When you’re a biker and riding at high speeds, having music or the ability to communicate with other bikers can be a helpful addition.
Many riders without Bluetooth helmets opt for earbuds.
But is it legal to wear earbuds while riding a motorcycle?
Join me as I answer that question and give some pointers on whether earbuds are helpful for riders.
What this article covers:
Why Would a Biker Need Earbuds?
Like most motorists enjoy listening to music on the radio, a biker should be able to do the same. Music is an escape and calming mechanism for many, especially when driving.
The problem occurs when you realise your bike doesn’t have a radio like a car.
One solution is to use a Bluetooth helmet or earphones connected to your phone.
So, are Bluetooth motorcycle helmets legal? Yes, they’re perfectly legal and convenient.
A Bluetooth motorcycle helmet lets you answer your cellphone calls and contact emergency services without struggling to unlock your phone.
It’s also the best way to listen to music while riding a motorcycle or chatting with fellow bikers.
So, what about earbuds?
Are Earbuds Legal When Riding?
Places With No Law Prohibiting Earbuds.
Some states have no issue with riders using earbuds, allowing you to use them to your heart’s desire.
These states include Connecticut, Oregon, Nevada, and Wyoming, to name a few. In total, there are around 20 states that allow your ears to be covered or have earbuds inside of them.
No law in New Zealand says you aren’t allowed to wear headphones while riding a motorbike.
Similarly, using earphones while riding your bike isn’t prohibited in Australia.
So, does this mean that earbuds are the way to go? In terms of safety, probably not. You may be better off with a Bluetooth helmet.
The laws around earbuds depend mainly on where you’re planning to ride. So, we’ve carefully examined the laws in various countries and compiled the following list for you.
Wearing Earbuds While Riding a Motorcycle Is Illegal in These Places
Any headset or headgear that requires you to use your hands is a no-go in the following places, as they don’t want riders getting distracted or fidgeting.
Alaska and Arkansas prohibit earbuds or other headphones when driving on the road.
Georgia recently banned cyclists from using earbuds, so it makes sense that they extended that law to bike riders.
Florida doesn’t allow earbuds or headphones when operating any motor vehicle, including bikes and cars. Unless you have a hearing aid or another listening device, you can’t listen to your favourite jams when on the road.
While these states deem earbuds on a bike rider Illegal, they have one common exception.
They allow Bluetooth motorcycle helmets.
But are Bluetooth motorcycle helmets safe?
Bluetooth helmets are safe. These helmets allow sound to be played inside the helmet. They don’t obscure the sound from the outside world. This feature ensures that drivers can still hear oncoming traffic.
Earbuds and Your Motorcycle - Special Legal Exceptions
New York, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania allow only one ear to contain an earbud. This leaves the other ear open to listen for incoming traffic or sirens.
States like Illinois allow one earphone to be used for communication purposes only.
Michigan doesn’t have any law saying that you can’t wear earbuds. Still, the police can cite a rider for driving recklessly or irresponsible if they can prove that the earbuds influenced how they drive.
California allows earplugs that help dampen certain noises as well as the overall noise of the helmet when riding against the wind. However, they are prohibited if these earplugs block out sirens or horns.
Bluetooth Helmet vs Earbuds
When it comes to Bluetooth helmets vs earbuds, Bluetooth helmets will always win. Let’s explain this in more detail.
Earbuds Are a Bad Idea
Having a piece of equipment between you and your helmet can be cumbersome and uncomfortable.
If you’re riding at high speed and the earbud falls out, that’s a loose piece of equipment juggling around your helmet.
The only fix to this is stopping entirely, taking off your helmet, and praying it doesn’t happen again.
This isn’t very convenient and can cause you to become distracted on the road, leading to accidents.
If you don’t like a song playing, or maybe you need to turn up the volume, your hands will be removed from the handlebars.
Bluetooth Helmets Are Best
Bluetooth helmets provide unmatched convenience.
When you leave the house in the morning, you won’t need to scavenge around your home looking for your earbuds.
Simply get your helmet, connect your phone before you ride, and you’re all set.
Bluetooth helmets also provide voice commands, putting you in control of your music, answering the phone, or chatting with your friends.
For example, saying Next, volume up, or answer call is all done through speaking, ensuring that your hands remain on the handlebars.
Should I Install an Intercom in My Helmet?
We often get asked how to install an intercom in a motorcycle helmet. The short answer is: don’t bother.
While there are plenty of tutorials on installing an intercom in motorcycle helmets, you’re better off purchasing a Bluetooth helmet.
By trying to install an intercom, you could damage your helmet or cause a severe hindrance to your driving capabilities down the road.
Bluetooth helmets are affordable, safe, and convenient. If you’re unsure where to start, you’ll enjoy reading our best motorcycle Bluetooth headset 2022 review.
Conclusion
With that said, are Bluetooth motorcycle helmets legal and safer than earbuds? Yes.
Though legal in some places, earbuds aren’t welcome on most roads.
Being caught on the road with earbuds in an area that prohibits them can see you paying a fine or adding a case to your criminal record.
In addition to your motorcycle gloves and boots, a Bluetooth helmet can be a valuable part of your gear.
If you enjoyed this piece, consider checking out other blogs:
- Can You Add Bluetooth to a Motorcycle Helmet?
- How to Listen to Music with a Motorcycle Helmet
- Are Open-Face Motorcycle Helmets Safe
- Are MIPS Bike Helmets Safer?
- Best and Safest Motorcycle Helmet
- Best Motorcycle Helmet
- Best Dual Sport Motorcycle Helmet
- How to Choose a Motorcycle Helmet?
- Best Budget Full Face Motorcycle Helmet
- How Is a Motorcycle Helmet Supposed to Fit
- How Tight Should a Motorcycle Helmet Be
- How to Strap Motorcycle Helmet
- Are Motorcycle Helmet Visors Universal
- Why Do Motocross Helmets Have Visors
- How to Wear Goggles with Motorcycle Helmet
