A Bluetooth helmet is a motorcycle safety gear that, in addition to safety, offers the choice to place a call, listen to music, and communicate with your riding fellows during a motorcycle outing. Bluetooth motorcycle helmets utilize the short-range networking technology commonly found on a cell phone.
So if you’re planning on buying a Bluetooth helmet but not quite sure if it’s worth the money, read the article to know everything you need to know before buying one.
Types of Bluetooth Motorcycle Helmets
PRE-INSTALLED BLUETOOTH MOTORCYCLE HELMET
This is a helmet with built-in communication features integrated during the manufacturing process. The pre-installed Bluetooth hardware makes it an ideal choice for beginners because you don’t have to bother with installing it before use. They’re also very practical and efficient.
BLUETOOTH-COMPATIBLE MOTORCYCLE
This option is for the ones who already have a comfortable helmet but want to add Bluetooth compatibility to it. Some helmets have built-in pockets specifically designed to set up a Bluetooth unit. You can install a Bluetooth device in your helmet in many ways such as attaching the device with screws or clips.
Key Features of Bluetooth Helmets
BLUETOOTH RANGE
The range Bluetooth devices have isn’t very large. To establish an active connection, the receiving or transmitting device have to be nearby, such as your pockets. Before you pick your Bluetooth helmet or install one on your helmet, make sure the communication range of the Bluetooth system is good enough to communicate with others from a decent distance.
BATTERY LIFE
While buying a Bluetooth helmet, make sure to get one that doesn’t take long to charge. This is particularly important if you forget to charge it before leaving for your trip.The finest Bluetooth motorcycle helmet will offer a long talk time, allowing you to ride for long periods without worrying about it cutting out. It also needs to have a long stand-by period. Some items have a 600-hour lifespan.
Other Considerations
Voice Prompt
If you want to navigate or communicate with other riders without having to use your hands, you’ll need a helmet with excellent voice control. In some helmets, you have to set them up manually to place a call or make any changes, which can be an inconvience.
Sound Quality
Your helmet should be able to suppress noise in addition to providing a clear signal for music and communication. In this case, a better sound system can help you the most. To receive the best service, make sure your helmet includes dual stereo speakers and an anti-noise mic.
Ergonomics
Before choosing the Bluetooth helmet, make sure the function and controls are accessible. If you find the controls difficult or unfriendly, it’s probably not the best one for you. So choose one with user-friendly controls.
Number of Riders
If you want to stay in touch with other riders on a motorcycle trip, be sure your Bluetooth device can connect to all of the helmets. For example, you could wish to connect with two people rather than simply one, so be sure the product can handle it.
Additional Features
Motorcycle helmets with built-in headphones may additionally include a camera or other features. This is an excellent addition if you wish to shoot pictures when traveling with your friends. Some even have GPS systems that speak directions to you through your headphones.
Style
Helmets come in a variety of styles, including full-face, off-road, modular, open-face, and half-helmets. They all serve a distinct purpose and appeal to different people for different reasons, and not all of them support Bluetooth. A full-face helmet provides maximum protection during an impact since it protects your face and head. It’s also compatible with Bluetooth devices.
Most Popular Brands
HJC
Since 1971, HJC has specialized in motorcycle helmets. The company is based in La Habra, California serves customers all around the world with helmets that are safe, comfortable, stylish, and affordable. The HJC CL-MAXBT II Bluetooth Modular Motorcycle Helmet is one of the best-selling items.
BILT
The next on our list is BILT based in Northern California. The company was established in 1974 and has been providing motorcycle gear at factory-direct pricing since then. The AMA, Blue Ribbon Coalition, Motorcycle Industry Council, and ORBA are all members of the company. The Bilt Techno 2.0 Sena Bluetooth Modular Helmet is one of its highly recommended products.
TORC
TORC is the world’s second-largest helmet manufacturer, with headquarters in Pasadena, California. Full-face, open-face, half-face, and dirt bike helmets are all available from the brand. Its goal is to blend cutting-edge technology into its products while remaining “authentic to motorcycling culture.” The TORC Full Face Modular Helmet with Integrated Blinc Bluetooth is one of the best-selling items.
ILM
ILM, situated in California, manufactures a variety of motorcycle equipment and accessories, including helmets, apparel, boots, and bags. The ILM Bluetooth Integrated Modular Flip up Full Face Motorcycle Helmet is one product that comes highly recommended.
FREEDCONN ELECTRONIC CO.
Since 2006, FreedConn has been producing sports Bluetooth intercom devices in ShenZen, China. The company’s products are geared toward automobile drivers, skiers, and bicyclists in addition to motorcycle helmets. The FreedConn Bluetooth Motorcycle Helmet is a popular item.
How To Install Motorcycle Bluetooth Helmet Communications
Benefits of Bluetooth Motorcycle Helmet
Hands-free communication: The Bluetooth motorcycle helmets allow you to communicate through electric devices, making it easy to keep your eyes focused on the roads.
Reduced distraction: Using a smartphone, GPS navigation system, or other electronic devices while riding a motorcycle in traffic is safer with a Bluetooth-integrated motorcycle helmet.
Convenience: Bluetooth technology is simple to use and consumes little power. Simply pressing a button allows you to listen to music, take phone calls, or speak with your riding partners.
Possible Drawbacksof Bluetooth Technology
Distraction: While Bluetooth technology is less distracting than analog technology, it is still more disturbing than not utilizing any auxiliary equipment at all behind the bike’s handlebars.
Connectivity: When there is a loss of sight between the two relays, Bluetooth devices can have connectivity troubles at a distance. The longer the range of a Bluetooth helmet is, the more expensive it is.
Noise reduction: To drown out road-noise, cheaper Bluetooth devices may overcompensate in noise filtration, resulting in a Bluetooth connection that is weak or echoed. More expensive Bluetooth helmets have technology that keeps music or voice instructions clear while filtering out road noise through the helmet’s audio system.
Hacking: One issue with Bluetooth connections is that they are frequently synced to an unprotected wireless network, putting them in danger of being hacked. Bluetooth is used to break into smart devices like cell phones to steal personal information, install malware, and more.
Battery life: While Bluetooth technology is useful for playing music, making phone calls, and navigating with GPS, it quickly depletes the battery life of smart gadgets. A Bluetooth helmet that is used frequently for its Bluetooth capabilities will need to be recharged regularly.
To sum up, while there is some discussion about whether or not using any additional technology while riding a motorcycle is safe, the truth is that Bluetooth technology is going to be more prevalent asthe twenty-first century progresses.
Bluetooth helmets are currently utilized for communications, music, and navigation, but as Bluetooth devices and motorbike technology progress, it’s impossible to predict the potential this technology is going to offer.
Helmetslab is a website that focuses on providing in-depth reviews and information about different types of helmets, including motorcycle helmets and others helmets. I am writing a post with proper research on the info that helps helmet users.