Intercoms, GPS & Cameras

In the Know, On the Go with a Bluetooth Motorcycle Intercom and GPS

Bluetooth technology has taken motorcycle riding to the next level. To be in the know on the go, read on and discover the best Bluetooth-enabled motorcycle intercoms and GPS systems. Before we begin, here’s a quick clarification of the difference between a Bluetooth intercom and a GPS. Motorcycle helmets are not equipped with GPS devices, meaning the intercom and GPS are separate units. A Bluetooth intercom system fitted to a motorcycle helmet is packed full of great communication features including the ability to connect wirelessly to a third-party GPS. So whether battling through the concrete jungle or on a coast-to-coast road trip, motorcycle intercoms make a ride come alive. Depending on the unit you choose, you can talk to your pillion, other riders in your group, listen to music, take calls, and hear GPS prompts. On some systems, you can do all the above.

Motorcycles Helmets with Bluetooth

Bluetooth motorcycle intercoms attach to the left side of your motorcycle helmet. The speakers and wiring are hidden behind the comfort liner. Meanwhile, some motorcycle helmets come with the system pre-installed by the manufacturer.

How does a Bluetooth Motorcycle Intercom work?

At one time, talking to your pillion passenger or listening to GPS instructions meant being physically connected to them via a wire. Much the same way as you pair wireless ear buds to a Smartphone, a Bluetooth intercom is paired to a Smartphone, GPS or MP3 player. The process varies from make to make but all good brands offer a downloadable app to customise the settings.

Features to look for in a motorcycle intercom

Ride alone or with the occasional pillion and a basic Bluetooth system such as the Sena SMH5 will cover your needs. If you enjoy regular road trips with a large group you may consider an intercom like the Cardo Packtalk Bold. This intercom features DMC (Dynamic Mesh Communication) allowing multi-rider communication over greater distances. Likewise, the amount of wireless devices you want to access will dictate the number of channels the intercom can pair with. If you value quality audio for your music, pay attention to speaker size and quality. Also, check if it includes noise-cancelling software. Be aware that some Bluetooth motorcycle intercoms only pair with the same brand, while others such as the Midland BTX1 Pro S will pair with any device.

Motorcycle GPS

Global Positioning System or GPS is a compact unit that attaches to your motorcycle’s handlebars. A constantly updating map appears on a small LCD screen, which provides directions to a chosen destination.

How does a Motorcycle GPS work?

It may seem hard to believe but that small device on your motorcycle has access to at least 24 orbiting satellites. Each satellite follows an exact orbit and transmits a unique digital signature. Your motorcycle GPS is a receiver that uses information from three of these satellites to triangulate your precise location. In most conditions, a good GPS can calculate an exact location anywhere on the planet to within 30-cms.

What to look for in a Motorcycle GPS

GPS systems range from simple to multi-function. Working out what features you need, will dictate the GPS you choose. Here are some top tips to guide you in the right direction: Check for map update charges. Find out how the device loads any updates e.g. are they via onboard WI-FI or connection to a computer. To hear voice prompts from the GPS via your intercom, it will need to be Bluetooth-equipped. If it isn’t, you’ll have vision but no sound.  Find out if the motorcycle’s electrical system can charge the GPS. If not, battery life is particularly important. Mounting systems should be secure, vibration and water-resistant and compatible with the handlebars. Finally, check if the Motorcycle GPS comes with anti-theft hardware. If it doesn’t, you will need to remove it every time you make a stop. Options like the TomTom Rider WORLD Premium contain all of the above plus a host of extra features. Motorcycle intercoms and GPS systems not only enhance a road trip but they can also make it safer. Stay in the know on the go and make the most of your ride with a motorcycle intercom.