Insta360 X5 First Ride | Testing 360 Cycling Footage (Mistakes & Lessons Learned)

Описание: This was my first ride using the Insta360 X5, after my Ace Pro 2 unfortunately malfunctioned and had to be sent off for repair. With rain forecast and a coastal route planned from Dawlish to Torquay, it felt like the perfect chance to get familiar with the new 360 camera… although it didn’t quite go to plan!

Starting in Dawlish, I headed through Teignmouth and Shaldon, following a mix of coastal roads and quiet Devon lanes while learning the settings and features of the Insta360 X5 for the first time. Along the way, I quickly realised that jumping into a brand new camera system mid-ride comes with a few learning moments — including accidentally filming in single-lens mode for part of the journey.

Thankfully, after a mid-ride discovery near Babbacombe, I was able to switch fully into 360 mode before heading into Torquay harbour and the seafront.

This isn’t a technical review — just honest first impressions from a real ride, including the mistakes, surprises, and what I learned using the Insta360 X5 in typical UK winter riding conditions.

If you're considering the Insta360 X5 for cycling or outdoor filming, hopefully this gives a realistic look at using it out on the road for the first time.

📍 Route highlights:
Dawlish → Teignmouth → Shaldon → Babbacombe → Torquay

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Equipment:
Bike: Boardman ADV 8.9
Camera: Insta360 X5
Mic: DJI Mic Mini