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I don't have any experience trying to use any communication device on the bike. I suspect the advice of using good ear plugs and then turning up the volume for helmet speakers is sound.
This tactic successfully has blown my speakers out twice - I still haven't found a solution that both works for my ear canals, square head etc AND allows me to hear my communication device. As others have said here, experimentation is expensive!
Up until now communicators made by Collet Communications (now defunct Canadian brand that served both the motorcycle and snowmobile market). I bought two sets of spare speakers when they were doing their out of business blow out sale. I liked them because they reserved frequencies for different brands of bikes and never found any channel clutter with a 2km range to boot. Looks like I may have to upgrade to something like the Sena however outfitting two bikes/helmets gets pricey.
You might want to look into "S-Plug" earphones. I use them just to listen to music on the road and they do a good job. If your com unit can accept a standard 1/8 inch plug then you are set.
These are the best I've used. Short, stout cords, so easy to keep untangled. Very durable, and all day comfortable.
I'd agree with the Sena any ear plugs would still allow for clear sound. I personally prefer custom made plugs as they fit perfectly and do not continue to expand and put pressure on my ears which causes pain after long hours on the bike. However the best foam type earplugs in have found are http://www.howardleight.com/earplugs/laser-lite
Yes they do. After few years. But really, is $40 to $60 every three to five years really an expense worth being concerned about when considering the comfort and the offsetting expense of disposable earplugs over the same period of time?I've heard that after a while (years?), custom made/fit earplugs lose their fit as the ear changes shape slightly or for some other reason. Any feedback from anyone on this from someone who has had them for a long time? Hesitant to spend that much money for something that might not work after 2-5 years. I can buy a lot of disposables or even S Plugs/Lee Parks plugs over that period for that money.
I've heard that after a while (years?), custom made/fit earplugs lose their fit as the ear changes shape slightly or for some other reason. Any feedback from anyone on this from someone who has had them for a long time? Hesitant to spend that much money for something that might not work after 2-5 years. I can buy a lot of disposables or even S Plugs/Lee Parks plugs over that period for that money.
... I have two pairs - the most recent about five years old, the other pair over 10 years old. ...
No one on this thread has mentioned the right way to insert foam earplugs - and this info is important; NO foam earplug is going to do its job if you just shove it in, as I've seen many riders do. Here is the drill: 1. moisten the earplug with your mouth to help it slide in, 2. roll up the earplug to make it as narrow as possible, 3. reach over the top of your head with your right hand (for the left earplug, vice versa for the right earplug) and pull up on the top of your ear. This opens up the ear canal. 4. slide the earplug deeply into you ear and hold it in place with your index finger until it has fully expanded and NOT pushed itself partly out. 5. Very carefully put on your helmet so you don't dislodge either ear plug. 6. Perform the "stomp test." If heavy steps sound a lot like a bass drum in your head, the earplugs are doing their job and you are good to go. If not, remove the helmet and start over.
rdalland (#34) I believe moistening disposable plugs is important. Not sure it matters whether you do it before or after rolling them.
I've had 3 or 4 custom plugs made. Two of them were done at M/C shows, each by different company, but both using the foam in the ear injection molded stuff. Both of these styles were quite large, and fit flush with the outside of the ear canal. Both pair were easily dislodged, and both transmitted noise from the helmet into the ear. Absolutely worthless.
Marked the exterior part which stood out a fraction with a Sharpie then cut off a fraction of an inch with a razor blade knife.