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I'm thinking about riding this year with an ipod for some music and to reduce some noise since I have some hearing loss. Is this ok or am I looking for trouble?
I have been riding with XM Radio built into my Zumo 550 GPS, using Shure Ear buds that go into the ear like the kind for noise protection. I have enjoyed the music at lower volumes,I can still communicate with other riders while stopped in city riding. It has made long rides even more enjoyable, but just like everything else, dont get distracted and be safe.
I go w/ these http://www.whitehorsepress.com/produ...oducts_id=4987
Pop em in the heelmet & take off, sound good at on my Full face helmet I can hear em great at low volumes, on my 3/4 they need to be a little louder but not much
I been riding with mine for a few years and would not ride w/out them. Makes those long highway rides that much better! Get a good set of earbuds that will stay in your ears.
There is an argument that they leave you deaf to outside noises and therefore make you an unsafe operator. But this is no different than someone in a newer car with the windows rolled up and the radio on. Hell, they have that new car commercial with the cannons going off and the badgers asleep inside because the car insulates you from outside noise. You won't get that kind of sound isolation from a helmet and headphones, ever. Anyway, I don't think the argument has any significant merit since it isolates motorcycle riders and doesn't address the same safety concerns with cars and trucks.
Having said that, several states ban the use of headphones while riding motorcycles.
I personnaly am ok with the practice. Earbuds are nice because they reduce the outside ambient noise and let you hear the music. I use them and can hear music and cars and traffic noises around me without a problem. Like anything though, common sense and your riding ability are the determining factors.
I ride everywhere with music. I don't personally use an I-Pod, because I don't like having to pay $.99 per song. I use a Toshiba Gigabeat that works with Napster's $15 per month Music to go. Make sure to get the ear buds that have the flexible arms to help hold them in if you are wearing a shorty helmet.
The one problem I have is it's difficult to use the ipod control with gloves on. When you turn thevolume up or down it doesn't seem to "feel" it when your wearing gloves. Other than that get a good pair of ear buds. If you go helmetless, you will probably need to wear a beanie to keep them in. The great thing about the ipod is that you really never need to look at it to change anything while your riding.
Make you a bike playlist and you are golden. I use them when I'm taking long trips.
I use a Creative Zen MP3 player - very cheap and easy to use while in my jeans pocket.
I replaced the standard headset with a set of JVCs (Walmart). They go in the ear like ear protection. Works great for longer rides or just enjoying a day on the bike.
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