When you talk about Bluetooth communicators, you will most likely hear Sena Technologies and Interphone in the discussion. Well, they have announced a strategic alliance that will finally make devices from these two companies compatible.
Their alliance consists of the fact that Interphone products will share proprietary tech from Sena by 2021. Essentially, this means that even Interphone devices will be able to use the amazing Mesh 2.0 technology!
It seems that the two companies share a common goal – making riding more comfortable for more people. Well, it’s very nice to see this development in the Bluetooth intercom devices market.
Check out more news from the motorcycle world in our News section!
Perhaps looking for a new Bluetooth headset? Head on to our Bluetooth headset reviews section to find the best fit for you!
What if we told you that there is an amazing, motorcycle helmet-friendly Bluetooth headset that you can get for only $50? You would probably think that’s impossible, as most quality-made Bluetooth headsets have price tags of over $200! Well, in our THOKWOK BT-S3 motorcycle Bluetooth headset review, we will show you otherwise!
This impressive outing from THOKWOK may not have the best range and is a bit outdated when it comes to Bluetooth tech powering it, but it is certainly a powerful Bluetooth headset when you consider its price tag!
Check out our review down below to see what this fuss is all about!
THOKWOK BT-S3 Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset Review – Features
Here is a quick overview of the main features of the THOKWOK BT-S3 motorcycle Bluetooth headset:
Two speakers and a microphone
Buckle-style connection to the helmet
Bluetooth 3.0
Enables pairing with any Bluetooth device type
0,5-mile range (800 m)
Supports a group intercom session of 4 participants
When we look at the THOKWOK BT-S3 motorcycle Bluetooth device, we can see that it comes packaged with:
Two speakers
Microphone
Headset
It is a pretty tactile Bluetooth device, with four large buttons:
On/Off button
Volume Up button (Next)
Volume Down button (Previous)
Pair button
This Bluetooth communicator features a buckle style connection, making it very easy to attach and detach from your motorcycle helmet. It is made with open-face and full-face helmets in mind.
Note: Before you set up this device, make sure to check the interior space of the helmet, as you will need to put speakers and wires inside, below the comfort liner. You want a snug fit, don’t you?
Bluetooth Pairing
Here is a simple video explanation of how to do Bluetooth pairing with THOKWOK BT-S3!
You can pair the THOKWOK BT-S3 Bluetooth communication system with any Bluetooth-enabled device. So, you can connect it to:
MP3 players
Smartphones
GPS devices
Other intercoms
We are amazed at the versatility this headset brings to the table when it comes to Bluetooth connectivity.
Connection Range
THOKWOK BT-S3 motorcycle communication system utilizes Bluetooth 3.0 technology. It certainly shows its limitations, with the maximum range being 0,5 miles (800 meters). Well, that’s not too much, but when you consider the accessible pricing of this Bluetooth intercom, it suddenly makes more sense.
Like with every other motorcycle Bluetooth communication system, the THOKWOK BT-S3 range will get significantly reduced if you are riding in an urban zone with lots of buildings, over hills, or through heavily forested areas. Also, if there are cars between you and your group members, that will hinder the connection.
The headset supports up to three riders with a Bluetooth-enabled intercom (that doesn’t have to be the same brand). Our main gripe with the group intercom functionality is that only two participants in the conversation can speak simultaneously, which can quickly get irritating.
There are certainly better Bluetooth headsets for motorcycle riders if you are looking for the optimal group intercom experience. If you are looking for that in your motorcycle helmet communication device, go for Sena 30K or Cardo PACKTALK Slim instead!
Sound Quality
It’s a staple with motorcycle helmet communication systems that they don’t have the best audio quality. Surprisingly, THOKWOK BT-S3 is a product that has a decent, almost crystal clear sound quality, with nice bass, for such a low price. It will provide you with a suitable music listening experience, even in loud environments.
It’s worth mentioning that sound quality takes a hit when you are riding over 40 miles per hour (64 km/h). That’s because of all the wind noise that will come inside your helmet.
To further increase the sound quality, the THOKWOK BT-S3 headset features an advanced noise control technology in the form of DSP echo cancelation technology. It essentially allows you to clearly hear your favorite tunes, phone calls, GPS directions, or your buddies on the road via group intercom.
For example, when someone is talking on the intercom, your music will get a bit lowered down and get its volume back up after that someone has stopped talking. Well, this dynamic sound focus feature is a thoughtful surprise!
Voice Control
Like most motorcycle Bluetooth headsets, the THOKWOK BT-S3 provides a basic, hands-free operation via voice commands. With this functionality, you can do actions like:
Switch FM radio stations
Access GPS capabilities
Proceed or take calls
Access voice conference feature
Voice control is a neat feature to have around for a care-free riding experience, especially when you are riding fast on a busy highway.
Additional Features
Here are some extra features of the THOKWOK BT-S3 motorcycle Bluetooth headset!
GPS Streaming Over Group Intercom
THOKWOK BT-S3 allows you to stream GPS directions with other riders who are in your group intercom session. This is a great convenience factor that can make the group riding experience hassle-free! Also, you won’t lose time on communicating the specific route details. That can sometimes waste tons of time.
Built-In FM Radio
This Bluetooth headset allows you to listen to your favorite radio stations, get weather and traffic reports from them, and more. The built-in FM radio has a Scan feature that allows you to browse through available radio stations around your current location quickly.
Water Resistant or Waterproof?
The THOKWOK BT-S3 Bluetooth communication unit is made of silica-gel material that has waterproof qualities. So, there will be no need to remove it if you are riding in a heavy downpour. Still, that doesn’t mean that you should submerge the device in water. The fact that it is waterproof just tells us how much value this intercom provides for such a low price tag.
Battery Life
The battery life of the THOKWOK BT-S3 Bluetooth headset is surprisingly strong! It provides 12,5 days (or 300 hours) of standby time. If you are listening to music, the battery will hold for 10 hours. Also, you get 8 hours of talk time.
What about the charging time? Well, it’s quick and swift, with only three hours to charge the battery from zero to hero!
Price
Throughout our whole review, we are talking about the low price tag of this Bluetooth headset. It’s unquestionably a remarkably cheap, budget intercom option. So, what’s the price of it?
It will cost you only $49,99/€42,07/£37,98! That’s really nothing for so many great features you get!
Check out the button down below to get your own THOKWOK motorcycle Bluetooth headset!
At the end of our THOKWOK BT-S3 motorcycle Bluetooth headset review, we can tell that it’s quite an amazing headset when you consider its price tag.
It offers decent audio quality, provides you with a voice control option, will stay functional in heavy rain conditions (which even some premium headsets can’t manage), and offers good group intercom function for smaller groups.
Our main gripes with it are some limitations due to the Bluetooth 3.0 tech powering it. For starters, the range is only half a mile (800 meters), which often gets lowered down in different scenarios that include interferences. Also, only two participants in the group intercom can talk simultaneously, which is a bummer.
There are certainly better Bluetooth headsets when it comes to group intercom functionality. But, if you are riding in a tight-knitted group, this headset is our heartfelt recommendation.
A short while ago, Royal Enfield has shown the new Meteor 350 bike in India. It’s a great-looking bike, and it’s no wonder that people outside of India desire to ride it too.
The desires have been listened to, and Royal Enfield has decided to bring this bike to the European market, starting on November 10th. This makes lots of sense, as the BS6 emission standards are not that much different from Euro 5 standards.
It’s still not known if the Meteor 350 will arrive in the USA, though. Well, it seems that Royal Enfield is testing the Indian and European markets before making the final decision.
A budget is a personal spending plan that takes into account expected income and expenses for a specified period of time. It can bring you one step closer toward financial security. There are many how to calculate markup reasons to have a budget, depending on the individual. A budget can often help build financial independence and freedom.
Budgeting can help you avoid poor spending habits and lead to your savings goals. Have you ever tried to put together a financial plan to help you save money? Budgeting is an effective way to help ensure you don’t overspend.
Talk to a Professional About Reaching Your Financial Goals
You can only get by without knowing your cash flow for so long before you get into financial trouble, so make the time to know the flow of your cash. Budgeting should be something that everyone does, regardless of their financial situation. Budgets can be made for any entity that needs or wants to spend money, including governments and businesses, people, and households of any income level. A budget refers to an estimation of revenue and expenses that’s made for a specified future period of time. Budgeting usually occurs on an ongoing basis, with individual budgets being re-evaluated regularly. A common budget method is to divide your income into spending categories.
Financial Planning Process
Some investors may ask for your current budget to see your predicted performance and priorities based on it. I have news for you, life is full of all sorts of emergency expenses. From hospital bills to unexpected home repairs, if you don’t prepare your finances ahead of the game, you won’t be ready when irs 1040ez tax form template those expenses come your way. The good news is that one of the best ways to combat financial overwhelm is to live your life on a budget. That way, you never spend beyond your means, you are always well-prepared for unexpected expenses, and fewer things have the ability to jump up and bite you. Every time you sit down to create, assess, refine, or log expenses into your budget, you are making a conscious effort to focus on your own finances instead of others.
Don’t be afraid to request bill extensions or payment plans from creditors. There’s something powerful about handing over a stack of $20 bills for a purchase. You have to confront the money you’re about to spend and accept that the spending is worth it.
Review Your Spending
Change habits that are costing you, like letting food spoil before you can eat it. Prepare meals at home instead of going to restaurants or getting takeout. Learn all you can about finances, money management, and how you can best invest in yourself. Talk to your financially savvy friends and seek out real-world tips and advice from people who are doing well with their money. People can sometimes cut too many expenses so that they end up with a budget that they can’t stick to. Substitution, in contrast, keeps the basics while trimming costs.
In a roundabout way, I have already talked about this, but one of the more obvious benefits of budgeting is that it helps you save money.
Creating a personal budget or an operational budget for your business is important.
Your cash flow is what allows you to pay for everything (or not).
This way, you’ll be less likely to dip into your savings each month. As you do those things, you can begin to build wealth and give yourself true financial freedom. You should only use your emergency fund a guide to preparing general partnership financial statements for true emergencies.
We also allow you to split your payment across 2 separate credit card transactions or send a payment link email to another person on your behalf. If splitting your payment into 2 transactions, a minimum payment of $350 is required for the first transaction. If you work at a startup or are considering seeking outside investors, it’s important to have documented budgetary information.
It Provides a Pivotable Plan
Keeping a budget can also ensure you don’t take on any unnecessary debt. Without a budget, you could find yourself with unexpected expenditures. Budgeting is the process of putting a plan together to help you not only save money, but also know how to spend it. A budget can ensure you’re not overspending and you can cover necessary expenses. It’s often done monthly and you can re-evaluate it periodically.
The competition when it comes to premium Bluetooth intercom technology is quite fierce, with brands like Cardo and PACKTALK being one of the leading opponents of Sena. Well, the mainstay feature of these is certainly the Mesh intercom technology.
The Mesh technology dramatically improves the Bluetooth range of these intercoms, making them ideal for many motorcycle riders. Especially those who make long road trips with their buddies.
Sena 30K isn’t the most recent offering from Sena, but it’s certainly one of, if not the best Bluetooth communication system with mesh intercom.
Well, what features make the Sena 30K one of the best on the market? We have prepared a short Sena 30K Bluetooth comm system review with all the things you have to know!
Sena 30K Bluetooth Comm System Review – Features
Here is a quick overview of the main features of the Sena 30K Bluetooth communication system:
Weighs 61 grams
Shark fin antenna with an improved signal
Uses both Bluetooth and Mesh intercom technology
Public Mesh Mode for connecting to an unlimited number of riders (talking to 6 at a time)
Private Mesh Mode for private group intercom sessions
Without further ado, let’s find out more about the mentioned features!
Design & Installation
The 30K weighs only 61 grams right out of the box, with streamlined aesthetics that closely resemble Sena 20S series. When you install it on your helmet, it will sit tight to eliminate wind noise and practically camouflage with your helmet.
You can mount the Sena 30K Bluetooth comm system on almost any full-face, open face or modular helmet made in the last decade. Keep in mind that you will need speaker cutouts on the helmets for optimal installation. You can attach it to the bottom left part of your helmet. Make sure that the jog dial is turned to the outside of the helmet.
Worth a mention is the inclusion of wired and boom mics that can be replaced when you open the clamp of the Sena 30K unit.
Bluetooth Pairing
You can connect the Sena 30K intercom system to two separate Bluetooth-enabled devices. For example, you can connect to your MP3 player and GPS device at the same time. To do so, just hold down on the appropriate button for a few seconds.
Another neat feature is the Mesh intercom technology implementation. It’s an implementation that provides an extended Bluetooth range, which is incredible for touring with your buddies (more on that in the ‘Connection Range’ section!). Basically, you can use this system only with another Mesh intercom-enabled device.
That doesn’t mean that your crew has to upgrade, as the Sena 30K Bluetooth communication system features two separate antennas and processors – for Bluetooth and Mesh network.
Connection Range
Along with classic Bluetooth, you can choose between two connection modes:
Public Mesh mode
Private Mesh mode
Public Mesh mode allows you to connect with an unlimited number of riders. Sounds too good to be true? There is a catch: you can only talk to up to six riders in the Public mode. Its range is 1,2 miles (2 kilometers), which is good enough for your fellow riders to spread out a bit.
There are a few limitations, though. The communication within range will function like an FM radio channel, which means that anyone can listen to your conversations. Also, there are some connection problems if you get out of formation or if there is a change in elevation between the participants in the Mesh network. Public Mesh mode is excellent if you want to connect your crew as soon as possible.
If you want a more private session, the Private Meshmode is ideal for you. Nobody can listen to your intercom conversation other than the participants in the Private room. Connecting is very simple: just push down the Mesh button for 5 seconds, and the audio invitation will come around to all riders in the range. The range is the same as with the Public Mesh mode: 1,2 miles (2 kilometers).
With both modes, a 5-mile (8 kilometers) range is the maximum, but it can get disrupted by terrain such as:
hills
dense woods
mountain passes
If the connection gets disrupted to the point that someone gets disconnected, no worries! Riders can return to the Mesh network seamlessly once they back in range, without disrupting the rest of the group. It’s certainly a game-changer that removes the tedium that came with manual reconnects to intercom channels.
If you are looking for another amazing Mesh-enabled Bluetooth headset, check out our Cardo PACKTALK Slim review!
With its maximum range of 5 miles (8 kilometers), Sena 30K certainly is the Bluetooth intercom to get if you want to spread out a bit with your crew!
The sound quality is basically the same as with the Sena 20S communication systems. You can find a 3.5mm audio jack if you want to plug in your earphones to listen to music, talk with your buddies on the intercom, or proceed and get calls.
A handy feature that we want to mention is the Ambient Mode. You just press a button on the Sena 30K device attached to your helmet, which will toggle sounds that you can hear outside your helmet. It functions as a microphone, proceeding the exterior sounds to your earphones.
Voice Control
Here is all the essential information you have to know about voice commands on Sena 30K!
Yes, you can remote control your Sena 30K device via voice commands. It takes a while to get the hang of them, but once you do, you probably won’t go back to the classic tapping on the buttons anytime soon.
Here are some basic voice commands you can use with your Sena 30K Bluetooth communication system:
‘Hello Sena’ triggers voice command mode and asks you to ‘Say a Command’
‘What Can I Say’ triggers a complete list of available voice commands
The voice control feature is relatively easy to use. You can turn music on and off, change radio channels, check your battery levels, and more.
If you wish to expand voice command functions, you can press the ‘Phone’ button to activate the virtual assistant on your smartphone.
Additional Features
Here are some features of the Sena 30K Bluetooth communication system worth a mention:
Music Sharing Capability
Basically, listening to music is leveled up with this feature, as you can share music in both Bluetooth and Mesh intercom modes.
Audio Multitasking
In essence, this is an advanced noise control implementation. That means you can tune out your music when you take phone calls from someone or join the intercom room.
Sena Utility App
Here is a video explaining how does the Sena 30K utility app actually work!
As with all Sena Bluetooth communication devices, the 30K comes with a companion utility app. It features quite a slick interface that enables you to:
Speed dial numbers
Set up private intercom networks
Choose preset radio stations
Configure audio multitasking volume
Change voice command sensitivity
Tamper with audio quality settings
You can download the Sena App for Android and iOS.
Water Resistant or Waterproof?
In this test, we can see that Sena 30K definitely is not waterproof!
Numerous non-Sena comm systems boast waterproof qualities. Sadly, Sena headsets are only water-resistant, which means you should pick carefully when you ride with the 30K headset.
While it isn’t a deal-breaker, it’s fair to know that you should absolutely avoid getting the Sena 30K communication system completely wet, as it could cause a malfunction.
Battery Life
Even though the Mesh network is more powerful than classic Bluetooth, it isn’t perfect. It will use much more power due to the increase in range.
Here is an example:
Sena 20S single battery charge in Bluetooth mode: 13 hours of talk time
Sena 30S battery charge in Mesh mode: 8 hours of talk time
Sena 30S battery charge in Bluetooth mode: 13 hours of talk time
If nothing else, you basically get two units in one Sena headset, as the 30S features both Bluetooth and Mesh technology modes.
One big benefit that Sena 30S offers is the quick charge function, as you can have the full charge in just 1,5 hours. It’s certainly one of the best motorcycle comm systems when it comes to that aspect.
Price
Right now, you can find Sena 30K intercom systems in select variants:
Single Pack will cost you $254,15/€214,94/£193,61
Dual Pack will cost you $422,51/€357,53/£322,06
You can see where Sena 30K is available down below!
When summing up our Sena 30K Bluetooth comm system review, we can say that it’s a worthwhile improvement over the Sena 20S range.
It is completely feature-packed and yet very easy to use at the same time. Also, Mesh intercom technology is simply amazing – when it works.
Sena 30K is not for everyone, as it is quite pricey, and not all riders will need to connect to the Mesh network. Also, there are cheaper units that actually feature weatherproof and water-resistant certification.
Nevertheless, if your goal is to communicate with your buddies over extended ranges while on the road, Sena 30K is worth the price!
Kawasaki has decided to make a spin-off division from the Kawasaki Heavy Industries. That’s an interesting move, as Kawasaki is a multi-branch company that specializes in:
Aerospace equipment
Boilers
Bullet trails
Industrial robots
Ships
Of course, most people know about their motorcycle division, which is why they are breaking off this division from the rest of them. One of the reasons is also a significant reduction in Southeast Asia sales due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The company as a whole (Kawasaki Heavy Industries) will focus more on its larger energy projects rather than on bikes only. That’s why making a spin-off company from the motorcycle division is such a great move, as the company will be able to work more independently.
The CEO of Kawasaki, Eigo Konya, states that there is no reason for concern, as “the Kawasaki brand in North America is strong and getting stronger even under the COVID-19 situation.” Along with that, Konya says that they will continue to provide their renowned services.
Well, good luck to Kawasaki with this new chapter!
Check out more news from the motorcycle world in our News section!
Cardo is proving time and time again that they are one of the biggest players in the Bluetooth headset market. Of course, their partnership with JBL regarding the sound quality pays off, but their devices are more than just that. Today, in our Cardo PACKTALK Slim Bluetooth headset review, we will precisely show you what we mean.
The Slim is a companion piece to the PACKTALK Bold Bluetooth headset. While it is a bit inferior when it comes to the connection range, it is a much more convenient unit that packs a lot of punch for being so slim!
What can you expect from this Bluetooth headset, and does it live up to the namesake of its creator? Find out more in the following sections of our review below!
Cardo PACKTALK Slim Bluetooth Headset Review – Features
Here is a quick list of features that this fantastic Bluetooth headset has:
6,5mm thick
4 glove-friendly buttons
Wired and boom microphones
Bluetooth 4.1 – talk with up to 4 riders in 0,75-mile (1,2 km) range
Dynamic Mesh technology – talk with up to 15 riders in a 5-mile (8 km) range
40mm wide JBL speakers with Standard and Bass Boost audio profiles
Now, it’s time for an in-depth breakdown of all these features of the PACKTALK Slim Bluetooth comm device!
Design & Installation
To justify its “Slim” name, this Bluetooth unit is only 6,5mm thick, but don’t let that fool you – this is a real powerhouse that stands tall with Cardo PACKTALK Bold, its counterpart. You can set up the PACKTALK Slim by attaching it to the left side of your helmet, either with a glue plate or metal clip.
The battery pack comes as a separate unit that you can install on the neckline. This, in turn, might be bothersome for some riders – especially those with neck pads. You see, the battery pack can get quite tight down there.
The PACKTALK Slim unit itself features a few buttons:
Intercom button – create and connect to the intercom group
Media button – browse your music
Phone button – connect to your smartphone
Volume buttons – instead of the wheel, you have Volume Up and Down buttons
What we love about these buttons is that they are easy to operate with several types of gloves, even with winter gloves!
Other stuff that you get in the PACKTALK Slim’s packaging is the wired microphone, boom microphone, mounting hardware, and Velcro pads.
It’s relatively easy to install on your motorcycle helmet. First, remove the helmet foam pads, and attach the Velcro tabs inside the helmet. Put the speakers and the microphone on the Velcro pads. With the interior part of the installation taken care of, you just need to put the comm unit on the left side of the helmet and the battery pack on the neckline.
Note: There will be a bit of spare space between your helmet’s pads and the speakers inside. To take care of that, use an included foam piece to fill up the blank space.
Bluetooth Pairing
Here is a video tutorial on the multiple pairing methods you can do with PACKTALK Slim!
Using the Phone button, you can connect the Cardo PACTALK Slim system to your smartphone via Bluetooth.
It’s worth mentioning that Cardo has its companion app – the Cardo Connect App. The app provides absolute remote control over the Bluetooth headset, including:
Making calls
Connecting to other riders in the group intercom session
Listening to music and FM radio
Using GPS commands
You can download the Cardo Connect App for Android and iOS.
There is one gripe we have, which has to do with the connectivity issues if your phone is located further away from this Bluetooth unit (for example, your phone is in the back pocket of your pants). Well, to prevent that, you have to put your smartphone closer to the Bluetooth unit itself.
Connection Range
Cardo PACKTALK Slim is a premium Bluetooth headset. Hence, it comes with Bluetooth 4.1 and Dynamic Mesh technology support.
With the Bluetooth mode, you can talk with up to 4 other riders. On the other hand, Dynamic Mesh allows you to speak with up to 15 riders in one group intercom – which is a fantastic upgrade!
The Bluetooth 4.1 mode offers 1,2 km (0,75 miles) of range. Of course, this is an optimistic number, as it will depend on factors like flat terrain, hills, forests, etc. Many disturbances will trigger an average scenario where the range will be at least 2/3 less than listed.
That’s where the Dynamic Mesh tech comes in. It offers 8 km (5 miles) of range, which is only applicable if the intercom group has more than 6 participants.
Other than the range itself, the Dynamic Mesh tech is a revolutionary factor in intercom communication, as it improves most connectivity issues. First of all, when riders come into range, they will automatically join the intercom group. It’s practically the same when riders get out of range – they will automatically leave the intercom group. This opens up possibilities to merge smaller groups into one larger group automatically.
With Dynamic Mesh tech, lots of hassle is taken away to embrace the automatization that will provide less disruption for all the riders in the group. We wholeheartedly welcome this small revolution on the Bluetooth headset market.
Sound Quality
Cardo has a reputation as a true player when it comes to the sound quality of its Bluetooth headsets. The PACKTALK Slim features excellent JBL speakers that provide immersive sound quality and ambient noise reduction capability.
These speakers provide a more than suitable sound experience for listening to music and intercom communication. They are only 40mm wide, which makes them quite easy to fit in most helmets.
Cardo has prepared two sound profiles, too: the Standard Audio profile and the Bass Boost mode.
The Standard profile features a loud and rich sound with high treble, which is excellent for group intercom conversations. For all the audiophiles out there, the Bass Boost mode provides a deep bass, which will be perfect to vibe to your favorite tunes.
Of course, the quality of your helmet will dictate the sound quality. If your helmet puts in a lot of wind noise (usually happens when you are riding above 50 mph), it will be harder to enjoy the superior sound quality. Well, that’s how it is with most other Bluetooth headsets too.
The automatic volume adjustment doesn’t work as imagined at all times, as it works the finest when you fully stop your bike.
Voice Control
Here is a video demonstration of the Natural Voice system in action!
As with most modern Bluetooth headsets, the Cardo PACKTALK Slim has voice control in the form of the Natural Voice system. This system is very responsive, even more so than with other premium headsets (looking at you, Sena!). No need to yell at it, that’s for sure!
The voice control system has its similarities with Siri and Google systems, as it provides a full-blown remote control package with a simple phrase – “Hey Cardo!”, which will trigger it. With the Natural Voice system, you can make calls, change music and FM stations, calibrate the intercom group, and more.
This responsive voice control system is quite convenient if you don’t want to ride with one hand or operate the headset with gloves.
Additional Features
We are almost at the end of our Cardo PACKTALK Slim review! Here are some additional features that you might like!
Built-In FM Radio
This is a staple feature with most Bluetooth headsets. You can scan radio stations around your current location and tune in to the latest news, weather reports, or just casual mixes.
Listen and Share Music Over The Intercom
Of course, when you connect the PACKTALK Slim to your smartphone via Bluetooth, you are enabled to listen to your favorite tunes on the road. One handy feature that we enjoy is sharing whatever audio you are listening to with your intercom group. So, either if you are rocking your head to your favorite tune or listening to an insightful podcast, you can share all that with your group!
Water Resistant or Waterproof?
Most Cardo headsets are waterproof, and the PACKTALK Slim is no different. It comes with the IP67 waterproof rating – which essentially means that you can put it 1-meter deep in the water and hold it there for half an hour before it malfunctions.
Of course, you won’t do that (maybe just for testing), but it’s good to know that the headset can withstand lots of water, which makes it great for those nasty rainy rides.
Battery Life
This video explains how to replace the battery on the Cardo PACKTALK Slim quite well!
With PACKTALK Slim, you get a great battery life of 13 hours of talking time and a week of standby time.
You can charge the battery on the go, and you get the charging cable in the packaging. It will take 4 hours to charge its battery from zero to hero!
Note: Cardo PACKTALK Slim has no integrated battery, so you will need to fit it in using the clamp. It’s worth mentioning that it comes with an included Lithium-Ion battery.
Price
Of course, our Cardo PACKTALK Slim review wouldn’t be complete without mentioning its price! Right now, you can get single and dual packs of Cardo Packtalk SLIM at the following prices:
Single Pack – $247,67/€209,38/£188,94
Dual Pack – $539,36/€455,97/£411,47
On the buttons below, you can check the latest prices of the Single Pack and Dual Pack variants of the Cardo PACKTALK Slim Bluetooth headset!
Now that we are at the end of our Cardo PACKTALK Slim review, we can say that it’s one of the best premium Bluetooth headsets you can get out there.
It comes with the most modern intercom communication technology, with both Bluetooth 4.1 and Dynamic Mesh tech support. We can’t deny that the maximum range won’t be attained at most times, but only a select few rival the accessibility brought to the table.
The sound quality is impressive and will satisfy all the audiophiles out there (when it isn’t windy, of course!). Also, the Natural Voice control system is very responsive, and you won’t need to yell at it to deduct what command you want to use.
PACKTALK Slim has some faults, mainly due to its installation and the difficulty of moving the unit to the other helmet. Also, it can be a bit pricey for some riders. But, for such a price, you get so much value that most other premium Bluetooth headsets simply cannot provide!
Not a lot of people remembered that KTM revealed another bike alongside the 390 Adventure. The bike in question is the new 250 Adventure, and it has been added to the KTM website with no particular buzz.
So, this is an exceptional opportunity to shed some light on its features!
The 2021 KTM 250 Adventure features a single-cylinder, 249cc engine that produced 30 horsepower and 18 lb-ft of torque. It features the identical chassis and underpinnings as the 390 Adventure.
Also, we can see a 3,8-gallon fuel tank (14,38 liters). Its top speed is 76 miles per hour (122 km/h). When we consider the previous two metrics, this bike’s range will be 290 miles (466 kilometers).
Regarding its construction, it features:
WP Apex inverted fork on the front
WP Apex mono-shock on the rear
19-inch front wheel (48 cm)
17-inch rear wheel (43 cm)
320mm front disc
230mm rear disc with a single-piston caliper
It weighs 344 lbs (156 kg)
The 2021 250 Adventure doesn’t have the 390’s fancy features like the ride-by-wire system and traction control. Still, that makes it less expensive, as it is projected that its price in the European and US markets will be around $3,100 (or €2,621/£2,344).
Right now, the 2021 250 Adventure is placed on several Asian markets, but there’s a big chance that the bike will arrive in Europe and the US. We’ll see what happens, considering the popularity of the 200 Duke.
Check out more news from the motorcycle world in our News section!
While making motorcycle road trips with your best buddies is a fantastic idea, it comes with one big problem – communication. I personally have lost my buddies on the road numerous times due to no means of communicating and shoddy mobile connection that just can’t provide a viable means of communication.
Not to mention how clunky it is to pull up your phone whenever you aren’t sure if you made the right turn on the road. Well, motorcycle intercom systems may be an ideal solution for these cases.
Of course, they offer so much more, but what makes the best motorcycle intercom? Well, stay a while, as we have all the info on how to choose the best Bluetooth motorcycle communicator over here! The focus is on the features to look into when looking for an ideal communication system for you and your buddies!
Why Do I Need A Bluetooth Motorcycle Intercom System?
First of all, the motorcycle intercom systems are so much more than a replacement for a walkie talkie. You can connect them to your smartphone via Bluetooth and use apps like Google Maps to get real-time road and route info straight in your ears!
Other than that, you can use them for listening to music. Nothing better than listening to your favorite road trip tunes on the ride!
A handy feature of most motorcycle intercom systems is that they have a priority management feature. For example, you are listening to music, but a sharp turn is coming in front of you. The music will be toned down so you can hear this warning from your GPS companion app.
These sound like little things, but they dramatically improve the quality of your riding experience.
Of course, as you connect your smartphone to a Bluetooth headset, you can also make and receive hands-free phone calls! The best motorcycle intercoms offer hours of talk time with your fellow riders, friends, family, and whoever you wish to talk with.
Well, the best feature of motorcycle intercoms is undoubtedly the ability to talk with your fellow riders, who also have their own Bluetooth communication system. While the basic Bluetooth intercom systems support distances of a few hundred feet, some will be able to form a mesh network that is fit for long distances, even in miles!
So, how much do these wireless Bluetooth goodies cost? Find out in the section below!
What Price Range Can I Expect For A Bluetooth Intercom System?
Before we show you how to choose the best Bluetooth motorcycle communicator, let’s look into the prices of these communication systems. Well, the good thing is that you can get Bluetooth communication devices for as low as $50 to $500.
Make sure to look into the features of an individual motorcycle intercom system. For example, some will have crystal clear sound quality with advanced noise control, like the Sena 30K motorcycle intercom.
Pretty much, these motorcycle communication devices will cost more than those that focus on the experience when riding alone.
How Important Is The Sound Quality To You?
Do you consider yourself an audiophile, or is the sound quality an afterthought for you in Bluetooth motorcycle communication devices? Or do you want to have just one or two speakers?
Well, Bluetooth intercoms certainly are versatile on this front. Some Bluetooth communicators feature noise-cancellation and high-definition sound along with meshes along the speakers to fend off the wind noise coming from your motorcycle helmet. If you are a music lover, you will enjoy the premium sound PACKTALK Slim or Freecom 4+ offers.
Of course, if you don’t care about the sound quality and don’t want to use a Bluetooth intercom system for listening to music, you can purchase much cheaper communicators that will still be great for private conversations and GPS guidance.
What About Voice Commands?
Hands-free, voice command operation is a feature that only the best motorcycle intercoms feature.
First of all, it’s such a handy feature as you will be able to operate all the little nitpicks, from initiating calls and music player to setting up a new GPS route without stopping on the road to do so.
Hands down, this is a huge convenience factor that you’ll enjoy having in your motorcycle intercom system.
Just keep in mind that with the extra user-friendliness that comes with this feature comes a higher price. Well, it’s certainly worth it for a long-term deal!
To How Many Devices Can I Connect My Bluetooth Motorcycle Communicator?
Consider to what devices you will connect. Are you connecting a Bluetooth intercom just to your smartphone? Or, will you connect to the communicators of your fellow riders?
Well, the price of the Bluetooth communicators goes up the more connections they can establish. Cheaper headsets can connect only to two or four devices. If you decide to invest more money, you can find a Bluetooth comm device that can connect to over ten devices!
In case you are riding alone, you will probably need only one connection – to your smartphone. In that case, you can certainly go for a cheaper communication system.
On the other hand, if you are riding with fellow riders who happen to have a Bluetooth communicator device, you will want to connect to them. In such a case, you should look for a communication system that can connect to more devices, which will surely cost you more.
How Important Is The Connection Range?
Well, the connection range is quite important if you are riding with a crew of fellow riders. The importance of it will depend on the type of motorcycle crew you are. If your crew resembles a herd, being close at all times, then a short-range Bluetooth wireless intercom might suffice.
Most new Bluetooth intercoms like PACKTALK and SENA devices utilize a new technology called Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC). Basically, they use a modern networking protocol that improves the range of a Bluetooth unit significantly. We are talking about a few miles here! If your crew of riders prefers a bit of distance, look for devices that utilize DMC protocol. According to Cardo, DMC technology is creating a bright future for motorcycle communication.
Check out our reviews on Cardo PACKTALK Slim and Sena 30K, which are amazing Bluetooth headsets with a high connection range!
That’s how to choose the best Bluetooth motorcycle communicator!
Well, the challenging task of how to choose the best Bluetooth motorcycle communicator suddenly turns into a cakewalk after you learn about the most essential features of them. Needless to say, pay attention to features such as price, sound quality, voice command support, and Bluetooth range, and the decision will be much easier for you.
Now that you know how to pick the best motorcycle intercom, check out our Bluetooth headsets review section to find out what are the best ones for you!
Finally, Ducati has launched a new companion bike to its ADV family – the 2021 Multistrada V4. What makes it so unique about it is the sheer power of its V4 engine. Now, we have some juicy details for you!
The 2021 Multistrada variant features a brand-new, liquid-cooled 1185cc V4 Granturismo engine. It is a true powerhouse that produces 170 horsepower and 92 lb-ft of torque thanks to 16 total valves. The bike will be excellent on the off-road, that’s for sure!
It will come in three variants:
V4
V4 S
V4 S Sport
The V4 model comes in a red single color option, while the V4 S will feature Grey Aviator hues to the classic red color.
If you decide to invest in the V4 S Sport, you will get only one color option, the “Sport Livery”. Still, with this variant, you get a full carbon fiber Akrapovic exhaust and a carbon fiber front fender. Well, these two more than make up for only a single color scheme.
Based on Ducati’s claims, the 2021 Multistrada V4 will address the frequent valve adjustment problem. Apparently, this bike will be able to do 36,000- mile intervals (approx. 58,000 km) between valve services.
Also, Ducati has paid extra care in the construction of the bike for the off-road. Its construction is dominated by an aluminum monocoque frame that is paired to a steel trellis subframe. There is a fully adjustable, 50mm inverted front fork to provide balance, as well as the double-sided swingarm on the rear.
If you manage to get your hands on the V4 S or S Sport variants, they have Ducati’s signature Skyhook Suspension system. Summarized, it allows auto-leveling, which is an incredible feature for the off-road.
Ducati implemented some new technology, too, such as:
Wheelie control
Traction control
ABS braking
Cornering lights (only for S and S Sport)
Four riding modes
Vehicle Hold Control (keeps the motorcycle steady for easier restarts)
Adaptive cruise control
Blind-spot detection system
When can we see the 2021 Multistrada V4 in the dealerships? Well, it’s slated for release in all Ducati dealerships in January of 2021! It’s certainly going to be a fun winter!
Check out more news from the motorcycle world in our News section!
