What's new
Van's Air Force

Don't miss anything! Register now for full access to the definitive RV support community.

RV-4 Rollbar Camera mount recommendation

Mach-4

Member
Hello fellow RV-4 drivers,

I’m looking for a recommendation for mounting an action camera (Virb in my
case but I may upgrade to a 360 camera in the future) on the standard Van’s rollbar. I’m hoping there’s one out there that uses a strap that can wrap around the rollbar and capture a forward looking perspective.
 
If you look at bike mounts on eBay or Amazon there are hundreds of options.

As long as they will mount to the diameter tube, you should be good.

Not the exact model I have, as mine is 6 years old, but close enough to get the idea. RAM mounts are probably better, but were worth more than my cheap camera when I last checked.
https://www.amazon.com/Camera-Relea...ords=Bike+camera+mount&qid=1595211579&sr=8-19

I used it on a biplane pitot tube and it didn't fall off (+5G, -4G). I have I used it on my -4 for the last three years with very occasional use.

Here's a sample video.
https://youtu.be/bYtCxTVg8qM
 
Last edited:
IMO, this rates in the 'nothing is simple' category. At least it has for me.

The roll bar is too far aft to get a good 'forward looking' perspective - you end up getting your head. So, the camera has to be on an extension (forward of the bar). Then, because of the extension arm, the camera likes to vibrate - so the arm has to be pretty solid/stable (this can be seen at 36 seconds into this video). Finally, whatever you put on the roll bar has to clear the canopy AND the retention mechanism whilst opening and closing. Even if you have the dexterity to attach it to the bar after getting in and closing the canopy, you will eventually forget and open the canopy with it still attached (yes... I've done it more than once).

I'm currently experimenting with some new ideas but nothing worth reporting yet.
 
Back
Top