Headset use
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Road Captain
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 509
Likes: 5
Headset use
I just ordered a Candy Orange Ultra Classic. I understand the bikes come with one headset for the rider. I have a some questions.
1. How many folks actually use the headset, I've never had a bike with them.
2. Should I order a second headset for the passenger? (Have never had a problem communicating with my passenger before, but perhaps the intercom is something I will appreciate if I have it?)
3. I've read on some reviews that the plug wears out quickly, some say after only 10 hours use. Is there a better unit than the HD as far as the plug is concerned?
Thanks!
1. How many folks actually use the headset, I've never had a bike with them.
2. Should I order a second headset for the passenger? (Have never had a problem communicating with my passenger before, but perhaps the intercom is something I will appreciate if I have it?)
3. I've read on some reviews that the plug wears out quickly, some say after only 10 hours use. Is there a better unit than the HD as far as the plug is concerned?
Thanks!
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 2,197
Likes: 281
From: Long Island NY
I use my headsets almost exclusively, I don't like pulling up next to a car with windows open and music blasting and I wouldn't want someone being forced to listen to my loud music, just a consideration thing I guess. I have 2 headsets and when my wife rides we use them, makes it easier IMO to communicate and you don't have to yell over the music, engine, vehicle noise, etc. Only thing I've found with the headset is I really have to crank up the volume, 3/4's or more to hear through them but with the speakers about 1/2 volume is enough, might just be my setup.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 5,847
Likes: 2,495
From: Lake Orion, MI
Dave - I have been using Harley headsets since 2004. The only time I changed headsets was when I changed bikes - 2004, 2011 and now 2014.
Your are correct in that a new headset comes with a new bike. It is not true, at least for me, that they wear our in about 10 hours. Wife travels with me 99.9% of the time, if the bike is running, she is usually on the back. We connect with our headsets whenever we travel on trips - but not if just running around town or other short visits.
I want to also share that the connection on the 2014 is much better that that on the 2011. 2011 was good...2014 is great. I think you should consider a second headset. By the way, my wife wears a shortie and is still using her headset from 2006. I took the 3/4 headset off when she got the shortie. Actually gave that to a friend that still uses it for his wife.
I am using my 2011 headset - haven't opened the one I got with my 2014bike - they are exactly the same.
Your are correct in that a new headset comes with a new bike. It is not true, at least for me, that they wear our in about 10 hours. Wife travels with me 99.9% of the time, if the bike is running, she is usually on the back. We connect with our headsets whenever we travel on trips - but not if just running around town or other short visits.
I want to also share that the connection on the 2014 is much better that that on the 2011. 2011 was good...2014 is great. I think you should consider a second headset. By the way, my wife wears a shortie and is still using her headset from 2006. I took the 3/4 headset off when she got the shortie. Actually gave that to a friend that still uses it for his wife.
I am using my 2011 headset - haven't opened the one I got with my 2014bike - they are exactly the same.
Intermediate
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 29
Likes: 0
From: Fernandina Beach, Fla.
Headsets
Harley headsets only fit the Harley. Need to unplug when you dismount. 1 piece cord.
J&M headsets have a 2 piece cord that you can unplug from the helmet without unplugging from the bike.
If you change bikes, just purchase the appropriates cord and use existing headset.
Check out these from www.edsets.com
They kick a** and are much better than J&M in my opinion.
Have used both brands when I had the Wing and both are durable and can be installed quickly.
J-M-O---others will differ
J&M headsets have a 2 piece cord that you can unplug from the helmet without unplugging from the bike.
If you change bikes, just purchase the appropriates cord and use existing headset.
Check out these from www.edsets.com
They kick a** and are much better than J&M in my opinion.
Have used both brands when I had the Wing and both are durable and can be installed quickly.
J-M-O---others will differ
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 3,414
Likes: 374
From: Southern NY, known as Florida
Harley headsets only fit the Harley. Need to unplug when you dismount. 1 piece cord.
J&M headsets have a 2 piece cord that you can unplug from the helmet without unplugging from the bike.
If you change bikes, just purchase the appropriates cord and use existing headset.
Check out these from www.edsets.com
They kick a** and are much better than J&M in my opinion.
Have used both brands when I had the Wing and both are durable and can be installed quickly.
J-M-O---others will differ
J&M headsets have a 2 piece cord that you can unplug from the helmet without unplugging from the bike.
If you change bikes, just purchase the appropriates cord and use existing headset.
Check out these from www.edsets.com
They kick a** and are much better than J&M in my opinion.
Have used both brands when I had the Wing and both are durable and can be installed quickly.
J-M-O---others will differ
Trending Topics
Intermediate
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 29
Likes: 0
From: Fernandina Beach, Fla.
[quote=jcapps;12479061]The HD units unplug from the bike AND the helmet[/quote
OOPS you are correct. But they are a pain to unplug at the helmet compared to others, J&M,Edsets,etc.
Thanks for the correction
OOPS you are correct. But they are a pain to unplug at the helmet compared to others, J&M,Edsets,etc.
Thanks for the correction
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Tourer
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 339
Likes: 0
From: Olive Branch, MS
The current Boom Harley headsets are pretty good. Much better than the previous design used thru about 2010. I use one that came with the bike in my 3/4 helmet. In the summer the wife and I both wear half helmets and I bought a pair of the Harley headsets that fit around your head and not to the helmet. They also work well.
jt
jt
