6.7 C
Munich
type here...
Home Blog Page 12514

FreedConn T-Max Review – Budget Group Intercom For Six Riders!

David Gabric
-
0
FreedConn T-Max Review – Budget Group Intercom For Six Riders!

FreedConn listened to the feedback on their TCOM-SC model and decided to ramp up their game with the T-Max motorcycle Bluetooth intercom. Just a reminder, FreedConn is a company that excels in crafting low-budget yet quality motorcycle Bluetooth headsets. A low price might be a red flag for some, especially in the motorcycle Bluetooth communicator niche. Let us prove you otherwise in our FreedConn T-Max review!

FreedConn T-Max Review – Main Features

FreedConn T-Max Review - Main Features

In a rush? Here is a summary of all the main features of the FreedConn T-Max Bluetooth headset:

  • Weighs 55 grams
  • Bluetooth 4.1 technology
  • Group intercom support for six people
  • Intercom range of 1,5 kilometers (0,93 miles)
  • IP65 waterproof rating
  • Noise cancellation microphone
  • Built-in FM radio
  • 7 hours of music time
  • 6 hours of intercom/phone talk time
CHECK ON AMAZON

Without further ado, let’s begin our FreedConn T-Max review!

Design & Installation

FreedConn T-Max has a fairly minimalistic design.

First of all, we have to praise the minimalistic, glove-friendly design of the FreedConn T-Max motorcycle communication system. It has only two buttons and an indicator light. Here are the functions of each button:

  • Multifunction button – answer/decline calls, play/pause music, switch between phone audio and FM radio, power/pairing functions
  • Multifunction jog dial – skip songs and adjust their volume

Note: Keep in mind that the central multifunction button can break if you don’t press it gently in the long run.

The headset itself is well-built, with a bulky plastic body that honestly doesn’t provide a catchy design as we expected. It’s also quite thick and weighs 55 grams.

The packaging of the FreedConn T-Max.

The packaging contains the standard assortment for most motorcycle Bluetooth headsets out there:

  • T-Max headset
  • Two wired mics
  • Speakers
  • USB cable
  • Metal mounting clip
  • Plastic mounting clip with double-adhesive tape
  • Adhesive earphone pads
  • Screwdriver

We’ve noticed the lack of a boom mic in the packaging, making this Bluetooth motorcycle headset not so optimized for open-face and modular motorcycle helmets.

The installation procedure of the FreedConn T-Max headset.

The installation procedure is straightforward. You can either mount the T-Max Bluetooth headset on your helmet with an adhesive clamp or with the metal clip. Keep in mind that the adhesive clamp isn’t so durable as the metal clip.

Bluetooth Pairing

This video details how to pair the T-Max with your smartphone and other headsets.

FreedConn T-Max is powered by Bluetooth 4.1 technology, allowing you to connect to a wide range of Bluetooth devices with a clear connection. But, of course, the best way to get a media suite is to connect the T-Max with your smartphone, which enables you to listen to music, proceed and receive calls, hear GPS directions, and more.

Intercom pairing with T-Max sometimes can include a lot of trial-and-error, especially with non-FreedConn brands.

We’ll dive into the Bluetooth pairing procedures you can do with the FreedConn T-Max motorcycle Bluetooth headset in the following sections.

Smartphone Pairing

To pair the T-Max Bluetooth headset with your smartphone, you need to follow this specific procedure:

  • When the T-Max is off, press and hold the Multifunction button for 8 seconds until you hear the “Pairing” prompt and when the blue and red lights flash alternately.
  • Find the T-Max on your smartphone’s Bluetooth menu and pair it with it.
  • When you pair with your smartphone, you should hear the “Bluetooth is connected” prompt and see the blue light flash.

FreedConn & Universal Headset Pairing

Here is the pairing procedure with other FreedConn T-Max Bluetooth headsets:

  • When the two headsets are off, press and hold the Multifunction button for 8 seconds until you hear the “Matching Status” voice prompt, as well as the blue and red lights flashing alternately.
  • Press the Multifunction button on any of the two devices, which triggers the search for another T-Max headset.
  • You will hear a voice prompt, and the blue light will flash regularly, indicating successful pairing.

The pairing procedure for non-FreedConn headsets is the same, other than the fact that entering the pairing mode on other brands will require a different button combination.

Connection Range

FreedConn T-Max has a maximum intercom range of 1,5 kilometers (0,93 miles) between six riders.

First of all, the FreedConn T-Max Bluetooth headset was made with a group intercom in mind, as you can connect with up to six riders in one session. Of course, all of the group intercom participants can talk simultaneously.

If group intercom isn’t your cup of tea, check out our FreedConn T-COM SC review!

The maximum range of the group intercom is 1,5 kilometers (0,93 miles), which is fairly decent. Also, the device-to-device range is between 500 meters and 1 kilometer (0,31 miles to 0,62 miles), which is impressive.

You have to keep in mind that the range won’t always be as the listed numbers. Numerous factors impact the maximum intercom connection range, such as large vehicles between intercom participants, hills, lush forests, and similar.

Sound Quality

FreedConn T-Max has acceptable speakers and solid microphone sound quality.

As we continue our FreedConn T-Max review, let’s talk a bit about its speakers, microphones, and overall sound quality.

First of all, the speakers feature a slim design that promotes comfort, as they won’t push against your ears. Second, their sound quality is decent, but nothing to write home about. The sound isn’t too bassy, but it is pretty loud, even on the cheaper, noisier motorcycle helmets. You will hear the music up to 160 km/h (100 mph) in most cases.

Check out all the FreedConn headsets we reviewed on our FreedConn headsets section!

On the other hand, the microphone sound quality is substantially better than the speaker’s sound quality. First of all, the microphone sound will be clear until you reach 80 km/h speed (50 mph). Also, the advanced noise control works very well with the microphone. It reduces background noise so the people you talk to don’t hear any background noise.

Voice Control

You can only use the voice assistants found on your smartphone (Siri on Apple devices, Google Assistant on Android devices). There is no dedicated voice command system that controls the functions of the headset itself.

Additional Features

Here are some of the additional features of the FreedConn T-Max Bluetooth headset:

FM Radio

The only feature that sets apart the FM radio functionality of the T-Max headset from other low-budget Bluetooth headsets is the ability to get HD FM radio reception. Other than that, it’s a pretty standard package.

Water Resistant or Waterproof?

FreedConn T-Max has the IP65 waterproof rating.

With the IP65 waterproof rating, the FreedConn T-Max can easily withstand rainstorms with no risk of electrical failures. We are pleasantly surprised by this, as it seems that low-budget motorcycle Bluetooth headset brands aim to fix the failings of premium headsets, which often don’t have a waterproof design.

Battery Life

As we come closer to the end of our FreedConn T-Max review, let’s discuss its battery life. First of all, it has a 570 mAh battery that provides underwhelming performance compared to similar budget models.

This battery can withstand:

  • 6 hours of continuous communication via phone or intercom
  • 7 hours of music time
  • Standby time up to 300 hours

One charge will be enough for one extended ride. Thankfully, you can charge this headset while riding, and the charge time is 2,5 hours. Also, when the battery is running low, you will get a “Battery Low” prompt and red flashing light every 15 seconds.

Price

The FreedConn T-Max is quite a bargain at the $77/€64/£55 price tag for all the features it provides. While some aspects of this Bluetooth headset could be executed better, it’s hard to ignore such a low price tag for a mid-range motorcycle Bluetooth headset.

CHECK ON AMAZON

Summing Up

As we reach the end of our FreedConn T-Max review, what is our final verdict?

Let’s start with the positives. The minimalistic, bulky design isn’t pretty, but it’s pretty functional. Navigating through the different functions of this headset is simple and fun. Also, the group intercom supports six riders who can all talk simultaneously. Finally, its range is pretty good for such a cheap headset. The speaker sound is decent enough, but the microphone sound is even better.

Now, we can’t ignore the fact that there is no boom mic in the package, which makes it tough to recommend this Bluetooth headset to modular and open-face helmet owners. Also, the battery life doesn’t do this headset justice, but at least you can charge it on the go.

Overall, this is a reasonable budget pick if this is your first motorcycle Bluetooth headset, and you want an overall balanced package without the need to spend a few hundred bucks.

Check out our Bluetooth headset review section for more in-depth looks at popular Bluetooth headsets!

Kawasaki Shares Its Plans For The Future!

David Gabric
-
0
Kawasaki Shares Its Plans For The Future!

For all those who didn’t know, Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) is the parent company of Kawasaki Motorcycles. A short while ago, they shared how their business will approach the next few years. The main keyword here is diversification, which comes naturally after they’ve branched out their motorcycle division.

A swift look into the Kawasaki factory.

The meeting where future plans were discussed was held mainly because of the uncertain times during the pandemic. This has created a steep decline in Kawasaki’s motorcycle sales, which caused the company to focus more on shipping and offshore plants along with plant engineering and energy systems.

Now, there were some positives numbers extracted from the meeting too! First of all, Kawasaki motorcycles larger than 401cc got their sales increased by 80% since 2017. On the other hand, the percentage of teens riding Kawasaki bikes has increased by 60%, which goes hand in hand with the Kawasaki’s strategy to target the younger generations.

Kawasaki's first hydrogen ship.

Off-road vehicles have also seen an increase in sales. To capitalize on that, Kawasaki has partnered up with Kymco to increase the sales of four-wheelers even further. Also, this partnership will come in handy for the evolution of hydrogen-powered engines. Actually, KHI aims to utilize hydrogen power to create a sustainable source of power for motorcycles, aircraft, and ships.

We dig the fact that Kawasaki aims to transfer to energy-efficient sources. Only time will tell if they’ll be able to make that transition in a reasonable amount of time.

For more novelties in the motorcycle world, check out our industry news section!

Source: Web Bike World

Harley-Davidson LiveWire One Set For Reveal In July!

Andrew Nelson
-
0
Harley-Davidson LiveWire One Set For Reveal In July!

Thanks to the VIN files registered by Harley, the information about the new electric motorcycle from the company has slipped up!

These files confirmed the name of the bike as the “LiveWire One”. Also, the files reveal the peak output of 101 bhp, which is 30 bhp more than the original LiveWire.

The LiveWire One will have a new model code – LW1, and the internal vehicle code – XB. These facts make it more certain that this is indeed a new bike in production.

Harley had a scheduled reveal for this new electric motorcycle on July 9. Reportedly, they postponed the premiere to July 16 – 18, at the International Motorcycle Show taking place in California.

This just further contributes to Harley’s aim to become the leader in the electric motorcycle market. The company aims to make LiveWire an “all-electric brand” with the opportunity to “define the market in EV”.

We will certainly tag our calendar in July to learn more information on the LiveWire One. Stay tuned for more details coming mid-July!

For more novelties in the motorcycle world, check out our industry news section!

Source: Web Bike World

Fodsports FX4 Pro Review – Durable Build At Budget Price!

David Gabric
-
0
Fodsports FX4 Pro Review – Durable Build At Budget Price!

Most motorcycle riders just don’t have a spare $300 to buy a premium motorcycle Bluetooth headset. That’s where Fodsports comes in with its diverse range of motorcycle Bluetooth headsets that are probably the most affordable on the market right now. In our Fodsports FX4 Pro review, we’ll dive into one such affordable yet quality Bluetooth headset!

Fodsports FX4 Pro headset certainly impressed us with its durable build and a wide range of functionalities. But, it has some faults that might detract you from the buy. Learn all about its features in our comprehensive review!

Fodsports FX4 Pro Review – Main Features

Fodsports FX4 Pro Review - Main Features

If you are in a rush, here are all the main features of the Fodsports FX4 Pro motorcycle Bluetooth headset:

  • Weighs 48 grams
  • Utilizes Bluetooth 4.1 technology
  • Maximum intercom range of 1,2 kilometers (0,75 miles)
  • Intercom supports 4 participants speaking simultaneously
  • 40mm speakers
  • Microphone has wind noise reduction
  • IP67 waterproof rating
  • 20 hours of phone talk time
  • 12 hours of intercom time
  • 300 hours of standby
  • 3 hours of charge time
CHECK ON AMAZON

Without further ado, let’s begin our Fodsports FX4 Pro review!

Design & Installation

Fodsports FX4 Pro is made of high-quality material and has a functional design.

As we take it out from the packaging, Fodsports FX4 Pro Bluetooth communication feels very light at 48 grams of weight. It’s made of high-quality material even though it is priced so cheaply. There is no jog dial here, only four buttons:

  • Volume Down button
  • Volume Up button
  • Function button
  • Intercom button

All of the buttons are tactile and glove-friendly. Rest assured, you will be able to reach all the functions without too many difficulties with button presses.

Here are the Fodsports FX4 Pro packaging contents.

Inside the packaging of the Fodsports FX4 Pro motorcycle Bluetooth communication system are:

  • FX4 Pro device
  • 40mm speakers
  • Wired mic
  • Boom mic
  • USB cable
  • Spring clip
  • Mounting bracket
  • Adhesive mount
  • Velcro pads
Here is the installation procedure of the Fodsports FX4 Pro headset.

The installation of this motorcycle helmet Bluetooth headset is straightforward. You can utilize either the adhesive tape mount or the bracket clip. Both will keep the headset stable on your helmet, as metal spring clips support the bracket, and the adhesive tape is pretty strong. If you use the adhesive mount, you will need to leave the glue to dry for at least 24 hours.

Overall, the Fodsports FX4 Pro headset design is nothing revolutionary, but it is lightweight, glove-friendly, and low profile.

Bluetooth Pairing

Fodsports FX4 Pro motorcycle Bluetooth intercom system is powered by Bluetooth 4.1 and is compatible with a wide range of Bluetooth devices. You can connect it to a maximum of three Bluetooth devices simultaneously.

Keep in mind that there will be a priority list of functions of each connected Bluetooth device. Low priority functions will be interrupted by high priority functions, and the list is the following:

  • Phone call
  • Intercom
  • Music or FM radio

In the following sections, we will discuss the pairing procedures for smartphones and other headsets.

Smartphone Pairing

To connect the FX4 Pro headset to your smartphone or similar Bluetooth-powered device, follow the procedure below:

  • When the unit is turned off, press and hold the Function button for 7 seconds until you see the red and blue lights flash.
  • Search for “FODSPORTS FX4 PRO” on your smartphone’s Bluetooth menu.
  • Enter “0000” as the PIN if required.
  • The blue light will flash, indicating successful pairing.

Pairing With Fodsports FX4 Pro Headset

Here is the pairing procedure with three other Fodsports FX4 Pro headsets.

Connecting two Fodsports FX4 Pro headsets is very easy! Here is the procedure down below:

  • Turn on both units and simultaneously hold down the Intercom and Volume + buttons for 2 seconds to enter the pairing mode (you will also see the red and blue lights flashing).
  • Press the Intercom button on either headset.
  • When you see the blue light flashing on both devices, the pairing is complete.

Universal Intercom Pairing

Here is the connection procedure with non-Fodsports motorcycle Bluetooth headsets:

  • Turn on the non-Fodsports headset first and enter its pairing mode.
  • Afterward, turn on the FX4 Pro and hold the Intercom button for a few seconds until you see the red and blue lights flash, triggering the Search and Connect mode.
  • Press the Intercom button once, and the blue light will flash, along with a sound that indicated pairing success.

Connection Range

Fodsports FX4 Pro has a solid connection range of 1,2 kilometers (0,75 miles).

The group intercom functionality of the FX4 Pro headset is quite decent, supporting up to 4 riders in one intercom session. Still, the range could be much better, as it is more fit for tight-knitted groups. 

The maximum intercom range of the FX4 Pro is up to 1,2 kilometers (0,75 miles). That translates to an effective talk range between individual bikes of 300 meters (0,19 miles). Of course, the range will depend on how congested the traffic is and on different terrain conditions.

Check out our Fodsports FX8 review for an in-depth look at the best what Fodsports has to offer!

If one rider gets out of intercom range and gets back in at least 5 minutes, you can press the Intercom button once to recover him to the session. This is a handy implementation as rider disconnects won’t disconnect your whole intercom group.

Sound Quality

Fodsports FX4 Pro has nice speakers while the microphone quality is pretty bad.

Fodsports FX4 Pro is fitted with 40mm speakers that produce solid sound quality, especially for listening to music. While the speakers don’t have the best bass, the sound clarity is awesome. 

The sound will stay clear even at 120 km/h speed (75 mph). That applies to all your riders wearing a full-face helmet with solid noise reduction. Fodsports claims that they use the CVC noise reduction technology, and it seems it’s working pretty well in this case.

Sadly, both microphones won’t have sufficient sound for clear communication. That kills their purpose for communication. So, if you primarily aim to use this Bluetooth headset for communication, you will need to invest in a better microphone. Thankfully, the microphones aren’t hard-wired into the FX4 Pro, so you can buy a solid microphone with no hassle.

Voice Control

Like other Fodsports Bluetooth headsets, the FX4 Pro doesn’t feature a dedicated voice control system. But, you can use smartphone voice commands with a paired smartphone instead, which brings many useful functions to the game.

Looking for more Fodsports headset reviews? Check out our Fodsports headsets section to find out more about this promising brand!

To trigger the smartphone voice prompts, press the Volume – button twice. Keep in mind that you’ll need to put the microphone up close, so the phone registers the commands. When done right, you can ask for GPS directions, call contacts, and change music with your voice.

Additional Features

Here are some of the additional features of the Fodsports FX4 Pro headset.

FM Radio

The radio function integration isn’t anything special. Still, its automatic search function is quite handy to save time for manual station search.

Water Resistant or Waterproof?

Fodsports FX4 Pro features IP67 waterproof rating.

Fodsports are well-known in the motorcycle Bluetooth headset niche for creating durable and waterproof devices. It’s no different with their FX4 Pro, as it comes with the IP67 waterproof rating. The company managed to snatch this rating thanks to the integral casting that reduces the gaps to increase the overall durability of the headset.

You can use the Fodsports FX4 Pro in rainstorms and even in snow, as many users are carrying these on their snowmobiles.

Battery Life

Fodsports FX4 Pro has a very nice battery life.
Image Source: Fodsports

The 850 mAh battery inside the FX4 Pro produces some fantastic results. We’re going to outline them in the list below:

  • 20 hours of phone talk time
  • 12 hours of intercom talk time
  • 300 hours of standby time

You’ll also get low battery alerts when the battery is below 20%. The light will flash red, and there will be a tonal alert every five minutes. A handy implementation for sure!

You’ll need to charge the FX4 Pro Bluetooth headset for 3 hours to fill it up. Overall, the battery life of the Fodsports FX4 Pro caught us off-guard as a pleasant surprise.

Price

For such a robust feature package and a quality build, you might expect this headset to be well above the $200 price tag. It’s not the case here, as the single pack of the Fodsports FX4 Pro costs only $80/€66/£57. If looking for a decent sub-$100 Bluetooth headset that lasts longer than a month, the FX4 Pro is the one to get.

CHECK ON AMAZON

Summing Up

As we reach the end of our Fodsports FX4 Pro review, what is our final verdict on this headset?

Let’s start with the positives. FX4 Pro has a tactile and durable design, as it is built to last, which is proved by its IP67 waterproof rating. Its battery life is also quite strong, as a single charge can last you well above 10 hours of use. The sound quality is nothing too special, but sound clarity is very nice, even at high speeds.

Now, the thing we’re most critical about is the microphone quality. They seemingly don’t feature noise cancellation technology and are overall cheaply-built, which translates to poor microphone sound quality. Also, the range between individual riders could be much better, but that’s just a sacrifice you’ll need to chew through due to the low pricing.

Overall, this is a nice, cheap Bluetooth headset that honestly doesn’t feel too cheap. It’s great for listening to music on the go and is good for group intercom once you find a better microphone for it.

Looking for more Bluetooth headsets? Check out our Bluetooth headsets review section!

Fodsports FX8 Review – Best Budget Pick For Intercom Range!

David Gabric
-
0
Fodsports FX8 Review – Best Budget Pick For Intercom Range!

Think Sena and Cardo are the only good motorcycle Bluetooth headset brands? Meet Fodsports, a brand that makes budget motorcycle Bluetooth headsets with robust features that can rival these two giants. Sounds like an exaggeration? Just check out our Fodsports FX8 review, where we will break down one of the best sub-$100 motorcycle Bluetooth headsets that can rival even the best from the Sena and Cardo headsets.

Fodsports FX8 Review – Main Features

Fodsports FX8 Review - Main Features

In a hurry? Here are all the main features of the Fodsports FX8 to know about!

  • Weighs 53g
  • Bluetooth 4.1 technology
  • Intercom support for 8 people
  • 2 kilometers (1,24 miles) of range
  • IP67 waterproof rating
  • Built-in FM radio
  • Noise cancellation
  • 20 hours of phone time
  • 15 hours of intercom time
  • 300 hours of standby
CHECK ON AMAZON

Without further ado, let’s begin our Fodsports FX8 review!

Design & Installation

Fodsports FX8 has a well-built design that can positively compare to industry leaders.

We are quite surprised at the build quality of the Fodsports FX8 Bluetooth headset, with its fairly pleasant rubberized texture. This headset is certainly not built from cheap plastic. It also feels very light at 53 grams.

We also like the button layout of this motorcycle Bluetooth headset, with its tactile and glove-friendly jog dial dominating the button scheme. Other than the jog dial, there is also the Function button in the middle, the + and – buttons on the top left, and the Intercom button on the top right. They all are easy to find and work pretty well, even with gloves.

Another addition is the small antenna located on the top of the headset. With it, you can increase the radio and intercom signal by 30% (that’s what Fodsports claims).

The packaging contents of the Fodsports FX8.

Let’s talk about the box contents. As you open up the fairly sturdy and well-made packaging of the Fodsports FX8 Bluetooth motorcycle headset, you will see:

  • Metal mounting clip
  • Adhesive pads
  • Microphone extender cable
  • USB cable
  • Foam and sticky pads
  • Wired microphone
  • Boom microphone
  • Two 40mm speakers
Here’s the installation procedure of the FX8 motorcycle Bluetooth headset.

Now, there are two ways to mount this headset on your full-face helmet or any other motorcycle helmet type. You can use the adhesive mounting brackets or the metal mount. We found that the metal clip doesn’t feel pretty strong, so we were less confident to use it. 

Mounting it with the adhesive mount should do the job fine. Just make sure you leave it for 24 hours after sticking it to the helmet. You can remove the headset from the mount by simply pressing the button on the mount.

Overall, the Fodsports FX8 Bluetooth headset is fairly simple to install. Still, we don’t fully trust the quality of the metal mounting clip.

Bluetooth Pairing

As we continue our Fodsports FX8 review, let’s talk a bit about its Bluetooth connectivity. The device is powered by Bluetooth 4.1 technology, making it compatible with almost any Bluetooth-enabled device. Of course, the most popular Bluetooth devices to pair with the FX8 will be your smartphone and other headsets. Let’s see how easy do they connect!

Phone Pairing

Here is the procedure of connecting the FX8 to a smartphone and using the smartphone voice commands.

Before we delve into the specific procedure, keep in mind that you cannot use the intercom and phone GPS simultaneously. With that clear, here is how to pair the Fodsports FX8 Bluetooth headset with a smartphone:

  • When the headset is on, press the Function button for 5 seconds until you see the red and blue lights flashing, which triggers the Pairing mode.
  • Find the “FODSPORTS FX8” on your smartphone’s Bluetooth settings, and connect to the headset.

Intercom Pairing

The headset pairing process of the Fodsports FX8 headset.

You can pair the Fodsports FX8 with seven other headsets, meaning that 8 participants can be in one Bluetooth intercom session. Keep in mind that you will get the best connectivity with Fodsports devices, as universal intercom could be much easier due to the need to connect a few times until you get it right.

With that in mind, here is a specific procedure to connect the FX8 Bluetooth intercom with other headsets:

  • Enter into Search mode with your FX8 headset by pressing the Intercom button for 5 seconds.
  • Red and blue lights will flash, indicating that you’ve triggered the Search mode.
  • Now, enter into the pairing mode on the other headset to pair the two devices.

You can follow the procedure above in a chain until you don’t reach the limit of 8 headsets.

Connection Range

Fodsports FX8 has a maximum connection range of 2 kilometers (1,24 miles).

As we told you in the above section, you can connect up to a maximum of 8 riders in the FX8 intercom session. This makes the Fodsports FX8 headset quite suitable for group rides. How does its intercom range hold up?

Like its sibling M1S Pro, the Fodsports FX8 has a maximum range of 2 kilometers (1,24 miles). Basically, you get 500 meters (0,3 miles) of an effective talking distance between two riders. When you consider the price of the FX8, these are some surprisingly good numbers.

Check out our Fodsports M1S Pro review for another awesome budget Bluetooth headset!

Do these numbers work in theory? Yes, but with a catch. The signal will falter dramatically if you break the line of sight with your riding buddies. Also, the signal will be weaker if there are some disruptions, like a lush forest, steep hills, buildings, or congested traffic.

Sound Quality

The speakers of the Fodsports FX8 headset produce solid sound quality.

As we continue our Fodsports FX8 review, we must say we’re pretty impressed with the sound quality of this motorcycle Bluetooth headset. Yes, the two 40mm speakers are hard-wired into the mount, which is inconvenient if the speakers or the wire ever break, but the speakers are much louder than what we expected.

We can describe the speaker’s sound as loud, with good clarity and a decent amount of bass. They are actually so loud that you’ll need to turn the volume down a bit. Well, that’s better than being too silent for sure!

Another thing of note is the CVC noise suppression technology. This chip ensures the FX8 will produce a clear sound up to 120 km/h (75 mph).

Voice Control

Like other Fodsports headsets, there is sadly no dedicated system voice commands integration in the FX8 headset. But, you can use the voice prompts from your smartphone when you pair to it.

Looking for more Fodsports headset reviews? Check out our Fodsports headsets section to find out more about this promising brand!

Just say Hello Siri/Google, and you’ll open a wide range of opportunities, from calling your contacts and playing music to asking for GPS directions to the nearest gas station or supermarket.

Keep in mind that the voice prompts will interfere with your music, but the music will continue playing automatically once the voice prompt is over.

Additional Features

Here are some of the additional features of the Fodsports FX8 Bluetooth headset.

FM Radio

Mainly as a standard feature for most Bluetooth headsets, the FM radio on the Fodsports FX8 is a pretty common ordeal. We find it nice that the antenna increases its overall signal, which brings the tough-to-reach radio frequencies closer to the FX8 headset.

Water Resistant or Waterproof?

Fodsports FX8 has the IP67 waterproof rating.

Fodsports are well-known for making their Bluetooth headsets waterproof, a thing that sets them apart even from industry favorites like Sena. The FX8 is fully waterproof, with an IP67 waterproof rating. 

This means the silicon material and all the sealings will prevent rainwater from disrupting the operation of the FX8 Bluetooth headset. We love this feature, and it just adds up to the overall longevity of this headset.

Battery Life

Fodsports FX8 has a tremendously good battery life.

Another thing we really like with the Fodsports FX8 headset is its battery life. Its 900 mAh battery can withstand:

  • 20 hours of phone time
  • 15 hours of intercom time
  • 300 hours of standby time

Once the battery discharges, you can charge it in 3 hours. You can charge it on the go too!

Price

For all the amazing features it brings to the table, you must think the Fodsports FX8 comes at a high price. Well, you are in for a surprise, as the single pack of this robust Bluetooth headset costs $92/€76/£65, while the dual pack costs $181/€150/£128. This is quite a bargain for all those looking for a high-quality, mid-range motorcycle Bluetooth headset!

CHECK ON AMAZON

In Summary

As we reach the end of our Fodsports FX8 review, what’s our final verdict on this attractive Bluetooth headset?

We were a bit skeptical of it at first due to its low price. But, like the M1S Pro, we were pleasantly surprised by the FX8’s superior build quality that can even withstand rainstorms. The overall design of the headset is also well-made, with the only gripe being the hard-wired speakers, which may increase costs if you need to replace the speakers.

We are surprised at the long battery life it provides at a full charge, and the intercom range is one of the best in this price range. Yes, there may be no voice commands for the system alone, but that is compensated with an intuitive button control scheme and smartphone voice commands. Also, the sound is an obvious improvement over the older Fodsports headsets.

Overall, the Fodsports FX8 takes the crown for being the best headset from the manufacturer if you want the highest intercom range, along with the robust set of features. All that for under $100. Hard to imagine, but very much attainable.

Looking for more Bluetooth headsets? Check out our Bluetooth headsets review section!

Fodsports V6 Plus Review – Good For Newcomers!

David Gabric
-
3
Fodsports V6 Plus Review – Good For Newcomers!

Fodsports is a newcomer in the Bluetooth headset market, with relatively cheap models in their portfolio. While many people won’t even consider extra-cheap Bluetooth headsets, Fodsports is distinctive because it can make quality, long-term headsets. In our Fodsports V6 Plus review, find out if the above applies to this one too!

Fodsports V6 Plus Review – Main Features

Fodsports V6 Plus Review - Main Features

In a hurry? Don’t worry – here are all the essential features of the Fodsports V6 Plus to know!

  • Weighs 50 grams
  • Eight glove-friendly buttons
  • Bluetooth 3.0
  • Waterproof
  • 850 mAh battery with 2 hours of charge time
  • 1,2 km (0,75 miles) maximum range
  • Noise cancellation
  • Smartphone voice assistant support
CHECK ON AMAZON US
CHECK ON AMAZON UK

Without further ado, let’s begin with our Fodsports V6 Plus review!

Design & Installation

Here is the button scheme for the Fodsports V6 Plus.

Fodsports V6 Plus features a fairly lightweight design at 50 grams of weight. It doesn’t look too cheap nor premium, a fine balance. We have to say that it has got a fairly complicated button scheme, with eight glove-friendly buttons. 

Each button has a specific function as well as alternate functions when you press them more than once. The learning curve is relatively high to memorize all the button configuration, so consulting with the Fodsports V6 Plus user manual is a must.

You can also notice an LED screen that is useful when first pairing with your phone or other headsets or when you want to check the headset’s battery level.

The packaging of the Fodsports V6 Plus comes with the following:

  • Fodsports V6 Plus headset
  • Speakers
  • Hard microphone
  • Soft microphone
  • Micro USB cable
  • Mounting bracket
  • Double adhesive mount
  • Metal clip
  • User manual
Here’s a quick guide on how to install the Fodsports V6 Plus on your helmet!

Installing the V6 Plus headset is fairly simple. You can either choose a temporary clip mount to fit it between the helmet shell and comfort liner or the sticky adhesive mount for a permanent solution. Then, fitting the speakers and the desired microphone is much easier due to adhesives that keep the wires stable.

Bluetooth Pairing

This video shows how to pair the V6 Plus headset with smartphone and other headsets.

Fodsports V6 Plus Bluetooth headset is powered by Bluetooth 3.0 technology, enabling it to connect to a wide range of Bluetooth-enabled devices. With that said, the older Bluetooth technology doesn’t hold up to 4.0 or 5.0 tech when it comes to connection stability.

Phone Pairing

To pair your V6 Plus headset with a Bluetooth device (smartphone or GPS device), follow this procedure:

  • When turned off, press the Power button for 8 seconds until you see the “Pairing” message.
  • Open the Bluetooth menu on your smartphone and search for “FODSPORTS V6 PLUS”.
  • After you pair it with your phone, you should see the “Paired” message.

Once you connect the V6 Plus to your phone, you can answer, reject, and end phone calls, use voice dial, as well as control music and volume.

Universal Headset Pairing

To pair your V6 Plus headset with non-V6 Plus headsets, follow the next procedure:

  • Turn on the other Bluetooth headset and initiate its pairing mode
  • On your Fodsports V6 Plus, hold the Intercom B button for 1 second until you see the “Pairing” message.
  • Tap the Intercom B button until you see the “Searching” message, afterward, you should get the “Paired” message.

Pairing With Fodsports Headsets

Last but not least, here is the procedure on how to pair with other V6 Plus headsets:

  • Turn on headset 1 and headset 2.
  • Hold the B button on both headsets for a few seconds until you see the “Pairing” message.
  • Tap the B button on either headset, which will trigger the “Searching” mode.
  • When the pairing is finished, you will see the “Paired” message.

You can do the same procedure to connect with four more headsets, utilizing the first unit (host unit) and other units.

Connection Range

Fodsports V6 Plus has a maximum intercom range is 1,2 km (0,75 miles).

As we continue our Fodsports V6 Plus review, how does its motorcycle intercom range hold up?

First of all, the V6 Plus can connect with five other riders, with a maximum of 6 headsets in one Bluetooth intercom session. Keep in mind that only two riders can talk simultaneously.

The maximum intercom range is 1,2 km (0,75 miles), which translates into 200 meters or range between each rider. Of course, the range will depend on the terrain you’re riding in, so the range might be even lower if there are any obstructions around.

If looking for the best intercom range you can get with a Fodsports headset, the M1S Pro is the best choice!

Also, let’s explain one major gripe we have with this intercom system. For example, we have five riders in an intercom session. The first rider who initiated the intercom session is the host. Now, the host can talk to any of the riders in the group, while the other riders can only talk with the host. This sadly results in quite a one-dimensional experience.

In summary, the Fodsports V6 Plus doesn’t particularly impress with its intercom range.

Sound Quality

Fodsports V6 Plus has just acceptable sound quality.

Based on the sub-$100 price tag, we didn’t expect much when it comes to the speakers of the Fodsports V6 Pro. As expected, we weren’t very impressed, but when you consider that this is a dirt-cheap Bluetooth headset, the compromise makes sense.

Nevertheless, the speakers are large enough to cover your ears and are simple to set up in your helmet. When cruising, they provide acceptable sound quality, but if you ride between 45 to 50 mph (72 to 80 km/h), the sound will completely get drowned out by the wind.

Check out our Fodsports FX6 review to find another budget gem of a Bluetooth headset.

Even if you rack up the volume, the sound will get more distorted and not pleasant to listen to due to the lack of deep bass.

On a positive note, the Fodsports V6 Pro motorcycle helmet Bluetooth headset features ambient noise reduction in the microphones. This is enabled due to a built-in CSR chip that will mask the engine and wind noise when talking to your buddies, which is a nice addition.

Voice Control

Fodsports V6 Pro motorcycle helmet headset has no dedicated voice control options. To make up for that, you can control the digital assistants on your phone. These will work depending on your mobile phone device, but it’s still good to get directions via voice input.

Additional Features

As we continue our Fodsports V6 Plus review, here are some of its additional features to know!

FM Radio

Here is a video detailing how to operate the FM radio on V6 Plus!

This motorcycle Bluetooth headset features a fully functional FM radio. One benefit you get with its integrated FM radio is the ability to save up to 6 radio stations.

Water Resistant or Waterproof?

Fodsports V6 Plus features the IPX6 waterproof rating.

Fodsports is well-known for making its products waterproof. It’s no different with their V6 Plus headset, which passes IPX6 waterproof rating. This essentially means that it was tested under high-pressure, heavy sprays of water.

This sets it apart even from some premium motorcycle Bluetooth headsets, as you can ride with it in a rainstorm and not worry about it shutting down on you.

Battery Life

All the info regarding the battery life of the Fodsports V6 Plus battery life.
Image Source: Fodsports

We’re quite impressed with the 850 mAh rechargeable Lithium-ion battery and its maximum battery life. It offers a standby time of 300 hours and 18 hours of use time, with a charge time of only 2 hours. Definitely longer than even some premium Bluetooth headsets, so bonus points for the Fodsports V6 Plus here!

Price

And now, for the sweet part. Fodsport V6 Pro comes at a very desirable price, especially when considering all the functionalities we mentioned in our review. 

A single Fodsport V6 Pro headset costs $60/€49/£42, while the dual pack costs $110/€90/£78. It’s a very affordable price that might sound too good to be true. Well, this certainly isn’t a disposable or one-time-use Bluetooth headset, so it’s very refreshing to see such a price tag.

CHECK ON AMAZON US
CHECK ON AMAZON UK

Summing Up

Now that we are at the end of our Fodsports V6 Pro review, what is our final verdict?

This little buddy is one of the most affordable motorcycle Bluetooth headsets on the market. It’s got a glove-friendly button layout which is a bit complicated at first. The headset is quite durable due to its waterproof rating, which is nice to have.

Now, keep in mind that this won’t be the best headset if you look for intercom functionalities. It has got a clunky host talk rule and a low maximum range to boot. When you’re riding in groups that stay close, the intercom has got its value. At least the phone pairing works well, and you can utilize the voice assistant of the connected smartphone.

The sound quality won’t win any awards either, with Sena and Cardo headsets completely eclipsing this one by a mile. Still, for an entry-level Bluetooth headset, this is acceptable, to say at least.

The battery life of this Bluetooth headset is pretty nice, further contributing to its overall high durability.

Overall, we would recommend the Fodsports V6 Plus to those new to the world of Bluetooth headsets. It’s cheap, durable, and, most importantly – functional. These traits make it a great base for upgrading to premium Fodsports models or Sena and Cardo models.

Looking for more Bluetooth headsets? Check out our Bluetooth headset reviews section!

Sena 50R Review – A Worthy Addition To Sena Family!

David Gabric
-
0
Sena 50R Review – A Worthy Addition To Sena Family!

Sena released their 50 series last year, and they quickly broke new ground with the Mesh 2.0 update. This technology provides an ultimate intercom experience for riders. While this update came to older Sena models (like 30K) in the form of firmware update, the 50 series still offer additional goodies at a reasonable price point. In our Sena 50R review, we will break down all the essential features of the low-profile sibling of the 50S headset!

Sena 50R Review – Main Features

Sena 50R Review - Main Features

If you’re in a hurry, here are the essential features of the Sena 50R headset:

  • Weighs 65 grams
  • Shark fin antenna provides a better intercom signal
  • Utilizes Bluetooth 5.0 and Mesh 2.0 technology
  • Maximum range of 5 miles (8 kilometers)
  • Voice control in eight languages
  • Ambient Mode for background noise reduction
  • HD audio speakers
  • 13 hours of talk time in Bluetooth mode
  • 8 hours of talk time in Mesh mode
  • Water-resistant
CHECK ON AMAZON US
CHECK ON AMAZON UK
CHECK ON REVZILLA
CHECK ON SPORTS BIKE SHOP

Without further ado, let’s dive into our Sena 50R review!

Design & Installation

Sena 50R features a more low-profile design compared to its 50S counterpart.

Sena 50R is a sleeker, low-profile iteration of the 50 series, weighing only 65 grams. Its main difference with the 50S headset comes in a three-button design (plus the Mesh button on the side) compared to the jog dial of the 50S. It’s good to mention that these buttons are also glove-friendly.

The three buttons on the Sena 50R are:

  • + Button
  • Center Button
  • – Button
  • Mesh Button

Various button press combinations can produce different effects. To find out all the functionalities behind these, you’re best off consulting with the Sena 50R manual.

Also, you can see the antenna, which serves as a signal for the Mesh 2.0 technology. We’re going to talk about this technology later in our Sena 50R review.

Here is a detailed Sena 50R installation video.

Now, installing the 50R on any helmet is a pretty simple ordeal. You can either mount it in several ways:

  • Hook-and-loop
  • Double-sided adhesives
  • Helmet clamp

Also, you get a boom mic for modular and a wired mic for full-face helmets. Keep in mind that the speaker wires are hardwired with the 50R unit, which brings some problems. First, you won’t be able to quickly take off the unit and charge it in your bag. Secondly, you won’t be able to hide it if you leave your helmet on your bike either. A minor gripe, but still worth a mention.

Bluetooth Pairing

Sena 50R headset is powered by Bluetooth 5.0 technology, which provides a clearer connection with smartphones, GPS devices, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices.

Smartphone Pairing

This video explains how phone pairing with the 50R headset works.

Pairing with a smartphone is quite simple with the Sena 50R headset. The procedure goes like this:

  • Press and hold the Center Button for 10 seconds until you reach the Configuration Menu
  • Tap the + Button Once
  • You can then find the Sena 50R headset on your phone’s Bluetooth settings and connect it to it

Sena Intercom Pairing

This video explains how to pair the 50R to another Sena headset.

For pairing with other Sena intercoms, follow this procedure:

  • Press and hold the Center Button of two Sena headsets for 5 seconds until you hear the “Intercom Pairing” voice prompt
  • Then, the red flashing light will indicate that your headset is discoverable
  • Afterward, the 50RR will automatically pair with a Sena headset, which is indicated by the blue flashing light

You can repeat this step to connect with more than one Sena headset (up to four).

Universal Intercom Pairing

For pairing with non-Sena headsets, follow this procedure:

  • Press and hold the Center Button for 10 seconds to trigger the Configuration Menu
  • Then, tap the – Button three times to trigger the Universal intercom pairing menu
  • Tap the Center Button to enter pairing mode
  • Afterward, put the non-Sena device in pairing mode, and it should connect to your 50R automatically

Keep in mind that there will be connectivity issues when connecting with non-Sena headsets and some audio glitches.

Connection Range

The maximum range of the Sena 50R Bluetooth intercom is 1,2 miles (2 kilometers) between riders.
Image Source: Sena

With Bluetooth 5.0 technology, Sena 50R currently provides some of the best-performing Bluetooth intercom functionalities on the market.

The maximum range of the Bluetooth intercom is 1,2 miles (2 kilometers) between riders. Keep in mind that only four riders can talk simultaneously in this intercom mode.

When you press the Mesh button and pull up the antenna on the 50R headset, you are tapping into its best feature – the Mesh 2.0. It comes in two modes – the Open Mesh intercom and the Group Mesh intercom.

The default Mesh 2.0 mode is the Open mode, supporting an unlimited number of riders. On the other hand, you can connect with up to 24 riders in the group Mesh mode. Keep in mind that you can talk with six users simultaneously in the Mesh mode, but the ability to quickly switch to different channels and quickly connect other riders is too good to miss.

Mesh 2.0 provides a big increase in maximum range, increasing to 5 miles (8 kilometers). Another thing that sets Mesh 2.0 apart from Bluetooth 5.0 is the intercom connectivity. For instance, if an intercom participant in the Mesh 2.0 network gets out of range, this won’t break the intercom function. When that particular rider gets into range, he will be automatically reconnected to the intercom session.

So, if you prefer to ride in larger groups, Sena 50R, like the 50S, is a go-to headset thanks to its seamless Mesh 2.0 intercom technology.

Sound Quality

Sena 50R has a gretly improved sound quality due to the inclusion of the HD audio speakers.

As we continue our Sena 50R review, let’s discuss its sound quality! Sena 50 series are the first headsets from this brand to come with new HD audio speakers in the box. This is a worthwhile update over the regular Sena device speakers, with a noticeable difference in audio quality.

These speakers provide an increase in overall volume, clarity, and bass. One great thing is that you’ll be able to hear your music or intercom partners even on a highway. You can also fine-tune the audio experience to your liking with the Audio Equalizer feature of the Sena 50 Utility App.

Another great thing Sena included with the HD speakers is the additional padding. You can use this to push the speakers closer to your ears if you want to enjoy an even crisper sound.

While HD speakers are obviously Sena’s answer to Cardo’s JBL speakers, the JBL speakers are still a better offering. They provide a deeper bass experience than the HD speakers, but the difference isn’t too noticeable to make Sena’s sound quality less worthy. Basically, if you’re an audiophile, the difference will matter for you.

Check out our Cardo Packtalk Slim review and see if it’s the right headset for you!

Another feature that comes back in this Sena iteration is the Ambient mode. When you trigger it, you can let in external noise to your speakers, making the talks on the traffic lights or gas stations much more manageable.

Voice Control

Sena 50R features some enhancements on the voice control front, mainly due to the increase in the number of commands. Also, the integrated voice command feature is now available in eight different languages:

  • English
  • French
  • German
  • Italian
  • Spanish
  • Chinese
  • Japanese 
  • Russian

While you get a full suite of voice commands to control almost all the important functionalities, including intercom, phone control, music, and FM radio commands, there is a major flaw here. This flaw has to do with how glitchy this system can be. Sometimes, only a few commands will work and then stop working until you reboot the headset.

Also, it seems that the microphone is more susceptible to background noise when using voice commands, which means you will need to yell the voice commands a few times until they are registered.

A great addition to this package is the ability to connect to your phone’s digital assistant. Just yell “Hey Google” or “Hey Siri”, and you’ll all set.

Additional Features

Here are some additional features that the Sena 50R motorcycle Bluetooth headset brings to the mix!

FM Radio

As with other Sena headsets, the 50R features a full-fledged FM radio. It can automatically connect to the nearby radio signals. You can also save your favorite radio station in one of the ten preset slots.

WiFi Adapter

Sena 50R comes with a WiFi adapter harness mainly here for automatic firmware updates and charge maintenance.

Sena 50 Utility App

Like other Sena headsets, the 50R uses a smartphone app in one finely organized suite called Sena 50 Utility App. With this application, you can:

  • Manage Bluetooth and Mesh 2.0 intercom functionalities
  • Fine-tune the sound experience with the Audio Equalizer
  • Navigate through various other system functionalities

This app is a true gem compared to apps for older Sena models. You can download it either on App Store or Google Play.

Water Resistant or Waterproof?

When it comes to the water resistance of the Sena 50R, it's a fairly water-resistant device, but it sadly has no IP waterproof rating.
Image Source: Sena

While the Sena 50R headset has no IP waterproof rating (no Sena model has it as of today, actually), it is a fairly water-resistant device. It will withstand torrential rainstorms, but don’t expect that the longevity will stay intact if you ride with it in such weather. Still, an occasional rainstorm won’t ruin this motorcycle Bluetooth headset, so that’s a huge bonus.

Battery Life

Sena 50R has a tremendeously good battery life.

Thanks to the Bluetooth 5.0 technology, the battery life of the Sena 50R Bluetooth headset is greatly improved over its predecessors. Sena claims that the battery life of this Bluetooth headset offers 13 hours of Bluetooth talk time and 8 hours of Mesh 2.0 talk time. 

One great feature to talk about is the 30% faster rapid-charging abilities than the previous Sena headsets. For instance, you can leave the 50R headsets to charge for 20 minutes, and you’ll end up with 6 hours of Bluetooth talk time or 3,5 hours of Mesh 2.0 talk time. Very impressive feature to have, especially when your breaks are short.

Price

For such a robust feature package, you might think that the Sena 50R comes at a premium price point. Well, as it is a flagship Sena model, it is a bit expensive at $288/€235/£203 for the single pack and $441/€360/£312 for the dual pack. Still, it’s not much more expensive than the 30K model, and it offers more quality for your cash!

CHECK ON AMAZON US
CHECK ON AMAZON UK
CHECK ON REVZILLA
CHECK ON SPORTS BIKE SHOP

Summing Up

As we finish with our Sena 50R review, what is our final verdict on the new flagship Sena headset?

Like its sibling, it is an ideal Bluetooth headset if looking for the best intercom functionality for large groups. It features Mesh 2.0 technology, which is the leading intercom technology nowadays, with a vast range, more supported participants, and a handy reconnect feature.

Also, the 50R has a pretty decent design, with three glove-friendly buttons instead of the jog dial. The sound quality has also been greatly improved thanks to the implementation of the HD audio speakers.

Still, there are a few gripes with the 50R headset. 

First of all, the safety. As this unit is hard-wired to the speaker wires, you will need to leave it clamped if you don’t want to dismantle the whole unit each time you leave your helmet on the bike.

Then, there are some connectivity issues and sound glitches when connected to non-Sena headsets. When we talk about the glitches, the voice commands also tend to glitch out, which may be frustrating at some times. Also, when will Sena get the IP waterproof rating for their headsets?

All in all, the Sena 50R is a worthwhile addition to the Sena headset family and a nice improvement over the previous iterations.

Looking for more Bluetooth headsets? Head over to our Bluetooth headsets review section!

Sena 10R Review – Low-Profile Bluetooth Headset!

David Gabric
-
0
Sena 10R Review – Low-Profile Bluetooth Headset!

Sena released the 10R headset way back at the beginning of 2016, and it’s still selling like crazy even today. While it was a natural improvement over the then-actual SMH10R headset, how does it compare to the competition in 2021? Find out in our comprehensive Sena 10R review!

Sena 10R Review – Main Features

Sena 10R Review - Main Features

If you are in a rush, here is a breakdown of all the essential features of the Sena 10R Bluetooth headset!

  • Weighs 22 grams
  • Bluetooth 4.1
  • Can pair with two Bluetooth devices
  • Group intercom of four participants
  • Maximum range of 900 meters (0,56 miles)
  • Advanced noise control
  • Built-in FM radio
  • Music sharing
  • Replaceable battery
  • 10 hours of talk time
  • 3 hours of charge time
CHECK ON AMAZON US
CHECK ON AMAZON UK
CHECK ON REVZILLA
CHECK ON SPORTS BIKE SHOP

Without further ado, let’s continue with our Sena 10R review!

Design & Installation

Sena 10R has a incredibly low-profile build.

With its weight of 22 grams, the Sena 10R is one of the most low-profile motorcycle Bluetooth communication devices around! It comes in a silver color and is so small that it’s almost unnoticeable on your motorcycle helmet!

This is an older offering from Sena, so there is no jog dial. We have three buttons on this Sena SMH10R successor:

  • + Button – increase volume, next track, scan FM radio station, speed dial
  • – Button – decrease volume, previous track, turn on/off FM radio
  • Center Button – answer, end, and reject phone calls, start and end intercom conversation, enter into intercom pairing mode

Keep in mind that learning the button prompts for all the different controls is quite tricky, so make sure to utilize the Sena Utility App.

In the packaging of the Sena 10R Bluetooth headset, you will get:

  • Bluetooth unit
  • Battery pack
  • Speakers
  • Foam pads for microphones and speakers
  • Micro-USB cable
  • Double-sided tape adhesives
  • Hook and loop fasteners
  • Boom and wired microphone
The installation procedure of the Sena 10R headset.

A curious design choice of the Sena 10R is that the headset and battery are split into two separate units. To install the headset, you can use the hook and loop fasteners or the double-sided adhesive mount. The battery pack is usually installed on the rear of the helmet with the adhesive tape and then connected to the headset with an included cable. These cables are a bit longer than needed. At least they are not short if nothing else.

Bluetooth Pairing

The Sena 10R Bluetooth communication system is powered by Bluetooth 4.1 technology. It can connect to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously (two phones or one phone and GPS device). When it comes to Bluetooth headset connectivity, it can connect to up to three more Bluetooth headsets, regardless of the branding.

Smartphone Pairing

This video explains how simple it is to pair the Sena 10R with a smartphone.

Pairing with a smartphone or with any other Bluetooth device is quite simple:

  • Press and hold the Center Button for 10 seconds until you hear the “Configuration Menu” voice prompt. 
  • Tap the + Button, and you will hear the “Phone Pairing” voice prompt. 
  • Find the headset on your phone’s Bluetooth settings and enter “0000” for the PIN.
  • After the pairing is done, you will hear the “Your headset is paired” prompt.

The same procedure can be done to connect to a second Bluetooth device.

Sena Headset Pairing

Pairing two Sena 10R headsets is quite simple.

If you want to pair with a Sena headset, the procedure is the following:

  • Press and hold the Center Button for 5 seconds until you hear the “Intercom Pairing” voice prompt.
  • Tap the Center Button and wait until the intercom connection is established

You can do the same procedure to connect to two more headsets.

Universal Headset Pairing

Pairing with non-Sena headsets can be done in the following manner:

  • Press and hold the Center Button for 10 seconds to get into the Configuration Menu
  • Tap the + and – buttons simultaneously until you hear the “Universal Intercom Pairing” prompt
  • Then, tap the Center Button – the blue LED light will blink a few times, and you will hear a few beeps

The procedure above will get you into pairing mode. All you need to do is use the universal headset’s pairing procedure to finish the process.

Connection Range

Sena 10R has a maximum connection range of 900 meters (0,56 miles).
Image Source: Sena

Sena 10R Bluetooth communication device can connect to a maximum of three more Bluetooth headsets. Keep in mind that you can talk with one person at a time. The maximum intercom range between all the participants is 900 meters (0,56 miles). That’s a bit of a bummer, as this range will be short for most cases, so make sure that your group keeps close to each other.

Check out our Sena 50S review if looking for the best intercom functionalities!

For example, some newer Sena headsets like 20S Evo and 30K use the shark fin antenna to increase the maximum range. Still, this is an older headset, and the two headsets we mentioned above are the natural evolution of the 10R headset.

If you want to turn on the Bluetooth intercom functionality, press the + and Center buttons simultaneously, and you will hear the “Hello” voice prompt. Then, tap the Center Button once to talk with the first participant, two times to talk with the second participant, and three times to talk with the third user. You can do the same to end the intercom with individual members.

Sound Quality

Sena 10R sadly doesn't feature the new, improved HD audio speakers.

Sadly, the Sena 10R doesn’t support the new HD audio speakers from Sena, so you are left with the default option. The default speakers of the 10R headset have low bass and overall don’t provide such a rich sound as the later headsets in Sena’s lineup.

Looking for a budget-priced Sena model with HD audio speakers? Check out our Sena 5S review for a decent pick!

At least you can use earbuds instead of these speakers, but you will need to invest $13/€11/£9 for the earbud split cable accessory. This can be especially useful if you are riding on the highway or for decreasing wind noise.

You can also share your favorite tunes with other participants in the intercom with the music sharing feature.

The 10R’s microphones feature advanced noise control functionality, providing background and wind noise reduction when talking on the intercom.

Voice Control

Sadly, there is no dedicated extensive voice command support for the 10R motorcycle Bluetooth headset. Still, there are two helpful voice commands to talk about.

First, you can answer phone calls with your voice. Just say “Hello” when the phone call is incoming, and this prompt will automatically answer the call.

Second, you can trigger the intercom functionality (when connected to a session) with your voice, removing the need to tap buttons.

Additional Features

As we continue our Sena 10R review, let’s look at some of the additional features this headset has!

FM Radio

The FM radio of the Sena 10R has 10 presets that you can memorize individually and an automatic scan option. You can also share the FM radio with other participants in the intercom session.

Sena Utility App

The Sena Utility App will be beneficial to get all the controls you need in one package. As we told before, learning all the button combinations for different functions takes some time to memorize, so having all set up within a simple app is a huge time and nerve saver!

You can download the app from Google Play or App Store!

Water Resistant or Waterproof?

Sena 10R is certainly not the most water-resistant Bluetooth headset out there.
Image Source: Sena

While the Sena 10R is more water-resistant than the 20S and SMH10R headsets from Sena, it doesn’t have an IP waterproof rating.

When you consider that the battery pack will be outside your helmet in most cases, you don’t want to ride in rainy conditions with this headset. You can quickly destroy the battery or get your headset to malfunction.

Battery Life

Sena 10R uses a separate battery pack.

The Sena 10R Bluetooth headset has a replaceable 600 mAh battery in a separate battery pack unit. To replace the battery, just slide it out and put the new one in. You can also charge the battery with an included micro-USB cable on the go.

With the Bluetooth 4.1 integration, the battery life is increased to a talk time of 10 hours. To fully charge the battery, you will need to charge it for 3 hours.

Price

As we are finishing up our Sena 10R review, let’s see its pricing. The Sena 10R single pack costs $215/€176/£152, while the dual pack costs $440/€361/£361.

CHECK ON AMAZON US
CHECK ON AMAZON UK
CHECK ON REVZILLA
CHECK ON SPORTS BIKE SHOP

It’s one of the cheapest Sena headset models, and it certainly shows when it comes to the overall feature package. While packed with features, some of the technical capabilities are outdated when compared to newer Sena models. But, the 10R headset still can positively compare with non-Sena and non-Cardo brands!

Summing Up

Now that we are at the end of our Sena 10R review, what is our final verdict on this Bluetooth headset?

When it first released in February of 2016, the 10R was a welcome improvement over the then-flagship Sena SMH10R Bluetooth headset. It got an improved speaker, better design, and better water resistance, as well as a replaceable battery.

Fast-forward to 2021, and the 10R suffers when compared to the newer Sena models and the competition. It doesn’t have the best audio quality, has just two voice commands, and the water resistance could be much better. Also, the range for group intercom could be much better too.

But, if you are looking for a Bluetooth headset for stable and dry weather and don’t care too much about sound quality, you will enjoy this headset for what it offers. It has many cool features, and the ability to talk with up to three riders in one intercom session is a welcome addition. The pricing could be fairer, though – but that’s Sena we’re talking about. They are a premium brand with “premium” products.

For more in-depth reviews on Bluetooth headsets, check out our Bluetooth headsets review section!

Felo Launches Their High-Tech FW06 Electric Scooter!

David Gabric
-
0
Felo Launches Their High-Tech FW06 Electric Scooter!

The development of electric two-wheeled vehicles is surprisingly quick, especially in countries like China, India, and Japan. Many key players in these markets aim to innovate their product line to get them ready for the mass consumer adoption of electric vehicles.

One new player in this game is Felo. This company partnered with Kymco for the development of their new electric scooter – the Felo FW06. While it shares a striking resemblance with Kymco F9, it’s not a copy. While FW06 is similar to small-displacement, gas-powered, 125cc scooters, it has some crucial styling and tech features that set it apart from other electric scooters on the market.

Similar to the Kymco F9, it comes with a two-speed transmission. This allows riders to choose two riding modes. The lower gear is great for maneuvering in the cities, while the higher gear is essential for rides out of town when the roads clear up. These riding modes will optimize battery range in the long run and reduce wear on the electric motor.

Felo offers its FW06 in standard and DX variants. The main difference is in the battery power and maximum range:

  • Standard variant has an 80Ah Li-Ion battery with 68 miles of range (110kilometers)
  • DX variant has an 88Ah Li-Ion with 87 miles of range (140 kilometers)

The FW06 sports an electric motor that produces 10 kW of power, equal to 13,4 horsepower. Basically, it will be quite similar to 125cc scooters based on power, but it will bring the smooth and quiet operation of the EV vehicles.

Felo FW06 got its initial launch in China, with a price of 26,800 CNY, which equals $4,200/€3,453/£2,962 for the global market.

For more information, check out the Felo FW06 official page!

For more novelties in the motorcycle world, check out our industry news section!

Source: Ride Apart

Best Motorcycle Helmet Locks Of 2021 – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide!

David Gabric
-
0
Best Motorcycle Helmet Locks Of 2021 – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide!

Find it annoying that you need to carry your helmet around you at all times? Of course, you are concerned that someone doesn’t steal your lid! After all, you’ve spent a couple of hundred bucks for a stylish or functional helmet, and you know that helmets can attract attention. Well, if you don’t want to carry your helmet around with you at all times, here are the best motorcycle helmet locks to keep your helmet safe from mischievous thieves!

If you are in a rush, here is a comparison table of the best motorcycle helmet locks for 2021 below!

Image Name Price
OnGuard Double-Team PITBULL U-Lock Check Price
Kuryakyn 4232 Helmet Security Lock Check Price
BigPantha Helmet Lock & Cable Check Price
Kuryakyn 4248 License Plate Helmet Security Lock Check Price
Oxford Black Lidlock Motorcycle Helmet Lock Check Price

OnGuard Double-Team PITBULL U-Lock

OnGuard Double-Team PITBULL U-Lock

One of the best motorcycle helmet locks is this fierce PITBULL. Like the titular dog breed, this is a large, heavy-duty helmet lock that weighs 4 pounds (1,81 kg) and is 4 feet long (122 cm). It is locked by a key and offers lockpicking resistance due to the double-bolt locking mechanism.

Its main feature is the 14mm hardened stained steel shackle that provides high resistance against any cutting procedure. The rounded design also helps with that resistance. You can also lock a full-face helmet with this one.

If looking for an all-around best motorcycle helmet lock, this one from OnGuard is your best choice!

PROS

  • High resistance against cutting and lockpicking
  • You can lock a full-face helmet
  • Double-bolt locking mechanism

CONS

  • Quite heavy
CHECK ON AMAZON

Kuryakyn 4232 Helmet Security Lock

Kuryakyn 4232 Helmet Security Lock

This is an extremely lightweight helmet lock, with a weight of just 0,91 pounds (0,41 kg). It directly clamps on a motorcycle, adding to the security and aesthetics of your bike. The best places to clamp it on are the engine guard or the frame tube.

You can mount this on any tube on your motorcycle, but only on specific tubes. By specific, we mean the sizing from 1-1/4″ to 1-1/2″.

It’s locked by a key mechanism that comes with two tamper-proof one-way screws. This greatly increases the overall security when you lock your helmet.

The Kuryakyn 4232 helmet lock is made from metal material with chrome coating for corrosion prevention. 

PROS

  • Directly mounts on your motorcycle
  • Lightweight
  • Hard to lockpick
  • Chrome coating increases corrosion resistance

CONS

  • Only fits certain tubes on your bike
CHECK ON AMAZON

BigPantha Helmet Lock & Cable

BigPantha Helmet Lock & Cable

This steel cable motorcycle helmet lock is the most light of all the helmet locks on our list at 0,38 lbs (172 grams). Its steel cable is highly flexible with its 6 feet (183 cm) length and a protective coating that prevents corrosion. The BigPantha is the meaning of a universal fit, as you can even lock two helmets with this one.

This is essentially a D-lock with a combination locking mechanism. It’s quite easy to use as it has a combination of 3 digits. Keep in mind that someone could possibly break through one of 1,000 possible digit combinations if you leave your helmet unattended for too long. 

Also, the D-lock features rubber coating to protect your bike and helmet from scratches.

PROS

  • Easy to use
  • High flexibility
  • Universal fit
  • Steel cable is quite durable
  • Anti-corrosion coating

CONS

  • Only 1,000 digit combinations

CHECK ON AMAZON

Kuryakyn 4248 License Plate Helmet Security Lock

Kuryakyn 4248 License Plate Helmet Security Lock

Here is the best license plate motorcycle helmet lock you can find right now. It is a steel helmet lock that only weighs 1 pound (450 grams). The carabiner keeps the bolt lock secure on your license plate. Also, it has hollow torque head screws that protect the bolt from thieves, a great addition to the key locking mechanism.

The main benefit of this helmet lock is that you don’t need to mess around with cables, and you can easily install it on a narrow license plate. That’s right; it’s sadly quite difficult to install this helmet lock on a curved license plate.

Even though it’s quite pricey, this is one of the best motorcycle helmet locks due to its low profile and high safety for your helmet.

PROS

  • Hard to break
  • Made of steel
  • Lightweight
  • Low-profile

CONS

  • Quite pricey
CHECK ON AMAZON

Oxford Black Lidlock Motorcycle Helmet Lock

Oxford Black Lidlock Motorcycle Helmet Lock

Last on our list of best motorcycle helmet locks is this extra-light helmet lock that weighs only 200 grams. Its T-bar is designed for motorcycle helmets specifically but may not fit all helmets. You can easily attach it to your helmet’s D-ring thanks to the aluminum carabiner with a 4-digit combination lock.

Sadly, the lock has no full rubber cover, so it can scratch your bike if not too careful. Still, this is a very affordable helmet lock worth your money if on a steep budget.

PROS

  • Lightweight
  • Affordable
  • 4-digit combination lock

CONS

  • No full rubber cover
  • May not fit all helmets
  • Aluminum material
CHECK ON AMAZON

Best Motorcycle Helmet Locks – Buyer’s Guide

Now that we’ve shared our picks for the top motorcycle helmet locks around, let’s look into the different motorcycle helmet lock types as well as main considerations before buying one!

What Types Of Motorcycle Helmet Locks Are Available?

You will run into different motorcycle helmet lock types when searching for the best one. All of them have their advantages and disadvantages. In the following sections, we are going to break down all of the motorcycle helmet lock types.

Handlebar Lock

Handlebar lock is the most visible type of helmet lock, as its emphasis is on styling.

This is the most visible type of helmet lock, as its emphasis is on styling. You can basically lock any helmet on any handlebar, thanks to the universal quality of the handlebar lock.

Most handlebar locks utilize keys as a locking mechanism. In most cases, the materials of this lock will be polished for scratch prevention on your motorcycle and helmet.

The main gripe with handlebar locks is that they will put your bike out of balance.

Cord Lock

Cord lock lock wraps around the motorcycle helmet and another motorcycle part to securely lock the helmet.

This type of lock wraps around the motorcycle helmet and another motorcycle part to securely lock the helmet. There are both key and combination lock variants, which adds to the overall high versatility of this motorcycle helmet lock type.

This type of lock can be easily cut through if someone has enough persistence, but some variants have rubberized cords to increase the overall durability. 

Also, keep in mind that you will need to remove the cord lock whenever you go riding, as it hangs loose, and you don’t want to scratch your bike or crash it because of the cord lock.

Bolt Lock

Bolt lock is permanently installed on your motorcycle.

This type of lock is permanently installed on your motorcycle. They are cylindrical and are operated with a key. Bolt locks are highly versatile – you can install them on several areas on your bike. Most people install them on license plates due to the low-profile placement.

Check out our list of must-have motorcycle accessories to get geared up for this season!

Bolt locks are small and easy to install, but their main gripe is that they won’t look attractive on your bike in most cases. Also, it is hard to lock full-face helmets with a bolt lock due to their small size.

License Plate Lock

License plate locks are made from strong metals and are hard to crack by thieves.

As its name suggests, this helmet lock type is installed on the back of the license plate holder. They are designed to be hidden from view, which is a great design choice when you want a permanent lock that doesn’t destroy the look of your bike.

License plate locks are made from strong metals and are hard to crack by thieves. They are very easy to install – take a wrench and reserve half an hour, and you’re done! Also, this lock won’t affect bike balance as it is located in the center.

What Features To Consider When Buying The Best Motorcycle Helmet Locks?

We mainly look at three categories: the locking mechanism of the lock, its portability, and build material. Let’s work through each one of these, shall we?

Locking Mechanism

Combination lock for motorcycle helmet.
Motorcycle helmet lock with key mechanism.

The two most common locking mechanisms are key locks and combination locks.

Key locks, as their name suggests, will require a key at all times. That means you will need to stress about having them stored properly because if you lose the key, you won’t be able to unlock it. Our tip is to put the key in your main keyring where you will know where it is at all times.

Combination locks use a carabiner mechanism that locks with a few teeth controlled with a digit code. You will need to remember a few digits, but it’s easy to just write the code down for more convenience.

Both locks can be cracked with scissors or with a saw. Key locks can also be lockpicked, which isn’t the case with combination locks. Still, most modern helmet key locks feature additional screws to prevent lockpicking, which is a nice innovation.

Portability

Motorcycle helmet locks provide differing layers of portability.

Some helmet locks are heavy, while others are light. Heavier helmet locks provide superior safety, and you can use them to lock more than one helmet due to their size. This, in turn, sacrifices their overall portability.

Lighter helmet locks are smaller and offer more portability and ease of use. Some will be small enough to even put in your pocket or under your motorcycle seat.

If you don’t want to carry your helmet lock around, you can also choose the one you can directly install on the bike.

Now, which type of locks in this category is better? The heavier locks will be better if you think you’ll be away from your bike for a while (going to the work shift, etc.). 

On the other hand, the small locks are better if you do short rides and are away from your bike for a shorter time (shopping, etc.)

Materials

The best motorcycle helmet locks are made of steel and other heavy metal material due to their highest security and durability.

Motorcycle helmet locks are made of various materials, such as aluminum, steel, and zinc alloy. Keep in mind that more durable materials will increase the overall price of the helmet lock.

The best motorcycle helmet locks are made of steel and other heavy metal due to their highest security and durability. You can go a level further and find strengthened and heat-treated steel that will make stealing your helmet a nightmare. These have anti-rust coatings and are an ideal choice if you truly value helmet safety.

Zinc alloy locks are in the middle ground. They are weaker than steel locks but stronger than aluminum locks. These locks can resist rust and corrosion but offer less protection than steel.

Aluminum locks are the cheapest due to their low weight and durability. They can corrode quickly and are only worth your time and attention if you are on a highly constrained budget.

Summing Up

Motorcycle helmet locks are a handy motorcycle gadget that removes the need for you to carry your helmet around with you at all times. While some of them might be sketchy, our picks for the best motorcycle helmet locks will provide you with much-needed helmet safety and even add to the aesthetics of your motorcycle!

Looking for more accessories for your motorcycle? Check out our motorcycle accessories section for more reviews!

1...12,51312,51412,515...12,548Page 12,514 of 12,548
© Newspaper WordPress Theme by TagDiv