A Close Up Look at the Scala Rider G4
January 12, 2010 – 12:40 amWe had an opportunity to check out the new Scala Rider G4 and thought you might like to see it (yes, it is a real product…for all you non-believers out there). Please forgive the pictures, we only had a few minutes with the product for pictures and I am not a photographer!
The Scala Rider G4 at $249.99 and the Scala Rider G4 Powerset at $379.99 are usually in stock and shipping! Please check the product pages for the latest information on availability.
The unit looks very slick.
The controls are easy to access and the antenna is spring loaded so it will extend with little effort.
Here is the front of the G4 (with the antenna extended):
Here is the back (note the new mounting system):
Here is the USB port used for charging and software updates:
Here are the Scala Rider Q2 and the Scala Rider G4 side by side:
The Scala Rider G4 is a nice unit! It can communicate with previous units, the software is upgradable by the user via the built-in USB port (also used for charging) and it isn’t much larger than the Scala Rider Q2.
Three of the Scala Rider G4s can be connected together for an intercom conference or by using the Q2, two couples (each couple on the same bike or riding together within the Q2’s limits) can join together for a 4 way intercom conference (a Q2 pairs with a each of the G4s and the G4s pair together).
The sound quality is greatly improved with new speakers (they may look the same but they have been upgraded and sound less tinny) and A2DP for wireless stereo.
The Scala Rider G4 is going to be pricier than the Q2 but depending on your needs, it may be worth a look!
See our blog article, Scala Rider G4 vs Q2, for information comparing both units.
She Rides
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39 Responses to “A Close Up Look at the Scala Rider G4”
Doe you have an idea of the release date and price?
By Mike McGuire on Jan 12, 2010
The retail price for a single Scala Rider G4 is rumored to be $279.99 – $299.99 each. The release date is said to be by the end of February 2010.
By admin on Jan 12, 2010
Do you know if the battery is removeable/replaceable? or is it still permanently integrated into the unit.
By OIl-Burner on Jan 13, 2010
Like the Q2, the G4’s battery is non-removable, internal and rechargeable.
By admin on Jan 13, 2010
Will you be able to pair an older Q2 (approx 2 year old) to a G4?
By Big D on Jan 13, 2010
Big D, all Q2s will be able to pair with the G4. However, you have to stay within the range of the Q2 for the two units to communicate.
By admin on Jan 13, 2010
I asked Cardo Systems if they had “any clarification on ‘Weatherproof’ and ‘Weather Resistant’.”
They replied:
“We are sorry to inform you that the device will be Weather-resistant not Weather-proof and you will need to store the device in a dry secure area.”
I can’t be pulling over and taking the thing off when it rains!
By Richard on Jan 23, 2010
Richard,
I was actually talking with a Cardo Systems rep about this the other day. It seems there are certain legal issues about calling something “waterproof” so Cardo decided to use the terms “water resistant” or “weather protected” instead. I have used the Q2 in bad, rainy weather (as have other people I know) and not had any issues. As for storing it in a dry secure area, I store all my gear in a dry, secure area…doesn’t everyone?
I have heard that the G4 stands up well against the elements too but I can’t say for certain since I haven’t tried one on the open road yet…but I plan to get back to you soon on that.
By admin on Jan 26, 2010
I see these units are shipping in Europe as of last week. Do you have an update on the release for USA?
By Mike McGuire on Jan 29, 2010
Mike,
Yes, the G4 is now available in Europe and will be here soon. Cardo Systems is air freighting some of the G4s to US and they should be available next week (pre-orders will be filled on a first come, first served basis). The remainder (including the G4 Powersets) will be available in two – three weeks.
By admin on Feb 3, 2010
We had someone contact us about a wireless microphone option for the Scala Rider G4. He insisted that there was one in the G4’s manual but we can’t find it: http://www.mediamate.org/she-rides.com/G4_Manual.pdf
As a matter of fact, it isn’t on Cardo Systems webpage and the Cardo Systems’ reps say it doesn’t exist either.
Anybody know were this rumor got started?
By admin on Feb 3, 2010
The G4s have arrived and are shipping. Powersets to arrive soon.
By admin on Feb 5, 2010
I had a wireless intercom before and was disappointed in the lack of volume. I have a cruiser with somewhat loud pipes. Does this unit have a strong amp? Also could the batteries be changed by the manufacturer? I’d hate to spend the money and have to trash them just because the batteries died.
By Wayne S on Feb 5, 2010
Wayne S,
Volume is usually not an issue with the Scala Rider. They automatically adjust based on background noise but you can also manually decrease or increase the volume as needed.
If you have a problem with the batteries during the warranty period, Cardo Systems will take care of it for you. However, I have been using a pair for more than 2 years without any problems (they hold a charge just fine). I don’t know the cost but the reps say the batteries can be replaced by the manufacturer if you do have an issue.
By admin on Feb 9, 2010
I am wearing a schuberth c3 helmet. It closes very tight to the neck and chin. Will I be able to use the standard microphone or do I need to order the wired version? (If available?)
By ErikB on Feb 18, 2010
Do you have any idea how long until the units with corded mikes are available? The chinbar is very close to my mouth on my Shoei RF1000.
By DPC on Feb 19, 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
ErikB,
We haven’t installed a Scala Rider on your type of helmet so we don’t know for certain if you will have an issue on not. But if you have difficulty with the clip mount taking up too much room inside your helmet, the units also come with an external mount that uses double-sided tape to mount the unit.
By admin on Feb 19, 2010
The manual statues and gives instructions for paring 3 riders on 3 bikes or 4 riders on two bikes.
Why can it not do 4 riders on 4 bikes in “full duplex conference call”? Or, can it?
By Lorne on Feb 19, 2010
FYI, need this for ATV riding. I have 4 Q2 headsets that don’t cut it. Only full duplex with 2 riders at one time. I can change to the other rider and also have full duplex, but not 3 at one time in full duplex. I have four members in my family and we all need to have full duplex while riding.
By Lorne on Feb 19, 2010
The 4 riders don’t have to be on two bikes as long as you use something like the Q2 to pair with the G4s. That way, you can be up to 500m apart.
By admin on Feb 19, 2010
Lorne,
Yes, you can use the G4s with your ATVs. Actually you only have to buy one G4 Powerset and you can pair two of your existing Q2s with the G4s and the ATVs can be up to 500m apart.
By admin on Feb 19, 2010
Really, only need two G4 (1 power “set”)? That would be great to start. I’d like the extra distance eventually since I get nowhere near rated in the forest, but that would allow minimum initial purchase of just two. How would I bond two G4 and two Q2 to have 4 way full duplex between all riders?
Q1, Q2, G4-1a/1b, G4-2a/2b
G4-1a to Q1
G4-1b to G4-2b
G4-2a to Q2
Comm coming from rider using Q1 would be transferred to G4-1a then internally transferred internally to G4-1b which would transfer to G4-2b and transferred internally to G4-2a and then to Q2?
If so, wow, thanks. If not darn.
By Lorne on Feb 20, 2010
Lorne,
Basically, that is how it works. Here is a link to the Scala Rider G4 manual if you would like to take a look.
By admin on Feb 20, 2010
Great ordering experience and super fast delivery. The G4 is a fine device and works as advertised. The voice commands make phone operation so easy even an old man like myself had no problem getting up and running in minutes.
By Charles Ansman on Mar 1, 2010
does the unit automaticaly stop playing music when the passenger or driver starts to talk?
By franco on Mar 7, 2010
Franco,
Yes, it uses a priority list to determine which function takes precedence. See page 5 of the Scala Rider G4 Manual.
By admin on Mar 7, 2010
Are these sold in pairs or singles.
By Wayne on Mar 10, 2010
Wayne,
Both! The G4 Bluetooth Motorcycle Headset is a single unit and the G4 Powerset Bluetooth Motorcycle Headsets is a pair of units in one box.
By admin on Mar 10, 2010
299 a piece or 299 a pair? (for the GR Powerset) and lastly, can I adapt them to my half helmet?
By Wayne on Mar 11, 2010
Wayne,
Our current price (as of 03/13/2010) is $249.99 for the Scala Rider G4 (the single unit) and $399.99 for the Scala Rider G4 Powerset which is the 2 unit set.
As for adapting them to your half-helmet, the Scala Rider products will work on half-helmets but you need to have the speakers over your ears…
)
– If you have a half-helmet with speaker pockets, then simply put the speaker in the pockets and you’re good to go
– if not, then many people are able to use the soft side of their helmet straps to position the speakers over their ears
– if not, we had one customer sew a strip of velcro (the soft side) across the “V” of her helmet straps so she could position the speakers perfectly over her ears (leave it to a woman to come up with an inexpensive, perfect solution to her problem
By admin on Mar 13, 2010
what about replacing the speakers with ear buds?
By Wayne on Mar 13, 2010
Wayne,
The units aren’t available with earbuds but I guess you could replace the speakers with earbuds yourself if you had the skills and could find 32ohm earbuds.
If you try it, let us know how it works out for you.
By the way, this would definitely void your warranty.
By admin on Mar 16, 2010
I have purchased the Scala G4 in a pair set, but am having difficulty with locating FM stations to set. Should not have this difficulty in the Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas metroplex. Anyone else having this problem?
By Terry on May 14, 2010
Terry,
You should be able to receive FM stations especially in a large metro area. Get in touch with Cardo Systems at http://www.cardosystems.com/us/support/contact-us They will be able to help you out.
By admin on May 14, 2010
I got the G4 today and i’m happy of the system:)..but i got a Question?..I got a nuvi 1390t gps bluetooth and i’m trying to connect it to my G4,and somehow can’t do it?? any tips how??? thanks
By Jhun on May 19, 2010
Jhun,
Garmin has many GPS units which don’t follow the Bluetooth standard and your unit may be one of them. The new version of firmware for the G4 addresses issues with some of those Garmin GPS units. Get in contact with Cardo Systems and see if the new version of the firmware will help you out.
By admin on May 20, 2010
Are there any preference in the corded vs boom options? Is the quality of the corded mic good enough since you wont be able to situate the mic closer to your mouth?
By calvin on Jun 28, 2010
Calvin,
The corded microphone mount is preferred by some people with full face helmets because they have limited room at the chin of their helmet and they can mount the microphone closer to the front of their mouth. I don’t have much room at the chin of my helmet but I haven’t had any issues with the boom microphone being at the corner of my mouth. The choice is what you feel more comfortable with.
By admin on Jul 1, 2010