How To Choose The Best Motorcycle Intercom For You

Motorcycle Intercom Features

Motorcycle intercoms are communication systems designed specifically for motorcyclists to communicate with each other or other devices while riding. They offer various features to enhance communication and ensure safety on the road. Here are the key features commonly found in motorcycle intercom systems:

• Bluetooth Connectivity: Most modern motorcycle intercoms use Bluetooth technology to establish a wireless connection with other intercom units, smartphones, GPS devices, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This allows riders to communicate hands-free and wirelessly.
• Intercom Range: The range is an important consideration, as it determines how far apart riders can be while still maintaining a reliable communication link. Some intercoms offer short-range communication for rider-to-passenger, while others provide longer ranges for group rides.
• Multi-Party Intercom: This feature allows multiple riders (usually up to 4 or more) to communicate with each other simultaneously. It is essential for group rides, as it enhances coordination and safety within the riding group.
• Noise Cancellation: Motorcycle intercoms are equipped with noise-canceling technology to reduce wind noise and other ambient sounds, ensuring clear communication even at high speeds and in noisy environments.
• Voice Activation (VOX): VOX enables the intercom to automatically switch on when the rider speaks, and then switch off when they stop talking. This hands-free functionality improves convenience and safety.
• Audio Quality: High-quality speakers and microphones are vital for clear and crisp sound during communication. Look for intercoms that provide good audio quality to ensure effective communication.
• Music and GPS Integration: Many motorcycle intercoms allow riders to listen to music or follow GPS navigation instructions from their smartphones or GPS devices. This feature adds entertainment and helps riders stay on track without distractions.
• Waterproof and Durability: Since motorcycles are exposed to various weather conditions, it is crucial for the intercom to be waterproof and durable to withstand rain, dust, and vibrations.
• Battery Life: Long battery life is essential for extended rides. Consider intercoms with sufficient battery capacity to last throughout your intended riding duration.
• Easy Mounting and Controls: Look for intercom systems that are easy to install on helmets and have user-friendly controls for adjusting volume, switching between channels, or activating other functions.
• App Integration: Some motorcycle intercoms come with companion smartphone apps that provide additional features, settings, and firmware updates.
• Compatibility with Other Brands: If you ride with friends who use different intercom brands, ensure your chosen intercom is compatible with theirs for seamless communication.

By considering these key features, you can choose a motorcycle intercom that best suits your communication needs and enhances your riding experience while ensuring safety on the road.

Wired Motorcycle Intercom

As motorcycle technology continues to evolve, the popularity of wired intercoms has indeed diminished in favor of wireless options, primarily due to their limited range restricted to communication between rider and passenger. Consequently, locating high-quality wired intercom systems may pose a greater challenge today. However, it's worth noting that wired intercoms remain the more budget-friendly option for enabling communication between a rider and passenger. It's important to be aware that these systems may lack noise cancellation features, making them suitable only for brief conversations. Also note that every time you and a passenger get on and off the bike you have to remember to unplug the units. Additionally, music streaming and phone call functionalities are not available with wired intercoms. You can see an example here: Helmet Walkie Talkie Headset with Mic

Wireless Motorcycle Intercom

In the realm of motorcycle intercoms, two main wireless technologies dominate the U.S. market: Bluetooth and Mesh. However, it's worth mentioning that there are alternative options, such as helmet adapters connecting to two-way radios that utilize standard 2-way radio technology. Nevertheless, these alternatives are less common and require the installation of a push-to-talk switch on your handlebars.

2-Way Radio Motorcycle Adapter Cables

Two-way radio motorcycle intercoms, also known as radio intercom systems, facilitate real-time, two-way communication either between riders or between a rider and a support team, leveraging standard handheld 2-way radios. Unlike Bluetooth intercoms that rely on paired connections to smartphones or other devices, two-way radio intercoms utilize radio frequency (RF) technology, enabling direct communication without the need for cellular networks or Wi-Fi.

One of the key advantages of this solution lies in the use of affordable 2-way radios that offer an extended communication range. However, it's essential to consider the trade-offs, as this setup may lack some advanced features and noise cancellation capabilities. The effectiveness of the solution largely depends on the specific 2-way radio you choose for your setup.

The adapter kit comprises helmet-mounted speakers, a conveniently placed push-to-talk (PTT) button for your bike's handlebars, and an adapter cable to connect to the 2-way radio. Ensuring compatibility, it's crucial to select a kit with the appropriate plug that fits your chosen 2-way radio model.

Keep in mind that upon dismounting the motorcycle, you'll need to disconnect the cable from the radio and the PTT switch. For added convenience, the PTT button attaches to your handlebar using Velcro, allowing easy access with one of your fingers.

Customizing the communication experience based on your helmet type, you can choose between the full-face helmet mic with two speakers or the half helmet boom mic setup. This flexibility enables you to tailor the communication system to suit your specific preferences and needs.

Here are some key features and details about two-way radio motorcycle intercoms:

• Radio Frequency (RF) Communication: Two-way radio intercoms operate on specific radio frequencies, typically in the UHF (Ultra High Frequency) or VHF (Very High Frequency) bands. They can work on dedicated frequencies, walkie-talkie channels, or even licensed radio frequencies.
• Direct Communication: Two-way radio intercoms facilitate direct communication between riders without relying on a cellular network or internet connection. This makes them suitable for remote areas or situations where cellular coverage is limited.
• Push-to-Talk (PTT) Functionality: Users can activate communication by pressing a Push-to-Talk (PTT) button on the intercom unit or a handlebar-mounted PTT button. This button press signals the start of transmission and allows riders to speak to each other in real-time.
• Group Communication: Two-way radio intercoms support group communication, allowing multiple riders within a defined range to communicate simultaneously. This feature is particularly useful for group rides, tours, or events where coordination is essential.
• Range and Power Output: The communication range of two-way radio intercoms can vary depending on factors such as terrain, obstructions, and the power output of the devices. Some models offer extended ranges, enabling communication over several miles.
• Waterproof and Rugged Design: Motorcycle intercoms are exposed to various weather conditions, so two-way radio intercoms are designed to be waterproof and rugged to withstand rain, dust, and vibrations.
• Privacy and Encryption: Some two-way radio intercoms offer privacy features like digital encryption, ensuring that communication remains secure and private from unauthorized listeners.

It's worth noting that two-way radio intercoms are more common in professional and commercial use, such as for motorcycle tour operators, event organizers, security teams, and emergency response personnel. They can also be used by enthusiast riders who prefer radio communication or participate in off-road adventures where cellular coverage is limited. However, two-way radio intercoms may have limitations in terms of additional features like music streaming or GPS integration, which are commonly found in Bluetooth intercom systems.

Here is an example of an adaptor kit: 2-way-radio-motorcyle-intercom

Bluetooth 5.0

Bluetooth 5 is the fifth generation of the popular wireless communication technology known as Bluetooth. It was officially introduced by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) in December 2016. Bluetooth 5 brings significant improvements over its predecessor, Bluetooth 4.2, in terms of speed, range, and overall performance. Here are some of the key features and enhancements of Bluetooth 5:

• Increased Data Transfer Speed: Bluetooth 5 offers up to 2 Mbps (megabits per second) data transfer speed, which is twice as fast as Bluetooth 4.2. This increased speed allows for quicker file transfers, improved audio quality, and better performance for data-intensive applications.
• Longer Range: One of the most notable improvements of Bluetooth 5 is its extended range. It provides four times the range of Bluetooth 4.2, allowing devices to communicate over greater distances. This enhancement makes Bluetooth 5 suitable for use in larger spaces and even outdoor environments.
• Low Energy (LE) Features: Bluetooth 5 maintains the low energy features introduced in Bluetooth 4.0, making it ideal for power-efficient applications like fitness trackers, smartwatches, and IoT (Internet of Things) devices. The increased speed and range do not compromise the energy efficiency of Bluetooth 5.
• Improved Broadcasting: Bluetooth 5 enables more efficient broadcasting of data, which is useful for beacon applications and location-based services. With the increased range, it becomes easier for devices to discover and connect to nearby Bluetooth devices.
• Enhanced Connection Stability: Bluetooth 5 improves connection stability and reduces the likelihood of interference, ensuring a more reliable and consistent connection between devices.
• Backward Compatibility: Despite the significant enhancements, Bluetooth 5 remains backward compatible with previous versions. This means that Bluetooth 5 devices can still communicate with older Bluetooth devices (Bluetooth 4.x and below), though they may not benefit from the speed and range improvements.
• Mesh Networking Support: Bluetooth 5 includes native support for mesh networking, allowing devices to create large-scale networks that can cover extensive areas. This feature is especially valuable in commercial and industrial applications where multiple devices need to communicate within a network.
• Dual Audio: Bluetooth 5 supports the ability to stream audio to multiple Bluetooth devices simultaneously. This feature is useful for sharing audio between two sets of wireless headphones or speakers from a single source device.

Bluetooth 5 has become widely adopted in various consumer electronics, including smartphones, headphones, speakers, smartwatches, fitness trackers, and smart home devices. Its improved speed, range, and power efficiency have contributed to a better wireless communication experience, paving the way for more advanced and interconnected devices in the Internet of Things era.

Mesh Intercoms

Mesh motorcycle intercoms are a specific type of communication system designed for motorcyclists to establish seamless and dynamic communication within a group of riders. Unlike traditional Bluetooth intercoms that rely on a linear daisy-chain connection, mesh intercoms utilize mesh networking technology. In a mesh network, each device (rider) acts as a node, relaying signals to other nodes, creating a web-like network. This architecture allows for more flexible and reliable communication, even if one or more riders go out of range or drop out temporarily.

Here are some key details about mesh motorcycle intercoms:

• Self-Healing Network: In a mesh network, the intercom system can automatically find alternative paths for communication if a connection between two riders is temporarily lost. This self-healing capability ensures that the network remains intact, providing continuous communication among all riders in the group.
• Dynamic Range Extension: As each rider serves as a relay node in the mesh, the range between individual riders extends beyond the direct line-of-sight communication. This dynamic range extension allows the group to spread out over longer distances while maintaining communication.
• Group Size: Mesh motorcycle intercoms can support larger group sizes compared to traditional Bluetooth intercoms. Some systems can accommodate groups of 10 or more riders, depending on the specific model and manufacturer.
• Multi-Hop Communication: In a mesh network, information can hop from one rider to another until it reaches the intended recipient. This multi-hop communication ensures that even riders farthest from the leader or source can still participate in the conversation.
• Voice-Activated Communication (VOX): Many mesh intercoms support voice-activated communication, where the intercom activates automatically when a rider speaks. This hands-free functionality allows for natural and convenient communication.
• App Integration and Smartphone Control: Some mesh intercoms come with companion smartphone apps that allow riders to control and customize various settings, update firmware, and access additional features.
• Audio Quality and Noise Cancellation: High-quality speakers and advanced noise-canceling technology are important features of mesh intercoms. These technologies ensure clear and crisp communication, even in noisy riding environments.
• Battery Life: Battery life is a crucial consideration for long rides. Many mesh intercoms offer extended battery life to support extended group rides.
• Waterproof and Durability: Like other motorcycle intercoms, mesh intercoms are designed to withstand various weather conditions and vibrations, ensuring they remain functional even during challenging rides.
• Compatibility: While mesh intercoms offer enhanced features, some models may not be backward compatible with older Bluetooth intercoms. Riders should ensure that all members of their group have compatible devices for seamless communication.

Mesh motorcycle intercoms have gained popularity among riders who frequently participate in group rides or tours. The ability to maintain a reliable and flexible communication network within a group enhances safety, coordination, and overall riding experience. Riders should consider the size of their group, range requirements, battery life, and specific features offered by different manufacturers when choosing a mesh intercom system that best fits their needs.

Voice Activation

Voice-activated intercoms that work with Siri and other virtual assistant services leverage the capabilities of voice recognition technology to allow users to interact with the intercom using voice commands. These intercom systems integrate with popular virtual assistants like Siri or Google. The intercoms may have their own voice recognition that operates their controls. For instance, you can control Cardo systems by saying "Hey Cardo" followed by a command they understand.

Here's how these voice-activated intercoms work and some of their features:

• Voice Recognition: Voice-activated intercoms use advanced voice recognition algorithms to interpret spoken commands from users. When the user activates the intercom with a wake-up phrase (e.g., "Hey Siri", "OK Google", or "Hey Cardo"), the system starts listening for further instructions.
• Integration with Virtual Assistants: These intercoms are designed to work with virtual assistant services like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant. Users can use familiar voice commands to perform various tasks, such as making calls, sending messages, playing music, setting reminders, or getting weather updates.
• Hands-Free Operation: The primary advantage of voice-activated intercoms is their hands-free operation. Riders or users don't need to press buttons or use their hands to operate the intercom. Instead, they can keep their hands on the handlebars (in the case of motorcycle intercoms) or go about their tasks while using voice commands.
• Smartphone Integration: To work with virtual assistants like Siri, these intercoms typically require a connection to a paired smartphone. The smartphone acts as an intermediary to process voice commands and communicate with the virtual assistant service.
• App Integration: Some voice-activated intercoms have companion apps that offer additional functionality and customization options. These apps may enable users to adjust intercom settings, manage contacts, and configure voice command preferences.
• Multifunctional Capabilities: In addition to serving as an intercom, these devices often offer other features such as Bluetooth music streaming, GPS navigation integration, and compatibility with smartphone apps for calls, messages, and music control.
• Noise Cancellation: To ensure accurate voice recognition, these intercoms often include noise cancellation technology. It helps reduce background noise and wind interference, allowing clear and precise voice commands even in noisy environments.
• Privacy and Security: Voice-activated intercoms that integrate with virtual assistants raise privacy and security concerns, as they need access to voice data for processing. Reputable manufacturers prioritize user privacy and implement encryption to protect sensitive information.

These voice-activated intercoms find applications not only in motorcycle communication systems but also in smart helmets, home intercom systems, and other communication devices. They offer a convenient and safe way for users to communicate, access information, and control various functions using their voice without the need to fiddle with buttons or screens.

Hi Fidelity Sound

Motorcycle intercoms that incorporate high-fidelity speakers from renowned audio brands like JBL (part of Harman Kardon) offer an enhanced audio experience for riders. JBL and Harman Kardon are well-known for producing premium audio equipment, and their speakers are recognized for delivering superior sound quality and clarity. When integrated into motorcycle intercom systems, these high-fidelity speakers can provide a more immersive and enjoyable audio communication and entertainment experience for riders.

Here are some benefits and features of motorcycle intercoms that use high-fidelity speakers from JBL and Harman Kardon:

• Superior Sound Quality: The high-fidelity speakers from JBL and Harman Kardon are engineered to produce rich, clear, and detailed sound across a wide frequency range. As a result, riders can enjoy crystal-clear communication and music playback, even in noisy riding environments.
• Enhanced Bass and Treble Response: High-fidelity speakers are designed to deliver well-balanced audio with pronounced bass and clear treble. This balanced sound reproduction ensures that both voice communication and music sound natural and immersive.
• Noise Isolation and Cancellation: Many high-quality speakers from these brands feature noise isolation and cancellation technologies, reducing external noise and wind interference. This helps riders hear communication more clearly, even at high speeds.
• Loud and Distortion-Free Volume: High-fidelity speakers are capable of delivering loud sound without distortion. This is particularly important for motorcycle intercoms, where ambient noise can be significant.

It's important to note that the sound quality of an intercom system is not solely dependent on the speakers. The overall audio performance is influenced by other factors such as the intercom's audio processing capabilities, microphone quality, and the helmet's fit and acoustic characteristics. Riders should consider a complete package with high-quality speakers, advanced audio technology, and other essential features to ensure the best communication and audio experience while riding.

Android or IOS Apps

For motorcycle intercoms, Android and iOS apps are often used to enhance the functionality and user experience of the communication system. These apps serve various purposes, offering additional features and customization options for riders using their smartphones in conjunction with their intercom devices. Here are some common uses of Android and iOS apps for motorcycle intercoms:

• Configuration and Control: Many intercom systems come with dedicated apps that allow riders to configure and control various settings directly from their smartphones. This includes adjusting volume levels, noise cancellation settings, pairing multiple devices, and managing communication preferences.
• Firmware Updates: Intercom manufacturers often release firmware updates to improve performance, add new features, or fix bugs. The accompanying mobile apps provide an easy way to check for and install these updates, ensuring the intercom is up-to-date with the latest improvements.
• GPS Integration: Some intercom apps can integrate with GPS navigation apps on the rider's smartphone. This enables seamless communication with voice prompts, providing turn-by-turn directions while riding without the need to take hands off the handlebars.
• Music and Media Control: Smartphone apps can offer control over music and media playback, allowing riders to play, pause, skip tracks, and adjust volume without manually interacting with their phones.
• Intercom Group Management: For intercom systems that support group communication, the accompanying app can assist in managing and organizing rider groups, facilitating easy connection and disconnection between members.
• Intercom Range Monitoring: Apps may display real-time information about the intercom's connection range, helping riders stay within the communication range and ensuring a reliable connection with other riders.
• Battery Status and Health: Some apps provide battery status and health information for the intercom devices, allowing riders to monitor the battery levels and plan for charging when necessary.
• Emergency Features: Certain intercom apps come equipped with emergency features, such as sending SOS messages or alerting predefined emergency contacts in case of an accident or distress situation.

Overall, Android and iOS apps for motorcycle intercoms serve as valuable companions, enhancing the intercom experience by providing added functionality and ease of use through smartphone integration. Riders can conveniently manage their intercom settings, access navigation prompts, control media, and enjoy a seamless communication experience while on the road.

Half Helmets

Motorcycle intercoms for half helmets are communication systems specifically designed to fit onto or inside half helmets, which are a type of helmet that covers only the top half of the head, leaving the face exposed. These intercoms are tailored to the unique shape and size constraints of half helmets, providing a convenient and seamless communication experience for riders who prefer this style of helmet.

Here are some key details and considerations regarding motorcycle intercoms for half helmets:

• Compact Design: Intercoms for half helmets are compact and lightweight to ensure they fit comfortably within the limited space available in half helmets. The design typically involves slim speakers and a discrete control unit.
• Clip-On or Clamp-On Mounting: Many intercoms for half helmets offer clip-on or clamp-on mounting options. The speakers and microphone can be easily attached to the helmet's interior, providing a secure fit without compromising helmet integrity.
• Wired or Bluetooth Connectivity: Intercoms for half helmets can use either wired or Bluetooth connectivity to communicate with other devices or intercom units. Wired intercoms have physical connections, while Bluetooth-enabled intercoms offer wireless communication with other Bluetooth devices like smartphones, other intercoms, or GPS systems.Voice Activation (VOX): Some models of motorcycle intercoms for half helmets support voice-activated communication (VOX), enabling hands-free operation. The intercom activates automatically when the rider speaks, allowing for easy and convenient communication.
• Intercom Range: The range of the intercom is an essential consideration, especially for group rides. Riders should ensure that the intercom's range is suitable for their riding style and group size.
• Audio Quality: Despite the smaller size of the speakers, intercoms for half helmets aim to provide decent audio quality for clear communication and music playback. Some models use advanced noise-canceling technology to reduce wind and road noise.
• Battery Life: Battery life is crucial for long rides. Half helmet intercoms should offer sufficient battery capacity to last throughout the rider's intended journey.
• Waterproof and Durability: Like all motorcycle intercoms, those for half helmets should be waterproof and durable to withstand various weather conditions and vibrations.
• Single Rider or Rider-Passenger Communication: Depending on the model, half helmet intercoms may offer communication features for a single rider (rider-to-rider) or for rider-passenger communication.
• Integration with Smartphone and GPS: Some half helmet intercoms may offer integration with smartphones or GPS devices, allowing riders to make calls, receive GPS directions, or listen to music through their intercom system.
• Helmet Compatibility: It's essential to ensure that the chosen intercom is compatible with the specific half helmet model being used.

Motorcycle intercoms for half helmets provide a practical solution for riders who prefer the minimalist design and open-face feeling of half helmets but still desire communication capabilities while riding. Riders should carefully consider the features, compatibility, and comfort of the intercom system to find the best fit for their half helmet and communication needs.

What are the problems with motorcycle intercoms for half helmets?

While motorcycle intercoms for half helmets offer a convenient communication solution for riders, they also come with certain limitations and challenges. Some of the common problems associated with motorcycle intercoms for half helmets include:

• Limited Speaker Size: Half helmets have limited space for speakers due to their compact design, which can impact the audio quality. Smaller speakers may not deliver the same level of sound clarity and depth as larger speakers found in full-face helmet intercoms.
• Wind and Road Noise: Half helmets expose the face, leaving it susceptible to wind and road noise. This can affect the clarity of communication and music playback, especially at higher speeds or in windy conditions.
• Noise Isolation: The open-face design of half helmets means there is less noise isolation compared to full-face helmets. External noises can interfere with the audio, making it more challenging to hear conversations or music clearly.
• Compatibility with Headsets: Some half helmets are not specifically designed to accommodate intercom headsets, leading to difficulties in properly fitting the intercom components into the helmet.
• Less Mounting Options: Compared to full-face helmets, half helmets may offer fewer mounting options for intercom speakers and control units. Riders may need to use adhesive or clamp-on mounts, which might not be as secure or long-lasting.
• Limited Intercom Range: The smaller size and potential lack of external antennas on half helmet intercoms can result in reduced communication range compared to larger, more robust intercom systems.
• Challenges in Handling Controls: The compact design of half helmet intercoms can make it more difficult for riders to access and use the control buttons while wearing gloves, potentially leading to distractions and reduced safety.
• Weather Vulnerability: Half helmets leave the face exposed, which can be a concern in adverse weather conditions. Rain, dust, or cold air can directly affect the intercom's microphone and speakers, potentially reducing their effectiveness.
• Single Rider Communication: Some half helmet intercoms may lack the multi-party intercom feature, limiting communication to rider-passenger or rider-to-rider scenarios.

Despite these challenges, many riders find motorcycle intercoms for half helmets to be beneficial for short-distance communication, rider-passenger interaction, and local group rides. It's important for riders to carefully consider their communication needs, the specific intercom model's features, and their comfort preferences while selecting an intercom system for their half helmet. Additionally, riders should always prioritize safety and ensure that any communication device used while riding does not compromise their ability to focus on the road and surroundings.

Sena SPH10H-FM Bluetooth Headset and Intercom for Half Helmets

The SPH10H-FM Bluetooth Headset and Intercom is specially designed for half helmets, providing motorcycle riders with a seamless communication solution. With hands-free calling and music streaming from Bluetooth devices, it enhances the riding experience. The full duplex intercom feature enables real-time and bidirectional communication between riders, making group rides more coordinated. The headset ensures exceptional sound quality, even in noisy environments, and boasts user-friendly button operations and easy installation on compatible half helmets. It is versatile, compatible with most half helmets, and water-resistant. With a long battery life of up to 10 hours, riders can stay connected and safe on their motorcycles, enjoying calls, music, and GPS directions effortlessly. The SPH10H-FM Bluetooth Headset and Intercom offers an exceptional communication companion for a remarkable journey on two wheels.

You can see more about the helmet here: Half-Helmet Motorcycle Intercom