![]() This is one of those times when there’s no substitute for owner feedback, unbiased opinions from motorcyclists who have used the gear in the real world. Nobody gives out any kind of figures to back their claims. Most are effective, but it’s pretty much impossible to tell just by their say-so. General background and road noise can sometimes be a problem, and manufacturers use noise-canceling or noise-control technology to provide the clearest sound possible. You might want to check recharging time, though 2 to 3 hours covers most. Rider-to-passenger models can last up to 50 hours. Bike-to-bike headsets might run anywhere from 6 to 12 hours. It’s one area where cheap, rider-to-passenger headsets are actually better. You might have several days on standby, but actual talk time will be much less. Batteryīattery life also varies from model to model. Others can overlay GPS instructions over other channels, so you get important information even if you’re listening to music or talking to another rider. For example, incoming phone calls usually take precedence. ![]() Some switch from one to the other depending on priority. The ultimate in ease of use is via voice recognition, though these models are expensive.įM radio reception, MP3 player compatibility, hands-free control when making and receiving phone calls, and interactivity with GPS systems are all common. Some riders find the latter can be a bit frustrating, though better models offer voice prompts. The two alternatives are buttons that have multiple positions or those that are pressed for different lengths of time. Basic systems may only need a couple of buttons, but models with more complex functionality need more complicated controls. Major control buttons should be nice and chunky, because you’re mostly going to be operating them while wearing gloves. If you want to ensure compatibility, you need a universal model. Many manufacturers say their units can interact with other models, but most are honest enough to admit that there can be problems. If you’re joining a mixed group, there’s a good chance there will be a number of different motorcycle headsets. Some devices also “remember” group members, so if for any reason you drop out of range for a few minutes, it will reconnect you automatically once you’re back with your friends. You can also add other riders to the conversation, anywhere from 3 to 15 additional people, depending on the system. Current versions of Bluetooth have a much greater range, so you can share communications bike to bike. Some of the cheapest motorcycle Bluetooth headsets still use that older technology. RangeĮarly Bluetooth had a limited range, maybe 30 to 60 feet, which is more than adequate if you just want to talk to your passenger. Many, but not all, headsets provide both, so care is needed when choosing. It can be a problem on half helmets and open-face models, and the usual solution is to cover the microphone with a fat foam “sock.” It’s effective, but it doesn’t fit easily inside full-face or convertible helmets, so a smaller sock is used. Wind noise: The other element that has to be considered is wind noise. One or two manufacturers offer specific models for those helmets. You need to check that the supplied fitting is suitable. However, if you wear a half helmet, the kind popular with custom motorcycle and bobber riders, clips and clamps won’t work. Both clips and clamps give you the option of moving the headset from one helmet to another, something you might want to do if you ride on the road during the week but off-road wearing a different helmet on the weekends. Most attach via a sticky pad, spring clips, or clamp. ![]() You need to look at how the headset fits your helmet and whether it’s suitable, because not all microphones work with all helmet styles.Ĭontrol unit: First, there’s the question of fixing the control unit, which goes on the outside of the helmet. ![]() Obviously, your helmet is important, but we’re not talking about the safety aspect here. Some MP3 players and phones can only pair with one Bluetooth device at a time. Some riders complain they can’t share music or phone conversations, but it’s probably not the motorcycle headset. ![]()
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