Helpful, timely advice and reviews for and by female (and male) motorcyclists

Chatterbox XBi / Scala Rider Teamset Pro Comparison

August 24, 2010 – 2:47 pm
Many of you have asked for a side by side comparison of the Chatterbox XBi and the Scala Rider Teamset Pro offered by Cardo Systems. Both of these units are for wireless, bluetooth communication between the rider and passenger only (not bike to bike). Here is a comparison chart showing many of the features found in both units. Chatterbox XBi  Chatterbox XBi vs Scala Rider Teamset Pro Comparison Data   ChatterboxXbi ScalaRider TeamSet Pro Talk Time 6-8 hours 10 hours Standby Time 48 hours 1 week Auto Volume Adjustment Call Reject Conference Calling FM Radio Intercom - Bike to Bike Intercom - Rider To Passenger Pairing to Bluetooth devices Multi Pairing Noise Cancellation Microphone Redial Voice Dial MP3 Connectivity Dual ultra slim speakers Available with earbuds Fits virtually all helmets Internal, rechargeable battery Removable Non Removable Boom or wired microphone Both Boom (wired mic available separately) Stereo Audio Broadcasting A2DP stereo Retail cost (USD) $179.99 each $249.99 a pair Scala Rider Teamset Pro  We hope this has answered many of your questions about the Chatterbox XBi and the Scala Rider Teamset Pro but if not, feel free ...

Better Sound Quality From Motorcycle Headsets

August 20, 2010 – 9:17 am
Motorcycle headsets can have pretty poor sound quality but many times it isn't the fault of the headset. Proper positioning of the speakers inside the helmet is crucial to good sound quality. The speakers should be positioned in such a way that they cover the ear. If the speaker is off to one side or the other, you will hear very little volume or no sound at all. Reposition the speakers so they are centered over top of the ear canal of each ear. Secondly, the speakers should actually be touching your ear. In many helmets, that isn't an issue as the liner comes in contact with the ear and when the speaker is attached on top of it, the liner holds the speaker against the ear. However, some helmets have a cavity at the ears. This will reduce both your sound quality and volume. ...

Which Chatterbox Is Right For Me?

August 19, 2010 – 9:49 pm
We are in the process of adding Chatterbox motorcycle communication units to our web page so we thought we would give you a rundown on them. Chatterbox offers two types of communication units: Intercoms and Transmitters Chatterbox Intercoms (XBi and XBi2) These models communicate at shorter distances and are much smaller in size (Chatterbox's most popular models). They call them intercoms because they communicate like an intercom or telephone conversation. You can speak at the same time and talk over each other if needed. The noise reducing microphone is always "on". The Chatterbox XBi is the rider to passenger ONLY unit with a range of 10 feet. The Chatterbox XBi2 is the bike to bike version with a range of a 1/4 mile. The XBi2 can communicate among 3 total units at the same time. Lastly, these models are both equipped with Bluetooth. This means ...

New Scala Rider Q2 Multiset?

July 26, 2010 – 1:43 pm
We have been getting a lot of questions about the new Scala Rider Q2 Multisets that are out now. It seems that there are several people spreading misinformation about the new Q2 Multisets. For one thing, they're not new. Well, the packaging is new but what is inside isn't! Scala Rider Q2 Multiset packaging: Original, Interim, Final (Note the change in logo) Cardo Systems is going through a rebranding process for the Scala Rider product line. They are using a new logo for Scala Rider products and all the packaging is getting a new look (along the same lines as the Scala Rider G4s). So, what's in the new Q2 Multisets? The same Q2 with a brand new logo on the side. It is still the same solid, dependable workhorse that made Scala Rider a household name among the motorcycling community. Disappointed? Don't be. ...

Scala Rider, Water Resistant?

July 16, 2010 – 11:52 am
We have heard a lot of rumors going around about Scala Riders and how they handle wet weather. Yes, the Scala Rider is water resistant. That means you can't scuba dive with it but it does not mean that you can't use it in the rain. Manufacturing a motorcycle headset (or motorcycle anything) that can't get wet is just stupid. If you ride, you are going to get wet eventually. However, many people are saying that Scala Riders can't get wet and if they do, you will void your warranty. This is simply incorrect. I, personally, have used a Scala Rider in the rain before without issues of any kind. In fact, we put this issue to the Scala Rider Customer Service Manager and here is his response: "If a customer has a problem with a unit as a result of riding in ...