How should I set up my GoPro for Race Ninja?
Last updated: October 17, 2026
Turn GPS on in the camera's settings, let it find satellites outdoors before you press record, and upload the original file straight off the SD card. That's the whole setup.
GoPro Hero 12: no GPS chip
The GoPro Hero 12 has no GPS chip, so it can't time laps on its own. You can still upload Hero 12 footage. It comes in as a video-only session, and you add a lap timer or logger file from the same session on the review page (a RaceChrono CSV, an AiM MyChron or Solo file, a RaceBox CSV, an Alfano export, or a .vbo file) or mark your laps by hand while you watch. Add that file and it works.
The Hero 12 uses the same batteries and accessories as the Hero 10 and 11. It still needs a lap timer or logger file from the same session. For automatic lap times, speeds and racing lines straight from the camera, use a Hero 9, 10, 11 or 13.
Why GoPro?
GoPro has become the industry standard that other action cameras compare themselves to. Race Ninja works with GoPro and DJI action cameras. GoPro is still our first pick, because of:
DJI Action 4, 5 and 6 and the Osmo 360 work too, as long as they're paired with the DJI GPS Remote. Without the remote there's no GPS in the file. Hero 5 to 8 Black record GPS and should work, not officially tested.
Recommended GoPro Models
| Model | GPS | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hero 13 | 10Hz | Latest model, GPS restored |
| Hero 11 | 10Hz | Best value. Excellent GPS accuracy |
| Hero 10 | 10Hz | Budget-friendly option |
| Hero 9 | 10Hz | Built-in GPS |
| Hero 5 to 8 Black | Yes | Records GPS, should work, not officially tested |
| Hero 12 | No. Add a lap timer or logger file | Video only. No GPS chip, so it can't time laps on its own. Add a lap timer or logger file from the same session and it works. |
Battery note: Hero 9/10/11/12 share the same Enduro battery. Hero 13 uses a newer, incompatible battery.
Resolution Settings
Race Ninja outputs video at maximum 1080p for performance analytics. Higher resolutions take longer to upload with no benefit to your data.
| Resolution | Best For | File Size |
|---|---|---|
| 4K | If you also want footage for editing or sharing | Large |
| 1440p | Recommended. Good balance of quality and speed | Medium |
| 1080p | Analytics-only. Fastest upload and processing | Small |
Frame Rate: 30fps vs 60fps
Higher frame rates capture more detail between moments. Here is how much distance you cover between each frame:
| Speed | 30fps | 60fps |
|---|---|---|
| 60 MPH (97 km/h) | 89cm per frame | 45cm per frame |
| 120 MPH (193 km/h) | 1.79m per frame | 89cm per frame |
Karts (under 60 MPH)
30fps is usually sufficient and saves storage space
Cars (60+ MPH)
60fps provides better precision for braking points and apexes
Technical note: GPS telemetry records at 10Hz (10 samples/second) regardless of frame rate. This is sufficient for lap timing and speed tracking.
GPS Settings
Before heading out on track:
Enable GPS in your GoPro settings menu
Wait a minute or two after powering on for satellite lock
Position with clear sky visibility for best accuracy
Check the GPS icon shows a solid connection before recording
Mounting Your Camera
Safety First
Mounting is at your own risk. Always check venue rules and seek advice from experienced racers.
Popular mounting locations:
Nose Cone / Front Fairing
Great view of track and pedals. Ideal for braking analysis
Nassau Panel
Flat surface for adhesive or bolt-on mounts
Side of Seat / Mic Plate
Captures hands, feet, and track
Cars: Roll Cage
Secure mounting point for in-car footage
Best for Sensor Data
For the most accurate telemetry, we recommend mounting your GoPro to a fixed position on the chassis or vehicle (nose cone, fairing, roll cage, etc.) instead of a moving platform like a helmet.
Why? Your GoPro's accelerometer measures the forces acting on the camera. When mounted to a helmet or flexible surface, the mount itself absorbs and dampens some of these forces. Meaning the sensor data doesn't fully reflect what the kart or car is actually doing.
Helmet footage can still be processed for lap times and GPS data, but sector detection and g-force analysis will be more accurate with a rigid, chassis-fixed mount.
ALWAYS Use a Tether
We have lost cameras that were not tethered. It is your fail-safe if a mount comes loose. And the forces on track will test your mount.
Other safety tips:
- • Use manufacturer-branded or certified mounts
- • Flexible mounts (TPU) help dampen vibration
- • Clean and dry surfaces thoroughly for adhesive mounts
- • Helmet mounts are often banned. Check your venue rules
- • Check your mount before every session
Quick Pre-Session Checklist
Pro Tips
HyperSmooth Stabilisation
Enable this to smooth out engine vibrations
Enduro Battery
Longer recording times + better cold weather performance
High Frame Rate for Vibration
60fps+ helps smooth out shaky footage
Clean Your Lens
Rubber dust and debris accumulate quickly on track