Scala Rider G4 vs Q2
July 11, 2009 – 1:27 pm
Scala Rider G4
There has been some excitement about the upcoming Scala Rider G4. Many people are wondering if they should purchase a Scala Rider Q2 or wait for the Scala Rider G4 to come out later this year. Here are some of the features for both units for your comparison:
Scala Rider Q2 and Scala Rider G4 Feature Comparison
| Features | Scala Rider Q2 | Scala Rider G4 |
|---|---|---|
| Wireless bike-to-bike intercom? | Yes, up to 500 yards | Yes, up to one mile (with antenna extended) |
| Wireless rider-passenger intercom? | Yes | Yes |
| Connect to mobile phone/GPS via Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Fits virtually any helmet? | Yes, if half-helmet has pockets for speakers | Three-quarter and full face |
| Automatic volume control? | Yes | Yes |
| FM Radio? | Yes, with 6 station memory | Yes, with scan, seek and 6 station memory |
| Jack for MP3 players? | Yes | Yes |
| Stereo Music? | FM and MP3 | FM, MP3 and Bluetooth (A2DP) |
| Talk time/Standby time? | 8 hours, 10 days | 10 hours, 7 days |
| Battery type? | Internal, rechargeable | Internal, rechargeable |
| Noise/wind compensation? | Yes | Yes |
| How many Scala Rider units can used simultaneously? | 3 | 4 |
| Backward compatible with older units? | Yes | Yes |
| How does it handle wet weather? | Fully weather protected | Weather resistant |
| Firmware upgradable by user? | No | Yes |
| Status announcements for easy operation? | No | Yes |
| Retail cost? | $219.95 | $299.95 (TBD) |
| Available in sets? | Yes, 2 units retail for $399.99 | Yes, 2 units retail for $499.99 |
| Availability? | Currently available | Currently available |
Conclusion
If you need to connect four headsets or you need the extra distance, waiting for the Scala Rider G4 may be what you should do. Otherwise, go for the Scala Rider Q2. It is available now and cheaper.
Update
Be sure to check out our blog article, A Close Up Look at the Scala Rider G4, for pictures and info on the Scala Rider G4.
Scala Rider Q2
She Rides and He Rides Too
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Alpharetta, GA 30004
(770) 967-2453
www.she-rides.com
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© 2000-2009 She Rides®
57 Responses to “Scala Rider G4 vs Q2”
You guys have it “almost right”. From a reliable source I know that the G4 does have a jack for MP3 players and also that it will come in a double pack (just like the Teamset.In addition, I am told that there are some additional features in store which the company hasn’t released yet but word has it that it is quite unique.
By Adam on Jul 21, 2009
The MP3 jack was a typo…sorry about that. As for the double pack, the Scala Rider reps tell us that the G4 double pack will be introduced after the release of the single G4 like they did with the Q2s but they have no date on when that will be.
Good news though…they are saying the G4 will be released in the September/October 2009 time frame.
By admin on Jul 22, 2009
Well, it(G4) was supposed to be released sometime in May, but that was postponed. All communication thus far with Cardo Scala has yielded nothing except to prove that the company’s first line of CR have no clue about the products they’ll be releasing. Rather funny everyone else on the internet knows about it but an actual company rep. has no clue.
BESIDES THAT. My biggest three worries on this unit are:
1. Weather Resistant: Will it be good enough if a rider rides in the rain? Or will it fubar that product?
2. Removable battery: Would be nice to be able to change batteries if we can’t find/electrical outlet to do a recharge. Some of us actually do go on long touring rides.
3. Skeptical about the boom mic on the full face helmets. Prefer an option to remove that and have a wire go in with the speakers and run the wire around the inside of the helmet to place the mic. (i.e. Camos) One reason is that the boom mic design will probably create noise when riding and only help to interfere with speaking.
By Mike on Aug 2, 2009
To reply to the last comment:
1). There are more controls on the G4 (even a flip up antenna) which could allow more areas for water to seep into. Let’s hope they thought of a way to keep all these opening sealed.
2). We haven’t had an issue with this on the Q2s (maybe others have). The unit will come with a 110/220v charger but a 12v charger is available from http://www.cardosystems.com
3). Actual on the Q2, the boom mic works great!!! However, Cardo Systems (at the URL above) makes a wired mic helmet clamp (they currently make it for the Q2 but hopefully they will also have one for the G4).
Hope this helps address some of your concerns.
By admin on Aug 4, 2009
Any possibility of a headphone jack for those of us that would prefer earbuds?
By chuck on Aug 6, 2009
Appreciate your comments. To just provide a bit more of the thinking behind my previous points:
1. Unfortunately, riders haven’t yet found the secret to controlling the weather. Until such time, we’re at its
mercy. Thus we need a product that’s going to be reliable in heavy downpours. Even going so far as to
say that the product should not be ripped from the helmet during a tornado, but should actually stay with the helmet
and rider when blown from the bike. (I’d really be interested to know how they’ll test this!) haha
2. Ultimately, the battery will run out of juice, forcing a recharge. Especially true when streaming stereo music over
A2DP Bluetooth during long rides. (Imagining Zumo 660 and Scala G4)
When on the go, far from home on some touring adventure, I think the last thing anyone wants to have happen is their
unit run out of juice midway through somewhere(especially if you’re camping).
Noone wants to sit at a rest stop for 4+ hours waiting for their unit to recharge.
It only makes sense IMO to provide the ability to easily replace the battery with a substitute. This until
they provide a unit with enough power to support at least 15 hours of nonstop usage before requiring a recharge.
3. The Camos unit provides an ability to run a wire(along with the left/right speakers) inside the helmet up along the
inner wall of the helmet to a location one can attach (via strong velcro) the actualy mic.
It’d be a pity if Cardos do not provide something similar for full faced helmet riders.
let’s face it, the boom arm going along the outside and underneath is bound to make additional noise which could
likely affect rider experience at speeds of 80km+
By Mike on Aug 7, 2009
Will She Rides carry the Q4 in the store once it is released? I’d rather pay Sunny tax than shipping on the internet… our GA roads need it!
By HotFix on Aug 7, 2009
Yep. As soon as it becomes available, we will put the G4 on the web page and have it at the store.
By admin on Aug 7, 2009
Reply to “Mike”s last comments:
1). It’s going to be hard to find a completely waterproof unit…they need to have connectors for power and MP3 players. The Scala Rider products can detach from their base to allow you to have multiple helmets using the same unit (saving you a lot of money and pairing). However, this connector gives water an opportunity to mess things up. We haven’t experienced this issue with ours but I could see it happening in a hard rain over a long time.
2). This one might be hard to overcome. To keep the units reasonable in size, you are going to have a rechargeable battery. Besides, battery compartments are a BIG problem to waterproof.
3). Have you seen the Camos unit or used the Scala Rider units? The Camos is a nightmare to install and they give you enough cable to strangle yourself (and it isn’t completely waterproof either). The Scala Rider boom microphone works great to eliminate noise and is a breeze to install!
It all comes down to personal preference. The one that works for your needs is the best one to buy. Try out a buddy’s unit and see how it works. Also, be sure to get a good warranty. If your unit starts acting up, you need to be able to return it since nothing on them is user repairable.
By admin on Aug 8, 2009
I disagree with the admin on the part 3 of the last comment. The Camos unit is 20x better at installing on a helmet. You don’t even notice it there if you have the patience to run the wiring underneath the helmet. Plus the speakers come in comfortable cotton pouches not hard plastic cases.
I HAVE both the Q2 and BTS 300, and prefer the latter.
By Spencer on Aug 11, 2009
We had the opportunity to play with the Camos at a trade show and we found them much more difficult to install. Also, the Scala Riders looked better made (just our opinion). They both functioned well but we seemed to be drawn to the Scala Rider more (again, just a matter of opinion). As for the speakers, they have never been an issue for us or our customers but maybe your helmet is designed differently.
Again, it all comes down to personal preference. Be sure to check out the return policy of the company before you purchase the item! If you try it and it doesn’t feel/work right, return it. As with any piece of gear, if it sits in the closet, it does you no good.
By admin on Aug 11, 2009
Well, I currently have the Camos BHS 600 unit.
Yes, it isn’t the easiest to install, ESPECIALLY the firewire type connector which is super huge and I had to cut out a piece of styrofoam in the helmet to get it outta the way.
I rode 5 hours in pouring rain and the Camos had no problems at all.
I’d prefer the Scala G4 type, EXCEPT for the boom mic. Honestly, on a full face helmet, it’s noticeable and rather ugly IMO. I’m pretty sure it will cause some sort of noise going down the highway at speeds of 60-100mph.
Lastly, it’s a matter of ’smart’ design. A little more forethought about a removeable batter system and options for full-faced helmets without a boom mic would probably be appreciated by riders.
However, in saying all this, I’m willing to give the Unit a shot if Cardo ever admit that they have such a product and actually release sometime this century!
By Mike on Aug 23, 2009
“I’d prefer the Scala G4 type, EXCEPT for the boom mic. Honestly, on a full face helmet, it’s noticeable and rather ugly IMO. I’m pretty sure it will cause some sort of noise going down the highway at speeds of 60-100mph.”
I had the older Scala Teamset, load pipes and no windshield. I can say that in a full face helmet at 80mph, the other caller could NOT tell I was on a bike. That was in a flip face helmet.
It might be nice to attach the mic to the helmet rather than have a boom mic. After three years, the wire in the boom mic stopped working due to fatigue failure.
Three years in a flip face isn’t too bad. Scala has come two generations since then.. time to upgrade anyway.
By HotFix on Sep 4, 2009
The latest word from our Cardo Systems reps is the Scala Rider G4 should be available late October.
By admin on Sep 10, 2009
The G4 sounds great and I tried waiting for it but in the end the delays have proven too much, especially as the only comment I have been able to get out of Cardo is basically “no comment”.
Cardo need to get their act together and provide real information to encourage people to wait .. I’ve now bought a competitive product (inferior to the G4 specs .. but better then Q2 [for me]) and wont be in the market for a couple of years now… sigh.
By Yoda on Sep 14, 2009
Will the G4 be able to communicate with more than one other unit at the same time? Or is it set up like the Q2 and have to switch back and forth between units?
By TerryG on Sep 14, 2009
According to our Cardo Systems rep, three or more G4s will be able to hear and take part in the same conversation at the same time. Hope this helps clear things up.
By admin on Sep 14, 2009
In reply to Yoda’s comment:
I have to admit, Cardo Systems has been very tight lipped about the G4. Information is scarce and takes a while to piece together.
However, I do admire them for pushing back the release date instead of releasing the G4 as scheduled. Too many companies rush to put a product on the market without a thought for quality control or customer satisfaction! The “We’ll fix it later” or “Get their money now and we’ll release another model with all the fixes in it” attitude is too common in today’s companies striving for profit in hard times at any cost. I would rather Cardo Systems take their time and release a rock solid product instead of me spending very hard earned money on a product that doesn’t perform properly!
By admin on Sep 15, 2009
Just a couple quick comments.
First: When you were comparing the two Scala’s you mentioned the G4 can scan for FM stations but not the Q2. My Q2 does have a scan feature for the FM radio.It’s the volume buttons, scan up or down by holding in one of these two buttons.
And second: I’ll agree with some previous poster that “weather resistant” just isn’t good enough for those of us that travel. I have been VERY impressed with the water-proofness of the Q2, so will likely just keep my unit instead of upgrading.
As for charging on the go, we’ve installed 12v cigarette style sockets on our bikes. Using the 12v chargers we bought for our Scala’s, keeping them charged even while camping is really a non-issue. And no, they won’t drain your battery if you charge em from the bike overnight. At least they haven’t yet
Finally, I must say Cardo has the most EXCELLENT customer service I have ever dealt with. They even sent us a new unit while on the road, so our trip wouldn’t be interrupted by equipment failure.Huge plus in my book.
By Sarah on Oct 25, 2009
Still waiting on the release of the G4. I’ve become very frustrated with my current Starcom1 comm system. It’s time to step up to wireless. I too wonder if the G4 will have a port for using earbud speakers instead of the ones supplied with the unit. I’ve heard that the sound quality is not very good or loud when listening to music. Either that or be able to plug up a mini amplifier to it..
Otherwise, here we are with money to spend, our patience is wearing thin.
By Brian on Nov 3, 2009
The latest news is the Scala Rider G4 will be available in February or March 2010. When we get our demo unit, we will write up a review for you.
By admin on Nov 19, 2009
Where is this data coming from? Just wondering if this is just another shop trying to generate more traffic to their web site by means of revealing data of something that doesn’t exist. Or is there something real behind all this?
By Tero on Dec 28, 2009
Unlike some other stores, we only relay information we get from Cardo Systems reps and distributors.
From what we hear from our customers, some other stores are actually taking orders for the G4 and it hasn’t even been released yet. There is something to be said for being the first on your block to own one but the price hasn’t been set yet…you could be getting ripped off.
If anyone is interested, we will gladly put your name on a waiting list but we will not charge anyone for a product we can’t get yet.
Hope this helps!
By admin on Dec 28, 2009
didn’t answer the only question I was interested in and that is: will the G4 have a port to plug in EARBUDS instead of using their speakers since I’ll be using this unit to communicate to another sport bike at ungodly speeds and doubt if speakers will cut the mustard. thx.
Joe
By Joe on Jan 4, 2010
We asked our Cardo Systems rep about a unit being available with earbuds and Cardo has no plans of producing one right now. In some states, the unit would be illegal if it had earbuds.
By admin on Jan 12, 2010
Spotted a minor error in the table:
“Stereo Music? FM and MP3″ for Q2. The FM radio is mono only, and the physical jack in the Q2 Multiset is the only way to get stereo sound in the Q2.
Just wondering if this is going to change somehow in the G4, which now seems to be more real device than earlier.
By Tero on Jan 25, 2010
Tero,
Actually, the Q2 does have FM stereo. I have one and I listen to the FM radio in stereo all the time. If you have one and the FM radio isn’t in stereo, you might want to get in touch with Cardo Systems for a warranty repair or you might not be getting a strong FM signal from the radio station..
By admin on Jan 25, 2010
How does the Q2 or G4 do with wind noise if you do not have a windshield and an open face helmet? Any issues with the boom microphone and wind noise with a windshield either? I have a set of Chatterboxes and my wife’s bike with a small windshield can’t be heard when above 50mph or so. Any issues with the wind interferring with the talking turning on?
By Nick on Feb 8, 2010
Nick,
The Q2 and the G4 both use noise canceling to help cut back on background noise and they both do a pretty good job of it. Also, the microphone is directional.
To activate the unit for wireless intercom, you have to speak loudly or blow into the microphone so that the noise you make is louder than the surrounding noise. This keeps the units from turning on accidentally.
By admin on Feb 9, 2010
Could you let us know if you get a responce from Cardo about if they will be offering the mount with the corded mic for the full faced helmets. If they will not be offering that feature for some time then I will go ahead and get the Q2 as I have friends that are happy with the Q2. I would rather get the G4 though for the extra features but only if I can get the wired mic.
Thanks,
Jeremiah
By Jeremiah on Feb 11, 2010
Jeremiah,
They will be offering a corded microphone mount for the G4 later in the year. However, it will be like the Q2 and will have to be purchased separately (it will not come in the set).
By admin on Feb 12, 2010
Any idea what “later in the year” for the corded microphone mount for the G4 means? 2-3 months? Nov? Thanks.
By Dan on Feb 18, 2010
We just spoke with Cardo Systems. Currently the corded mic version of the G4 is only available in Europe. When it is introduced in the USA, it will be as a optional mount (sold separately without the G4 like they do for the Q2). There doesn’t seem to be enough demand in the US for them to make the corded mic kits available here.
Currently, there is no date for availability of the corded mic mount.
By admin on Feb 19, 2010
I have tried in vain, with my Q2, to receive a strong enough transmission from my MP3 players to be able to hear well enough to use on the road. Is there any improvement with the G4?
By John Jones on Feb 19, 2010
FM radio on G4
Is it any better than on Q2?
Q2 FM radio is not good at all the sensitivity of the radio is worse than in Scala FM model.
I am very keen on having the G4 unit if the radio is more sensitive (you actually can listen it)
Cheers
By Jussi on Feb 24, 2010
Jussi,
We have never had an issue picking up FM stations in our area but according to Cardo Systems, “The G4 radio works better than the Q2″.
We haven’t been able to test this though…
Hope this helps!
By admin on Feb 25, 2010
Hi,
I’ve got 3 units of Scala Rider Q2 (Multiset+one normal) and i would like to buy a G4 unit so that all 4 units could talk to each other, is that possible or would only the g4 be able to talk with everyone (other 3 riders) at the same time ?
By Sebastian on Mar 9, 2010
Does the new G4 come with a wire mic to fit full faced helmets or is it an option that must be purchased?
Also, does anyone have a review of the quailty difference if any between the boom mic and wire mic?
By gary on Mar 9, 2010
Sebastian,
To get four units talking at one time, you will have to buy a G4 Powerset and pair them with two of your Q2s. Two G4s are needed to get the conference feature working.
By admin on Mar 9, 2010
Gary,
The wired microphone mount is an option that will be available later this year but only as a mount and not as a kit (we have now idea what “later this year” means to Cardo Systems). However, the boom microphone works great on the full face helmets we have used it with.
By admin on Mar 9, 2010
Boom Mic
That is funny I ordered one with wire mic from Germany last week – here in Europe the Wire version is available. You can choose to get the boom/wire set.
By Jussi on Mar 10, 2010
Jussi,
You are correct but we aren’t in Europe. According to Cardo Systems, the US will not have the wired microphone G4s as a set, they will only be available as the mount which will be sold separately. Europeans have the option of both wired microphone and boom microphone sets.
By admin on Mar 10, 2010
John Jones,
The G4 is definitely a step above in sound quality over the Q2. As for the volume from the MP3 player, we have found that not all MP3 players are created equal, you might want to check your setting on the MP3 player as well.
By admin on Mar 16, 2010
I am about to buy a Q2 or G4 for bike to bike communication. I’m going on a trip to the Pyrenees this summer and I’m wondering if the range of the Q2 (500m) will do, or if I should go for the G4 (1500m).
What would you guys advise?
Thank you,
Rob
By Rob on Apr 5, 2010
Rob,
If you are using the headset for bike-to-bike communication, it depends on how closely you ride together. Objects between you and the other riders will cut down your range. Here the Q2 or the G4 would work.
If you are looking for Bluetooth stereo or music quality, here the G4 would be a better choice.
Hope this helps!
By admin on Apr 5, 2010
When will the g4 powerset be available? Is there a problem getting them from Cardo? Can you buy two indidual ones for the same price?
By Eric on Apr 9, 2010
Eric,
Rumor has it the G4s will be available again the end of next week (we are cautiously optimistic). The single G4 units are starting to trickle in.
Two single G4s are about $100 more than a G4 Powerset.
Hope this answers your questions!
By admin on Apr 9, 2010
I have a garmin zumo 660 and just received the scala-rider g4 powerset,
i can’t pairing the two together, the scala rider pops up on the garmin screen, but says will not connect, what am i doing wrong Thanks Wayne
By wayne coleman on May 10, 2010
Wayne,
Garmin seems to make a habit of designing their GPS units without following Bluetooth standards. However, one of the nice features of the G4 is user upgradeable firmware. Cardo Systems has figured out a workaround for the Zumo 660 issue and will be releasing it in version 2.2 of the G4 firmware due out in a couple of weeks. This release of the firmware will be the first one openly available on their web site.
However, if you can’t wait, contact Cardo Systems tech support directly. You can send the G4 to them and they will upgrade it for you.
By admin on May 10, 2010
“Tero,
Actually, the Q2 does have FM stereo. I have one and I listen to the FM radio in stereo all the time. If you have one and the FM radio isn’t in stereo, you might want to get in touch with Cardo Systems for a warranty repair or you might not be getting a strong FM signal from the radio station..”
I bought the multi set of Q2’s ,neither has stereo fm,nor will it play stereo music from my zumo 550 mp3’s.it plays through both speakers,but only in “mono” not rue stereo. thus why the G4 came out for all those wanting the true stereo in their headsets
By Mike O on Jun 29, 2010
Tero,
The Zumo 550 only transmits in mono through Bluetooth and doesn’t transmit XM Radio. See http://www.gpsnow.com/garmin_zumo_550.htm for details.
By admin on Jul 1, 2010
OK, I have my mobile phone paired with my Zumo 660 and my Zumo paired with my Scala Q2 and all is well. My music streams from my Zumo and my phone calls are routed to the Q2 via the Zumo.
But I can’t seem to initiate a pairing with another Scala Q2 for rider to rider communications whilst also using the Zumo.
In the past, before I had bought the Zumo 660, I paired with another Q2 successfully, but I don’t want to turn off the Zumo just to achieve rider to rider comms.
Does anyone have any suggestions.
By Ed on Sep 4, 2010
When streaming audio through your GPS, the Q2 thinks it is receiving turn-by-turn directions from the GPS which takes priority over the intercom function. If you turn off or pause the audio on the Zumo, can you then talk with the other Q2? Or can you not pair the two Q2s at all? If so, how many devices do you have paired to the Q2 at one time?
By admin on Sep 7, 2010
I have a G4 and a garmin zumo 660 which are supposed to be compatable but I can’t get them to link. I have updated the software for both but they still won’t link.
any tips?
By Zac on May 14, 2011
This is why I personally use a TomTom, Garmin doesn’t play well with others. That said, typically Scala Rider updates the G4 software to work with the popular GPS units. Since you have updated your G4 with new software, I would give them a call at (800) 488-0363 to see if there is a version of the software that will work with the Zumo 660.
Let us know how it works out for you!
She Rides
By admin on May 14, 2011
Just purchased the Scala G4 last week from She Rides. these were easy to set up. I made sure I did the update first, but I had my wife call me after I was out on the road at 45mph and she said she could not tell I used Pandora radio from my phone and works great. I still need to try out the driver to passenger when I can get my wife out. You do need to shout or yell when a call comes in to answer the phone but I can live with that.
Need to star looking for a GPS now
By Richard on May 30, 2011
If you purchase a Q2 or Q2 Pro, we recommend a Tom Tom GPS since they work well with all Scala units. However, since you purchased a G4, a Garmin or Tom Tom GPS will work since the G4 has upgradable firmware.
By admin on May 31, 2011