Lets do launch - testing a Go Pro Hero 3 camera

[MBK]

A cold and dry day gave me a chance to test out the capabilities of a new Go Pro Hero 3 camera, all in the name of science of course and well ok just a bit of fun too. Rather than a write up you get some video this time too.


Sunday Launch? Turn up to Full HD for the best quality picture.

Go Pro Hero 3

I know many of you are Go Pro users and I've been using them for years on track and they've worked well to capture the antics but these latest high definition versions finally have the quality to go with the usability. The new wifi controls from inside the car, with on screen preview also work superbly well, no longer do you have to guess what shot you might get. Go Pro finally seem to have cracked the built in microphone and sound issues too, they used to click, click away but the sound is pretty good given the level of wind noise today. I think the low down mounting position (at number plate height) has helped capture the ability of the RS3 well here, it always seems more difficult to capture the true sensations, such as the ferocity of that launch, on film. I've tried all sorts of video setups and the Go Pro's are now perfect for me.

Michelin Pilot Super Sports

The roads were cold, -0.5 on the DIS, and covered in road salt so grip was limited in places. The Michelin Pilot Super Sports are superb in these conditions, full 4.2 second (GPS verified) launch with no hint of loss of traction. With the ESP system off these tyres really add to the balance of the RS3, you get a lot more feedback through the wheel and your seat - at the loss of some comfort (v the Conti 5P's) it has to be said. I was surprised how early the ESP wants to interfere when it is left on and as proven with it off there is no reason for it's chattering, the RS3 just grips and goes, utterly confidence inspiring.

RS3 Meet?

We're lucky to have some great and mostly deserted mountain roads so I also included a couple of minutes of the best sections. If we are getting together for an RS3 meet these roads and those a little further North might be a good choice. If so how about one of evo magazines favourite haunts the Groes Inn Groes Inn Accommodation B&B Conwy Snowdonia North Wales as a stopover venue and make a day or 2 of it?

 

[CatnipRS3]

Great video MBK!....thinking of getting one of these camera's myself and seeing this video makes me want my car back sooner!

I like the idea of a meet in Wales

 

[Kelza]

Hi there ,great videos of what the rs3 is capable of.. not done launch myself yet ..just looking into tyres just now as i have conti 5 all round...
Car Tyres - MPV Tyres - People Carrier Tyres - 19" R19" - 225/35/19, 225/35R19

 

[MBK]

s3kel when you do launch it, keep your head back, it's a proper neck snapper, I struggle to imagine what an Atom or GTR must feel like in 2.8s!

 

[lae203]

MBK great video where was this taken? I myself took to driving round the road around Swansea, Gower etc today...

 

[quattro81]

s3kel when you do launch it, keep your head back, it's a proper neck snapper, I struggle to imagine what an Atom or GTR must feel like in 2.8s!

you wouldn't wanna see how I use the launch control then

 

[Kelza]

I need some good planning to get a clear road as i live in a busy tourist part of the lakedistrict ..been in a few stage2+ s3s having had one myself

 

[MBK]

I find good road planning = getting up nice and early in the morning while most people are still sound asleep!

 

[P_G]

s3kel when you do launch it, keep your head back, it's a proper neck snapper, I struggle to imagine what an Atom or GTR must feel like in 2.8s!

You should try an Aventador in Corsa mode, properly brutal gear changing and launch, even more than an Atom 3. And better still it keeps snapping your neck every gear change though to 7th.

Great video BTW, I like the look of one of these cameras but just can't see myself using it often enugh to justify the cost.

You sound like you are launching at quite low revs, say 2-2500rpm?

 

[MBK]

You should try an Aventador in Corsa mode, properly brutal gear changing and launch, even more than an Atom 3. And better still it keeps snapping your neck every gear change though to 7th.

Great video BTW, I like the look of one of these cameras but just can't see myself using it often enugh to justify the cost.

You sound like you are launching at quite low revs, say 2-2500rpm?

I'd love to try the Aventador, if anyone has one I can borrow!

Revs yes I think about 2.5K, whatever the system holds at, it's a remarkably consistent launch and clever stuff.

The Go Pro's have been good for the track and capturing driving experience days etc I like to be able to relive the experience so for me they've been worth the cash but the the first ones cost 1/3 the price. I'm looking forward to taking them to a few events this year. It sounds like we think in similar ways - if I buy it will I get enough use from it? - is a question I ask a lot.

 

[Riot]

you wouldn't wanna see how I use the launch control then

or me, that's what it's there for

 

[RYes3]

Ooh yes! Nice! Love your posts MBK!

 

[jerseypaul]

Hi gang
I was a bit bored the other day and used my Hero 2 and iMovie to do this:

Audi RS3 - YouTube

 

[RYes3]

Brilliant, what a beautiful place too!

 

[MBK]

Hi gang
I was a bit bored the other day and used my Hero 2 and iMovie to do this:

Audi RS3 - YouTube

Nice one, I like the exhaust shot, I will shamelessly copy that from you for some of the adventures later this year!

 

[jerseypaul]

Nice one, I like the exhaust shot, I will shamelessly copy that from you for some of the adventures later this year!

No probs.
suction cup / arm was the first accessory I bought for the GoPro.

 

[Zak0123]

Epic! Launch looks slightly faster than the TTS

 

[Kelza]

Love it ,nice one paul

 

[Kelza]

Hi MBK ,wheres the best place to buy the new go pro hero 3 black edition?
​

 

[MBK]

I don't have any good links for the Hero 3 black at the moment, the price seems to be the full £359 from all the usual sellers. There are a few cheaper advertised on the web but not from any reputable sellers I know. Unless you find a Motorsport Edition you will also need to add a £20ish suction cup.

 

[Kelza]

Thanks mbk ,just had a look online argos sell it as its not far from my house .how long does the battery last for once fully charged doing video,and can you only charge via a laptop?

 

[Riot]

Hi MBK ,wheres the best place to buy the new go pro hero 3 black edition?
​

I recently bought a Hero 3, Black Edition from an Ebay shop for £315.00

GoPro Hero 3 Black Adventure Portable Video Camera Go Pro Hero3 from UK Stock! 0818279010022 | eBay

Free P&P, everything was fine with the transaction, delivery etc.

 

[MBK]

Thanks mbk ,just had a look online argos sell it as its not far from my house .how long does the battery last for once fully charged doing video,and can you only charge via a laptop?

Sorry didn't notice the questions:

The standard battery lasts 1 - 2 hours depending on the settings you choose.

Charging is possible - and much much quicker from any USB style plug, I use Apple or Kindle type chargers (with the supplied USB cables) and the battery is fully charged in an hour. You can also use the USB type in car chargers while on the move.

The Silver edition saves a good chunk of cash unless you want/need the ultimate picture quality of the Black Edition. The silver edition still has all the wifi link to your phone etc for easy control. The phone controls for on/off and preview are one of the best features of the Go Pro 3's.

 

[Kelza]

Thanks MBK

 

[Macdaddy]

Where's the initial vid gone?

 

[MBK]

It was only a test video, not up to my usual creative quality and only meant for a quick share on here. I thought the thread was cold so taken down for now.

More and much better videos to come soon!