thailand: Excellent source for RAM Mounts and GoPro accessories with local stock
• RS Online Thailand: Carries official GoPro helmet mounts and accessories
• Big bike shops: In Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, larger motorcycle dealerships often carry quality mounts
• Malls: MBK Center (Bangkok) and Central Festival (Chiang Mai) have camera shops with good selections

Beware of fakes. Counterfeit mounts are common and dangerous. They use inferior materials that can fail at the worst moment. Stick to authorized dealers.

Part 8: Putting It All Together – Your Action Plan

So, what should you actually do for your Thailand motorbike adventure?

The Recommended Setup:

1. Primary mount: RAM Mount handlebar system with GoPro adapter . It’s proven, stable, and widely available in Thailand.
2. Secondary option: Suction cup mount for tank shots when you want variety .
3. Safety tether: Always, always use one .
4. Settings: Start with 170° field of view and 60fps .
5. Regular checks: Inspect your mount before every ride .

The Golden Rules:

• Safety before footage
• Secure with a tether
• Inspect regularly
• Respect helmet integrity
• Never adjust while riding

Conclusion: Your Thai Adventure, Beautifully Captured

Thailand offers some of the world’s most spectacular motorcycle routes. From the curves of Mae Hong Son to the coastal roads of Krabi, every kilometer is an opportunity for stunning footage. With the right mount, proper preparation, and respect for safety, you can capture memories that will last a lifetime.

The perfect mount exists for every rider and every style of filming. Whether you choose the proven reliability of RAM, the surprising versatility of suction cups, or the immersive perspective of a helmet mount, what matters most is that you’re out there, experiencing the ride.

The road is calling. Mount up, ride safe, and capture every moment.

Happy trails, and smooth filming.