Update: July 14, 2014

We just received our Shimano test camera and it's surprisingly small. We could never really get a good feel for its size until we saw it in person. We thought it was about the same size as the Garmin Virb but in reality, it's about half the size. So thumbs up for that. And of course the quality of this device seems top notch as the materials and the buttons have a refined feel to them.

Stay tuned as we start comparing this device to the latest POV cameras available today.

Shimano camera with K-Edge mounts

They sent us a bunch of GoPro compatible K-Edge mounts as well so we're intrigued that it's using the same mount interface.

Shimano Introduces Compact Multisport Camera



Shimano's CM-1000 POV Camera is a significant announcement to cyclists. This POV market is exploding in popularity but sales are dominated by a single player, GoPro. This company has the lion's share of this market and it seems there's very little competition and consumers have little choice when it comes to price and quality.

Now it's not for the lack of trying as companies have popped in and out of the market. The latest crop of players are compared here in the Mtbr POV Camera Shootout. And the market got a recent entry in the Garmin Virb, from the popular GPS company.



Shimano CM-1000 Screen Grab - Trail Follow Shot

This Shimano introduction is significant because of two things: Shimano quality and Shimano due diligence. First when it comes to quality, there is no mistaking what Shimano brings to the table. Their shifters, pedals, cranks are true engineering and manufacturing marvels. Often we take them for granted and it's only when other companies fail miserably in these categories that we realize how good the Shimano products are. Second, Shimano is not the fastest to market in a new category but when they create a new product, they do their homework. With a lot at stake here we expect the good things from Shimano.

Looking at the this new camera, the top-line numbers are $299 and weighs in at 86 grams and it's waterproof to 10 meters straight out of the box with no case needed. Compared to the GoPro at at 176 grams (with case), this is pretty light and compact. The Garmin Virb is bigger and heavier at 180 grams btw. The CM-1000 does HD video (not 4k) with a battery that lasts 2 hours per charge.

The real upside of the Shimano seems to be low light sensitivity at F2.0 compared to the Gopro's at F2.7. And the image quality of the Shimano CM-1000 seems stunning as well.



In and out of a dark tunnel



May 2014 is the release date for this camera.

Official Press Release

Osaka, Japan (February 4, 2014) - Expanding the options for consumers to connect with Shimano for experiences in sports, the leading cycling, fishing and rowing product manufacturer today introduced the CM-1000 Sport Camera. Continuing Shimano's legacy of innovation and quality, the CM-1000 enters the compact sport camera category with a lightweight and compact high-definition video camera with advanced connectivety options. The CM-1000 marks the company's first product introduction from its Lifestyle Gear Division targeting both fishing and cycling consumers, providing them opportunities to enjoy capturing their various sporting experiences as incredibly high quality photos and HD videos.

Years of research and design went into Shimano's CM-1000, ultimately creating a compact sport camera that excels in critical camera functions, appeals to consumers exploring terrestrial and aquatic sports, and also integrates with existing Shimano electronics in its fishing and cycling products. Key features and highlights of the CM-1000 include:
  • Powerful, brilliant image-capturing camera - The lens and image sensor technologies in the CM-1000 combine to enable brilliant HD movies and high quality images in all conditions. Its F2.0 bright lens boasts incredible low-light performance while its 16MP back illuminated CMOS image sensor enables stunning 1080p HD video. The camera offers dual, standard angle 135° and super wide 180° modes, while a 90° increment auto image rotation allows users to flip the camera in multiple directions and maintain a horizontal image plane.
  • Light, compact form factor - At 86 grams including the battery and lens cover and with dimensions of 44x70x30mm, its pocket size, streamlined design is smaller than a standard deck of cards.
  • Exceptional waterproof rating - Out of the box and without the need for an external case, CM-1000 is waterproof up to 10 meters. This depth meets the IPX-8 Waterproof Standard - the best rating for electronics experiencing continuous underwater use.
  • Advanced connectivity and intelligent integration - The CM-1000 utilizes WiFi connectivity and custom iOS and Android apps for mobile devices to allow live views, video playback, remote adjustments to camera settings and shot framing. Unique to the CM-1000, the device also uses ANT+ and ANT private wireless connections to transmit data from bicycle computers and accessories and the new Shimano D-Fly wireless Di2 transmitter to show performance cycling data in its captured videos.

Versatile, user-friendly design

Using the CM-1000 is simple and worry-free, thanks to the unit's design, waterproof capabilities, and connectivity and integration options with popular consumer electronics. The two-button design allows quick control or key functions while dual LED lights and audible cues identify settings. Its waterproof rating makes the CM-1000 a great option on the deck of a boat, for casual swimming, and enables it to be hosed off with other gear after a day's adventure. The auto-image rotation function means that it will maintain a horizontal shot despite its physical rotation. Connectivity and integration options with mobile devices and cycle computers simplify setup and playback while the ANT/ANT+ data allows cyclists to monitor videos and use the performance data - including heart rate, gear indication and cadence for example - as a training tool to improve their riding.

Accessories, supporting software and availability

The CM-1000 Sport Camera comes standard with the camera and lens cover, an adhesive mount and vented helmet mount, a USB cable and start up manual. The CM-1000 Sport Camera utilizes an iOS 6.0 and Android 4.2 app for use as a remote controller, angle monitor, a tool to change settings and video preview. Software for Windows 7 and Mac OS enables more comprehensive video editing, fish-eye view compensation, the display and integration of video and ANT+/ANT information to videos.

Additional accessories for the CM-1000 include the following mounts that all offer tool-free installation and adjustment: CM-MT01 Handlebar mount; CM-MT02 Flexible mount; CMMT03 Chest mount; and the CM-MT04 Cap mount.

The CM-1000 will be available in May 2014 for $299.00.