Helmet mfgs could skip past HUD to come out with Altered Reality displays. Would increase the volume of used bike parts on eBay. 😉
Lemons --> Lemonade!
Illegitemi non carborundum est!
The volume of used parts
I started using hearing protection from motorcycling, using power equipment, shooting or listening to wifey, too late. I use the 3M classic recommended by my audiologist but never could keep them in place, 1 yr later I got hearing aids wrestling with them and trying other ear plugs now the 3M's have become easy to use and block well I'm glad because I bought a box of 200 good thing as they are disposable. I've tried using the mute feature on the hearing aids while motorcycling works moderate but not for traveling.
So a follow up question and admittedly I have not done much research yet but a question I've been wondering on. How does in helmet communications system effect hearing or block road and wind noise, I know Doc will say still wear plugs so there's the dichotomy. Communicating on the new rig due to ergonomics no longer work, tub too low and further back.
I have Sena SMH10 in my modular Schuberth helmet. I've used similar options with several other helmets and always wear ear plugs.
I run the volume from the phone and the comm system at full and everything is workable. I hear most of the music and can make/receive calls well. The foam earplugs work well and overall attenuation is good.
All that to say that wearing earplugs doesn't block out the comms but I still have decent hearing for an almost 60 YO person. If you have significant hearing loss, there's more to the picture. If your hearing aids are bluetooth and noise canceling there is more to the picture.
Illegitemi non carborundum est!
I have significant hearing loss, caused by many factors over many years, but mostly due to both eardrums being blown out by the Lightning Strike in 2013.
I wear hearing aids, but because they are the over the ear type, I find it difficult to put a helmet on without making one or both of them ajar. Even worse when removing the helmet, and it seems one will always fall out then....hate to lose one or both.
With hearing aids in, whilst riding, they collect the wind noise, so my choice I ce is to not wear the hearing aids when riding.
I too use a Sena SMH10 headset, all Bluetooth, as I listen to music when riding, but mute the music when IN TOWN, or a congested area.
Can't stand the feel of ear plugs, so....just live with what I have, and be happy.
Two Million Mile Rider
Exploring the World in Comfort
I will not wear the hearing aids with my modular but will with the half helmet. I've gotten use to the foam ear plugs, they do a good job muting noise and can still hear somewhat successfully. It sounds like ear plugs and comm system will work well, thanks
I've found the clearest communications with the "Monkey" in a more rear biased sidecar has been after the sub-woofer was installed. Sizing and frequency cut-off can be critical factors.
The example below allows for future growth in the overall communications schema.
More seriously... Mitigating the sound issue has been a real focus for me over this riding season. The multiple big trips last year had me seriously considering selling the rigs, and just getting a convertible car. There were times the noise was more than a discomfort, it was aggravating to the point I didn't want to ride anymore. While a convertible is still a clear and present danger to the future of sidecar life, I think there is a reasonable compromise. For me it is a multifaceted approach. Helmet fit, ear protection, communications, physical/mental readiness, and limiting travel have successfully staved off four wheel life. Best part is, thanks to all the work done this year I've found there is room for future improvements. 🙂
Hold my keyboard and watch this! 🙃
