Since GoPro bought the Australian smart motorcycle helmet company Forcite last year, the two-wheeled world has been waiting to see what the action camera can do if it used its technology for rider security equipment.
Now GoPro has announced that it will work with Italian helmet manufacturer AGV on its debut line with action camera -activated lids, which are tilted to have its built sensor and lens technology, which allows riders to catch POV recordings without the need to mount a further camera and other accessories.
Forcite’s original goal was to provide a built-in dash-cam experience for motorcycle riders using a basic sensor from Sony, but is understood that Gopro’s influence is likely to see the introduction of more advanced sensor, lens and processor-tech that can allow for cinematic, high-defunition recordings that can be caught and edited and edited by the American Company Company Escape Software.
Currently, riders who want to catch POV shoots should either rely on the handlebars or breast mounts, as well as accessories that squeeze to the chin on a motorcycle helmet or be fitted to the top of it. But questions have been raised about the potential impact on helmet safety in the unfortunate self an accident.
Designing a built-in solution would allow both GoPro and AGV to start from scratch and create an aerodynamic, motorcycle-specific system that does not compromise on safety, but can also deliver amazing quality recordings along with accident-detecting Dash-Cam functionality.
AGV is a solid partner for GoPro as it has been, the production of helmets for racing, the road and beyond since 1947. In fact, its Giacomo Agostini -life is one of the most recognizable in the motorcycle racing world, and it held MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi’s head throughout his career.
Currently, its row-topping pista gp carbon fiber-lid can cost in the range $ 1,924 / £ 1,370 / AU $$ 2,200, although it offers much more affordable options in its more wallet-friendly K1 S ranking.
There is no hint of what the GoPro binding helmet could eventually cost, but we would expect it to be expensive considering the technology involved.
Analysis: Technology moves faster than helmets
Thanks to the emergence of social media, many riders are increasingly looking for ways to document their two-wheeled escapades or simply to detect recordings that could come very practical if an insurance requirement eventually arises.
GoPro and AGV’s partnership is undeniably exciting for those who want technology seamlessly integrated with a high quality helmet, but whatever you cut it, it will be expensive.
What’s more, camera technology is moving at such a speed that GoPro sensors, lentils and treatment chips integrated into the upcoming lid could be second-rate or outdated after a few years.
When riders invest a large sum of money in a new helmet, they typically expect that piece of safety equipment to last a number of years, if not decades, as long as it has not fallen or damaged.
It would be a crying shame if Gopro’s solution cannot be upgraded as it could end up being a voluminous, heavy helmet that is only able to catch second -class footage. Or worse, eventually not supported by GoPro at all.
That said, AGV is a good partner for GoPro as it makes some of the best motorcycle helmets around, and a built-in camera is still a better solution, like helmet-mounted cams, which can be dangerous-so I look forward to seeing what the partnership provides.
