Best Motorcycle Intercom System [TOP 5 REVIEWS]
Buying a reliable motorcycle intercom can make a world of difference to your riding experience. Being able to communicate with others you are traveling in a clear and coherent manner is a game-changer.
Add the fact you can listen to your favorite music while on the road and you have a very good reason to invest in one.
However, with so many different intercom systems to choose from, which you should go for in 2021? That’s where this guide comes in.
Below you will find 5 carefully selected motorcycle intercom systems across a range of price points, functionality, and design.
For our findings at a glance, just head to the table below. For a comprehensive review of each of our picks, keep on reading.
Top 5 Best Motorcycle Intercom Systems
Motorcycle Intercom System Reviews
The following intercoms have been selected based on audio clarity, performance, ease of use and price point.
Our testing method involves a combination of the above criteria, plus recent customer reviews and feedback on operational quality, as well as analysis of how each of the models fares against others on the market.
1. TOP PICK: Sena SMH10-11 Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset / Intercom with Universal Microphone Kit
The Sena SMH10-11 is a clamp-mounted, feature-packed semi-modular Bluetooth headset with a working intercom radius of 900 meters in open terrain, and comes as either a single kit or a dual kit – with single kit coming with an intercom for one ear, while the double kit comes with two separate intercoms, one for each ear.
This makes this high-performance, weather-resistant model a semi-modular product. This review focuses on the single kit which features a universal microphone kit that can be used instead of the factory pre-set microphone, and this makes it a semi-modular product.
It supports multi-pair connections to a maximum of 4 Bluetooth headsets which provides for multi-person peer-to-peer voice communication within a WPAN range of 980 yards, though it limits the ride pack size to 4 bikers.
Generally, a rider is advised to wear a noise-canceling headset on one ear so that the other ear can hear what is happening in the surrounding, and this improves rider safety by creating a better situational awareness as compared to using two headsets.
Even so, one can still use 2 headsets due to a technological advantage offered by the use of INC which was pioneered by the manufacturer of this model.
Relatedly, the talk time for this model is 12 hours. Design-wise, this hands-free profile (HFP) model features a conventional headset profile (HSP).
This model is designed, manufactured, and warranted by Sena Technologies, Inc. It belongs to the SMH-10 series of Bluetooth intercom systems, and its model and the part number are SMH10-11.
This compact, lightweight model comes in two separate parts – the headset unit and the clamp unit. It is shipped in a box that weighs about 2 ounces and is 9.8inches long, 6inches wide, and 3.3inches tall.
This package contains the SMH 10-11 headset, Velcro pads, microphone sponges (to shield the microphone from wind noises), mounting adapter, microphone cap, universal clamp unit, speaker pads, Allen wrench, hook-and-loop fasteners (for securing speakers to helmet) and USB charging cable that also supports data transfer.
A cigarette charger can be provided as an accessory. The main headset unit comes with a jog dial, phone button, and a port for charging the headset using DC power or transferring data during a firmware update.
The phone button allows the user to tap it to enter into one of three pairing modes – mobile phone pairing, factory reset, and Bluetooth stereo device pairing.
When mobile phone pairing is achieved, this phone button allows the user to either answer or terminate a phone call, transfer a call from the headset to a smartphone, or redial the last number.
The clamp unit comes with speakers, a microphone; and an MP3 jack that allows for plugging in of either a boom microphone or a wired microphone (which are shipped along with this clamp).
The jog dial comes with 5 buttons and is used for navigating through the headset configuration menu, and entering into its voice configuration setting or intercom pairing mode.
Once intercom pairing has been established, the jog dial allows for one to start or end an intercom conversation, and delete intercom pairings, as well as answer, reject, or end phone calls.
Outside the intercom mode, the jog dial is used for volume adjustment, and to play, pause, track forward, or track-back music playback.
Volume leveling can be done for each audio source, whether an incoming call, outgoing call, or music playback. Additionally, the jog dial supports the saving of volume levels for different profiles.
As expected, the headset needs to be fitted onto the clamp so that it can be mounted to the helmet. The clamp unit is 223.8 millimeters (mm) long, 85.5mm tall, and 30.6mm thick; and weighs about 103 grams (g).
This makes it the heavier unit in this model as the headset unit weighs only 59g. Nonetheless, the combined weight of both units adds up to 0.16 kilograms (kg) which is quite light when carried by a helmet – in fact, it is barely noticeable considering that the helmet is much heavier than it (headset).
This clamp uses a glued-surface mounting adapter to stick to the helmet.
The headset unit is 84.1mm long, 56.5mm tall, and 38.6mm thick. Both the clamp and headset unit has a black color scheme which allows for a unified color scheme of the fully assembled kit.
This high-fidelity intercom system delivers a crisp clear voice that supports conversation regardless of the ambient noise level.
In fact, Sena pioneered intelligent noise control which provides an excellent acoustic cushion against ambient noise when talking with a passenger or fellow rider, in addition to reducing engine and wind sound.
It is particularly good at minimizing wind sound as one accelerates the motorcycle. Moreover, its voice fidelity is achieved through the use of a high-quality DSP chip whose integrated ADC provides superb audio signal sampling.
It also filters out soundwaves from both ends of the spectrum (high frequency and low-frequency sound) which are inaudible to the human ear, hence allowing the rider to hear almost natural-quality sounds, human-quality voice, and punchy beats in songs.
Its sample rate is 48Khz which provides for crisp clear sound. Moreover, this crisp communication channel can be maintained even when speeding.
On the downside, efficient communication is best achieved when the communicating bikers are in direct line of sight to each other, and any obstacles between them can cause discernible depreciation in the quality of voice communication.
Another notable feature is the synchronization of the ADC to the Bluetooth Module so as to support A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) which allows for the transmission of high-quality audio signals to devices that feature Bluetooth 3.0 including smartphones and non-Sena intercom headsets.
Relatedly, to ensure that the audio is encoded, or decoded properly for audio transmission to the audio output device – the earpiece, a sub-band codec (SBC) designed for A2DP is included in the Bluetooth profile.
Additionally, for music playback through Bluetooth, the Audio/Video Remote Control Profile (AVRCP) is provided which allows for remote control of smartphone media player by supporting functions such as play, previous, next, and stop/pause.
There are also alert tones for connection and low battery warnings.
The headset module supports enhanced data rate (EDR) transfer using Class 1 Bluetooth 3.0 WPAN. It also has stereo capabilities that enhance the listening experience. Even so, it can only connect to Bluetooth devices that support HSP/HPF and A2DP.
Likewise, it can be synced with smartphones, and this offers a unique advantage of hands-free control of the synced smartphone and some smart devices can be administered/managed through the synced phone.
Regarding compatibility with operating systems (OS), this headset allows the biker to connect and sync with smartphones running popular OSes, particularly iOS and Android OS.
Bluetooth 3.0 also allows for file sharing, especially music sharing via the headset. This also allows geeks to listen to the same song played from a single smartphone.
Moreover, it supports data encryption which allows for the creation of private WPAN.
This model also supports GPS communication and uses a universal intercom protocol to communicate with both Sena and non-Sena motorcycle intercoms.
GPS pairing requires the intercom to be connected to a Bluetooth device that supports HSP/HPF A2DP, usually a smartphone; and voice instructions can then be relayed to the rider.
Multipoint GPS pairing is also supported. Even so, GPS support is limited to specific motorcycle GPS systems.
This hands-free, voice-control intercom supports voice activation, and also features an override for greater user autonomy – that is, the user has the freedom to choose what to do with the intercom, either use it as an intercom or as a music playback device or to receive or make phone calls.
Its Bluetooth range gives one the idea of how far a smartphone can be placed away from the headset, and this means that one can leave a phone at home and still be able to playback music if (s)he rides a short distance away (about 400 meters) from his/her home.
Moreover, it comes with unique paging signals for phone calls – tone beeps and voices prompt. For instance, 4 high tone beeps indicate an incoming phone call and a voice prompt confirms it.
Phone calls automatically override intercom communication. Integrated voice prompts are available in English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian which testify to its prioritization of the European and American markets.
This model is powered by 2 lithium polymer batteries which come already pre-installed in the headset. It also comes with a charging gear that allows for real-time charging when conversing through the intercom.
Its battery life is 10 days without load (which gives it a low current leakage rate) and 12 hours with an electrical load (which is the Bluetooth headset).
This gives it a battery standby time of 10 days, and a talk time of 12 hours which is generally more than adequate for outdoor riding, unless one is engaged in long-range riding.
The corresponding charging time for a fully-drained battery is 2.5 hours. Additionally, its battery supports up-to 600 recharge cycles which gives it an average battery lifespan of 3 years.
This model needs to be waterproofed, as its phone jack and charging port can allow water to seep into the clamp unit and headset respectively.
It can be used with range-extending technologies to allow for wireless communication over large distances. This allows for the extension of the WPAN range from the default medium range (500 meters – 1000 yards) to the high range zone which allows for greater spacing out of the bikers for explorative riding.
This model comes with a 2-year limited warranty.
Provides clear 4-way intercom communication.- High-performance HFP/HSP headset with SBC codec and A2DP support which provide a sampling rate of 48Khz.
- The Bluetooth range is 900 meters/980 yards.
- Supports a ride size of 4 bikers.
- Clamp-mounted model.
- The stereo headset comes with an integrated Class 1 EDR Bluetooth 3.0 module.
- Uses advanced INC that allows noise filtering for incoming and outgoing audio.
- Standby time of 10 days, and talk time of 12 hours.
- Supports independent volume leveling for incoming and outgoing audio.
- Has multilingual voice prompts.
- Powered by 2 lithium polymer rechargeable batteries.
- Battery charging time is 2.5 hours.
- The battery lifespan is 3 years.
- Uses tonal beeps as paging signals for phone calls.
- Supports GPS navigation and multi-point GPS pairing.
- Supported by a 24-month limited warranty.
Provides clear 4-way intercom communication.- This weather-resistant model is not water-proof.
- Efficient communication is best achieved when the communicating bikers are in direct line-of-sight to each other.
This weather-resistant model is not water-proof.Bottom-line
The Sena SMH10-11 Single is a clamp-mounted, feature-packed semi-modular Bluetooth headset with a working intercom radius of 900 meters in open terrain.
This high-performance HFP/HSP headset features SBC codec and A2DP support which provide a sampling rate of 48Khz which allows for crisp clear 4-way intercom communication.
Its stereo headset comes with an integrated Class 1 EDR Bluetooth 3.0 module, and the headset uses advanced INC for noise filtration of incoming and outgoing audio.
It has a standby time of 10 days, and a talk time of 12 hours; and supports independent volume leveling for incoming and outgoing audio.
Moreover, it supports GPS navigation and multi-point GPS pairing and uses tonal beeps as paging signals for phone calls.
It is covered by a 24-month limited warranty. The relatively long Bluetooth range, multiple functional capabilities, high build quality, superb design, dependability, and ease of use makes Sena SMH10-11 Single the best motorcycle intercom system in this review.
- Related Content: Motorcycle Intercom Systems – A complete buyer’s guide
2. Cardo scala rider FREECOM 2 Duo – Rider to Passenger Bluetooth 4.1 Motorcycle Communication System with HD Audio (Dual Pack)
This is a dustproof, waterproof semi-modular Bluetooth headset that comes with an ultra-thin 40mm audio driver that serves as a high-capacity intercom speaker, and whose intercom system is supported by Bluetooth 4.1 with provides an effective intercom range of 500 meters in open terrain.
It comes as either a single kit or a dual kit, and this review focuses on the dual kit which is just 2 headsets – one for each ear.
Each headset comes equipped with an intelligent sound control feature dubbed automatic volume control (AVC) that adjusts volume based on ambient noise level so as to improve rider safety by ensuring that (s)he can hear sudden noises which can alert him/her to be on the lookout.
Even so, this duo kit only supports 3-way intercom communication as it can be connected to two other motorcycle intercoms, but it is ideally built for 2-way communication between the rider and the pillion passenger.
Even so, if each kit is connected to a different intercom, then the rider can converse with two people.
Each kit also comes with an FM radio which can be listened to through the stereo speaker, and this radio features memory for 6 preset stations and is equipped with a radio data system (RDS) for optimal performance when one is riding.
Moreover, there is also a dedicated Android and iOS app called Cardo SmartSet that supports software and firmware upgrades, as well as allows for on-the-go configuration settings of the headset using a smartphone.
This model is designed, manufactured, and warranted by Cardo Systems; and its model and part numbers are the same – FRC20102. It has a black color scheme.
This lightweight, weather-resistant model allows for real-time charging while riding. It is shipped in a package that weighs 2.2pounds and is 10inches long, 8inches wide, and 3.5inches tall.
Inside the package are the Freecom 2, USB charging cable, rectangular and square Velcro pads, corded microphones, and Freecom glue-plate for mounting the intercom to the helmet.
The fully-assembled kit is 16mm thick, which makes it suitably thin for attachment to the side of the helmet.
This solid build features two connected units – the speaker and headset unit (which contains the misc module).
The speaker unit is 40mm wide and 9.2inches thick, while the headset unit is 79mm long, 46mm wide, and 16mm thick to allows for easy fitment of the speaker. The headset unit weighs about 34gm which is the negligible weight for the rider.
This high-performance HFP/HSP headset comes with SBC codec and A2DP support. It also features two separate channels – one for GPS navigation and the other for phone calls.
As expected, this model supports mobile phone pairing, factory reset, and Bluetooth stereo device pairing.
Additionally, this high-fidelity intercom system delivers a crisp clear voice that supports conversation regardless of the ambient noise level; and this is achieved through the use of a high-quality DSP chip whose integrated ADC provides superb audio signal sampling and noise filtration.
However, like Sena SMH10-11, this model achieves efficient communication when the communicating bikers are in direct line of sight to each other, and any obstacles between them can cause discernible depreciation in the audio quality.
This model supports music playback via Bluetooth by using AVRCP, which allows for remote control of smartphone media player by supporting functions such as play, previous, next, and stop/pause.
Regarding GPS, its GPS pairing mode requires the intercom to be connected to a Bluetooth device that supports HSP/HPF A2DP, and this GPS support is limited to specific motorcycle GPS systems.
As expected, this hands-free, voice-control intercom supports voice activation and also features an override for greater user autonomy. Its integrated voice prompts are available in several languages.
This Freecom 2 model is powered by 2 CR2 batteries, and each is rated at 600mAh. Its battery life is 7 days without load and 13 hours with an electrical load, and this shows that it has a higher idle current leakage rate as compared to Sena SMH10-11.
This gives it a battery standby time of 7 days and a talk time of 13 hours. The corresponding charging time for a fully-drained battery is 4 hours.
This model comes with a 2-year limited warranty.
- Provides clear 2-way intercom communication.
- High-performance HFP/HSP headset with SBC codec and A2DP support.
- Waterproof model.
- Bluetooth range is 500 meters.
- Stereo headset comes with an integrated Bluetooth 4.1 EDR module.
- Uses advanced INC that allows noise filtering for incoming and outgoing audio.
- Standby time of 7 days, and talk time of 13 hours.
- Supports independent volume levelling for incoming and outgoing audio.
- Has multilingual voice prompts.
- Powered by 2 CR2 rechargeable batteries.
- Supports GPS navigation.
- Supported by a 24-month limited warranty.
- Charging time is 4 hours.
- Efficient communication is best achieved when the communicating bikers are in direct line-of-sight to each other.
- Ride size limited to 2-3 bikers.
Bottom-line
Cardo Scala Rider FREECOM 2 Duo is a dual-pack/dual-kit, dustproof, waterproof semi-modular Bluetooth headset that comes with an ultra-thin 40mm audio driver and an intercom system that is supported by Bluetooth 4.1 with provides an effective intercom range of 500 meters in open terrain.
Each headset comes equipped with AVC which adjusts volume based on the ambient noise level.
Even so, this kit is ideally built for 2-way communication between the rider and the pillion passenger, but one can still use it for 3-way intercom communication.
Its standby time of 7 days and the talk time is 13 hours. Additionally, each kit comes with an RDS-equipped FM radio that features memory for 6 preset stations.
There is also a dedicated Android and iOS app – the Cardo SmartSet that supports software and firmware upgrade, as well as device configuration and control.
3. Motorcycle Bluetooth Intercom, Fodsports M1S 2000m Motorbike Helmet Communication System
This is a dustproof, waterproof semi-modular Bluetooth intercom system that comes as a dual-pack kit whose intercom is supported by Bluetooth 4.1 which provides an effective WPAN range of 500 meters in the open terrain.
It comes with a hard mic for an open-face helmet, and a soft mic for a full-face helmet. Each headset comes equipped with a 30mm audio driver and intelligent sound control that adjusts volume, and filters noise based on the ambient noise level.
Most importantly, this model supports a full-duplex 8-way intercom communication, which means that each headset supports at most a 4-way intercom WPAN.
This also means that about 4 riders can use this headset, which limits the ride size to 4 bikers. This intercom also comes with a proprietary technology dubbed self-healing which allows a rider to leave the group for at most 5 minutes before seamlessly rejoining it.
This headset uses clip mounting, and there is a clip provided in each kit for this form of mounting.
Another unique feature of this headset is the speed detector which is integrated with the volume gain, thus allowing for volume to be matched with motorcycle speed. This model is designed and manufactured by FodSports, and its model number is 5823998522.
This FodSport model is shipped as a package that weighs 1.34pounds and is 16.5inches long, 9.4inches wide, and 2.4inches tall.
Inside the package are 2 M1-S pro headsets, 2 speakers, 2 hard microphones, 2 USB cables, 8 Velcro strips, 2 metal clips, 4 EVA rubber, 2 helmet brackets, and 2 double-sided tapes, as well as two 2.5mm to 3.5mm wired audio jacks. A user manual is also provided. Each headset has a black color scheme.
This lightweight, weather-resistant model shares multiple features with the Cardo Scala Rider FREECOM 2 headset, including support for real-time charging while riding.
Also, the high-performance HFP/HSP FodSports headset comes with A2DP and AVRCP support. Encoding and decoding are achieved SBC codec.
Additionally, it supports mobile phone pairing, factory reset, and Bluetooth stereo device pairing, including pairing with an FM radio.
This FodSports headset delivers a crisp clear voice that supports conversation regardless of the ambient noise level, this is achieved through the use of a high-quality DSP chip whose integrated ADC provides superb audio signal sampling and a CSR mic chip that allows for noise filtration.
Also, like Sena SMH10-11 and the Cardo Scala Rider FREECOM 2 headset, this model achieves efficient communication when the communicating bikers are in direct line of sight to each other, and any obstacles between them can cause discernible depreciation in the audio quality.
The GPS pairing mode of this model requires the intercom to be connected to a Bluetooth device that supports HSP/HPF A2DP, and this GPS support is limited to specific motorcycle GPS systems.
Expectedly, this hands-free, voice-control intercom supports voice activation and also features an override for greater user autonomy. It also features integrated voice prompts, even for GPS. It also features low-power notifications.
Each of the FodSports M1S-Pro models is powered by a 900mAh lithium polymer rechargeable battery whose standby time is 7 days.
The talk time is 20 hours, and the corresponding charging time for a fully-drained battery is 2.5-3 hours. Charging should be done using a DC power adaptor that delivers 5 volts (V) at 500mA, and this adaptor is in the package box.
This model comes with a 12-months limited warranty.
- Supports a full-duplex 8-way intercom communication.
- Provides clear audio communication.
- High-performance HFP/HSP headset with SBC codec and A2DP support.
- Waterproof model.
- Bluetooth range is 500 meters.
- Stereo headset comes with an integrated Bluetooth 4.1 EDR module.
- Uses INC that allows noise filtering for incoming and outgoing audio.
- Standby time of 7 days, and talk time of 20 hours.
- Supports independent volume levelling for incoming and outgoing audio.
- Has voice prompts.
- Powered by high-capacity rechargeable batteries.
- Battery charging time is 2.5-3 hours.
- Supports GPS navigation.
- Supported by a 24-month limited warranty.
- Efficient communication is best achieved when the communicating bikers are in direct line-of-sight to each other.
- Full-duplex communication without support for data encryption allows for eavesdropping of conversation when the headset of one rider is compromised.
Bottom-line
Fodsports M1S Pro is a dustproof, waterproof semi-modular Bluetooth intercom system that comes as a dual-pack kit whose intercom is supported by Bluetooth 4.1 that provides an effective WPAN range of 500 meters in the open terrain.
It supports full-duplex 8-way intercom communication. Also, it comes with a hard mic for an open-face helmet, and a soft mic for a full-face helmet.
Each headset comes equipped with a 30mm audio driver and intelligent sound control that adjusts volume, and filters noise based on the ambient noise level.
Moreover, this high-performance HFP/HSP headset with SBC codec and A2DP support. Additionally, it has a standby time of 7 days, and a talk time of 20 hours.
4. BEST BUDGET: Thokwok Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset, BT-S3 1000m Helmet Bluetooth Communication Systems
This is a budget-grade, medium-performance, and waterproof clamp-mounted detachable Bluetooth headset that supports 3-way intercom communication for ride speeds of up to 120kph.
This headset features four large push buttons – a phone button, plus and minus buttons, and an interphone/power button – which allow for easy operation even when one is wearing thick hand gloves.
It supports multi-pair connections to a maximum of 3 Bluetooth headsets which provides for multi-person peer-to-peer voice communication within a WPAN range of 400 meters in open terrain, and usually, this limits the ride pack to only 2 motorcycles with one rider carrying a passenger.
Even so, using two headsets can allow the riders to set up a duplex WPAN which extends the Bluetooth range to 800 meters.
This HFP/HSP model comes with pre-installed SBC codec and A2DP support, with AVRCP allowing for full control of Bluetooth-supported playback. Another unique advantage is that it can be charged by standard phone chargers, which makes it easy for the rider to charge it while biking.
In fact, it comes half-charged by the manufacturer. It is designed and manufactured by Thokwok, and its model number is BT-S3. Its color scheme is black.
This weather-resistant, lightweight, and compact headset features an all-silica gel waterproof layer. It is shipped in a box that weighs about 10.4 ounces and is 6.7inches long, 4.3inches wide, and 2.1inches tall.
This package contains the BT-S3 headset, speaker, microphone, 2.5mm to 3.5mm audio cable, wrench, USB charging cable, and headset clips along with its fastening screws.
Unlike Sena SMH10-11, this BT-S3 lacks a jog dial but its phone button serves the same function as its analogous button in the Sena model.
This means that the BT-S3 user can enter into one of three pairing modes – mobile phone pairing, factory reset, and Bluetooth stereo device pairing. As expected, when mobile phone pairing is achieved, this phone button allows the user to either answer or terminate a phone call, transfer the call from the headset to the smartphone, or redial the last number.
Like Cardo Scala Rider FREECOM 2, this BT-S3 comes with an in-built radio that uses automatic frequency selection to tune to available radio stations.
This Thokwok model is a high-fidelity intercom system that delivers a crisp clear voice that supports conversation regardless of the ambient noise level, and this is made possible by the use of advanced NCT that uses echo cancellation and active noise suppression to clean audio quality.
As expected, its voice fidelity is achieved through the use of a high-quality DSP chip whose integrated ADC provides superb audio signal sampling.
BT-S3 uses Bluetooth 3.0+ EDR to establish its WPAN, which when combined with its capabilities ensures that bikers have a good listening experience while riding.
Even so, it can only connect to Bluetooth devices that support HSP/HPF and A2DP. It also supports GPS communication and uses a universal intercom protocol to communicate with motorcycle intercoms of other brands.
Nonetheless, GPS pairing requires the intercom to be connected to a Bluetooth device that supports HSP/HPF A2DP. Even so, GPS support is limited to specific motorcycle GPS systems.
This model uses voice activation and features an override for greater user autonomy. It is powered by 2 lithium polymer batteries that come already pre-installed in the headset.
Its battery standby time is 300 hours or 12 days, and the talk time is 8 hours.
Even so, intercom time is a bit lower at 6 hours due to the fact that the Bluetooth unit draws more power when used, as compared to using the headset for making or receiving phone calls.
This model comes with a 12-months limited warranty.
- Provides a clear 3-way intercom communication.
- Budget model.
- High-performance HFP/HSP headset with SBC codec and A2DP support which provide a good sampling rate.
- Bluetooth range is 400 meters.
- Water-proof, clamp-mounted model.
- Stereo headset comes with an integrated Bluetooth 3.0+ EDR module.
- Uses advanced NCT for noise filtering for incoming and outgoing audio.
- Standby time of 300 hours, and talk time of 8 hours.
- Powered by 2 lithium polymer rechargeable batteries.
- Supports GPS navigation.
- Supported by a 12-month limited warranty.
- Ride size limited to 2-3 bikers.
- Efficient communication is best achieved when the communicating bikers are in direct line-of-sight to each other.
Bottom-line
Thokwok BT-S3 is an affordable, medium-performance clamp-mounted detachable Bluetooth headset that supports 3-way intercom communication for ride speeds of up to 120kph. This waterproof headset features four large push buttons for easy operation.
It also supports multi-pair connections to a maximum of 3 Bluetooth headsets which provides for multi-person peer-to-peer voice communication within a WPAN range of 400 meters in open terrain, and usually, these limits the ride pack to only 2 motorcycles with one rider carrying a passenger.
Moreover, it is an HFP/HSP model that comes with a half-charged battery. Additionally, it comes with a pre-installed SBC codec and A2DP support, with AVRCP allowing for full control of Bluetooth-supported playback.
Furthermore, it can be charged by standard phone chargers; and its battery life is 300 hours while the talk-time and intercom time is 8 hours and 6 hours respectively.
Its high performance-to-price ratio and affordable pricing make it the best budget motorcycle intercom system in this review.
- Related Content: An OC overview of the motorcycle intercom system
5. LEXIN 2pcs LX-B4FM Motorcycle Bluetooth Intercom with FM Radio
This is an AI-supported, clamp-mounted detachable Bluetooth headset that supports 4-way intercom communication and features a waterproof design, as well as allows for syncing of intercom operations to 2 Robot-voiced assistants – Siri of Apple and S-Voice of Samsung.
The headset also features Hi-Fi (high fidelity) stereo earphones that optimize the listening experience, especially when one listens to stereo music.
Moreover, there are four large easy-to-access push buttons – an intercom button, power, and volume-up/next-track and volume-down/previous-track buttons – that allow for easy operation of the headset.
This model support fully-duplex multi-pair connections to a maximum of 4 Bluetooth headsets, which provides for multi-person peer-to-peer voice communication within a default WPAN range of about 800 meters in open terrain in a non-duplex setting, while a fully-duplex intercom system increases this range to 1600 meters.
Functional-wise, this Lexin is an upgraded version of Thokwok BT-S3. This intercom communication works seamlessly for ride speeds of up to 120kph.
Additionally, this HFP/HSP model comes with a pre-installed SBC codec and A2DP support, with AVRCP allowing for full control of Bluetooth-supported playback.
It is designed, manufactured, and warranted by Lexin Motorcycle, and its model number is LX-B4FM, which is also the part number. Its color scheme is black and blue.
This weather-resistant, lightweight, and compact headset can be charged by standard phone chargers that supply a steady DC voltage of 5V, which makes it easy for the rider to charge it while biking.
A practical hack that one can use to connect charge this intercom with Dc chargers delivering more than 5V is to connect a 5V voltage regulator – which is L7805 – to the charger output and then connect the intercom to the regulator output.
This intercom model is shipped in a box that weighs about 6.7 ounces and is 6inches long, 4.6inches wide and 2.3inches tall.
This package contains the Lexin LX-B4FM headset, stereo HD speaker that supports interchangeable mic for either full-face or open-face helmet, 3-meter tape bracket, clip mounting bracket, and a USB charging cable.
Like Thokwok BT-S3, Lexin LX-B4FM allows the user to enter into one of three pairing modes – mobile phone pairing, factory reset, and Bluetooth stereo device pairing.
As expected, when mobile phone pairing is achieved, this phone button allows the user to either answer or terminate a phone call, transfer the call from the headset to a smartphone, or redial the last number. Moreover, this Lexin model comes with an in-built radio.
Also, like Thokwok BT-S3, Lexin LX-B4FM is a high-fidelity intercom system that delivers a crisp clear voice that supports conversation regardless of the ambient noise level; and this is made possible by the use of advanced NCT that uses echo cancellation and active noise suppression to clean audio quality.
Expectedly, its voice fidelity is achieved through the use of a high-quality DSP chip whose integrated ADC provides superb audio signal sampling. Moreover, Lexin LX-B4FM uses Bluetooth 3.0+ EDR to establish its WPAN.
Even so, it can only connect to Bluetooth devices that support HSP/HPF and A2DP. It also supports GPS communication and uses universal intercom protocol to communicate with motorcycle intercoms of other brands.
Nonetheless, GPS pairing requires the intercom to be connected to a Bluetooth device that supports HSP/HPF A2DP.
Like other high-performance, high-quality motorcycle intercom models, Lexin LX-B4FM uses voice activation and features an override for greater user autonomy. It is also powered by a lithium-polymer battery.
Its battery standby time is 350 hours or 14 days, and the talk time is 15 hours. Its charging time is 3-5 hours.
This model comes with a 12-months limited warranty.
- Provides a clear 4-way intercom communication.
- High-performance HFP/HSP headset with SBC codec and A2DP support which provide a good sampling rate.
- Allows for syncing of intercom operations with Siri and S-Voice.
- Bluetooth range is 800 meters.
- Water-proof, clamp-mounted model.
- The stereo headset comes with an integrated Bluetooth 3.0+ EDR module.
- Uses advanced NCT for noise filtering for incoming and outgoing audio.
- Standby time of 350 hours, and talk time of 15 hours.
- Supports GPS navigation.
- Supported by a 12-month limited warranty.
- Long charging time of up-to 5 hours.
- Efficient communication is best achieved when the communicating bikers are in direct line-of-sight to each other.
Bottom-line
Lexin LX-B4FM is an AI-supported, clamp-mounted detachable Bluetooth headset that supports 4-way intercom communication and features a waterproof design, as well as allows for syncing of intercom operations with Siri and S-Voice.
It also features Hi-Fi stereo earphones and four large easy-to-access push buttons for the easy and straightforward operation of the headset.
This model supports a fully duplex intercom connection with a maximum of 4 Bluetooth headsets, which provides for a full duplex intercom system with a range of 1600 meters.
Functional-wise, this Lexin is an upgraded version of Thokwok BT-S3, though it works well for ride speeds of up to 120kph. Additionally, it has a standby time of 350 hours and a talk time of 15 hours.
Motorcycle Intercom Buyers Guide
There a number of factors you should consider before buying a new motorcycle intercom system. One of the first issues to be aware of is the various types of motorcycle intercom available.
Types Of Intercom Systems For Motorcycles
The Wireless GMRS, FM Intercom
The most advanced form of motorcycle intercom is the wireless system. This option uses radio technologies such as GMRS and Frequency Modulation (FM), with the latter being the most common.
The principle is the same as the radio you listen to in the car or at home. The only difference is that the motorcycle intercom uses a narrow band of frequency for clearer sound.
FRS (family radio service) is another type of wireless intercom which works in the same way as GMRS and FM. However, FRS will only broadcast over short distances whereas GMRS and FM can cover much larger areas.
If you’re going to be traveling in a group, where individual riders may spread out over a wider area, a GMRS or FM wireless motorcycle intercom is recommended.
Bluetooth Wireless Intercom
This type of communication has become extremely popular among riders in recent years. Its simplicity is a big reason for this.
We are all accustomed to Bluetooth connectivity due to our smartphones and home digital devices. The motorcycle intercom that uses Bluetooth, connects in much the same way.
Headsets and microphones are paired up between riders, enabling communication while on the road.
The main issue with the Bluetooth system is the range; they are only effective over short distances and quality decreases significantly the further you are apart.
That being said, if you stick together as a group, Bluetooth intercoms work very well indeed. Add that to the fact you can use the headset for listening to music and attending voice calls, you have a system that deserves its popularity.
GPS Functionality
An intercom system with built-in GPS is a great feature to look out for. If you like a road trip and will be traveling through areas unknown, the GPS will help you stay on track, without the danger of looking at your phone as you ride.
A GPS will also help your group stay together and heading in the right direction as a team.
To ensure a safe journey, a GPS system built into the intercom that has voice evocations navigation makes it much easier to ride while keeping your eyes firmly on the road ahead.
Noise Cancellation
The motorcycle intercom system you buy should also have noise cancelation. City noises and heavy traffic can make it difficult to hear your fellow riders if the system does not reduce those ambient sounds.
The same goes for the noise of the highway (and the roar of your motorcycle) when you open up the gas. To communicate with others without issue, the headset needs to be up to scratch.
User reviews will help you in this regard, rather than a list of manufacturer specs. Look out for noise reduction tech for sure, but see what others that have used the device have to say too.
Any problems here will certainly be voiced by customers that have purchased before you.
Weatherproof Capabilities
The intercom system you buy should be sufficiently robust to handle the rain. There’s no predicting when it might pour while you’re on the road, and the last thing you want to do is have to pack away the intercom in wet weather.
In many ways, it is more important to be able to communicate with your fellow travelers in bad weather conditions. You are more likely to lose the group in the resulting low visibility.
When reading the specifications of a device, bear in mind that waterproof and water-resistant are two different things.
Waterproof means the intercom will be able to withstand an onslaught of heavy rain. Water-resistant means it will offer some resistance to the wet weather, but you should still make efforts to protect it from the weather.
Essentially, although generally more expensive, fully waterproof motorcycle intercom systems are the best option.
Multiple Connection Capabilities
If you opt for a Bluetooth system, the ability to have multiple connections is a must. Most systems devices will allow between 2 to 4 connections simultaneously.
However, if you are going to be riding in a large group, you will clearly need a more advanced system that will accommodate more connections, (some will allow up to 15 connections for instance. Expect to pay more for this of course.
Quality earplugs (for both ears if you prefer)
Whether you opt for one earpiece or two is down to personal preference. One of the main reasons for having a dual setup is better sound quality. You will be able to hear anything transmitted via the intercom much easier.
The downside can be the fact that it will be difficult to hear potentially important traffic sounds, such as car horns or approaching vehicles coming up your rear. If you are uncomfortable with the thought of not being able to fully hear these sounds, a one-earpiece setup would be more appropriate.
And whatever you go for, the sound quality should be loud and clear. Distortion or sound output that is too quiet should be avoided.
Ease Of Use
It stands to reason that the system you choose should be easy to set up and use. The latter is especially important as you do not want to be fiddling with an intercom, trying to get it to work as you ride.
If the intercom has a host of extra features, these need to be accessible either from easy voice command or at a touch of a single button, (or better still, preset and available automatically as you need them).
Ultimately, to ensure safety and no frustration, the motorcycle intercom needs be intuitive, reliable, and easy to use
Know your price point
More functionality will come with a higher price tag. The two main issues to keep in mind are your budget and what you actually need. With a fixed budget, you will also be able to narrow down your choices.
However, if there are certain features you definitely need (such as multiple connections) be prepared to stretch the budget in order to afford the more sophisticated units that meet your demands.
Hopefully, after reading the above reviews and understanding some of the issues involved when choosing an intercom system, you will be able to find the best one for you and your riding buddies.