Used: Vertix Raptor-i wireless helmet communicator
This could be a no-going-back accessory
I'VE always listened to music on headphones inside my helmet, and it’s always been a less than ideal arrangement. How do you switch off the music or change tracks without two minutes of fumbling? That’s if you can actually hear it in the first place. This Bluetooth device from Vertix has transformed the experience.
Some motorcycle headsets consist of speakers which fix inside your helmet. I prefer in-the-ear-type headphones, which Vertix do as an accessory. I’ve never got on very well with earplugs, and I find earphones cut out degree of wind noise but aren’t so uncomfortable. I might go deaf in 10 years but for now I’m happy.
The main unit attaches to the side of your helmet and connects via Bluetooth to your phone. A mic plugs into the main unit and fixes inside the chin bar, using good-quality Velcro. The earphones connect to a lead from the mic and go in your ears. All quite straight forward.
There were no problems connecting it to my Nokia phone. The sound quality is fantastic. For the first time, I have headphones I can hear really well on the motorway. I can also change track or switch the music off by pressing a big, easy-to-find button on the main unit. Vertix do a bar-mounted control unit as an accessory. I have't felt the need.
When someone phones you, it rings a couple of times and then automatically picks up. The mic cuts out wind noise, so the caller can’t tell you’re riding. You can also hear them perfectly. It’s quite a strange experience on the motorway.
Double-press one of the buttons and it redials your last call, something I did by accident. That was a strange experience too. “What do you want?” “Erm…” I also somehow managed to accidentally call emergency services.
Double-pressing another button activates your phone's voice-call function.
It’s great if you don’t want to miss a call, though. It’s also a helmet-to-helmet intercom, obviously requiring another one.
The price of the kit I've got is £154 - about five times as much as my old headphones. But it does feels a bit like a no-going-back accessory. Is it worth it? I suppose it depends how flush you are.
Price: £154
Contact: www.vertix.com.sg
