Is there anything like an open road and a personally curated playlist? Imagine feeling the wind lick your face and the steady vibrations from your bike. All the while, your favorite band sets the stage for your adventure.
Travel and music have always gone hand-in-hand.
Waiting by the boom box, hoping the radio plays your favorite song soon. Downloading music from Limewire or Napster to burn onto CDs. Or typing your favorite song into Spotify and adding it to your playlist.
Regardless of how you got your music, it was always a part of the time spent in your car.
Motorcycle headphones can bring that experience to your bike. Instead of listening to deafening wind noise, you can enjoy your favorite tunes.
But because there are so many options to choose from, how do you know you’re getting the best? Keep reading for our list of the best motorcycle earbuds, headphones, and speakers.
1. Sena SMH10-11
These headphones from Sena were a no-brainer for the number one spot on our list. They’re made for motorcyclists who travel in groups and need a way to communicate. These allow for long-range music sharing and intercom capabilities.
Even if you and your closest friend are 900 meters apart, you’ll still be able to share music and chat.
Riding a motorcycle is loud. Around half of bikes produce sounds over 100 decibels, on par with a loud rock concert or a jet taking off.
To hear your music or intercom, you need something that can cut back on background noise. Sena put their Advanced Noise technology in the SMH10-11 to help cut out distracting background noises.
These bad boys should last for rides up to 12 hours in length. A single charge should make them last up to 10 days on standby.
Pros
- Connects easily to your Bluetooth-enabled phone.
- Comes with a universal microphone kit so it’ll fit any helmet.
- Comes with a two-year warranty.
- Easy installation process.
Cons
- Sound quality may not stand up for audiophiles.
2. FocusPower F10
The FocusPower F10 is perfect for folks looking for small and uncumbersome headphones.
While not made specifically for motorcycle usage, these come recommended by motorcyclists. They’re small and comfortable, making them the best earbuds for motorcycle riding. And, if you don’t ride all year long, you can still use them in the off-season.
The F10 easily connects to all devices with Bluetooth. They have a wireless range of 33 feet. Even if you’re away from your device, you will still be connected.
These are some of the most affordable earbuds on the market today.
Pros
- Connects fast and easily to Bluetooth devices.
- Can connect two phones to the headphones.
- Affordable price tag.
- Sound quality is clear and concise.
Cons
- Charge may not last as long as described.
3. Bose Quiet Comfort 20
Bose is another company whose name you probably recognize. They’re well-known for their high-quality headphones and speakers.
The Quiet Comfort 20 is a noise-canceling option that rivals others on the market. The Stay Hear+ tip design ensures the buds won’t fall out of your ears in the middle of your ride.
The Active EQ technology in these earbuds lets you enjoy a deep and clear sound. Flip on Aware mode if you want to know what’s going on around you. Turn on Noice Canceling mode to experience distraction-free listening.
Because they aren’t made specifically for motorcycling, you can use the QC20 anytime. Whether you’re riding down the highway on your bike or walking around the neighborhood, they’ll perform well.
Pros
- Comfortable to wear all day long.
- Noise-canceling option is excellent for noisy rides.
- Great audio quality.
- Inline control panel for easy adjustments.
Cons
- High price tag.
4. Cardo Scala Rider Packtalk
Are you traveling with a large group of riders? Maybe you’re heading to Sturgis in 2020, joining 490,000 other bikers in South Dakota. There’s no better way to travel to biker rallies with your friends than with the Cardo Scala Rider.
The Packtalk can connect up to 15 different riders when you use the dual pack. It’ll connect to any Bluetooth-enabled devices wirelessly. For those without Bluetooth devices, an AUX cable can help you stay connected.
The Parallel Audio Streaming allows for simultaneous music playback and intercom conversations.
You can make calls, use your GPS device and, of course, listen to music in high-definition.
The Packtalk is both waterproof and dustproof. This provides a level of protection, perfect for a variety of road conditions.
Pros
- Hand-free voice activation (if purchasing the JBL option).
- Small profile for comfort.
- Won’t be destroyed if you encounter some rain on your rides.
- Charges quickly
Cons
- The included manual is not the most helpful, making set-up more complicated than it needs to be.
5. Snug Phones
This option from Snug Phones is great because they won’t ever fall out. Mediocre quality earbuds often slip out of your ears and create frustration. This option is designed to sit inside your ear canal to ensure they stay snug all day long.
Though they aren’t marketed as a motorcycle earbud, they come recommended by bikers. They aren’t noise-canceling, but they can cancel out distracting wind noises. And because they are low profile, they won’t catch and pull out in high winds, either.
The IPX6 waterproof rating means they can withstand rain without issue. They aren’t submergible, though.
The Snug Phones connect via Bluetooth and have a microphone for taking calls. This makes staying connected with your friends and listening to your tunes on your ride a breeze.
These will provide up to 12 hours of non-stop music. So even if you’re on a long road trip, they should provide you with a full day of music.
Pros
- Fits snugly to cut back on background noise.
- Battery lasts a long time.
- Waterproof (to a degree).
- Low profile makes them comfortable.
- Pairs easily to your devices.
Cons
- Connection will sometimes cut out.
6. UClear Digital Pulse
The UClear is a disc-like helmet speaker, not a headphone. It’s compatible with most helmet communication systems and smartphones.
This affordable option provides high definition audio and a universal fit.
The audio is crisp and clear. They provide bass that you’d expect from reputable audio equipment brands. The sound drivers offer maximum performance and unparalleled music playback.
If you have more than one helmet, you’ll love how easy it is to switch these speakers back and forth — no tools required for the job. People who ride bicycles or skateboards will enjoy being able to move their speakers to those helmets, too.
Pros
- Voice call audio is clear and concise.
- Volume is loud without distortions.
- Easy installation process.
- Comfortable when inserted correctly in the helmet.
- Affordable price tag.
Cons
- Wires are fragile, which may lead to longevity issues down the road.
7. Westone B30 with Bluetooth
If you have a little extra dough in your pocket, the Westone W30 might be the reason to shell it out. These motorcycle Bluetooth earbuds are top-of-the-line. They also come with a price tag that says so, too.
The Westone B30 has True-Fit technology designed to fit in any ear comfortably. The earbud itself is compact and low profile, so you won’t have any issues with helmet discomfort. The ear tips provide an unparalleled seal out of the box.
Westone is a well-respected brand in the world of audio equipment. Their products provide a listening experience that even audiophiles can appreciate. Westone’s proprietary armature drivers offer a frequency range that extends far beyond other earbud offerings.
Pros
- No distortions.
- Can be used on and off your bike.
- Comfortable to wear for long periods.
- Comes with a carrying case.
- Two-year warranty to protect your investment.
Cons
- Very high price tag.
Your Motorcycle Headphones and an Open Road
Now you know the best motorcycle headphones on the market. Before you choose which option to buy, consider your specific needs.
Do you have more than one helmet you switch between? The drop-in speaker style of the UClear might work best for you. They make switching between helmets a breeze.
Do you ride with a lot of friends at one time? You’ll want to consider intercom-style headphones like the Cardo Scala. You can stay connected with one another while still being able to enjoy your music.
Are you looking for something with the best audio quality to blast your tunes on your ride? Maybe the Westone or Bose options will meet your needs. These well-known companies create high-quality products with excellent warranty options.
Regardless of your needs or preferences, any of the motorcycle helmet earbuds or headphones above are sure to please.
All you need now is the open road (and a helmet, of course).
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