After each of our trips and adventures there are always hundreds, if not thousands, of pictures to sort and file. Yes, Sandy takes lots of photos, and I am so thankful that she does. I am always going back and looking at all the cool things that we have done together.
Last year we added a GoPro to the camera arsenal. Reliving a twisty and windy mountain bike ride is awesome! But there are times when it is just nice to go for a leisurely bike ride with out worrying about all the photo equipment.
The pocket-sized point and shoot digitals are unbelievable. I have seen shots that you would bet were taken on a SLR that were not, like one of Sandy’s from our Canon A1100IS. She submitted it to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy shortly after our 2012 hike and last year, it was chosen as the photo for the month of April in their calendar.
She also was asked for permission for the calendar photo – of the cursed Pennsylvania rocks – to appear with Robert Redford in “A Walk in the Woods,” but we’ll find out about that nanosecond of fame when the movie opens.
Sadly, rough treatment and mileage did in the door to the battery compartment, so we had to replace that Canon with a Powershot A1400. We’ve taken it hiking, cycling, kayaking, and horseback riding in Iceland. It fits in my shirt pocket and I can have it out of the pocket, snap a few shots, and back in the pocket before anyone even notices.
We were asked to review a cool and inexpensive little accessory for it, the Versa Handlebar Strap Mount. It easily mounts on the handlebar of a bike without tools, and has been great for documenting our local bike paths. While riding, you just reach down and press the shutter, or switch the camera to video. You don’t have to hassle with trying to look at the screen.
The Versa mounts quickly, needing only a firm pull with your finger. The camera attaches using the tripod mount, offering 360 degrees of rotation and locks at a variety of angles. Stepping away from the bike, the mount easily releases from the handlebar and fits in my pocket.
Here’s one of a series of short videos Sandy shot when we were testing it on the Spring-to-Spring Trail.
No, it won’t replace a GoPro Hero, but for less than $200, both the camera and strap can be yours. Plus it won’t put tears in your eyes if a crash and burn takes them both out.
You can’t beat a good point and shoot camera when you’re in motion in the outdoors, and with the Versa Handlebar Mount it can always be there while you’re cycling.
DISCLOSURE: Our review contains an affiliate link below so you may purchase the item if you are interested in it. We earn a small commission on each purchase.
Learn more from the manufacturer, Bracketron
Purchase the Versa Handlebar Strap Mount from Amazon.com