Communications Systems

Buying an intercom doesn’t have to be a jargon-filled experience – but what should you be looking for when buying a communications system?

Intercom, music player, headset – whatever you call it and however you use it, there are some basics to think about when buying a communications system. Do you really need that five-mile range or is 100m more suitable? Will it impact the fit of your helmet? By asking the right questions before you part with your cash, you can be sure you’re buying exactly what you need and ultimately end up with a product that suits you.

1 CONNECTIVITY

Take a look at how many other devices the intercom can connect with, and how it does it. Ideally you want a system that’s easy to use and simple to connect (with other brands, too). Check if you can connect it to your phone or sat-nav so you can receive phone calls, play music and hear instructions through the headset.

2 SPEAKERS

Be sure to check the quality of the speakers. Try having a conversation with your passenger in a car with all the windows open as you’re travelling down the motorway – that’s pretty much what it will be like through the intercom with bad speakers.

3 BATTERY LIFE

The last thing you want to worry about while riding is if your intercom battery will run out. Check that the battery life of the unit suits what you plan to do with it or look for options that can be charged on the go.

4 INSTALLATION

How easy is it to install? There are a number of scenarios which could happen if a system is not easy to fit – none of which end in your favour. Therefore, it’s important to see how easy it is to fit into your helmet.