Riding a motorcycle offers a different sense of freedom compared to when you travel by car. Feeling the wind wash over your body as you drive around gives a different level of exhilaration. However, one of the most common nitpicks of driving a motorcycle is with communicating with someone or if you wish to listen to your favorite music while cruising around.
But you can’t take your hands off the motorcycle handlebars for an extended amount of time. Listening to music as you drive is also somewhat tricky to do as you need to contend with ambient noise due to the rushing wind. You need to wear your helmet for safety purposes, of course, operating a standard headset while wearing a helmet is a big no-no for traffic safety.
This is where motorcycle Bluetooth headsets come into the scene. With these types of headsets, riders can quickly answer calls and listen to music and even communicate with each other without the need to remove their helmet or fumble around with another device. Below are 10 of our most highly recommended motorcycle Bluetooth headsets that you can buy today.
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Best Motorcycle Bluetooth Headsets
Best High-End Pick: Cardo Scala Rider Packtalk Duo
The Cardo Scala Rider PackTalk is a high-end and feature-rich motorcycle Bluetooth headset for those who want the best money can buy. The Packtalk DMC technology which can connect up to 15 riders at the same time. Cardo is a well-known brand with a wide product line.
DMC technology also adapts to the formation of riders with a nifty thing called Parallel Audio Streaming (PAS). PAS also assists in streamlining intercom chats as well as play a wide variety of media files with no issues. It also has a Private Mode that allows one rider the option to chat with a specific person or the entire group.
The Scala comes in a dual pack with two earpieces but is also available in a single pack for a lone rider. Some of the more helpful features on this version of the Packtalk headset is its auto-volume capability that adjusts to accommodate ambient noise. It has 13-hour talk time on a single charge and comes with a built-in FM radio. This Bluetooth headset is also remote controlled via the Cardo Connect app.
Pros:
- 15 riders can be connected at the same time.
- HD audio
- Compatible with other brands.
- 13-hour talk time and can be charged on the go.
Cons:
- The Packtalk headset is not plug-and-play and will require a slight bit of tinkering.
Best Overall Value Pick: Sena SMH10-11 Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset
The Sena SMH10-11 Headset comes with some essential travel features in its small frame.
One such feature is its GPS navigating capability. The SMH10-11 model allows riders to listen to GPS navigating instructions with high levels of clarity. This is a must-have if you are traveling through areas that you are not familiar with.
The Sena SMH10-11 version also comes with an advanced noise control technology under its hood. This technology can effectively drown out loud ambient noise so that you get to hear what you are listening to as clearly as possible.
Additional things to mention about this product include a nice little mic kit that will make travel vlogging considerably easier and fun. Up to four users can be connected at the same time during group chats.
Sena is a top brand in the industry, known for developing some of the best motorcycle headsets on the market as well as other products for sports and industrial helmets. They have built quite a reputation for themselves in this market.
Pros:
- Audio is quite crystal clear
- Compatible with full and half-helmets.
- Wired and wireless options.
Cons:
- Bass is noticeably “thin”.
- Might require a handful of wires to be installed into the helmet if you’re not opting for wireless
Best Budget Pick: FreedConn Motorcycle Communication System
If you are looking for a top motorcycle Bluetooth system at an incredibly low price, then the FreedConn TCOM-SC-800M is an excellent product in this price range. It features highly intuitive controls that deliver smooth and convenient hands-free operation.
This headset truly excels when in Intercom Mode. Communicating with your buddies as you ride is easy and straightforward thanks to FreedConn’s highly compatible with other brands. This Bluetooth headset supports HFP, A2DP, and HSP profiles.
Having a clear conversation is the goal of the FreedConn headset, and it pulls that off thanks to its echo canceling technology. You will receive crystal clear audio from the other line, and vice versa making it much easier to communicate with users on other motorcycles.
Other features of the FreedConn system is its waterproof construction and the Audio Multitasking Technology (AMT) that makes this one of the most user-friendly plug-and-play Bluetooth headsets available in the market today. All these features make it a good deal for the price.
Pros:
- Simple and easy, hands-free operation.
- Solid construction.
- Compatible with other brands and profiles.
Cons:
- Its audio when listening to music leaves much to be desired.
Affordable Rider-Rider Communication: Cardo Scala Rider FreeCom 1+
The Cardo Scala Rider Freecom 1+ is specifically made to the highest quality intercom experience possible. It has a long-range and can operate under various conditions. The compact design also puts it as one of the most comfortable motorcycle headsets around. It is also a dustproof, waterproof, and snow proof headset. This heavy-duty feature makes it a perfect companion for riders who are always under constant exposure to the natural elements.
The Freecom also comes with Cardo Scala’s signature features. This allows GPS and music to play in the background even during phone conversations. Cardo is a top brand in the industry and has been making wireless headpieces since 2003.
You can read more about the brand and its products and accessories here on its website.
Volume adjusts depending on the level of ambient noise which means the user does not no need to tinker with the buttons when on the road.
This unit also utilizes the Cardo Connect app which is compatible with both Android and iOS versions and gets updated regularly. As for battery life, it clocks in at an uninterrupted 13-hour talk time and can be charged on the fly.
2021: This upgraded 1+ version replaces the Freecom 1 that was previously listed.
Pros:
- The rider to rider range is around 0.8 miles.
- IP67 rating.
- Speakers automatically adjust the volume
- HD audio.
Cons:
- Some updates fail to install or download.
- iOS compatibility is a bit shaky.
Best for Listening to Music: Sena 20S-01 Motorcycle Bluetooth
For motorcycle riders who prefer a Bluetooth headset that also delivers top-notch stereo sound when it comes to music streaming inside your helmet.
The Sena 20S-01 is a good product to take a closer look at. In terms of being connected to multiple calls, the Sena 20S-01 can sync up 8 of your friends during a single call.
Audio call experience is impressive with the 20S-01 as it can deliver HD stereo audio during mobile calls for up to 2km. The Audio Multitasking Technology also allows for music to play in the background while you are chatting up with a buddy. This feature is an essential element to look for.
As for listening to your favorite music, the Sena 20S-01 is one of the best in this category. Speaker quality is superb, and the bass is maintained. The 20S-01 is certainly designed for audiophiles who prefer their music listening experience to be at the highest level possible.
Pros:
- One of the highest and accurate audio
- Comfortable and modern style
- On-point voice command capabilities.
- Responsive customer support
Cons:
- It comes with the Sena app which is still rough around edges as of this writing.
- The price tag is somewhat higher.
Other Top Motorcycle Bluetooth Headsets
LEXIN B4FM Bluetooth Motorcycle Intercom Headsets
The LEXIN B4FM is designed for optimum convenience at a reasonable price. This Bluetooth headset incorporates a reliable voice command feature to make operating the headset quick and straightforward.
The LEXIM B4FM is compatible with both iOS’ Siri and Samsung’s S technology. The B4FM also features a GPS navigation system, music streaming, accepting incoming and outgoing calls. The LENIX headset is also enabled with universal pairing which means it is compatible with virtually every Bluetooth device in the market.
As for GPS navigation, you will be happy to learn that it comes with voice guidance feature. The headset delivers high-definition audio quality for both clear conversations during calls and listening to your favorite tunes.
Pros:
- Impressive battery life.
- Pretty good speaker volume levels.
- Microphone blocks off ambient noise.
Cons:
- Limited 800m range.
- The headset itself is a little bulky and might cause discomfort for some users.
Fodsports Motorcycle Bluetooth Intercom Headset
The Fodsports Bluetooth Intercom Headset can connect up to 8 people at the same time on the road. One of its strong points is its ability to mitigate ambient noise so that users only get to hear each other even when the wind is blowing past their helmet.
This intercom also uses a 600mAH battery which should last long enough for an average ride. This headset also notifies you of the battery level so you won’t get caught off guard when the power is completely drained.
The Fodsports incorporates Bluetooth version 4.1 technology which makes it compatible with all Bluetooth devices in the market today. It also comes with a bunch of communication protocols to ensure that your conversation with your friends when riding is as smooth and convenient as possible.
Pros:
- About 2,000 meters max distance between other headsets.
- Excellent noise reduction capabilities.
- 12-hour battery life.
Cons:
- Pairing instruction indicated in the manual is somewhat unclear.
- Some incompatibility issues with iOS devices.
Sena 20S EVO Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset
This is one of Sena’s premium headsets, and it clearly shows at first glance. This is a fully universal motorcycle helmet headset which means you will need to do some installation.
The 20S EVO comes with an adaptor for a wired connection as well.
Once installed, the 20S will allow riders to answer and make calls quickly, listen to their favorite tunes, and even share their music with their friends on the road. If you already have some of Sena’s 20S series at home, you will be pleased to know that the EVO is 100% compatible with others in this series.
Pairing with other headsets is also lightning fast with the EVO headset thanks to the Near Field Communication (NFC) technology installed. As for extra features included in this beast of a headset, it comes with a built-in FM radio receiver that can scan and save your favorite stations. The Sena 20S EVO is also completely waterproof so no need to worry about riding through the rain.
Pros:
- Sleek and inconspicuous “shark fin” style antenna
- Amazing wind noise cancellation capability.
- Fast charging and can last for the whole day.
- Pairing and call quality are top-notch.
Cons:
- Some issues when balancing the volume between the headset and smartphone.
- The range between paired headsets is inconsistent.
Sena SMH10R Low Profile Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset
The SMH10R leans a bit more towards the moderate price spectrum, but don’t think it drops some of Sena’s key features to accommodate the price drop. It still manages to deliver that signature Sena performance in terms of audio.
The Sena SMH10R is able to keep up to four people connected at once with the use of its multi-pair feature. This technology also enhances its intercom functionality when being used on multiple motorcycles. One of the most helpful features in the SMH10R is its voice command capability. This significantly improves safety as you won’t need to take your hands off the handlebar when operating the headset.
Another nifty feature included in this intercom headset is the audio profiles. You can adjust the volume manually using the dial, or you can save preferred levels on different profiles. For example, you can easily switch between louder speaker volume for calls and moderate levels for listening to music in a jiffy.
Pros:
- Easy to set up and use.
- Voice command is exceptionally user-friendly.
- Has an excellent wind noise-canceling technology.
Cons:
- May not be compatible with all helmet styles
- The look of the headset is a bit tacky.
Buying Guide
Finding the best motorcycle Bluetooth intercom headsets will require a bit more research as it needs to accomplish specific functions. Below are key features that you need to consider before purchasing a Bluetooth intercom headset.
Communication and Audio Quality
This is the most important element you need to look for when you shop. Look for headsets that offer impeccable audio quality during calls. As loud noises will most likely bombard you from traffic and the wind, a headset with excellent noise cancellation capability should also be considered for maximum communication.
The range capability of the headset must also be taken into consideration. You don’t want a headset that loses its connection with partnered devices quickly whenever reaching a minimum set distance between motorcycles. Go for the 500-yard minimum range (roughly five hundred meters) when it comes to Bluetooth connectivity.
Construction Quality
This factor will depend on where you will often be riding. If you ride around an area that frequently sees its fair share of rain and snow, then a waterproof headset is the way to go to ensure it won’t get damaged the first time you bring it with you for a ride.
If you live in an urban environment with lots of buildings, then a headset device with the best possible Bluetooth range should prevent instability issues from occurring. You should also check to see if the device is sun-proofed, although this feature is pretty much present by default it is best to be sure.
It is also a good idea to check if the headset comes with a warranty. This is doubly important with some higher-end products as you will be investing the right amount of money in this style of device, so it is best to have some safety net.
Ease of Use and Installation
Installing the intercom headset can be done via taping it inside the helmet or by screwing it using clamps. If you ride daily, it is recommended that you install the headset using clamps as it will make sure it stays in place for a long time.
You should also check for units that can be operated via voice command. This will lessen the need to tinker with the headset by hand while riding. Remember, safety must always be placed front and center when it comes to the rules of the road.
Additional Features to Consider
We have already discussed voice command earlier so what other features should you look for in a motorcycle intercom headset? For one, the ability to stay connected to several headsets is a must for those who enjoy riding in a group.
Some units can connect to four headsets while others can pair with over eight devices at the same time. Keep in mind that devices that can connect 8 and above headsets at the same time are usually more expensive.
You should also consider buying one with GPS navigational systems as you will primarily be using this device when traveling. There might be occasions wherein you will be going through locations that are unfamiliar to you.
Conclusion
When deciding on the best motorcycle Bluetooth headset for your specific needs, reliable Bluetooth range and excellent ambient noise cancellation capability are keys to maintaining communication.
Obviously price is a major consideration for any shopper and some of these specialized headsets do come at a premium. Because of that we’ve also included some budget options that sill offer reliable communication although they might lask some o the premium functions that brands like Sena provide.
If you are an aficionado of motorcycles getting your first headset, regardless of the specific model you choose above, they add convenience, safety, communication for an overall safer and more enjoyable ride overall.