Modern Vespa

Ok I've thought about this for a while and decided I want to get a headset for my helmet. What's a good recommendation now a days. I have this exact helmet

I use a wired unit. No need to make sure that the batteries are charged.
The ear pieces slip into the ear muffs. Put my phone in my pocket, with a cable up to my helmet. I tried a few Bluetooth units, but too much trouble with making sure battery is charged

Something like this
AliExpress: $3.58 | 3.5mm plug Motorcycle Bluetooth Stereo Helmet Headset Dual Speakers Braided Earbud Headphones Flat Headband Earphones
https://a.aliexpress.com/_mPn2ueP

Use a coiled connecting cable to connect your helmet to your phone.
AliExpress: $1.51 | 3.5mm Audio Cable 3.5 Jack AUX Audio Extension Cable Spring Headphone Code For Phone Car Speaker MP4 Headphone
https://a.aliexpress.com/_ms89tkf

Here is what it looks like installed

I have Sena 50S in both of my helmets. When I'm done with a ride, I pull the control unit off the helmet and charge it. That way I don't have to worry about whether it's charged.

(also I have ridden to Walter Reed and back to my house, 1.5 hours+ each way depending on traffic, *TWICE* before needing a charge)

I bought this one and really like it under $60 on Amazon.

LEXIN G2P Motorcycle Helmet Bluetooth Headset, Group Intercom Communication System, FM Radio/ 6 Shells/Universal Pairing/Private Talk/Noise Cancellation, Fit for Snowmobile/ATV, 1 Pack

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKRM7V2X?

I use a Cardo 4X. Voice commands work really well.

I've had a SENA SM-5 for 10 years now. Bluetooth plus an FM radio receiver. It's been very reliable, and the earphones are fairly low profile. The mike is convertible between a boom for an open helmet and velcro for inside a full face.

Ten years ago, wireless earpods were not nearly as good as they are today. Those might be a good alternative.

I ended up getting a Lexin G1 for around $40. Found some videos of it and liked what i saw.

Been using the netfone1200 knock offs for yrs but I ride full face always. My instructor told me a story once about a guy who ground his lower mandible right off in a slide with a open face helmet.

Full face forever. Modular actually. Currently have the hjc model replacing the ones I got 5yrs ago.

Can hear the music until about 120kmh.

100% agree. Would never ride with a 3/4 face helmet. Modular helmet is the best if you actually want your face to not be destroyed in an accident. Yeah, 3/4 seems more stylish with a Vespa, but it is not functional. Also full face helmet is super when the weather conditions are poor (rain or cold).

Where i would differ from your approach is the use case of a helmet headset - I only use the headset for audible turn-by-turn navigation. I do not use it for music or phone talk. Distractions when driving a motorcycle in a city is a no-no.

I have a Cardo Freecom 4, supposedly with some kind of extra-special JVC speakers, a couple of years old and purchased at a nice scratch-n-dent Warehouse discount from Amazon.

It pairs and works well, but I agree with Landy89 - I don't care to listen to music, podcasts, or radio when I'm riding. That's what cars are for!

Maybe it's because I live in the suburbs/country but I really enjoy music on my rides. I've got my helmet wired with Cardo Spirit HD. Plus the rider to rider intercom function has been a blast as well.