Are you a motorcycle enthusiast who enjoys the freedom of the open road? If so, you’ve probably considered getting a Bluetooth headset for your helmet. With the ever-advancing technology, these headsets have become essential for riders who want to stay connected while on the go. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know to choose the best motorcycle Bluetooth headset in 2022.

Do I need a specific model for my helmet?

The first question that comes to mind when considering a Bluetooth headset is whether you need a specific model for your helmet. Some helmet manufacturers, such as AGV, LS2, Nolan, Schuberth, and X-Lite, offer their own helmet-specific intercoms. However, most generic systems can be attached to the outside of any helmet. You simply attach the microphone to the inside of the chin bar and place a soft speaker into the lining of your helmet near your ear.

If you prefer to ride with an open face lid or a flip-up helmet, you’ll need a Bluetooth headset that comes with a boom mic attachment. Most headsets already include one in the box, but if not, you’ll be able to purchase one separately for your specific model.

What’s the difference between a Bluetooth headset and an Intercom?

In the past, if you wanted to listen to the radio or communicate with a passenger, you would have needed a kit like the Autocom, a popular choice among dedicated tourers and motorcycle instructors. These kits used radio waves instead of Bluetooth for communication. Nowadays, Bluetooth headsets can perform various roles, allowing you to connect to your own devices for music streaming or making calls.

Bluetooth headsets also offer the convenience of communicating with a pillion or a riding buddy. By purchasing two headsets from the same manufacturer and pairing them, you’ll be able to talk to a passenger effortlessly. Similarly, if you and your riding buddy have headsets from the same brand and stay within a reasonable distance of each other, you can communicate on the go.

Can I talk to a pillion or another rider?

When it comes to communicating with other riders, connectivity and range play crucial roles. To communicate with a riding buddy, it’s best to ensure both of you have the same make and model of Bluetooth headset. While it’s possible for different makes and models to talk to each other, it’s not always guaranteed.

Additionally, consider the range of your headset. Some cheaper options, known as “City” headsets, have a shorter range of around 250 meters. These are suitable for rider-to-pillion communication but may not be ideal for open roads where you may be out of range. Keep in mind that the range depends on line of sight: if you can’t see the other rider’s headset, the Bluetooth won’t have the range to transmit.

For touring purposes, you’ll need a longer range, which can be achieved through headsets that use radio transmitting technology rather than Bluetooth. Quality manufacturers offer versions with ranges of up to 1 mile, and some even go up to 5 miles. Make sure to check the range before making a purchase to ensure it meets your needs.

If you’re aiming for the best quality, opt for a headset that uses at least Bluetooth 4.1 technology or above. The latest technology on the market is currently Bluetooth 5.3. Headsets with 4.1 tech or above provide better range, improved audio quality, and lower battery consumption.

Lastly, any headset that enables rider-to-rider or rider-to-pillion communication will also fulfill all the standard functions you’d expect from a Bluetooth headset, such as playing music and taking calls. And no, it won’t give you feedback on your riding ability, but we can dream, right?

Now that you understand the essentials of choosing a motorcycle Bluetooth headset, you’re ready to hit the road with style and stay connected like never before. For more information and a wide selection of top-notch Bluetooth headsets, check out NokiaMA Headset Design. Stay safe and enjoy your rides!