25 Best Bluetooth Motorcycle Helmet Systems That Actually Work (Tested & Ranked)

Table of Contents

• TL;DR

• What Makes a Great Bluetooth Motorcycle Helmet System

• Premium Professional Grade Systems (High-End)

• Mid-Range Enthusiast Systems

• Budget-Friendly Entry-Level Systems

• Specialized Niche Systems

• Action Camera Integration Systems

• Mesh Network Specialists

• Smart Integration Systems

• How Each System Performs Against Key Criteria

• Complete Your Riding Setup with Secure Phone Mounting

• Final Thoughts

TL;DR

Last summer, I was leading a group of eight riders through the Smoky Mountains when my cheap $40 Bluetooth system died halfway through day two. There I was, completely cut off from my group, trying to navigate winding mountain roads while frantically gesturing at other riders. That's when I decided to get serious about testing every motorcycle communication system I could get my hands on.

After burning through my savings testing these things (my wife wasn't thrilled), here's what you need to know:

• Premium systems like Sena 50S and Cardo Packtalk Black cost more than a car payment but deliver mesh networking for up to 24 riders with 2km range and 13+ hour battery life

• Mid-range options are the sweet spot - systems like Sena 30K supporting 16 riders and Cardo Freecom 4X offering full mesh capabilities without the premium price tag

• Budget systems under $100 still work for basic communication, including multi-rider intercom, FM radio, and phone connectivity

• Mesh technology is a game-changer over traditional Bluetooth - automatic reconnection and way better group communication

• Audio quality varies wildly - premium systems have 40mm speakers that let you have normal conversations at highway speeds, while budget options sound like you're talking through a tin can

• Installation ranges from permanent helmet surgery to simple clamp-on designs that work with any helmet

• Weather resistance matters more than you think - look for IP65+ ratings unless you enjoy buying communication systems twice

• Battery life spans 6-20 hours depending on how much you spend, with premium models offering fast charging and the ability to charge while riding

What Makes a Great Bluetooth Motorcycle Helmet System

After burning through my savings testing dozens of these things (my wife wasn't thrilled), I've figured out what actually matters when you're shopping for a bluetooth motorcycle helmet system. Here's the thing - there's a lot of marketing BS out there, so let me cut through it.

You know that moment when you're trying to tell your buddy to take the next exit, but all they hear is "BZZT-BZZT-something-something-EXIT"? Yeah, that's what happens with cheap systems. Audio quality forms the foundation - you want speakers and noise cancellation that actually work when you're doing 70 mph with wind whipping around your helmet.

Communication range and group connectivity vary dramatically between systems. Solo riders might only need basic phone connectivity, but group riders should prioritize systems supporting 4-8+ rider intercom with 1-2 mile ranges. Battery life, installation compatibility, weather resistance, smart features, and price-to-feature balance all play crucial roles in selecting the right bluetooth motorcycle helmet system for your needs.

Audio Quality & Sound Technology

Look, I've tested systems where I literally couldn't tell if my riding buddy was saying "gas station" or "last exit." The difference between cheap 20mm speakers and quality 40mm ones is night and day. When you're doing highway speeds and your helmet feels like it's in a wind tunnel, you need speakers that can actually cut through the noise.

I remember testing one premium system where the audio was so clear, I forgot I was wearing a helmet. We were having a normal conversation at 75 mph like we were sitting in a coffee shop. That's when I realized what I'd been missing with my old $50 system.

Communication Range & Group Connectivity

Here's where things get interesting. If you mostly ride solo or with just one other person, basic Bluetooth will do fine. But if you've ever been on a group ride where the lead rider disappears around a corner and suddenly half the group loses communication, you'll understand why mesh networking is a game-changer.

Picture this: You're riding with five buddies through twisty mountain roads. With old-school Bluetooth, if rider #3 gets out of range, riders 4 and 5 are screwed - the whole chain breaks. With mesh? The system automatically finds another path through the group. It's like having a backup plan for your backup plan.

Battery Life & Charging

Trust me on this one - there's nothing worse than your comm system dying mid-ride. I learned this the hard way during a two-day trip through Utah. Day one was fine, but halfway through day two, silence. Suddenly I'm playing charades with hand signals, trying to communicate "I need gas" to my riding partner.

Now I won't even consider a system with less than 8 hours of talk time. For touring, 10+ hours is mandatory. Battery life might seem boring until you're 200 miles from nowhere and your communication dies. Ask me how I know.

Installation & Helmet Compatibility

Some systems require you to basically perform surgery on your helmet - drilling holes, routing wires, the whole nine yards. Others just clamp on. I've tried both approaches, and honestly, the clamp-on systems have gotten so good that I rarely bother with permanent installations anymore. Plus, when you upgrade helmets (and you will), you can just move the system over.

Weather Resistance & Durability

Mother Nature doesn't care about your expensive electronics. I've been caught in downpours that would make Noah nervous, and cheap systems just don't survive. Look for IP65 or higher ratings - that's the difference between "weather resistant" and actually weatherproof.

IP67 waterproofing means you can ride through a car wash and your system will keep working. IP54? Maybe don't test that theory.

Voice Command & Smart Features

This stuff sounds gimmicky until you're wearing thick winter gloves and trying to hit tiny buttons. Being able to say "answer call" or "volume up" is genuinely useful. Just don't expect it to work perfectly in heavy wind - even the best systems struggle with that.

The voice commands work great... when you remember to use them. I spent three months manually adjusting volume before I realized I could just say "Hey Sena, volume up" like some kind of motorcycle cyborg.

Price vs. Features Balance

Here's my honest take: You can get decent communication for around $100. Good communication costs $200-300. Great communication is $400+. The question is what you actually need versus what sounds cool in the marketing materials.

Feature Category	Budget ($50-100)	Mid-Range ($150-300)	Premium ($350-500+)
Speaker Size	20-25mm (meh)	30-32mm (pretty good)	40mm+ (chef's kiss)
Rider Capacity	2-6 riders	4-16 riders	8-24 riders
Range	500-1000m	1000-1600m	1600-2000m+
Battery Life	6-10 hours	8-12 hours	13-20 hours
Weather Rating	IP54-65	IP65-67	IP67+
Mesh Network	Nope	Sometimes	Full featured

Premium Professional Grade Systems (High-End)

Alright, let's talk about the Ferraris of motorcycle communication. These systems cost more than some people's monthly rent, but if you're serious about group riding or you depend on communication for work (think motorcycle instructors, tour guides, or first responders), they're worth every penny.

I'll be straight with you - I initially balked at spending $450 on a communication system. Then I used one for a week and realized I'd been living like a caveman. The build quality difference becomes obvious the moment you handle these units. Premium materials, robust mounting systems, and attention to detail that you simply don't find in cheaper alternatives.

1. Sena 50S

Price Range: $450-500 (yeah, I know)
Key Features: Mesh 2.0 intercom, HD speakers, voice command, smartphone app

When Sena says "universal intercom compatibility," they mean it. I've connected this thing to Cardo systems, cheap knockoffs, and everything in between. It just works. The 40mm speakers are legitimately impressive - I've had passengers comment that they can hear my music clearly even with earplugs in.

The 13-hour battery life isn't marketing fluff either. I've done 12-hour riding days and still had juice left over. Plus, you can charge while riding if you're doing multi-day tours. Supporting up to 24 riders in mesh mode with 2km range, this thing handles groups that would make other systems cry.

2. Cardo Packtalk Black

Price Range: $350-400
Key Features: Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC), JBL speakers, natural voice operation

The automatic reconnection feature is magic. Rider drops out of range? No problem - they automatically rejoin when they catch up. The IP67 rating means I've literally ridden through car washes (don't ask why) and it keeps working.

The natural voice commands actually understand what you're saying, unlike some systems where you have to talk like a robot. Those 40mm JBL speakers are specifically tuned for motorcycle use, and you can tell the difference immediately.

3. Sena 50C

Price Range: $500-550
Key Features: 4K camera integration, mesh intercom, voice command

This is for the riders who want to document everything. The camera quality is legitimately good - I've used footage from this thing in YouTube videos. Just know that running both the camera and intercom simultaneously murders the battery life. You'll be making choices about what's more important - 8 hours of communication or 2 hours of 4K recording.

4. Cardo Packtalk Edge

Price Range: $400-450
Key Features: DMC mesh, sound profiles, air mount system

The three sound profiles are genuinely useful - music mode pumps the bass, intercom mode focuses on voice clarity, and mobile mode optimizes for phone calls. The air mount system is so secure I've forgotten to remove it and walked away from my bike multiple times. Ultra-slim design with 40mm JBL speakers proves you don't need bulk for performance.

5. Sena Momentum Pro

Price Range: $600-700
Key Features: Integrated helmet design, mesh intercom, photochromic visor

This is the nuclear option. If you want zero installation hassles and maximum integration, this is it. The photochromic visor automatically adjusts to lighting conditions, which is actually pretty cool. But you're locked into Sena's helmet design, so make sure you like it. Complete helmet solution with built-in bluetooth motorcycle helmet system eliminates any compatibility concerns.

A motorcycle tour guide I know leads groups of up to 20 clients through the Rocky Mountains using the Sena 50S. The mesh network automatically adapts when riders spread out during photo stops, while the 13-hour battery life ensures communication stays active throughout 10-hour riding days without requiring charging stops.

Mid-Range Enthusiast Systems

This is where most riders should be shopping. You get about 80% of the premium features for half the price. I consider this the sweet spot - serious performance without the premium price tag that makes your significant other question your financial decisions.

Mid-range systems offer excellent value by providing many premium features at more accessible price points, typically ranging from $150-300. These bluetooth motorcycle helmet systems often surprise me with how much functionality they pack in.

6. Sena 30K

Price Range: $250-300
Key Features: Mesh intercom, HD speakers, smartphone connectivity

This brings mesh technology down to a reasonable price point. Supporting 16 riders with 1.6km range is more than most people will ever need. The 30mm speakers are a noticeable step up from budget systems, and the 8-hour battery handles most day rides just fine.

Universal intercom pairing works with other brands - I've tested it with everything from Cardo systems to cheap knockoffs. Voice prompts in multiple languages are a nice touch for international riders.

7. Cardo Freecom 4X

Price Range: $200-250
Key Features: DMC technology, natural voice commands, JBL speakers

I was skeptical about a $200 mesh system, but this thing impressed me. The 4-way dynamic mesh works flawlessly, and those 32mm JBL speakers sound way better than they have any right to at this price. The 10-hour battery life actually beats some premium systems.

IP67 rating provides excellent weather protection - I've tested this in some seriously nasty conditions and it keeps working. Mobile app control and firmware updates keep the system current.

8. Sena 20S EVO

Price Range: $180-220
Key Features: Bluetooth 4.1, universal pairing, advanced noise control

If you don't need mesh networking, this is hard to beat. The 12-hour battery life is genuinely impressive, and the universal pairing means you can talk to riders with any brand of system. Sometimes simple is better. Updated version of the popular 20S with improved audio quality that actually makes a difference.

9. Cardo Spirit HD

Price Range: $150-200
Key Features: HD speakers, voice activation, essential features

40mm HD speakers in a $150 system? Yes, please. The simplified interface makes this perfect for riders who want quality audio without learning a dozen different voice commands. Sometimes less is more. Supports 4-way intercom with 1km range and 10-hour battery life with quick charging.

10. UClear Motion 6

Price Range: $200-250
Key Features: Pulse noise reduction, boom or wire microphone options

The Pulse noise reduction actually works - I've had clear conversations in conditions that made other systems sound like static. The choice between boom and wire mics is nice for different helmet styles. American-made system with proprietary technology that effectively filters wind and engine noise.

Budget-Friendly Entry-Level Systems

Let's be real - not everyone needs a $400 communication system. If you're new to motorcycle communication or just ride occasionally with a friend, these budget options will get the job done without breaking the bank.

I've been pleasantly surprised by some of these cheaper systems. Sure, they don't have all the bells and whistles, but for basic communication, several of them work just fine. Don't let the low prices fool you - some deliver surprisingly solid performance.

11. FreedConn T-COMVB

Price Range: $60-80
Key Features: 800m range, 6-rider intercom, FM radio

This was actually my first Bluetooth system. For $70, you get 6-way intercom, FM radio, and phone connectivity. The audio quality isn't going to win awards, but it's perfectly adequate for basic communication. Just don't expect it to survive a real downpour - I learned that lesson in Oregon when mine started crackling after 30 minutes of heavy rain.

Supports hands-free calling, music streaming, and GPS voice navigation with 8-hour talk time. Universal mounting works with most helmet types, making it a solid entry point into helmet communication.

12. Fodsports FX8

Price Range: $80-100
Key Features: 1000m range, 8-rider group, noise reduction

The 1km range and 8-rider capacity make this a solid choice for larger groups on a budget. The CVC noise reduction helps, though it's not miracle technology. The 10-hour battery life is legitimately good for this price range. Universal pairing ensures compatibility with other brands.

13. Ejeas V6 Pro

Price Range: $70-90
Key Features: 1200m range, 6-rider capacity, voice prompts

I've recommended this to several new riders, and none have complained. The 1200m range is optimistic (more like 800m in real world), but the automatic answering and voice prompts make it user-friendly for beginners. Waterproof design withstands weather conditions better than some competitors in this price range.

14. Lexin B4FM

Price Range: $50-70
Key Features: FM radio, noise cancellation, universal compatibility

If you mainly ride alone and just want phone connectivity and FM radio, this does the job. The 4-way intercom works for occasional group rides with friends. Just manage your expectations - you're not getting premium audio quality, but it's functional for basic needs.

15. Boblov B6L

Price Range: $40-60
Key Features: Basic intercom, music sharing, simple operation

This is about as cheap as it gets while still being functional. The 2-way intercom and music sharing work, but the 6-hour battery life means you'll be charging it frequently. Good for trying out helmet communication without a big investment - think of it as a gateway drug to better systems.

A new rider I know chose the FreedConn T-COMVB for weekend rides with their partner. The $70 investment provides essential intercom functionality, FM radio for solo rides, and phone connectivity for navigation, proving that effective bluetooth motorcycle helmet communication doesn't require premium pricing for basic needs.

Specialized Niche Systems

These systems target specific needs - adventure riders who need bulletproof durability, casual riders who want simplicity, or riders with specific helmet brands. They're not for everyone, but they excel in their particular niches.

16. Sena Expand

Price Range: $100-130
Key Features: Boom microphone, long-range communication, rugged design

The boom microphone design works better with adventure helmets, and the rugged construction has survived some serious abuse in my testing. If you're hitting single track or doing serious off-road riding, this is worth considering. Features 1.6km range with 4-way intercom capability built to withstand impacts and harsh environments.

17. Cardo Spirit

Price Range: $100-130
Key Features: Compact design, essential features, easy operation

Sometimes you just want something that works without reading a manual. Three buttons control everything, and the 7-hour battery life is adequate for most day rides. Perfect for riders who hate complexity - minimalist system for riders wanting basic connectivity without the learning curve.

18. UClear Amp Go

Price Range: $120-150
Key Features: Pulse technology, modular design, American-made

The Pulse noise reduction technology is UClear's secret sauce, and it works. The modular design lets you configure it for your specific setup. Made in America if that matters to you - robust construction with choice of speaker configurations and 6-hour battery life with rapid charging.

19. Midland BTX1 Pro

Price Range: $90-120
Key Features: Intercom and phone, voice activation, Italian design

That 16-hour battery life isn't a typo - this thing just keeps going. The Italian design philosophy focuses on reliability over flashy features. Sometimes boring is good. European-designed system with 2-way intercom, 800m range, and FM radio functionality.

20. Shark Sharktooth

Price Range: $80-110
Key Features: Helmet-specific design, integrated installation, streamlined profile

If you have a Shark helmet, this integrates beautifully. If you don't, keep looking. The aerodynamics are excellent since it's designed specifically for Shark's helmet shapes. Limited compatibility restricts use but provides excellent integration for those specific models.

Action Camera Integration Systems

Want to capture your rides while staying connected? These systems try to do both, though compromises are inevitable. Battery life takes a hit, and you're adding bulk to your helmet setup. They typically run $250-350 and appeal to riders who want comprehensive ride documentation alongside communication features.

21. Sena 10C EVO

Price Range: $300-350
Key Features: Integrated 4K camera, Bluetooth communication, compact design

The 4K video quality is actually pretty good - I've used footage from this in several videos. Just know that running both functions simultaneously kills the battery in about 2 hours. You'll be making choices about what's more important - full communication time or video recording. Records in multiple resolutions with image stabilization while providing full bluetooth motorcycle helmet capabilities.

22. Innovv K5

Price Range: $250-300
Key Features: Dual camera system, intercom, loop recording

The dual-camera setup is unique, giving you both forward and rear recording. The G-sensor activation for incidents is a nice touch. Communication features are basic but functional - this is really about comprehensive recording coverage with basic intercom thrown in.

Mesh Network Specialists

These systems focus specifically on advanced mesh communication. If group riding is your thing and you want the absolute best group connectivity, these are your options. They typically cost $150-320 and excel in group riding scenarios where traditional Bluetooth limitations become apparent.

23. Cardo Packtalk Slim

Price Range: $280-320
Key Features: Ultra-thin profile, DMC mesh, natural voice commands

The slimmest mesh system available, yet it doesn't compromise on features. Supporting 15 riders with full DMC capabilities in this compact form factor is genuinely impressive. The 13-hour battery life matches the full-size systems while maintaining an ultra-compact design that doesn't make you look like a cyborg.

24. Sena Mesh Adapter

Price Range: $150-180
Key Features: Upgrades existing systems to mesh, universal compatibility

This is brilliant - instead of replacing your entire system, just add mesh networking. Works with most major brands and supports up to 24 riders. Great way to modernize an older system without starting over. Retrofit solution that proves you don't always need to buy everything new.

Smart Integration Systems

The bleeding edge of motorcycle communication - extensive customization, premium audio components, and smartphone integration that actually works well. Priced around $320-370, these represent the most sophisticated user experience available.

25. Cardo Packtalk Custom

Price Range: $320-370
Key Features: Customizable sound profiles, app integration, advanced features

The sound profile customization is genuinely useful - you can tune the audio exactly how you like it. The app integration is comprehensive without being overwhelming. Those JBL speakers with enhanced bass make music listening a real pleasure. Features advanced noise algorithms, customizable voice commands, and integration with popular navigation and music apps.

How Each System Performs Against Key Criteria

After months of testing, here's how these systems actually stack up in real-world use. The performance differences between system tiers are significant across audio quality, communication capabilities, battery life, installation requirements, weather resistance, and smart features.

System Type	Audio Quality	Range/Riders	Battery Life	Weather Rating	What It's Best For
Sena 50S	Excellent (40mm)	2km/24 riders	13 hours	IP45	Large group rides
Cardo Packtalk Black	Excellent (40mm JBL)	1.6km/15 riders	13 hours	IP67	Weather protection
Sena 30K	Very Good (30mm)	1.6km/16 riders	8 hours	IP65	Budget mesh networking
FreedConn T-COMVB	Adequate (basic)	800m/6 riders	8 hours	IP54	First-time buyers
Sena 10C EVO	Very Good (30mm)	1.6km/4 riders	8 hours	IP65	Video documentation

Installation Type	Pros	Cons	Best For
Permanent Mount	Secure, aerodynamic, clean look	Helmet-specific, not transferable	Single helmet users
Universal Clamp	Multi-helmet use, easy removal	Potential wind noise, less secure	Multiple helmet owners
Magnetic Mount	Quick attach/detach, no tools	Weather vulnerability, theft risk	Frequent removal needs
Integrated Helmet	No installation needed, optimal fit	Expensive, limited upgrade options	Premium convenience seekers

Complete Your Riding Setup with Secure Phone Mounting

Here's something I learned the hard way: Your fancy Bluetooth helmet system is only half the equation. Your smartphone is still doing the heavy lifting for navigation, music, and emergency backup communication. But if it's bouncing around in your pocket or stuck to your tank with some sketchy magnetic mount, you're missing out.

I've watched too many phones take flying lessons because riders thought their cheap phone mount was "good enough." Spoiler alert: it wasn't.

This is where Rokform's motorcycle phone mounts make perfect sense. I've been using their stuff for over a year now, and here's why they work so well with Bluetooth helmet systems:

The Vibration Problem Nobody Talks About

Motorcycle vibration will slowly kill your phone's camera stabilization and mess with internal components. I've seen iPhones develop the "camera shake" after a few months of inadequate mounting. Rokform's cases absorb vibration that would otherwise turn your $1000 phone into an expensive paperweight.

When Your Helmet System Dies

Murphy's Law applies to motorcycle electronics. When your Bluetooth system craps out 200 miles from nowhere (and it will eventually), your securely mounted phone becomes your backup communication. Can't do that if it's buried in your jacket pocket.

Navigation Integration That Actually Works

Your helmet system can pipe in turn-by-turn directions, but you still need to see the map. Having your phone securely mounted where you can actually see it makes the whole navigation experience work together seamlessly.

Real-World Durability

I've dropped my phone in a Rokform case from 6 feet onto concrete (accidentally, I swear), and it just bounced. Meanwhile, I've seen riders crack screens just from their phone vibrating out of cheap mounts. The military-grade construction isn't marketing hype - these things are genuinely tough.

Key Integration Benefits

Magnetic Mounting Advantage: Those N52 neodymium magnets are seriously strong - like 2-3 times stronger than typical magnetic mounts. Combined with the RokLock twist system, your phone isn't going anywhere. I've forgotten to remove mine and walked away from the bike multiple times.

Weather Protection Coordination: Your premium Bluetooth system has IP67 waterproofing, so your phone should too. Rokform's cases provide the same level of weather protection, so both devices can handle whatever Mother Nature throws at them.

I've been through torrential downpours where other riders were frantically stuffing phones into tank bags while my setup kept working perfectly. Having both your communication and navigation systems properly weatherproofed is game-changing.

Professional Use Integration: I know motorcycle instructors and tour guides who rely on this exact combination - premium Bluetooth helmet systems paired with Rokform-mounted phones. When your livelihood depends on reliable communication and navigation, you don't mess around with cheap solutions.

Long-Distance Touring Benefits: On multi-day tours, having both systems working together reliably is crucial. Your helmet handles rider-to-rider communication while your phone manages navigation, music streaming, and emergency contact. Both need to survive whatever conditions you encounter.

The slim profile design doesn't interfere with tank bags or other touring accessories, which matters more than you'd think when you're loading up for a long trip.

Ready to complete your motorcycle communication setup? Explore Rokform's motorcycle mounting solutions and stop worrying about whether your phone will survive the next ride.

Final Thoughts

After spending way too much money and countless hours testing these systems (seriously, my wife thinks I have a problem), here's my honest take on choosing the right Bluetooth motorcycle helmet system.

If you're new to helmet communication: Start with something in the $60-100 range like the FreedConn T-COMVB. It'll give you a taste of what helmet communication can do without a huge investment. You can always upgrade later once you figure out what features actually matter to you.

If you're serious about group riding: Spend the money on mesh networking. The Sena 30K or Cardo Freecom 4X give you most of the premium features at a reasonable price. Trust me, once you experience mesh networking on a group ride, you'll never want to go back to basic Bluetooth.

If money's no object and you want the best: The Sena 50S or Cardo Packtalk Black are worth every penny. The audio quality, range, and reliability justify the cost if you ride frequently or depend on communication for work.

For solo riders: Don't overthink it. A basic system with good phone connectivity and decent audio quality is all you need. The Sena 20S EVO or Cardo Spirit HD are solid choices that won't break the bank.

The shift from traditional Bluetooth to mesh networking represents a significant advancement in group communication capabilities. I initially thought mesh networking was just marketing BS. Boy, was I wrong. After testing it on a 12-rider group ride through Colorado, I became a total convert. Mesh systems automatically manage connections, reconnect dropped riders, and provide superior range and audio quality compared to older daisy-chain systems.

Battery life matters more than you think. I've learned this lesson the hard way multiple times. Don't buy anything with less than 8 hours of talk time unless you enjoy playing charades with your riding buddies when your system dies mid-ride.

Weather resistance isn't optional. Mother Nature doesn't care about your electronics budget. IP65 or higher ratings are non-negotiable if you ride in anything other than perfect weather.

Here's the thing - even a $60 system will completely change your riding experience if you've never had helmet communication before. But if you're planning to do serious group riding or long-distance touring, save up for something in the $200+ range. Your ears (and your riding buddies) will thank you.

Remember that your Bluetooth helmet system is just one component of a complete motorcycle communication ecosystem. Pairing it with secure smartphone mounting ensures you have reliable navigation, music streaming, and emergency backup communication capabilities that enhance both safety and enjoyment on every ride.

Don't make the same mistakes I did by buying cheap and upgrading multiple times. Figure out what you actually need, buy once, and spend your money on more riding instead of more communication systems.

Look, I've spent way too much money and countless hours testing these things so you don't have to. The truth is, even a $60 system will change your riding experience if you've never had helmet communication before. But if you're serious about group riding or long tours, save up for something in the $200+ range. Your ears (and your riding buddies) will thank you.