Riding a bike is awesome, but sometimes you want to listen to music or take a call without fumbling with headphones. That’s where Bluetooth bicycle helmets come in handy. They let you stay connected and entertained while keeping your ears open to traffic sounds. I’ve tried a bunch of these helmets, and some are definitely better than others. So, I’m going to share my top picks to help you find the perfect one for your rides.
Quick Summary: Best Bluetooth Bicycle Helmets
- Best Overall: Sena R1 Smart Cycling Helmet – Great sound, reliable connectivity, but pricey.
- Best Budget: LIVALL BH51M Neo Smart Helmet – Feature-packed for the price, decent sound, stylish design.
- Best for Safety: Torch T2 Smart Helmet – Super bright integrated lights, good ventilation, Bluetooth calling.
- Best for Commuting: Lumos Matrix Urban Helmet – Customizable LED matrix display, turn signals, comfortable fit.
- Best Audio Quality: Coros Linx Smart Cycling Helmet – Bone conduction audio, clear calls, lightweight design.
Top 5 Best Bluetooth Bicycle Helmet Reviews
1. Sena R1 Smart Cycling Helmet
The Sena R1 is a premium Bluetooth helmet designed for serious cyclists. It features integrated speakers and a microphone, allowing you to listen to music, take calls, and even communicate with other Sena helmet users via intercom. This helmet is known for its excellent sound quality and reliable Bluetooth connectivity.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent sound quality for music and calls
- ✅ Built-in intercom system for rider-to-rider communication
- ✅ Comfortable and secure fit
Cons:
- ❌ High price point compared to other options
- ❌ Battery life could be better
- ❌ Some users find the intercom setup a bit complicated
Verdict: If you’re a serious cyclist who values sound quality and rider communication, the Sena R1 is a worthwhile investment.
2. LIVALL BH51M Neo Smart Helmet
The LIVALL BH51M Neo is a feature-packed smart helmet that offers great value for the price. It includes built-in speakers, a microphone, LED safety lights, and even SOS alert functionality. This helmet is a popular choice for urban commuters and recreational riders.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable price point
- ✅ Integrated LED safety lights for increased visibility
- ✅ SOS alert feature in case of an accident
Cons:
- ❌ Sound quality is decent, but not as good as higher-end models
- ❌ Battery life is average
- ❌ The fit might not be ideal for all head shapes
Verdict: The LIVALL BH51M Neo is a great option for budget-conscious riders who want a smart helmet with essential safety features.
3. Torch T2 Smart Helmet
The Torch T2 Smart Helmet prioritizes safety with its super bright integrated LED lights. These lights make you highly visible to drivers, especially during dawn, dusk, or nighttime riding. It also has Bluetooth connectivity for calls and music.
Pros:
- ✅ Extremely bright integrated LED lights for maximum visibility
- ✅ Good ventilation to keep you cool
- ✅ Comfortable and adjustable fit
Cons:
- ❌ Bluetooth functionality is limited to calls and music
- ❌ The lights can drain the battery relatively quickly
- ❌ Design might not appeal to everyone
Verdict: If safety is your top priority, the Torch T2 Smart Helmet is an excellent choice due to its outstanding visibility.
4. Lumos Matrix Urban Helmet
The Lumos Matrix Urban Helmet is a stylish and feature-rich helmet designed for urban commuters. It features a customizable LED matrix display on the back, allowing you to create your own patterns or display turn signals. The helmet also has integrated lights and Bluetooth connectivity.
Pros:
- ✅ Customizable LED matrix display for unique visibility
- ✅ Integrated turn signals for safer commuting
- ✅ Comfortable and adjustable fit
Cons:
- ❌ Relatively expensive compared to other smart helmets
- ❌ The matrix display can be distracting to other riders/drivers
- ❌ Battery life is decent, but not exceptional
Verdict: The Lumos Matrix Urban Helmet is a great choice for urban riders who want a stylish and highly visible helmet with smart features.
5. Coros Linx Smart Cycling Helmet
The Coros Linx Smart Cycling Helmet uses bone conduction technology to deliver audio without blocking your ears. This allows you to hear your music or take calls while remaining fully aware of your surroundings. The helmet is also lightweight and comfortable.
Pros:
- ✅ Bone conduction audio allows you to hear music and traffic simultaneously
- ✅ Lightweight and comfortable design
- ✅ Clear call quality
Cons:
- ❌ Bone conduction audio quality is not as rich as traditional headphones
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey
- ❌ Some users may find bone conduction uncomfortable at first
Verdict: The Coros Linx is perfect if you absolutely need to hear ambient sounds while still enjoying music or calls.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right Bluetooth bicycle helmet can feel overwhelming. Here are a few things to consider before you buy:
- Sound Quality: Think about what’s important to you. Do you need audiophile-level sound, or is basic sound good enough for calls and podcasts? Bone conduction is great for awareness, but might not deliver the bass you crave.
- Safety Features: Integrated lights are a huge plus, especially if you ride in low-light conditions. Consider helmets with turn signals or SOS alerts.
- Comfort and Fit: A helmet that doesn’t fit properly won’t protect you as well. Make sure to measure your head circumference and check the manufacturer’s sizing chart. Look for adjustable straps and padding.
- Battery Life: How long do you typically ride? Make sure the helmet’s battery life is sufficient for your needs. Remember that using features like lights and intercom will drain the battery faster.
- Price: Bluetooth bicycle helmets range in price from around $80 to over $200. Decide on your budget and then look for the best features within that range.
- Connectivity: Make sure the Bluetooth connects easily to your phone and stays connected. Read reviews to see if people have issues with dropped connections.
FAQs
Q: Are Bluetooth bicycle helmets safe?
A: Yes, as long as they meet safety standards like CPSC or EN 1078. The Bluetooth functionality doesn’t compromise the helmet’s protective capabilities. Just be sure to choose a helmet that fits properly and doesn’t obstruct your vision or hearing.
Q: Can I answer phone calls with a Bluetooth bicycle helmet?
A: Yes, most Bluetooth bicycle helmets have a built-in microphone that allows you to answer and make calls. The sound quality may not be as good as with headphones, but it’s convenient for staying connected on the go.
Q: How do I charge a Bluetooth bicycle helmet?
A: Most Bluetooth bicycle helmets come with a USB charging cable. Simply plug the cable into the helmet and a USB power source, such as a computer or wall adapter. Charging time typically takes a few hours.
Q: How long does the battery last on a Bluetooth bicycle helmet?
A: Battery life varies depending on the helmet and how you use it. Generally, you can expect anywhere from 3 to 10 hours of battery life. Using features like lights, intercom, and high volume levels will drain the battery faster.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – my top picks for the best Bluetooth bicycle helmets. Whether you’re looking for top-notch audio, enhanced safety features, or just a convenient way to stay connected on your rides, there’s a helmet on this list for you. Just remember to prioritize safety and choose a helmet that fits properly and meets safety standards. Happy riding!
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