For most of us, motorcycling is all about shutting the rest of the world out but there are times when you’re going to have to communicate with your riding buddies and having a Bluetooth motorcycle helmet makes the job much easier. When it comes to buying Bluetooth helmets there are a lot of factors to consider. Are you going to need it for hardcore cross country touring? Is range important to you? Or is battery life? Do you want an integrated Bluetooth system, or do you want a separate device? Are you even going to use it regularly enough to warrant spending big money on it? These are all questions you’re going to want to answer yourself before pulling the trigger on a purchase.
Firstly, Do You Even Need One?
While being able to signal to your riding buddies that you need to pull over for a bathroom break is great, is it worth the money you’d spend on a helmet? If you’re not going to make the most out of GPS technology, or don’t want to listen to your favorite tunes whilst on the road, maybe a Bluetooth motorcycle helmet isn’t worth the investment. Since a helmet is a big expense, make sure you actually need one before spending your money on one that does a hundred million things that you’re never going to use.
Integrated Bluetooth Or “Bluetooth Ready”?
When you’re shopping around for Bluetooth motorcycle helmets you’re going to notice a few interesting terms: “integrated” and “Bluetooth ready”. An integrated Bluetooth system is one that comes installed in the helmet – you pay your money, and you get a helmet with a Bluetooth communications system in it. Don’t confuse it with Bluetooth Ready – this is just a regular motorcycle helmet that comes equipped with a recess and space for you to fit your own, separate, Bluetooth system. So, if you already own a Bluetooth headset and want to install it into a different helmet, you want the latter. Make sure you read exactly what you’re buying before you part with your cash…
Important Things To Consider When Buying A Bluetooth Helmet
Like when buying a regular motorcycle helmet there are few important things to consider. First and foremost, don’t forget that what you’re buying is a piece of safety equipment, and it should be able to perform its primary function properly. Because of this, the helmet must fit you properly, it must be secure, and it must be manufactured to international standards.
After you’ve decided that it fits you, you want to check the ergonomics. Make sure you can actually use the controls easily. If you’re not particularly dexterous and the Bluetooth helmet isn’t easy to use, you might want to search for a different model instead. If you can’t use half the functions with ease, it’s not the helmet for you.
Lastly, since you’re going to be wearing an expensive bit of technology there, you want to make sure that it keeps the elements out. At the end of the day, you’re buying something with an electronic device inside of it – if you think that there’s a chance that water could leak in a mess around with the electrics, you’ll want to ignore that helmet and move on to the next one. Makes sure that everything that claims to be waterproof actually is.
But before you can go shopping for a Bluetooth motorcycle helmet, you should familiarize yourself with some of the most popular items on the market. Here are a few of our favorites, in no particular order, which should give you a good snapshot of what’s on sale out there.
10 Of The Best Bluetooth Motorcycle Helmets On Sale!
#01. The Schuberth C3 Pro Observer
Most of the brands that you usually associate with helmets have “Bluetooth ready” products, rather than integrated technology. But there’s one manufacturer who bucks the trend, and that’s Schuberth. This is the Schuberth C3 Pro Observer, and it’s very much the premium model in the Bluetooth helmet market.
Does it use BLINC Bluetooth? No. Does it use Sena? Again, no. How about the Freedconn system? Nope. Schuberth uses its own system. What makes it so special is the way it works with the rest of the helmet. Thanks to wind tunnel testing, the C3 Pro has been specifically designed and tuned for maximum noise cancellation.
The interior of the helmet has been manufactured from a whole host of textiles, such as COOLMAX – a moisture wicking fabric, Interpower – a fabric treatment that prevents sticking and helps with sweat removal, and Thermocool – which provides all year round thermoregulation and comfort. It sounds fancy, and that’s because it is. The C3 Pro is a premium helmet.
The Bluetooth system is the integrated Schuberth SRC System which allows for communication with up to 9 riders, has a range of up to 1000 meters depending on the terrain, offers phone services with a Bluetooth enabled cell phone, has a music sharing function…and you can even listen to the radio for traffic updates with it too. All this, with up to 13 hours of continuous talk time. And that’s why the Schuberth C3 Pro Observer is worth its money…and then the extra you have to pay for the Bluetooth unit, which is sold separately.
Range: 1000 meters
Weight: 3.59 lbs
#02. The Sena Momentum
Since Sena happily license their products to other helmet manufacturers, you can bet that the company has a Bluetooth helmet of its own, and this is it. This is the Sena Momentum INC: a quality helmet that serves up some of the best Bluetooth technology currently on offer, all wrapped up in one usable package. Granted, it’s not as cheap as some of the other models on the market, but when you consider that the Bluetooth system alone is retails for approximately half of the overall price of one of these, then you can see the appeal of the deal. The actual helmet is built of a composite fiberglass shell with a multi-density EPS liner that offers solid protection against impacts and abrasions, with enough cushioning, and air-flow. And of course, it’s completely ECE and DOT certified too.
Underneath, the Sena Momentum comes equipped with Sena’s own Bluetooth system, the Sena 20S. Thanks to an integrated microphone and speakers, the Momentum goes without wires or clip-on parts making for a hassle free experience. The 20S allows riders to communicate via cellphones or connect to other Bluetooth enabled riders, listen to music, or tune into an FM radio – in fact, you can even connect to Siri to get up to the moment information about pretty much anything that pops into your head. Armed with Bluetooth 4.1, the Sena Momentum has a maximum functional range of almost 1600 meters, with crystal clear audio and connectivity.
Range: 1600 meters
Weight: 4 lbs
#03. The HJC IS-Max 2 Anthracite
The vast majority of HJC’s range come equipped with Bluetooth ready technology, which means they can accommodate after-market Bluetooth hardware…and this one is no different, but what makes it special is that HJC throw in an aftermarket system as part of the deal, so you don’t have to shop around separately. The CAD-designed helmet is made from a polycarbonate composite that meets and exceeds DOT standards.
The HJC IS-Max 2 Anthracite is powered by Hawk X2 Bluetooth 4.1 technology that offers clear audio quality and easy connectivity. Fully functional at speeds up to an around 75 mph to CVC 6.0 noise reduction technology , the Hawk X2 system boasts FM radio features that provide real time traffic and news information, plays music, and connects to other Bluetooth enabled riders at a range of up to 20 to 30 meters, with a constant use battery life of 15 hours and a standby time of 30 days. It also connects to your phone, and allows you to make hands free outgoing and incoming calls.
Range: 20 – 30 meters
Weight: 3.84 lbs
#04. The O’Neal Commander Bluetooth Helmet
The O’Neal Commander Bluetooth motorcycle helmet is a great all-rounder and easily one of our favorites on the market. Not only does it manage to tick all the boxes technologically, but it also looks great at the same time.
Underneath the tough exterior shell, O’Neal has lined the Bluetooth helmet with a washable suede liner that keeps it clean and comfortable. There’s great airflow, and it doesn’t feel claustrophobic to wear, either. O’Neal has also thrown in an anti-fog and anti-scratch visor in for good measure.
As for the Bluetooth features, the O’Neal Commander uses BLINC technology, which offers 10 hours of talk time – actual talk time that has been verified by numerous independent reviews from bikers. While the talk time is impressive, it’s the music feature that really caught our attention – the O’Neal Commander Bluetooth helmet boasts full stereo sound with amazing audio quality. What’s more, when you receive an incoming call, the music cuts out, allowing you to handle your call without any button pushing or awkward movements. It comes fully compatible with Bluetooth enabled GPS and cell phones – if it’s Bluetooth enabled, you can almost certainly sync it to this helmet.
The O’Neal Commander Bluetooth helmet is a good option if you’re in the market for a versatile Bluetooth lid.
Range: 38 meters
Weight: 4 lbs
#05. The Hawk Evolution With COM-2 Bluetooth
If you’re a fan of Hawk helmets but need a more wallet-friendly alternative to their top flight models, then this might be the helmet for you. In fact, if you’re looking for a versatile helmet, then the Hawk Evolution should be on your watch list. It’s a modular helmet, but not in the usual flip-up arrangement. Instead, this full-face helmet can be converted to a more radical open-face version by the quick removal of the chin bar, which essentially gives you two helmets for the price of one. The actual helmet is made from a composite thermoplastic material. It can get a bit noisy, but for the price it’s hard to argue with this DOT certified helmet – and that’s before we even mention the Bluetooth element.
Equipped with Hawk’s very own COM-2 Bluetooth intercom system, the Hawk Evolution is an easy to use Bluetooth motorcycle helmet that allows for distraction free riding. The intercom feature allows for rider to passenger, or bike to bike, communication, and can also be connected to GPS systems, cell phones, and Bluetooth MP3 players – allowing you access to a wide range of media without compromising your safety. The interior speakers provide plenty of volume and can withstand speed noises of up to 74 mph. The Hawk Evolution COM-2 has a battery life of 12 hours of talk time, or a full 180 hours on standby.
Range: 20 – 30 meters
Weight: 4.65 lbs
#06. The Freedconn BM2-S Bluetooth Helmet
The Freedconn BM2-S is a great budget Bluetooth helmet. It’s cheap, but that doesn’t mean that it’s bad, so don’t be put off by the impressively low price tag because, although rare, there are time when you are simply getting a good deal, and this is one of them. The helmet itself isn’t particularly ground breaking, but it’s a strong unit made from ABS engineering plastic molding technology and a high-density EPS cushioning layer, which makes it tough enough to withstand high-impacts, provides excellent sound protection, and applies comfort to all the right places. It’s a standard helmet that meets and exceeds DOT standards, but it’s the communication system that makes this one special.
The Freedconn BM2-S utilizes Freedconn’s own Bluetooth system. And if two of your riding buddies are also equipped with Freedconn Bluetooth helmets then you can connect to each other in a three-way conference over a range of up to 500m (1640 yards).
The Bluetooth system also connects with your cell phone, GPS devices, and Bluetooth equipped music players for the ultimate hands-free experience, with a one-button control for all functions, such as taking calls, listening to FM radio, or talking over the intercom.
Range: 500 meters
Weight: 3.90 lbs
#07. The BiLT Techno 2.0
BiLT helmets are more on the budget end of the scale here, but in terms of bang-for-buck you can’t go wrong with their Techno 2.0 Bluetooth motorcycle helmet. If you’re not entirely sure what you want a Bluetooth helmet for or only have limited use for one, it might be a wise idea to invest in something like this as your first purchase. The finish can be a bit ropey in places – but you get what you pay for in that respect. And of course, all of their helmets conform to international helmet standards.
But if you’ve got a loose thread here, or a perished gasket there, don’t worry about it because in return you’ve got a capable helmet that’s fully Bluetooth enabled. The BiLT Techno 2.0 boasts a Sena DWO-5 Universal Bluetooth 3.0 Communicator integrated into the helmet. And if you’ve done any research about Sena, you’ll know how good their products are.
The BiLT Techno 2.0 features 8 hours of talk time, a universal intercom that allows you for cross-brand communication, smartphone audio playback functionality, hands free communication, and more.
Range: 400 meters
Weight: 3.95 lbs
#08. The Torc T 27 Bluetooth Helmet
Try finding a bad review of this one…because you just can’t. The Torc T 27 Bluetooth motorcycle helmet is one of those rare products that just delivers. Now, it’s still very much a budget helmet but don’t be fooled by its cheap price. After trying one of these on you’ll be shocked at how good it is for the money you spent. And we’re just talking about the shell here – not the Bluetooth technology that goes with it. First though, let’s talk about that shell.
It’s small and lightweight, but it still meets DOT and ECE requirements. Inside, it has a retractable “one-touch operational” sun-shield for better daytime visibility, and comes with an easy flip up chin bar. The ultra-suede lining is fully removable and machine washable, and the foam pads inside the helmet have been designed to reduce the effects of sweat. And you won’t get too sweaty wearing one either, since its vents actually work and work well – which is very rare for a “cheaper” helmet.
As for the Bluetooth, it runs Bluetooth 2.0 courtesy of BLINC technology, which allows for easy phone call management, music streaming, and GPS navigation. Of course, inter communication with other riders is a major function, but we like this one just because of its shape and fit, rather than its Bluetooth capabilities.
Range: 450 meters
Weight: 5.20 lbs
#09. The ILM Integrated Bluetooth Modular Helmet
Now for a modular helmet. Flip-up style helmets are more popular than ever at the moment, and if you like the fun of a flip-up but want the practicality of a Bluetooth motorcycle helmet, we’ve got you covered. The ILM Integrated Bluetooth Modular helmet is appropriately priced these days. When it first arrived on the scene it was probably a little over-priced, but nowadays they’ve come down in price. Unlike the two helmets above, the ILM is powered by Freedconn Bluetooth, rather than BLINC or Sena.
The Freedconn Bluetooth is no less impressive than the other two, but it does have something that many users have come to complain about: a fiddly button and dial interface that’s used to control the system’s features. The dial and button can be used for one-touch control of answering phone calls, redialing numbers, and choosing music, all whilst keeping both hands on the handlebars. Some people have complained that it isn’t as easy as the manufacturer makes out – however, those reviews seemed a bit unfair.
Despite that point, we recommend the ILM Bluetooth Integrated Modular helmet.
Range: 300 meters
Weight: 4.40 lbs
#10. The Snow Master TX-27 Bluetooth Off-Roader
Ok, this is a bit of a cheeky entry: it’s a snow mobile helmet rather than a regular motorcycle lid – but it’s still DOT certified and passes all the necessary safety regulations for road use. For reasons unknown, there aren’t a lot of off-road styled Bluetooth motorcycle helmets on the market, so that’s why this one caught our attention. Not only is it Bluetooth enabled and safe for riding, it also comes with a very attractive price tag that gets you a lot of proverbial Bluetooth bang for your buck. If you can stomach wearing a snow mobile helmet for your off-roading adventures then this could be a very interesting option. Naturally, since it’s not strictly designed for road use, we advise you to wear this one at your own risk – though considering helmets aren’t mandatory everywhere, wearing one of these is infinitely better than wearing nothing.
The Snow Master TX-27 features is shaped like a motocross helmet and comes complete with a dual visor, visor heating option, a drop down tinted visor, a peak, and of course, it’s DOT approved so it’s more than safe enough. The Bluetooth tech comes in the form of a Hawk X1 unit which has Bluetooth 3.0 allowing hands free communication with a wide range of Bluetooth devices like cell phones, and allow for intercom communication with fellow riders and passengers. You can voice dial for outgoing calls and use voice activated prompts to take incoming calls, and you can also adjust your settings via a glove-friendly interface. In this bundle, buyers receive the helmet and Bluetooth system, a helmet bag, a mounting plate, a microphone, a USB charging cable, foam ear spacers, and much more. It might not be a strictly motorcycle product, but you get a lot for your money.
Range: 30 meters
Weight: 5.40 lbs
#11. The Torc T14B
This helmet had been getting so many excellent reviews online that we had to give it a try. The Torc T14B is an excellent full face helmet that ticks all of the right boxes: it’s protective, it’s comfortable, and it also has a quality Bluetooth device installed, and retails for a very handsome price. Built with a polycarbonate shell for the best protection, and coming complete with a high quality, scratch resistant, face shield with a drop down sun visor, the helmet also boasts a sophisticated ventilation system that will keep you comfortable, whatever the weather.
Thanks to the built-in Bluetooth system, the Torc T14B allows for seamless bike to bike communication. Unlike a lot of Bluetooth integrated devices, this model has great smartphone synchronicity which makes like on two wheels much easier. What’s more, the headset and microphone offer excellent sound quality, even at high speeds. It’s not a bad helmet at all, especially when you consider that it comes with an affordable price tag, depending on where you buy it.
Range: 400 meters
Weight: 4.30 lbs
2 Open Face Options For The Summer Months
Half face helmets wit Bluetooth features do exist. It might seem counter-intuitive to have all that wind rushing against your face and expecting to hear anything, but someone’s invented a compromise. But because it’s an odd concept, there are surprisingly few open face, Bluetooth-enabled options. Here are two that have caught our eyes lately:
#01. The Daytona Powersports Bluetooth Half Helm
Bluetooth communication isn’t restricted to full-face helmets only. In fact, the United States has plenty of riders who prefer to wear smaller helmets when they’re out on the road, and while it might seem counter-intuitive to have a microphone out in front of your mouth and exposed to the elements, there are a few helmets out there that have wind-reducing microphones that can handle the job. This particular helmet is put together by Daytona Powersports and it uses Sena’s SPH10H-FM Bluetooth headset and intercom to connect the rider to other motorcyclists and other Bluetooth devices. The helmet itself is called the DPS-100 and claims to be the smallest DOT approved short helmet that comes with a drop down sun-visor on the market. It makes for an unusual helmet, but if shorty helmets are your thing, this might be as good as it gets.
The price of the Sena SPH10H-FM on its would cover over 75% of this helmets overall price tag, so you get quite a decent deal. Using a low profile Bluetooth 3.0 setup, the SPH10 can link riders with up to four other rider or passengers over a 900 meter (980 yard) range. Thanks to simple connectivity, it’s possible for riders to make hands-free calls, listen to music, share music with others, connect to their smartphone or GPS systems, all with easy controls that require minimal attention. It’s also universal – which means it’s not brand-specific, making it easy for you to connect with anyone, regardless of what tech they have in their ears. It’s waterproof, has decent battery life, and comes in at an affordable price too. We think this is a great option for open-face aficionados.
Range: 900 meters
Weight: 2.00 lbs
#02. The Origine O528B Pilota
This retro looking ¾ helmet is definitely something different. It’s called the Origine O528B Pilota and it’s probably the most eye-catching but opinion-dividing item on our list. It’s definitely retro-cool, but it’s not going to be to everyone’s tastes. In fact, if you’re into hardcore touring, fast road riding, or heavy duty off-roading then you’re definitely not going to want this. However, if you like casual rides around the city, street focused commuting or gentle cruising, then this might be worth considering.
Fitted with BLINC 3.0 Bluetooth (yeah, that’s 3.0 not 2.0) it’s one of the more advanced systems on our list – but having the most advanced Bluetooth technology doesn’t make it the best helmet option. There are some obvious problem. For a start, the problem with having an open-faced helmet with Bluetooth capabilities is the microphone issue – great at low speed, but wind noises at high speed make it difficult to operate. Next, having a ¾ helmet is definitely not as safe as wearing as full face – granted, only a fraction of accidents involve impacts on the chin…but still. And finally, it might look cool and European, and it does boast “Designed In Italy” on the website, but it wasn’t made in Italy. It was made in China.
Despite those negative points, we still like it – providing it’s used in the right setting. Even with the open-face, your audio listening experience is not compromised in the slightest. Yeah, it might be a little less safe than a full-face, but if you’re commuting in a city this will do just fine. And the China issue…well let’s be honest, everything is made in China, so that’s hardly an arguable point anymore. It’s still DOT and ECE approved, so who cares where it was made?
So if you want something technologically advanced that bucks the trend, this cool Bluetooth helmet from Origine might be for you.
Range: 30 meters
Weight: 3.55 lbs
