Bluetooth
Motorcycle Headset
A Bluetooth Headset is the next best alternative to the “true
Bluetooth helmet” for ease of use. If you have a favorite or
custom helmet that you don’t want to part with, a Bluetooth
helmet headset is the only option for you.
WARNING! Bluetooth helmet speakers may not be legal in all jurisdictions. Check your local
laws BEFORE using any product that may be prohibited.
Installing a Bluetooth Motorcycle Headset
In general installing a motorcycle headset in your helmet is straight
forward and easy regardless of the brand you choose. The only
difference is in the extent of the modifications to the helmet padding
and lining. Some installation procedures require positioning holes to
be cut in the helmet padding for speakers and/or microphone, while
others use Velcro-to-liner for speaker and/or microphone mounts and
some manufacturers use a boom for the microphone. For maximum sound
quality follow the speaker mounting instructions to the letter.
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This
figure is an
example of the type of helmet modifications you may expect when
installing a typical helmet headset in to a full face helmet.
In this case the helmet inserts have been removed to cut the mounting holes for the Bluetooth helmet speakers.
Proper speaker placement and snug fit are crucial for maximum sound
quality.
Each installation will be different depending on headset brand and
helmet style.
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In all cases the helmet’s shell remains intact. The Bluetooth
unit with controls is mounted (either by clamp or glue) to the left
side of the helmet.
I consider the installation to be semi permanent. That is you can
remove the Bluetooth headset from the helmet and remount it on a second
helmet if you wish, but it is not a quick change. If the Bluetooth unit
is glued to the helmet, the task is much more difficult.
As each Bluetooth motorcycle headset is different and there are
numerous styles of helmets, you will need to read the installation
instructions for your particular headset for details.
If you are concerned about the installation procedures; most
owners’ manual can be found online in PDF format.
Pairing Bluetooth Enabled Audio Devices.
The last step is to pair the helmet headset
to your Bluetooth enabled
mobile devices.
Most headsets are compatible with a wide range of Bluetooth capable
devices. However before purchasing a Bluetooth motorcycle headset or
any companion Bluetooth device, check compatibility. Also be aware that
when selecting a Bluetooth audio device certain features are necessary.
For example a Bluetooth capable GPS unit should also have a
“hands-free” feature.
Follow the Bluetooth pairing instructions accompanying your motorcycle
headset to
link it to your Bluetooth enabled mobile devices. It may be necessary
to refer to the owners’ manual for your mobile device. |
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Overview of the Bluetooth Pairing Procedure
In order to pair two Bluetooth wireless devices, a password (passkey)
has to be exchanged between the two devices. A Passkey is a code shared
by both Bluetooth devices, which proves that both users have agreed to
pair with each other.
The following the normal process that occurs with Bluetooth
pairing. For the specifics, please refer to the owners’
manual for your Bluetooth device.
- Bluetooth
device A looks for other Bluetooth devices in the area. In
order to find other Bluetooth devices, Bluetooth device A must be set
to discoverable mode. When set to discoverable, Bluetooth device A will
allow other Bluetooth devices to detect its presence and attempt to
establish a connection.*
- Bluetooth
device A finds Bluetooth device B. Usually the
discoverable device will indicate what type of device it is (Such as a
cell phone, headset, etc.) and its Bluetooth device name. The Bluetooth
device name is the name that you give the Bluetooth device or the
factory name that originally was programmed.
- Bluetooth
Device A prompts you to enter a PassKey. With advanced
devices (i.e. computers, smartphones), both users must agree on the
Passkey and enter it into their device. The code can be anything you
like as long as it is the same for both Bluetooth wireless devices.**
- Bluetooth
device A sends the Passkey to Bluetooth device B.
- Bluetooth
device B sends the Passkey back to Bluetooth device A. If
both Passkeys are the same, a trusted pair is formed. This will happen
automatically.
- Bluetooth device A and B are now
paired and able to exchange data.
*
You may set your discover setting off if you like (It is recommended
that you turn it off when not using the Bluetooth). When the discover
setting is off, no other Bluetooth device will be able to find it.
Undiscoverable devices can still communicate with each other but they
have to initiate communication themselves.
** Some devices, such as Bluetooth
headsets, the Passkey stays the same. Refer to the product’s
manual for the default passkey. Most often, the default passkey is
"0000".
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