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Can You Use Your Phone While Riding a Motorcycle? [Tips]

can you talk on the phone while riding a motorcycle

I’ve seen this in real life and heard many stories about people getting into accidents when texting or talking on the phone while riding. So, before you even get on your bike, check local laws to make sure you’re not breaking them. 

Can you talk on the phone while riding a motorcycle? Yes, but safety first. Your phone is a convenient tool, but if you are in a situation where you need to use it, there are two options: pullover or use a motorcycle Bluetooth headset for music.

There are several reasons to refrain from texting or talking on the phone while riding a motorcycle. If you need to make a call or send a text, you can pull over first or use the hands-free feature of many Bluetooth communicators today. 

The Dangers of Distracted Riding

using the phone while riding

We always remind our readers here on bikepics.com that motorcycle riding is dangerous. However, there are ways to mitigate the danger — arming yourself with information on the proper riding practices and maintaining the constant discipline to observe them. 

Distracted driving (or riding) is a primary cause of accidents on the road. It’s so easy to get distracted. They come in many forms, such as talking, eating, drinking, dialing a phone or texting, or adjusting the radio. Even checking the GPS map is considered a distraction.

Murphy’s Law picks the right moment to kick you hard when you’re distracted. Because you weren’t paying attention, you missed the motorcycle rider who indicated his intention to swerve into your lane, a child who darted across the road to catch a stray ball, or a car coming to a halt due to something blocking its path.

How to Safely Receive a Phone Call While Riding

riding a motorcycle while talking on the phone

I decided to talk about the dangers of distracted riding first to get it out of the way and because your safety and other people’s safety are paramount on the road. Both riders and drivers share the responsibility for road safety.

If you are a beginner motorcycle rider, taking a call while on your bike is not recommended. This tip is especially crucial for those who have yet to master the different aspects of motorcycle riding: keeping the balance, being situationally aware, mastering the controls, and avoiding obstacles, among others. 

Image courtesy of Saaigoneer.Com

Even master riders would hesitate to make a call using their phones. Instead, they rely on Bluetooth gadgets connected to their smartphones and can answer the ring with a button press. 

However, if you want to take that call, make sure you are safe. If you have no Bluetooth device, pull over before taking the call. Otherwise, just ignore it. 

What Devices Are Best for Taking Calls While Riding?

You can use a device attached to your helmet or a smart helmet that already has an onboard communication system. If you want to listen to music or receive calls, these devices are helpful. The intercom system on some of these gadgets can also connect with your riding partners or your pillion.

One benefit to using a hands-free communication device is that the chances of distracted riding are reduced or completely eliminated.

Top 5 Bluetooth Communication Devices

talking on the phone while riding a motorcycle

A Bluetooth helmet communication device is the best way to stay connected while riding a motorcycle. Bluetooth motorcycle helmet communication devices are ideal for taking calls, listening to music, or communicating with other riders.

Many people now use motorcycles as a primary mode of transportation. It’s convenient, especially when riding a motorcycle on the highway. If you’re taking a leisurely ride with friends or commuting to-and-fro work, you’ll want a reliable and hassle-free way to stay in touch.

1. Sena 10C Pro Bluetooth Headset with Camera

This is an excellent option if you’ve got a phone and want to record video simultaneously. It’s also compatible with many different smartphones powered by iOS and Android.

The Sena 10C Pro is a full-featured professional-grade wireless speaker system that delivers incredible sound. It is compact, durable, and water-resistant. In addition, it has a comprehensive set of features, including Bluetooth, WiFi, intercom, and app control.

2. Sena 50S

The 50S is one of Sena’s best communication systems. It brings Bluetooth 5.0 and Mesh 2.0 connectivity with an advanced battery that can give the user 14 hours of Bluetooth connectivity and 9 hours of mesh connectivity. It takes 1 hour to fully charge this unit, but if you’re out and about and your battery gets drained, a 20-minute charge will give you an additional 3.5 hours of juice. 

3. Sena 20S Evo Bluetooth Headset

The 20S Evo Bluetooth Headset for motorcycle helmet is an updated version of the 20S Bluetooth Headset. Sena added additional features to make this model a better version of the original 20S.

It includes a new shark fin antenna, and the charging port is waterproof. It has a 13-hour talk time, 10 days of standby time, and the ability to intercom with up to 8 different riders at 1.2 miles. You can use it with your phone to play music, listen to GPS instructions, and set up an intercom link with other riders. Additionally, you can listen to your favorite FM radio station while you’re on the go!

4. Cardo Packtalk Bold Headset

The Packtalk Bold is special. It utilizes mesh technology for large groups of people (up to 15 riders) at a range of five miles. Also, it uses natural voice commands that link with Siri, Amazon Alexa, or Google Assistant. The Cardo Packtalk is waterproof, dustproof, supports BT 5.1, and can connect to 9 riders at a distance of 1 mile. 

5. Cardo Freecom 4+ Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset

The Cardo Freecom 4+ is a midrange Bluetooth headset from Cardo. It has a lower price, which means it also has lower specs and fewer features (it lacks mesh technology). However, despite the low price point, it’s still a reliable communication system.

The Freecom 4+ is paired with a JBL speaker to give you a high-quality audio experience when connected to your smartphone for streaming or listening to the onboard FM radio. The unit is waterproof and dustproof and offers a talk time of 13 hours. 

Conclusion

It’s not difficult to talk on the phone while riding, especially if you’re using a Bluetooth-enabled device inside your helmet. Having one minimizes the risk of distracted riding. Because responding to a call is just a click of a button, you can still maintain your focus on the road. Safety is a significant concern whether alone on a lonely road or sharing it with others on a busy highway. No matter how minor, it’s best to avoid distractions when riding. 

I hope this article has given you a better understanding of the dangers of distracted riding and its precautions, including the options for the different Bluetooth communication systems available on the market. Happy riding!