Helmet-to-helmet communications (“comms”) have come a long way over the last few years. For the busy motorcyclist, it’s hard to pass up the option to listen to music or GPS instructions, answer phone calls, or talk directly to your riding partners from the saddle.

A few years ago, we started using comms. Being able to communicate while riding was a big improvement for navigation as well as safety. And, being able to listen to music every now and then breaks up the monotony of long slab sections. We have tried several systems over the years, typically fumbling with bulky, difficult-to-use devices with connectivity issues, glitches, and poor audio quality.



Recently, Sena has taken a lead role in developing the most cutting-edge comms on the market. Their latest is the revolutionary Sena 10U. This sleek, in-helmet device contains the power unit, speakers, microphone, and antenna (as well as FM antenna) and all tuck nicely away, leaving nothing visible except for the slender volume controls on the lower left chin bar. A handlebar remote enables use of the unit without removing your hands from the grips.

The 10U uses Bluetooth 4.1 technology paired with Advanced Noise Control and high quality speakers to give you the best audio experience around. Sena claims the bike-to-bike intercom has a one-mile range, and it actually works up to a mile—as long as you don’t have any large landmarks, buildings, or power lines in the way. The 10U also connects to most of Sena’s other devices, making it easy to jump in with a group of friends using other systems.

Like many new electronics, the Sena 10U has a bit of a learning curve, as it uses a completely new button configuration than other Sena devices. However, once you get the hang of the button placement and features, it’s easy to switch between GPS, music, phone, and riding partner with just the touch of a button.

Sena claims you get up to 10 hours of talk time, but we found that as long as you’re not constantly talking, you can extend that a few hours. The trade-off to the long battery life is having to charge two separate items per rider: the helmet unit, located under the neck roll (on the Arai XD4), and the handlebar remote. Sena also released a smartphone app that makes it easy to change your personal settings and contains a quick reference guide in case you forget how to use a feature.

The price is a bit hard to swallow, but you’ll quickly find the Sena 10U worth the investment. It is, without a doubt, the best helmet-to-helmet motorcycle communication system we’ve used. MSRP: $299.99/ea. Sena.com

{gallery}ARTICLES/Gear/Sena/10u/Gallery{/gallery}