Let’s divide our delicious pie of confusion once again. This time, we’ll compare comms that use Bluetooth technology with the comms that do not.
Bluetooth Systems
These are the most common type. As you probably deduced, they make use of Bluetooth technology. Good one, Sherlock. So, what is Bluetooth? It’s a wireless system for connecting devices over a relatively short range. It’s also self-sufficient – Bluetooth doesn’t need to be within cell or internet range to operate.
The advantage of Bluetooth systems is that most of them are multifunctional: Music, GPS, cell phone, conference calls, rider-to-passenger intercom, rider-to-rider intercom, and more. Even better, you can normally do a few of these things at the same time. We go into the details in another section, but suffice it to say that Bluetooth comms can do a lot of stuff.
Non-Bluetooth Systems
On the flip side, non-Bluetooth systems are limited to what they can plug into. You can link to cell phones, MP3 players, GPS systems and your passenger’s helmet, but you might need different cables for each connection. With non-Bluetooth comms, you can normally plug into one device at a time. So, you won’t be able to answer your intercom while listening to music, or hear GPS navigation while connected to your phone.
The most notable limitation is that non-Bluetooth systems only allow rider-passenger intercom. Wiring up to other motorcyclists is impossible, for reasons that should be obvious to you. Cabled connections do have their upsides, however. As you might expect, non-Bluetooth systems are more affordable. And while modern Bluetooth connectivity is nearly flawless, a physical cable will always be slightly more foolproof.
There are also cases where you need a plug-in connection. Large motorcycles – like some Goldwings, Harleys and BMWs – have built-in audio systems for passenger intercom, radio, vehicle alerts and satnav. And while a few of the newer models use Bluetooth, the vast majority need to be plugged into. In these cases, non-Bluetooth systems are ideal. Many Bluetooth comms will support cabled connections just as well, but this isn’t always the case.
**Note: Non-Bluetooth systems are a dying breed. The Nolan MCSII and Basic Kit 2 are some of the few remaining options for non-Bluetooth comms.
The Bottom Line
A Bluetooth system can do everything a non-Bluetooth system can do, plus a whole lot more. And as you’d expect, non-Bluetooth systems are less expensive for it. If you only want to plug into your motorcycle, or communicate with a passenger, or use one device at a time, a non-Bluetooth system will get the job done for less cash. If you need multitasking, conference calls, or motorcycle-to-motorcycle communication, you’re better off with Bluetooth.
If you have a mad hatred for dangly, tangly wires, go with Bluetooth!