need recommendations for a good camera

The only thing about the gopro is that it doesn't zoom. But I never found a need for zooming since I have to keep both hand on the reins at all times LOL.

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my pocket camera!! It's a Nikon COOLPIX S6200, and it runs for ~$160.00
What it lacks in the faster shutter speeds of a full-size camera, it makes up for in it's size. I've taken over 600 pictures with this camera since January, and my friend, who just got a new Cannon and lens (for over $2,000) would really like to have my camera, too, bc she misses grab shots. Here is a "grab shot" I took with this camera, which also does video, and time-elapsed shots.

Did you mean SX130? Im getting one and love it (.. use on at school!!)

No the canon Powershot SX30 IS. Is a great camera, but hard to find because its been discontinued. Though you can still find them cheapishly on ebay, and should definitely be snatched up!