With compact action cameras becoming more capable, it’s never been easier to capture high-quality footage that looks polished enough for Instagram Reels or TikTok.
We’ve been trying out the Insta360 GO Ultra – a lightweight action camera weighing just 53g (about the same as an energy gel), but capable of recording crisp 4K at 60fps with a 156º field of view. Here’s how to get the most out of it, from mounting options to camera settings and editing tips.
While it’s tempting to film everything with a phone, mounting a smartphone to your bike isn’t practical or safe, especially at speed. That’s where the GO Ultra comes in. Its compact size allows for far more creative positioning without adding bulk.
Handlebar or under-bar mounts are simple and effective, but the footage can look repetitive. To add variety, try mounting the camera under the top tube, on the head tube, or even near the pedals for unique angles. FlowState stabilisation and 360º Horizon Lock mean that, wherever it’s mounted, the footage remains smooth and watchable.
Classic chest mount (and alternatives)
The chest mount remains a tried-and-tested choice, popular in both road and mountain biking for its natural perspective that includes the handlebars. Insta360’s own mount includes a clever rotation feature, making it easy to capture vertical or horizontal video.
Insta360n Go Ultra Chest (credit: road.cc)
For quick and comfortable filming on social rides, however, the magnetic pendant mount is a standout option. It sits under your jersey and allows you to capture immersive footage without the bulk of a chest rig. A simple clip mount also makes it easy to attach the camera to clothing or accessories on the fly.
Camera settings for a cinematic look
Great footage isn’t just about where you mount the camera – it’s also about how you set it up. For a more cinematic feel:
Resolution & frame rate: 4K at 25fps provides smooth, natural motion.
ISO: Cap at 800 for bright conditions.
White balance: Set at 5600K for daylight riding.
Sharpness: Keep on low for a less digital look.
Shutter speed: 1/80th sec for motion blur that conveys speed.
To prevent overexposure, an ND filter is recommended – though Insta360’s Motion ND setting in the app provides a simpler alternative if you’d rather skip the manual adjustments.
Editing for social media
Insta360 GO Ultra Bike Shot (credit: road.cc)
Once you’ve captured your footage, a little time editing can transform it. Trim away the dead space, experiment with transitions (such as covering and uncovering the lens between cuts), and consider overlaying ride data from Strava for extra context.
Colour grading adds the finishing touch. Warm tones suit summer rides, while lowering vibrancy and exposure can give a more understated, cinematic feel. Apps such as Insta360’s editor, TikTok, and Instagram all provide accessible presets if you prefer a quicker solution.
Final thoughts
The Insta360 GO Ultra makes filming and sharing cycling content easier than ever. With creative mounting, the right camera settings, and a bit of post-ride editing, you can turn everyday rides into polished clips that stand out on Instagram and TikTok.
Use the code ROAD when ordering from insta360.com. The first 30 orders will include a free 128GB SD card.