The Riding Season is BackChoose the Right Intercom
March 19, 2025
Days are getting longer, the asphalt is warming up, and motorcycles are hitting the road again. Whether you’re riding solo or with friends, an intercom has become an essential tool. Navigating without hassle, warning about hazards, chatting with your group, or just enjoying good music—choosing the right model makes all the difference. Bluetooth, Mesh, or unlimited range with Wave: SENA helps you make the right choice.
JOHANN ZARCO’S POINT OF VIEW – MOTOGP RIDER, LCR HONDA
« On the road as on the track, staying in control is the key. Holding a phone or using earbuds is the fastest way to put yourself in danger… and get a hefty fine.”
“Fortunately, intercoms are legal, as long as they are securely attached to the helmet and used in hands-free mode.”
“With a SENA intercom, you stay connected without losing focus on the road: calls, music, GPS, and group conversations—all without letting go of the handlebars. Because the priority is always to stay in control of your bike and your trajectory. »
SENA’S 3 TIPS FOR A SAFE AND CONNECTED RIDE
1. Choose a certified intercom with voice commands and hands-free mode to keep your focus on the road, not on a screen.
2. Adjust the volume wisely—too loud, and you risk missing critical traffic sounds that ensure your safety.
3. Keep conversations relevant—an intercom is great for warning about hazards, changing routes, or sharing useful information, but not for discussing the last MotoGP race mid-corner.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT INTERCOM
Solo or duo riding?
Riding alone? A solo intercom (Single Pack from SENA) is perfect for listening to playlists, following GPS directions, or making calls.
Riding with a passenger? Opt for a Duo Pack (Dual Pack from SENA)—a more cost-effective solution that allows seamless communication, shared music, GPS guidance, and calls with your passenger or other riders.
Small group or long-distance ride?
Up to 4 riders? Bluetooth intercoms like the SENA 10S or SENA SF4 do the job, with a range of 1.2 km and the ability to connect up to 4 riders in a set pairing order.
More than 4 riders? Switch to Mesh technology. Models like the Spider, 50S, 50R, or the all-new 60S allow up to 24 riders in private mode and a range of up to 8 km on some models. In open mode, the number of users is virtually unlimited.
Unlimited Range or Multi-Brand Compatibility?
For unlimited-range communication, SENA Wave is the answer. This technology uses cellular network, eliminating the distance limitations of Bluetooth and Mesh. As long as there’s a signal, you can talk to your group—or even someone wearing regular headphones—on the other side of the world. Everything is controlled through an app!
Wave is compatible with any helmet or Bluetooth intercom, but if you’re using a SENA intercom, you can manage everything directly, without touching your phone.
What if you lose the signal? Wave automatically switches to Mesh, ensuring uninterruptedcommunication.
Sound Quality: An Essential Factor
If you love riding with high-quality audio or want crystal-clear conversations, look for models with premium audio systems.
For top-tier sound, check out the SENA 50C, 50S, 50R, and 60S, all equipped with Harman Kardon speakers and microphones. They deliver clear, powerful, and noise-free sound—even at high speeds.
The SENA 60S goes even further with Artificial Intelligence Noise Reduction and enhanced voice commands, ensuring smooth communication while riding.
« The first time I used the SENA 60S on my bike, I called my dad—he thought I was in my living room! »
– Adrien van Beveren, Rally-Raid Honda HRC Rider
Durability & Battery Life: Your Intercom Needs to Go the Distance
A good intercom should withstand the toughest riding conditions. Water resistance is key—some models like the SENA SF4 offer water protection, but for maximum durability, look for IPX7 certification. The SENA 60S can handle 30 minutes under one meter of water, making it perfect for heavy rain and extreme conditions.
Battery life is just as important. SENA 5S offers 8 hours of talk time—great for a day trip. SENA 60S extends up to 17 hours, ideal for long tours or intensive use.
A real game-changer, as Johann Zarco points out:
« We now use the SENA 60S during our Track Days at LCR Honda. There’s nothing better for guiding riders all day without worrying about battery life. »
Ease of Use & Compatibility
- Choose an intuitive intercom with controls that work even with gloves on.
- Rotary dials, like on the SENA Spider ST1, provide smooth navigation.
- Button controls, as on the SENA 50R, are perfect for off-road use with thick gloves, ensuring precise and responsive handling in any condition.
- Voice commands are a must to stay focused on the road—and avoid fines. The SENA 60S even offers hands-free control and voice access to Google or Siri!
- Make sure your intercom is compatible with your smartphone, GPS, and helmet.
Want an Intercom with a Built-In Camera?
Some intercoms go beyond communication, integrating a 4K Ultra HD camera into their design.
The SENA 50C captures high-quality videos seamlessly and safely—without adding extra gear to your helmet.
How Much Should You Budget?
- Single Pack: From under €100 (SENA 5R Lite) to €399 (SENA 60S).
- Dual Pack: From under €200 (SENA 5R Lite Duo) to €749 (SENA 60S Duo).
A Dual Pack is more cost-effective than buying two separate solo intercoms.