Cool Gear for Your Next Ride: The UClear HBC200
by James Turino
Modern technology has brought about many (sometimes unwanted) advances to the bike world–automatic shifting, ABS, hard candy colored metal flake, and the Hayabusa engine. It’s also brought us new ways to communicate on a bike beyond the basic hand signals. While other products are still working out the communication kinks, UClear has hit the mark on interpersonal, on-board communication for bikers with its HBC200 unit. It may not be pretty, but it’s definitely effective.
Using boomless microphone technology, the HBC200 allows you to listen to music, talk on the phone and communicate via intercom with your fellow riders.
The system comes with two weatherproof units which need to be charged. One negative here, the kit comes with two charging cords, but only one AC adaptor.
I mounted up the speakers in my HJC FS-15 helmet, which has large ear pockets. The speakers are attached with Velcro, and I ran the wires between the speakers through the back of my helmet under a rear pad. That’s it, no microphone to wire up; the microphones are in the front of the speakers. Next I mounted up the bracket that holds the main unit on the side of the helmet. The kit provides two different types of brackets, I used the spring clip type, which comes with detachable handles to get leverage to be able to spread the clip and install it. Following the clearly written instructions, I turned the unit on and paired it with my cell phone.
First thing I tried was streaming internet music and was rewarded with clear sound. With a separate up and down button, the volume was easy to modulate even with my thickest winter gloves. During my commute the next day, I streamed music, and received a pre-arranged phone call. Calls take precedence over all other functions. There are two ways to answer: an answer button on the unit, or voice activation. Simply say “Hello” or “Pick Up” and the call will answer. I used the voice activation, which worked first try. I was able to hear the other party clearly, and they could hear me no problem. When the call was over, the unit automatically goes back to streaming music. If you don’t want to take the call, simply press the answer button down for two seconds, and the call will be rejected.
Next, I set up the units for intercom operation by pairing the units, then restarting them. To activate the intercom, simply hold the volume up button for two seconds. I was able to hold a conversation with my wife on another bike. Once again this feature worked flawlessly, we were able to hear each other clearly. The units claimed range is 700 meters. To end intercom operations, just hold the volume down button for two seconds. Another feature of the UClear is that you can use the intercom function for a large group, and have private conversations within the group. Once all the units are paired together you are good to go, and effective range multiplies the more units that are hooked together. However, I did not have the opportunity to test this feature. The Uclear will also work with a GPS device through its Bluetooth function.
I’ll admit I was never a motorcycle rider who felt the need for such a device as this. After using the UClear for two weeks my opinion has changed. It was easy to set up and operate. Having the option to listen to music, answer phone calls, and communicate with another rider has added more fun and practicality to my daily commute and Sunday ride.
For groups, the intra-helmet option is a great way to organize stops and starts and to keep track of someone slower than the rest of the pack, and for individuals the mostly hands-free options allows the rider to stay in touch while on the road, or to listen to music along one of those less than scenic stretches. Used safely, it’s one of these pieces of technology that fits into the “wanted” category.