The question of whether you can put a radio on the bike is a recurring one on biker forums. The truth is that it is possible to listen to music and even the radio while traveling on a motorcycle, but with conditions.
Summary of content
There are high-end motorcycles that have built-in systems that allow you to listen to music on the motorcycle, it is not a novelty and it has been a common extra accessory for years. With the arrival of mobile devices, wifi, and Bluetooth, the possibilities of putting a soundtrack to motorcycle trips have improved, but do not lose sight of what is legal and what is not to put a radio on the motorcycle.
What the General Traffic Regulations say about installing a radio on the motorcycle
The General Traffic Regulations make it very clear in their article, 18.2 about putting a radio on the motorcycle:
“It is forbidden to drive and use helmets or headphones connected to sound receivers or reproducers, except during the corresponding teaching and the performance of the aptitude tests in open circuit to obtain the driving license for two-wheeled motorcycles when so required. the General Regulations for Drivers ”.
“The use of mobile phone devices and any other means of communication system while driving is prohibited, except when the communication takes place without using hands or using helmets, headphones or similar instruments (article 11.3, second paragraph, of the articulated text) ”.
There is no room for doubt about the safety and to avoid significant fines, forget about listening to music on your motorcycle with headphones. In addition, many motorists say that it is a very unpleasant experience and that it is not recommended at all, so it is perfectly understood that it is an option that is expressly prohibited.
There are other possibilities for you to listen to the radio or music on your motorcycle, although they all have their pros and cons, and it is worth the value before opting for one.
External sound systems to listen to music on the motorcycle
There has been music equipment for motorcycles for a long time, to adapt to different types of motorcycles, especially for Gran Turismo. Currently, they have improved a lot, thanks to new technologies. However, they tend to be rather uncomfortable, heavy, and not very easy to handle and attach safely to the motorcycle.
The main problem is usually the lack of power and the little resistance and durability of the equipment. Bear in mind that external sound systems are subjected to both external weather conditions: sun, rain, and humidity; as in the event of a fall, bumps, and breaks.
On the other hand, as they are external motorcycle radio equipment that must make the music sound at high volume, without losing quality so that you can hear it through the helmet and with the noises of driving.
The option of approved helmets and intercoms
This is a legal and safe option to be able to listen to music or radio when you drive your motorcycle. It is not, however, an inexpensive alternative. There are helmets on the market with integrated speaker systems that can be connected via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth with mobile music-playing devices, even with your smartphone. The manufacturers of these helmets guarantee and ensure that they are legal helmets and in accordance with current regulations, so it is impossible to be fined wearing one of these approved helmets and with built-in speakers.
For its part, the legality, experience, and comfort of intercoms make them the most recommended way to listen to music, the radio, or your travel companions, when you go on your motorcycle. Today’s intercoms work the same as loudspeakers. There is a wide range of intercoms on the market, so it is important that you take into account what you are looking for, the most advanced are those that incorporate radio and music functions, but it is also important that you value the charging system, the range, autonomy and type of connection. Of course, always choose approved intercoms.
If music is part of your life or you are a radio fan, now you know how you can also enjoy it on your motorcycle and put a soundtrack to your routes. Always remember to prioritize safety and only use approved devices, although your Motorcycle Insurance includes Legal Defense coverage, imprudence can cost you very expensive both in financial penalties and in material and personal damage.
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