Is Chest Mounting Your Phone While Riding Safe? Exploring the Pros and Cons
For any cycling enthusiasts, motorcyclists, or adventurers keen on capturing their rides on video or using GPS on-the-go, the idea of chest mounting a smartphone has crossed your mind. But is this method really safe? In this article, we look into the advantages and disadvantages of chest mounting your phone, helping you make an informed decision.
Introduction
With the rise of mobile technology and the desire to capture life's moments as they happen, more and more riders are opting to mount their devices while riding. Safety and practicality, however, remain big questions. This blog analyses the pros and cons of chest mounting, ensuring you stay informed on this practice.
What Is Chest Mounting?
Chest mounting involves fixing your smartphone to a mount or harness that you wear on your chest. This method allows for a hands-free experience that lets you record videos, use maps, or perform any smartphone function seamlessly while biking or riding.
The Pros of Chest Mounting Your Phone
1. Stable and Smooth Footage
One of the biggest advantages is the stability of video footage. Chest mounts naturally absorb the vibrations and impacts that the bike or motorcycle encounters, resulting in steadier recordings ideal for activities like mountain biking [source].
2. Safety and Convenience
A chest mount keeps your hands free to navigate and control the bike better compared to handlebar mounts, which can impede steering. By keeping the phone easily accessible yet out of the way, riders benefit from both safety and convenience [source].
3. Versatility
Many chest mounts are compatible with a range of devices and include adjustable straps to fit various body sizes. They often come with additional safety mechanisms such as safety straps or suction cups [source].
4. Better Camera Angles for Vlogging
For vlogging enthusiasts, chest mounts provide a unique first-person perspective that captures both the view ahead and part of the rider, adding a more engaging touch to your rides [source].
The Cons of Chest Mounting Your Phone
1. Potential Distraction
Even though the phone is mounted for easier access, it can serve as a distraction while riding if constantly interacted with. Ensuring minimal engagement with the device while riding is crucial to safety [source].
2. Vibration and Movement Issues
While chest mounts absorb some movement shock, not all road scenarios are the same. Shaky and uneven surfaces can still impact video quality. Poorly installed mounts can also be uncomfortable or unstable [source].
3. Risk During Falls
The biggest risk arises during falls. A chest-mounted phone is exposed and can be impact damaged. Some would prefer alternative mounting options to avoid the risk during an accident [source].
4. Weather Exposure
Devices mounted on your chest face direct exposure to the elements: wind, rain, and dust. Therefore, it's advisable to use a protective or waterproof case to safeguard the phone from weather spells [source].
Facts and Figures
A Mapillary forum discussion revealed that chest mounts align better with a rider's line of sight, offering improved photo and video angles compared to handlebar mounts [source]. Additionally, Action Mount's chest harness for smartphones supports safety concerns with an additional strap to secure the device [source]. These aspects underscore the growing popularity of chest mounts among riders.
Conclusion: Is Chest Mounting Safe?
Using a chest mount can indeed be safe and effective when done right. When using trusted systems, ensuring secure installations, and practicing responsible use, riders can capture high-quality experiences without compromising safety. Before you start chest mounting your phone, assess your priorities and ride always with a focus on safety.
Further Resources
- Action Mount Chest Harness Review: Explore safety considerations and setup tips.
- Practical Guide to Neewer Chest Mount: Affordable phone mounting solutions.
- Mapillary Discussion on Chest-Mounted Cameras: User experiences on sightline advantages.
Keep riding safely and capturing every breathtaking moment responsibly with the right equipment.
