A Bluetooth headset for open face helmet tailored for open-face helmets is a communication gadget uniquely crafted for use with open-face motorcycle helmets that lack a complete chin guard.
The discussion covers the following topics:
- How to know if a Bluetooth headset is compatible with an open-face helmet
- Key features to consider when buying an open face helmet headset
- How to install a Bluetooth headset inside an open-face helmet
How to tell if a Bluetooth headset is suitable for an open face helmet?
To tell if a Bluetooth headset fits an open-face helmet, check for a boom mic, a clamp or adhesive mount, and thin, adjustable speakers with Velcro spacers.
Assess the Microphone Type
🟢 Boom Microphone: It's the top choice for open-face helmets. With a flexible arm reaching towards your mouth, it guarantees clear voice capture even when there's no chin bar.
🔴 Button/Wired Microphone: These are intended for full-face helmets. Because the mic can be placed inside the chin area. On an open-face helmet, they'll be far from the mouth, resulting in subpar call and intercom quality.
Therefore, if a Bluetooth helmet headset comes with a boom mic, it's suitable for open-face helmets.
Examine the Mounting Style
For an open face helmet headset, a clamp mount or adhesive mount is both okay.
Clamp Mount: It securely fastens to the helmet's edge and is a good fit for most open-face helmets.
Adhesive Mount: This is an option if your helmet's edge is too thick for a clamp, though it offers slightly less flexibility.
Verify Speaker Placement Flexibility
Open-face helmets typically feature less distinct ear pockets and greater padding variations. So please ensure the speakers are thin and adjustable, and the product includes Velcro spacers for proper positioning.
What other factors to look for?
When selecting an open face helmet headset, consider the following characteristics:
⚙️ Bluetooth Version:
Opt for newer versions as they offer enhanced performance. They consume less energy and establish connections more effortlessly. Bluetooth 5.0 or above is an excellent option.
🔋 Battery Life:
Evaluate the battery's endurance. Seek systems with extended battery life, as many can provide 8 - 10 hours of talk time. Take into account the duration of your rides.
🔊 Sound Quality:
Prioritize systems with high-quality speakers and a noise-cancelling microphone. Clear audio is essential, and the microphone should effectively filter out wind noise.
☔ Waterproofing:
Given that you may ride in the rain, ensure the device is water-resistant. This safeguards it from potential damage.
💬 Intercom Features:
If you wish to communicate with fellow riders, examine the intercom capabilities. Some systems enable simultaneous conversation with multiple riders, while others allow you to listen to music and talk concurrently.
The Moman CP-X, for example, is a great option that ensures group communication and audio multitasking.
📶 Communication Range:
Determine how far you can communicate with other riders. Check the system's range, as some can function over a distance of more than a mile. This varies depending on the product and the actual physical environment.
🤚 Ease of Use:
The operation should be user-friendly, even when wearing gloves. Large control buttons and voice assistance can be beneficial in this regard.
How to install Bluetooth headset in the open face helmet?
About installing headset in open face helmet, you can follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare Your Helmet
Adequate preparation guarantees a tidy and stable installation:
📌 Wipe Down the Helmet:
Employ alcohol wipes or a moist cloth to clean both the inside (around speaker locations and cheek pads) and outside (where the Bluetooth unit will be attached) of the helmet. Eliminate any dirt, perspiration, or oils to enhance adhesion.
📌 Take Out Pads and Liners:
Gently remove cheek pads and liners to gain access to the helmet's interior. Most helmets feature removable liners that are fastened with snaps or Velcro. Make a note of their positions for later reassembly.
📌 Check for Speaker Compartments:
Numerous contemporary helmets, such as Shoei and HJC, come with pre-cut indentations for speakers close to the ears. If your helmet doesn't have these, you might need to carve out some space in the foam.
Step 2: Install the Speakers
The speakers are crucial for providing audio for music, calls, and navigation. Correct placement is vital for both comfort and excellent sound quality.
🧰 Find or Form Speaker Pockets:
If your helmet already has ear recesses, simply place the speakers in those spots. In case there are none, mark a shallow area in the foam close to your ears. Then, with a knife or your fingers, carefully cut or compress the foam. Be cautious not to cut too deeply to maintain the helmet's safety features.
🧰 Fix the Speakers in Place:
Bluetooth headset for open face helmet often come with Velcro pads. You need to peel off the backing and attach the Velcro to the backs of the speakers and the corresponding areas on the helmet. Position the speakers so that they line up with your ears without applying excessive pressure, as this could lead to discomfort during long rides.
🧰 Direct Speaker Wires Properly:
Guide the wires to the spot where the Bluetooth module will be mounted (usually on the left side of a helmet). Hide the wires beneath the helmet's padding to ensure they stay secure and don't get in the way.
Step 3: Set Up the Microphone
A microphone is vital for ensuring clear voice transmission.
Select a boom-style mic that reaches towards your mouth area. Attach the boom to either the left cheek pad or the helmet's outer shell using Velcro strips or adhesive mounts. Position the mic so it's about 1 - 2 cm from your lips for optimal sound pickup.
Guide the microphone's wires beneath the helmet's padding. Use adhesive clips or Velcro to keep them in place, preventing them from hanging loosely and causing discomfort during rides.
Step 4: Position the Bluetooth Control Module
The Bluetooth control module of an open face helmet headset is the control center, housing the controls and battery.
📌 Determine the Mounting Spot:
Usually on the left side of a helmet. This makes it easy to access the control the unit. Ensure it doesn't interfere with the helmet's straps or disrupt its aerodynamic design.
📌 Choose the Mounting Technique:
For Clamp Mounting: Insert the base of the clamp between the helmet's outer shell and inner liner. Tighten it using a screwdriver to ensure a secure fit.
For Adhesive Mounting: Clean the area where you plan to mount the module thoroughly. Apply the adhesive pad, and then firmly press the module onto it. If the manufacturer advises, allow the adhesive to set for about one day for maximum strength.
📌 Ensure the module is firmly in place:
Connect the Bluetooth module to either the clamp or the adhesive base. Verify again that it's securely fastened and won't come loose when you're riding at high speeds.
Step 5: Organize and Fasten All Cables
Effective cable organization is key to comfort and longevity.
🧰 Conceal Cables:
Guide the speaker and microphone cables beneath the helmet's padding or along the inner edge. Employ adhesive clips or Velcro pieces to hold them steady.
🧰 Reinstall Padding Components:
Gently reattach the cheek pads and liners, making sure the cables aren't trapped or pulled taut. Ensure the helmet provides a snug and comfortable fit.
🧰 Inspect for Blockages:
Confirm that the cables don't disrupt the helmet's fit or compromise safety features, like the chin strap or ventilation system.
Step 6: Evaluate the Open Face Helmet Headset
Before embarking on your journey, ensure your system functions properly:
📌 Power Up the Module:
Charge the Bluetooth module fully using the supplied USB cable (usually takes 2–3 hours).
📌 Connect to Devices:
It often involves holding a button for over 5 seconds to activate pairing mode on the headset. Then navigate to Bluetooth settings on your phone or GPS device, choose the headset, and establish a connection. Many headsets allow simultaneous pairing with multiple devices, such as phones and GPS units.
📌 Assess Audio and Mic Performance:
Play music to evaluate speaker clarity and volume. And then make a call to assess microphone quality and noise reduction. Check GPS audio for clear navigation instructions.
📌 Fine-tune Settings:
Employ the headset's built-in controls or its accompanying app to tweak the volume, equalizer parameters, or intercom settings.
