I couldn’t wait to get a Bluetooth headset for my motorcycle helmet. Not only for the music but also so I could take calls and hop on comms with my riding buddies.
Even though some riders recommend against listening to music on a motorcycle, there are plenty of other benefits to having a Bluetooth headset.
- You can communicate with your fellow riders or passengers.
- You can stream your favorite music, podcasts, or radio stations.
- You can access GPS navigation, using your smartphone or a dedicated device.
- You can make or receive phone calls.
- You can also enjoy noise cancellation, reducing the wind and engine noise.
These are just some of the benefits of having a Bluetooth headset, but they also enhance your safety, comfort, and enjoyment while riding.
What to Look for When Choosing a Bluetooth Headset for Motorcycle Riding
Not all Bluetooth headsets are created equal, and there are some factors that you should consider before buying one. Here are some of the things that you should look for when choosing a Bluetooth headset for motorcycle riding:
- Volume and clarity: One of the most important aspects of a Bluetooth headset is the sound quality, especially when you are riding at high speeds or in noisy environments. You want a headset that can deliver clear and loud sound, without distortion or interference. You should also look for a headset that has noise cancellation or reduction features, which can filter out the wind and engine noise and enhance your voice and audio.
- Compatibility with other brands: Another factor that you should consider is the compatibility of the headset with other devices and brands. You want a headset that can pair easily and seamlessly with your smartphone, GPS device, music player, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. You also want a headset that can communicate with other headsets, regardless of the brand or model, using universal protocols such as Bluetooth or Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC). This way, you can enjoy the benefits of intercom, music sharing, or group chat with your fellow riders
- Ease of use: A Bluetooth headset should also be easy to use and operate, without distracting you from your riding. You want a headset that has a simple and intuitive user interface, such as a jog dial, a button, or a touch panel, that you can access and control with your gloves on. You also want a headset that has voice command or activation features, which can allow you to use the headset hands-free and without looking at the screen.
- Reputable brand: Finally, you should look for a Bluetooth headset that comes from a reputable and reliable brand, which can guarantee the quality, durability, and performance of the headset. You want a headset that has a good warranty and customer service, which can provide you with support and assistance in case of any issues or problems. You also want a headset that has positive reviews and ratings from other users and experts, which can give you an idea of the pros and cons of the headset.
These are just some of the factors you should consider when choosing a Bluetooth headset, but I will explain some other factors later in the article as well.
Types of Bluetooth Headsets for Motorcycle Riding
There are different types of Bluetooth headsets, each with its own features and functions. To help you choose the best one for your needs, here are some of the main types of Bluetooth headsets for motorcycle riding:
In-helmet headsets
These are headsets that are installed inside your helmet, usually in the ear pads or the cheek pads. They are connected to a control unit that is mounted on the outside of the helmet, or to a remote control that you can attach to your handlebar or your pocket. These headsets are designed to fit snugly and comfortably in your helmet, and they offer good sound quality and noise cancellation. Some of the benefits of in-helmet headsets are:
- They are discreet and sleek, as they don’t stick out of your helmet.
- They are secure and stable, as they don’t move around or fall off your helmet.
- They are compatible with most types of helmets, as they don’t require any modifications or holes in your helmet.
Some of the drawbacks of in-helmet headsets are:
- They can be hard to install and remove, as they require some wiring and fitting in your helmet.
- They can be expensive, as they are usually high-end and premium products.
- They can be incompatible with some devices or brands, as they may use proprietary or exclusive protocols or connections.
Clip-on headsets
These are headsets that are clipped on to your helmet, usually on the side or the back. They are connected to a microphone and a speaker that are attached to your helmet, or to a pair of earbuds that you can wear in your ears. These headsets are easy to use and operate, and they offer decent sound quality and noise reduction. Some of the benefits of clip-on headsets are:
- They are simple and practical, as they don’t require any installation or wiring in your helmet.
- They are affordable and accessible, as they are usually low-end and budget-friendly products.
- They are versatile and adaptable, as they can work with different types of helmets and devices.
Some of the drawbacks of clip-on headsets are:
- They are bulky and conspicuous, as they stick out of your helmet and may affect your aerodynamics or appearance.
- They are insecure and unstable, as they may move around or fall off your helmet due to wind or vibration.
- They are limited and basic, as they may not have many features or functions compared to other types of headsets.
Standalone headsets
These are headsets that are not attached to your helmet, but are worn separately in your ears or around your neck. They are connected to your smartphone or other devices via Bluetooth or a wired connection. These headsets are portable and convenient, and they offer good sound quality and noise isolation. Some of the benefits of standalone headsets are:
- They are lightweight and comfortable, as they don’t add any weight or pressure to your helmet.
- They are flexible and independent, as they don’t depend on your helmet or your bike for power or connection.
- They are multifunctional and universal, as they can be used for other purposes or activities besides riding.
Some of the drawbacks of standalone headsets are:
- They are exposed and vulnerable, as they may get damaged or lost due to weather, impact, or theft.
- They are distracting and unsafe, as they may interfere with your hearing or awareness of your surroundings.
- They are incompatible and inconvenient, as they may not work well with your helmet or your intercom system.
These are some of the main types of Bluetooth headsets for motorcycle riding, but there are also other options, such as wired headsets, helmet speakers, or handlebar speakers.
The best type of Bluetooth headset for your motorcycle riding depends on your budget, your preferences, and your security needs. You may also want to use more than one type of headset for different situations or purposes.
Other Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bluetooth Headset for Motorcycle Riding
Besides the type of Bluetooth headset, there are some other factors that you should consider when choosing a Bluetooth headset for motorcycle riding. These factors can affect the performance, comfort, and durability of the headset, as well as your personal preference and style.
Here are some of the other factors that you should consider:
- Helmet compatibility: You should make sure that the Bluetooth headset is compatible with your helmet, as not all headsets fit all helmets. You should check the size, shape, and design of the headset and the helmet, and see if they can be attached or installed easily and securely. You should also consider the weight and balance of the headset and the helmet, and see if they are comfortable and stable to wear.
- Water resistance: You should look for a Bluetooth headset that is water-resistant, as you may encounter rain, snow, or sweat while riding. A water-resistant headset can prevent water damage and corrosion, and ensure that the headset works properly in wet conditions. You should check the IP rating of the headset, which indicates the level of protection against water and dust. The higher the IP rating, the more resistant the headset is.
- Warranty and customer service: You should look for a Bluetooth headset that comes with a good warranty and customer service, which can guarantee the quality and reliability of the headset. A good warranty can cover any defects or malfunctions of the headset, and provide you with repair or replacement options. A good customer service can provide you with support and assistance in case of any issues or problems with the headset. You should check the terms and conditions of the warranty and the customer service, and see if they are satisfactory and convenient for you.
These are some of the other factors that you should consider when choosing a Bluetooth headset for motorcycle riding. By taking these factors into account, you can find a Bluetooth headset that meets your needs and expectations.
Best Bluetooth Headsets for Motorcycle Riding for Different Needs
Different riders have different needs and preferences when it comes to Bluetooth headsets. Depending on your riding style, you may want a headset that offers more or less features, functions, and performance. Here are some of the common riding styles and the best Bluetooth headsets for them:
Solo riders
If you mostly ride alone, you may not need a headset that has intercom or group chat capabilities. Instead, you may want a headset that focuses on music, phone calls, and GPS navigation. You may also want a headset that has a long battery life, a good sound quality, and a simple user interface. Some of the best Bluetooth headsets for solo riders are:
- Sena 10R-01: This is a slim and sleek headset that offers clear sound, easy operation, and a 10-hour battery life. It also has a remote control that you can mount on your handlebar or your pocket for convenience.
- Cardo Freecom 1+: This is a compact and versatile headset that offers HD sound, voice activation, and a 13-hour battery life. It also has a universal connectivity feature that allows you to pair with any other Bluetooth headset.
- Sena SMH10-11: This is a classic and reliable headset that offers loud and clear sound, noise cancellation, and a 12-hour battery life. It also has a jog dial that makes it easy to adjust the volume and switch modes.
Duo riders
If you often ride with a passenger or a partner, you may want a headset that has intercom or music sharing capabilities. You may also want a headset that has a good range, a clear voice, and a noise reduction feature. Some of the best Bluetooth headsets for duo riders are:
- Cardo Packtalk Bold: This is a premium and powerful headset that offers JBL sound, natural voice operation, and a 13-hour battery life. It also has a Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC) feature that allows you to communicate with up to 15 riders in a group.
- Sena 20S-01: This is a sophisticated and advanced headset that offers HD sound, motion sensor control, and an 8-hour battery life. It also has a universal intercom feature that allows you to communicate with any other Bluetooth headset.
- FreedConn T-Max: This is a budget-friendly and practical headset that offers decent sound, LCD screen, and a 12-hour battery life. It also has a group intercom feature that allows you to communicate with up to six riders in a group.
Group riders
If you frequently ride with a group of friends or a club, you may want a headset that has group chat or music sharing capabilities. You may also want a headset that has a long range, a loud voice, and a waterproof design. Some of the best Bluetooth headsets for group riders are:
- Cardo Packtalk Slim: This is a sleek and elegant headset that offers JBL sound, natural voice operation, and a 13-hour battery life. It also has a Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC) feature that allows you to communicate with up to 15 riders in a group.
- Sena 50S: This is a modern and innovative headset that offers HD sound, mesh intercom, and a 14-hour battery life. It also has a voice command feature that allows you to control the headset hands-free.
- Fodsports M1S Pro: This is a simple and affordable headset that offers clear sound, FM radio, and a 20-hour battery life. It also has a group intercom feature that allows you to communicate with up to eight riders in a group.
These are some of the best Bluetooth headsets for different riding styles, but there are also other options, such as helmet speakers, handlebar speakers, or wired headsets. The best Bluetooth headset for your motorcycle riding depends on your budget, your preferences, and your security needs. You may also want to use more than one headset for different situations or purposes.
Tips for Using and Maintaining a Bluetooth Headset for Motorcycle Riding
A Bluetooth headset is a great accessory for motorcycle riding, as it allows you to enjoy wireless audio and communication while on the road. However, to get the most out of your Bluetooth headset, you need to use and maintain it properly.
Here are some tips on how to do that:
- Charge your headset regularly, but avoid overcharging or undercharging it. Try to keep the battery level between 20% and 80%, and don’t leave it plugged in overnight. This can extend the battery life and prevent damage.
- Clean your headset after every use, especially if you sweat a lot or ride in dusty or wet conditions. Wipe the earpads, the microphone, and the control unit with a soft cloth dampened with alcohol or hand sanitizer. This can prevent dirt, moisture, and bacteria from affecting the sound quality and the hygiene of the headset.
- Store your headset in a dry and cool place, preferably in a case or a pouch. This can protect the headset from dust, moisture, heat, and impact, and keep it in good shape.
- Pair your headset with compatible devices and adjust the settings to suit your preferences. You can use your smartphone, your GPS device, your music player, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices with your headset, as long as they support the same Bluetooth version and protocol. You can also customize the volume, the equalizer, the voice command, and other features of your headset, depending on the model.
- Update your headset firmware regularly, if available. This can improve the performance, the stability, and the security of your headset, and fix any bugs or issues that may arise. You can check the manufacturer’s website or app for any firmware updates and follow the instructions to install them.
These are some of the tips on how to use and maintain the Bluetooth headset. By following these tips, you can enjoy your Bluetooth headset for a long time and have a better riding experience.
Common Questions About Bluetooth Headsets for Motorcycle Riding
Many riders have questions about Bluetooth headsets and how they can improve their riding experience. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and their answers:
Is it worth getting a Bluetooth motorcycle helmet?
Yes, it is worth getting a Bluetooth motorcycle helmet, as they can offer convenience, compatibility, and aesthetics. You don’t have to worry about installing or removing the headset, finding a headset that fits your helmet, or the headset affecting the look or aerodynamics of your helmet.
Do Bluetooth headphones work on motorcycle?
Bluetooth headphones can work on motorcycle, but they may not be the best option for riding. They may get damaged or lost due to weather, impact, or theft. They may also interfere with your hearing or awareness of your surroundings. You may want to use a Bluetooth headset that is designed for motorcycle riding.
Can you listen to music with a Bluetooth motorcycle helmet?
Yes, you can listen to music with a Bluetooth motorcycle helmet, as long as it has a music streaming or sharing feature. You can connect your Bluetooth motorcycle helmet to your smartphone, your music player, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices, and enjoy your favorite tunes while riding. You can also control the music using the headset buttons, the remote control, or the voice command.
Conclusion:
In this article, we have discussed some of the features that you should look for in a Bluetooth headset, such as alerting abilities, special features, resistance, and durability. We have also reviewed some of the best Bluetooth headsets for different riding styles, such as solo riders, duo riders, and group riders.
By following the tips and guides we have provided, you can find a Bluetooth headset that meets your needs and expectations. Remember, a Bluetooth headset can make a big difference in your riding experience, so don’t hesitate to invest in one today.