How to Listen to Music with a Motorcycle Helmet (guide)

With the latest technological advances, helmets are being made stronger, safer, and more comfortable than ever before. But what’s the one thing that enhances the pleasure of your ride? Listening to your favourite tunes, of course. So how do you do it, and is it safe?

We take a look at these issues in the easy-to-follow guide below. Whether you’re looking for a helmet designed for music or want to rock out with your existing helmet, we’ve got the facts you need.

What This Article Covers:

Can You Listen to Music on a Motor Cycle?

You’ve got the bike you always wanted, you’ve sorted your gear and you’ve chosen the best MX helmet to keep yourself safe on your ride.

Yes, you can listen to music on a motorcycle, but to ensure you do so safely without compromising your enjoyment, keep reading.

What’s the Best Way to Listen to Music on a Motorcycle?

Your choice of riding gear is a personal one. Some of you may prefer an open-faced helmet, some of you wouldn't dream of getting on your bike without full leathers. However, the one thing that most riders agree on is that music enhances the pleasure of a long ride.

This issue raises a lot of questions though. How do you listen to music while wearing a motorcycle helmet? Will it be as comfortable as you’re used to? Is it safe to listen to music while riding?

To answer these questions, we need to look at the different options for music with a helmet. The three main options are earbuds, Bluetooth-enabled helmets, and Bluetooth add-ons for existing helmets.

Earbuds

Earbuds are a popular choice for listening to music on the go, and wireless earbuds are one of the easiest ways to listen to music while wearing any helmet. Before you run out and get yourself a pair of earbuds for your helmet, you need to consider if it’s legal to listen to earbuds with riding a motorbike.

This is illegal in some places, as it affects your perception of surrounding noise and/or may distract you on the road. Some countries allow you to wear one earbud, though. Keep in mind that you can’t hear traffic noise with earbuds in both your ears.

In New Zealand, it’s legal to wear two earplugs or earbuds although you must remain alert to surrounding traffic conditions. Getting distracted on the road is a major contributor to accidents, so always strive to stay alert.

There are also laws around Bluetooth helmets that are separate from wearing earbuds. Make sure you’re brushed up with all the relevant information for where you live before buying anything that might not be allowed on the road.

Bluetooth-Ready Helmets

Most products come with some form of Bluetooth functionality these days. So, can you listen to music with a Bluetooth motorcycle helmet? Yes, you can. If you’re looking for the best motorcycle helmets with built-in Bluetooth, you’re in the right place.

We offer the best Bluetooth helmets in New Zealand. So you can enjoy your favourite music on your ride, in just a few clicks. These helmets are manufactured with Bluetooth built-in and don’t need any further adaptations to be made.

However, if you love your existing helmet but want to include Bluetooth communications, we can help with that too. Our kits are easy to use and come with full instructions.

After-Market Bluetooth Add-Ons

But what if you want to continue using your existing helmet? You can add Bluetooth functionality to your old helmet. However, not all Bluetooth headsets will fit well onto your helmet.

When you add a Bluetooth headset that simply attaches to your helmet, the shape of the shell affects how well the component fits around your head. Therefore your helmet’s design dictates the Bluetooth headset you choose. If you’re in any doubt, consult the helmet manufacturer for a recommendation of the best set for your helmet.

You won't have to drill a hole in the side of your helmet to accommodate audio wires. They run underneath the helmet edge. Adhesive pads are usually used to mount the microphone and compact speakers inside the helmet wherever you prefer.

Some of these kits use Bluetooth earbuds instead of speakers. However, it may be more difficult to hear surrounding noise with earbuds in than with speakers.

Is It Safe to Listen to Music on Your Ride?

It is entirely possible to enjoy music on your ride, but is it safe? The reason that some countries, and many states in the US, don’t allow earbuds while riding is due to safety. If you can’t hear other noises around you and are easily distracted, they pose a threat to you and others.

While listening to music on the road can be great, a helmet’s main purpose is to keep you safe. Remember, nothing is ever worth compromising your safety. So if you struggle to remain focused on the road while listening to music, rather give it a miss. If you can stay focused, it is safe and enjoyable to ride with music.

best way to listen to music on motorcycle

The Danger of Diy to Adapt Your Helmet for Music

Some audio kits for helmets require you to cut into the liner of your helmet. If you aren’t sure how to go about upgrading your helmet for Bluetooth, rather get a professional to upgrade your helmet for you.

The liner in your helmet is there for a reason. Reckless DIY work on your helmet’s lining may affect its safety, but it will also affect your comfort. Only ever use approved Bluetooth kits from a reputable dealer. And always follow the installation instructions carefully.

Are Bluetooth Helmets as Safe as Other Helmets?

What about helmets that are designed for music, with Bluetooth capability built into the design? Are Bluetooth motorcycle helmets safe? Yes, they are technically every bit as safe as other helmets. The wiring for the Bluetooth function does not affect the integrity of your helmet or impede its protection in the case of an accident.

These helmets just offer more versatility, as you can stream music, take calls, and even communicate with other riders hands-free. Communication while out on a ride can be vital for your safety too, so in this way, Bluetooth helmets are offering increased safety.

best way to listen to music while riding motorcycle

The Safest Option for Music While Riding

Because they are designed for use with Bluetooth, Bluetooth-ready helmets are a lot safer than cutting into your existing helmet. And they may also be a lot more comfortable to wear than using earbuds in your ears with a helmet on.

Comfort while riding is a close second to safety. So pay attention to this too, and don’t sacrifice your safety or comfort in the name of music. With Bluetooth helmets, you can have all three in one.

Conclusion

As far as riding pleasure is concerned, one of the best developments in recent years is the inclusion of Bluetooth. This is a way to safely maximize the pleasure of your ride while retaining helmet safety.

But always remember that anything that distracts you from the road is a potential safety concern. Always keep your focus on the road, and you’ll be fine.

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How to Listen to Music with a Motorcycle Helmet