A motorcycle dashcam is an essential device for recording your riding journey in real time, providing crucial evidence in case of traffic accidents and enhancing overall riding safety. This detailed, step-by-step installation guide is designed for both beginners and experienced riders, ensuring a smooth and successful setup process.​

I. Pre-Installation Preparation​

(I) Tool Preparation​

1. Basic Tools:​

• Phillips-head screwdriver (Size: PH2)​

• Flat-head screwdriver (Size: 6*100mm)​

• Wire stripper (with insulation stripping function)​

• Electrical tape (high-temperature resistant recommended to withstand motorcycle engine heat)​

• Cable ties (5cm/10cm lengths; transparent or black—black for better concealment)​

• Sharp scissors (for cutting cable ties and tape)​

2. Auxiliary Tools:​

• Plastic pry tool (to avoid scratching the motorcycle’s paintwork)​

• Multimeter (optional but recommended; used to test circuit voltage for safe wiring)​

• Anti-slip, wear-resistant gloves (protects hands and improves grip during installation)​

(II) Accessory Check​

1. Verify that all motorcycle dashcam accessories are included:​

• Main unit (with screen and buttons)​

• Front camera (some models include a waterproof housing)​

• Rear camera (same as front camera; ensure waterproof rating of IP67 or higher)​

• Power cable (includes ACC control wire and constant power wire; length 2–3 meters, adjustable for different bike models)​

• Data cables (connect front/rear cameras to main unit; length 1.5–2 meters)​

• Mounts (main unit mount and camera mounts; some with anti-vibration features)​

• Screw kit (various self-tapping and fixing screws; keep 1–2 spares in case of loss)​

• User manual (read carefully; highlight key wiring methods and installation notes)​

2. Inspect accessories for damage: Check for scratches on camera lenses, cracks in power cables, and loose connectors. Contact the seller immediately for replacements if any issues are found.​

(III) Motorcycle Inspection & Route Planning​

1. Examine your motorcycle’s structure to determine optimal installation positions:​

• Main unit: Common locations include the center of the handlebars, near the instrument panel, or on the rearview mirror mount. Ensure it does not block your view, is easy to operate, and is protected from direct rain.​

• Front camera: Install near the headlight or front of the handlebars to cover the road ahead.​

• Rear camera: Mount near the license plate bracket or under the seat to capture vehicles behind.​

2. Plan the wiring route following the principles of “concealment, safety, and no interference with riding”:​

• Prioritize using existing wire channels (e.g., inside handlebars, frame gaps, under the seat).​

• Keep wires at least 10cm away from the engine (to avoid high temperatures).​

• Avoid moving parts (e.g., wheels, shock absorbers) and water-prone areas. If unavoidable, wrap connectors with waterproof tape.​

II. Step-by-Step Installation​

(I) Main Unit Installation​

1. Secure the Mount:​

• Align the main unit mount with your chosen installation spot.​

• Use self-tapping screws from the kit to fix the mount (for metal surfaces, pre-drill a hole slightly smaller than the screw diameter first).​

• Ensure the mount is tight and stable. After fully tightening the screws, use a wrench to give an extra half-turn to prevent loosening.​

2. Attach the Main Unit:​

• Align the clips on the back of the main unit with the slots on the mount. Press gently until you hear a “click” (indicates a secure fit).​

• Adjust the main unit’s angle (up/down, left/right) to achieve the desired recording view. If adjustment is difficult, add a small anti-slip pad between the mount and the installation surface.​

(II) Front Camera Installation​

1. Install the Camera Mount:​

• Clean the installation area with an alcohol wipe to remove dust and oil.​

• Fix the camera mount using adhesive (press firmly for 30+ seconds to ensure strong adhesion) or screws (for plastic surfaces, avoid over-tightening to prevent cracking).​

2. Connect and Secure the Camera:​

• Align the front camera’s data cable connector with the “Front Camera Port” on the main unit. Insert gently until you hear a “click”, then pull the cable slightly to confirm a secure connection.​

• Attach the camera to the mount and adjust the angle (recommended: horizontal recording with a 5°–10° downward tilt to avoid capturing too much sky or ground).​

• Tighten the locking screw on the mount to fix the camera in place and prevent angle shifts while riding.​

(III) Rear Camera Installation​

1. Prepare Wiring:​

• Start from the main unit and route the rear camera’s data cable along your planned path.​

• For handlebar-internal routing: Remove the handlebar guards (unscrew with a screwdriver), thread the cable through the internal channel, then run it along frame gaps or under the seat to the rear of the bike.​

• For external routing: Use cable ties to secure the data cable to existing motorcycle wiring every 15–20cm. Adjust tie tightness to keep the cable stable without damaging other wires. Trim excess tie length to avoid scratches.​

2. Install the Rear Camera:​

• Clean the rear installation area and attach the camera mount (same method as the front camera).​

• Connect the rear camera’s data cable to the main unit’s “Rear Camera Port” (use the included extension cable if needed; wrap the connector with waterproof tape).​

• Mount the camera, adjust the angle (horizontal rearward with a 3°–5° upward tilt to cover following vehicles), and secure with the locking screw.​

(IV) Power Cable Connection (Critical for Safety)​

1. Choose a Power Source:​

• ACC Power (Recommended): Powers on when the ignition key is turned on and off when the key is off (prevents battery drain). Locate the ACC wire near the ignition switch:​

• Use a multimeter (set to DC voltage mode): Touch the red probe to the suspected ACC wire and the black probe to a metal part of the bike (ground). A reading of ~12V with the key on (0V with the key off) confirms it’s the ACC wire.​

• Constant Power: Powers on even when the key is off (for parking monitoring). Use only if your dashcam has low-voltage protection (to avoid battery drain).​

• Ground: Use a clean, paint-free metal part of the bike’s frame as the ground point.​

2. Wiring Operation:​

• Plug-and-Play (if available): Insert the power cable’s plug into the motorcycle’s cigarette lighter socket (skip to testing if this applies).​

• Hard Wiring:​

• Use a wire stripper to remove ~1cm of insulation from the ACC wire (red), constant power wire (yellow, optional), and ground wire (black) of the dashcam.​

• Twist the dashcam’s ACC wire with the motorcycle’s ACC wire (at least 5 twists). Wrap the connection tightly with electrical tape (extend 2cm on both sides to cover exposed copper).​

• Repeat the twisting and taping process for the ground wire (connect to the frame ground point).​

3. Power Test:​

• Turn on the ignition key. The main unit should power on automatically (screen lights up and displays the camera feed).​

• Turn off the key. The main unit should shut down (for ACC power).​

• If the unit fails to power on: Check wiring connections, ensure the ACC wire is correct, and use a multimeter to verify ~12V voltage in the power cable.​

(V) Final Checks & Cleanup​

1. Cable Organization:​

• Inspect all data and power cables for looseness or exposed copper.​

• Use cable ties to secure excess wiring to existing motorcycle harnesses (avoid blocking handlebar movement or seat access).​

2. Waterproofing:​

• Wrap all connectors (main unit-camera, power cable) with waterproof tape—double-wrap external connectors (e.g., rear camera) to prevent water damage.​

• Apply a small amount of silicone sealant to the camera-mount junction if the area is prone to water exposure.​

3. Function Testing:​

• Start the motorcycle and ride 1–2 kilometers. Check:​

• Clear, stable video feed from both cameras (no lag or blurriness).​

• Secure mounting (no shaking or loose parts).​

• Normal recording (verify video files on the dashcam’s memory card).​

III. Installation Safety Tips​

1. Prioritize Safety:​

• Turn off the motorcycle power before removing parts (e.g., handlebar guards, seat) to avoid electric shock.​

• Handle tools carefully to prevent hand injuries.​

• Consult a professional mechanic or refer to your motorcycle’s wiring diagram if you’re unsure about ACC wire location.​

2. Waterproofing is Key:​

• Motorcycle dashcams are exposed to rain and moisture—poor waterproofing causes short circuits.​

• Check waterproof tape regularly for aging or peeling and replace as needed.​

3. Avoid Obstruction:​

• Ensure the main unit and cameras do not block the instrument panel, turn signals, or rearview mirrors.​

• Adjust camera angles to avoid obstruction by handlebars, guards, or luggage.​

4. Protect the Battery:​

• Use ACC power for daily use (prevents battery drain).​

• If using constant power for parking monitoring: Choose a dashcam with low-voltage protection (auto-shuts off when battery voltage drops below 11V).​

• Disconnect the power cable if the motorcycle is not used for an extended period.​

5. Regular Maintenance:​

• Check dashcam mounts and wiring weekly before riding.​

• Ensure the memory card has sufficient storage.​

• Clean camera lenses monthly with a microfiber cloth (avoid hard objects that scratch the lens).