Some of us prefer the silence and solitude of riding. But some of us like to stay connected and listen to tunes. We’re light years past the old Vetter fairings with tape decks. Maybe you’re not into music, but love hearing GPS nav directions or speaking with the passenger on your touring bike or other riders in your group. Regardless, all you need is a smartphone, a mount and the latest Bluetooth headset.
If you’ve found this page from the UK, try this version of our best motorcycle intercoms page. blacked out motorcycle helmet
Bluetooth headsets integrate your phone’s functionality with speakers, intercom, microphone, or any peripheral device (or “farkle”, in BMW terms). Everything gets connected without wires or cords. And you can control it all with voice commands.
Bluetooth intercoms can be either a universal or integrated fit. A universal fit usually has external mounting and means you can swap your headset between multiple helmets. An integrated fit usually means internal mounting with custom-made apertures and fitting. It just depends on whether you want the Bluetooth functionality for multiple types of riding (and helmet usage) or not. Our extensive testing has produced a couple clear winners.
Intercoms connect to phones and GPS navs via Bluetooth, and to other intercoms. Bluetooth intercoms generally have a range of 1-1.5 miles, depending on the antenna and can handle conversations with multiple riders. For speaking with passengers or close groups, it works well. However, for greater numbers or ranges, MESH technology can be useful.
Bluetooth headsets seamlessly pair and remember users so if a rider falls out of range, they’ll automatically reconnect when in range again.
Need advice on how to install a motorcycle intercom? Check out our guide.
The MCN team of expert journalists have decades of experience over hundreds of thousands of miles. We don’t torture test anything. We use it just like you do in the real world and in all conditions to deliver impartial Bluetooth headset buying advice.
MCN covers countless miles each week and tries lots of options in a short space of time. We quickly discover which headsets work, how long they last, and how well they performed overall.
We only feature Bluetooth headsets we’ve extensively tested. Comparison headsets will be included if deemed important and relevant. Testing is ongoing and we will continually add gear and products to our site.
To find out more, head to our dedicated page explaining how we test motorcycle products.
When we review a product, we award it a score out of five. In the ratings tab of a given product, you may also find more specific scores for the different aspects of a product’s performance to help you make an informed decision. Here’s a guide to what each number score means:
Products are given a score from 1 to 5 stars. Beyond the ratings tab, you’ll find in-depth info on product and gear performance and attributes.
To find out more, head to our dedicated page explaining how we test motorcycle products.
- Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this page, we never allow this to influence product selections - read why you should trust us.
USA Correspondant Rider, writer and enthusiast since 2006. Currently based in Chicago, USA, Anders writes for numerous titles, including Motorcyclist, Cycle World, Motorcycle Classics and even Road & track once. He enjoys subjecting gear to inadvisable road trips, inhospitable conditions and track days. When away from his desk or the open road, Anders loves restoring vintage 2-stroke bikes as much as actually riding new electric motorcycles.
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