What is the use of a motorcycle intercom?

If you're a motorcycle enthusiast, you probably know that communicating on this type of vehicle is especially difficult when you don't have the right equipment. Shouting is not an option as noise is disturbed by wind and noisy engine. All that remains is to mimic gestures that are, however, incomprehensible and dangerous.

Fortunately the technology is on the lookout for needs and comes to the rescue of bikers! Indeed, intercoms are being marketed to establish a best communication on a motorcycle.

Find out everything there is to know aboutmotorcycle intercom. We will also guide you to choose the best model if you are looking for one. 

What is a motorcycle intercom?

A motorcycle intercom is an instrument used by riders to communicate on a motorcycle. The device offers many features as an option with Gps, an option to listen to music, etc. It also has an earpiece and a microphone for facilitate communication. Equipped with several fastening devices, it connects to the headset and also connects through a smartphone. It is now possible to keep your concentration on the road while having discussions. 

Why use a motorcycle intercom?

The motorcycle intercom allows the user to interact effectively. In general, this device is used for three different ways of communicating: 

• It allows the biker to communicate with your passenger. Knowing that the sound around a motorcycle can exceed 100 decibels (unit of sound measurement), the device prevents you from shouting and fine-tuning communication with your interlocutor.
• The intercom also allows chat with another biker. This is the pairing system that offers the possibility ofestablish communication between two individuals on two different vehicles. The latest models of this gadget offer a few meters up to several kilometers of range, depending on the model chosen.
• It allows you to communicate in groups, provided that all other pilots have one. Indeed, the instrument, especially the most sophisticated model is interconnected with other devices. So you can connect to a group of several bikers during a ride by activating the "conference mode" option.

What are the other uses of a motorcycle intercom?

You now know that the motorcycle intercom is mainly used to keep communication along a motorcycle ride. However, the usefulness of this device is not limited to that. 

For communication with your smartphone

Using a smartphone on a motorcycle is impossible without at least one Handsfree. But the latter can still sometimes be the source of an accident, because its use requires the intervention of a hand to press a button. Moreover, it is a gesture that is strictly forbidden by law, or risk paying a fine of 135 euros. An incoming call can simply disrupt the pilot's concentration if he still has to release a handlebar in order to stall. 

Unlike a hands-free kit, a motorcycle intercom keeps your concentration even if your phone starts ringing. Indeed, once connected to a smartphone, the intercom motorcycle offers an option voice command. It is therefore possible for you to receive or make a call while driving normally. In addition, an intercom has an earpiece and microphone that greatly improve the quality of communication. 

To listen to music

Walking around is good, but being accompanied by your favorite music is even better! And that's one of the advantages of the motorcycle intercom. It is now possible to appreciate the beauty of a landscape while rolling and listening to its favorite piece. Why not music that will reboot motivation while going to work? All you need to do is have a smartphone or an MP3 player. By the way Some intercom models will allow you to change songs only from a voice command. You won't have to listen to a song you don't like without having to stop. Stop or launch music, everything is done vocally, according to your desires. 

The only small downside with this feature is that not all intercoms work with all phones and mp3 players. Indeed, the Bluetooth of the device must still be compatible with that of the intercom and that it has an AVRCP profile.

To listen to the radio

This character probably interests those who always want to be aware of the latest news. With an intercom, you can always stay tuned to your favorite station. The advantage with this feature is that you won't necessarily need a smartphone. Indeed, some models already have a built-in FM tuner, saving your phone's battery. You can even pre-record multiple stations, and change them with a simple voice command.

Get GPS directions

Another feature that can be provided by a motorcycle intercom: getting his route from his GPS. The instructions you get will be vocal so you can always focus on your journey. In addition, almost all motorcycle GPS is compatible with intercoms.

Different types of intercoms

Intercoms come in several models, ranging from the oldest (which may not be as practical) to the newer ones. 

The old systems

The older systems are distinguished in three versions: non-electronic wire, portable electronic wire and integrated electronic wire. 

The non-electronic wired model was marketed around 1994. Yes, "was" because this version has been in decline since 2010 and a law in July 2015 confirmed its shutdown. Distributed by Astumania and designed by Pierre Trotoux, it had two in-ear eardria. 

Between 1990 and 2000 portable electronic wired intercoms took centre stage. Brands such as Nextel and Chatterbox were the most attractive at the time. These versions have gradually lost interest with the emergence of new models, especially wireless ones.

Integrated electronic wired intercoms are still available on the market. These are the battery-powered models that connect to the on-board radio. Despite their low price, these types of aircraft tend to disappear and no longer really attract pilots. Indeed, they offer too many drawbacks such as waterproofing problems, general discomfort of use and above all, they do not allow to communicate from motorcycle to motorcycle.

Recent systems

Wireless intercoms are the most popular at the moment because they offer the desired utility in the device, namely the possibility of communicating with your passenger or with friends. 

Like a hands-free kit, this version works with Bluetooth. It incorporates an earpiece and microphone and fits on all motorcycle helmets. Unlike wired models, wireless intercoms offer multiple actions. Their features go far beyond discussions between drivers, as they also allow you to make and receive calls, listen to music, radio and voice instructions obtained from GPS.

Wireless intercoms are available in two versions: built-in models and adaptable models.

The integrated intercom

The built-in intercoms are those directly contained in the headsets. Device components such as Bluetooth module, battery, headset and microphone are housed inside the headset. The user will just have access to the control devices that are placed outside. 

Various brands have already embarked on this design, as this technology offers several advantages. The structure first offers an aesthetic interest: zero footprint, nothing exceeds and it's very clean. With the built-in model, the risk of losing the Bluetooth module is greatly reduced. The quality of the pairing system is also greatly improved with this intercom model.

However, it cannot work in groups, but only as a duo.

The adaptable intercom

The adaptable intercom attaches to the outside of the helmet. Generally, all models are compatible with almost all helmets, although exceptional brands design them with aesthetics particularly matched with their helmets. 

In addition to its practicality and efficiency in communication, the adaptable intercom is interesting if you are planning a resale. Unlike the built-in intercom, it is easy to sell for sale by its independence.