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Riding a motorcycle requires constant focus and rapid decision-making skills. Anything less than complete and total presence on two wheels could be a safety issue, even deadly. As such, you might think listening to music with a Bluetooth system for a motorcycle helmet could be an unnecessary distraction on two wheels. So, is it legal to listen to music on your motorcycle?

It’s not illegal to listen to music on your motorcycle, and Bluetooth systems make listening to music, making calls, and using navigation a cinch

No, it’s not illegal to listen to tunes while you ride a motorcycle. If anything, music may help riders stave off fatigue or boredom on long rides. That, and soothing music may have a subconscious relaxation impact on riders. However, when a rider listens to music, even at a raised volume, they aren’t breaking the law any more than a motorist listening to music in their car. 

Not only is listening to music on your motorcycle legal, but it’s also easy with an out-of-the-box Bluetooth communication setup. For instance, the Cardo PACKTALK EDGE connects to a full-face, modular, or ¾ shell helmet. The Cardo system integrates a set of JBL speakers. Fortunately, some helmets have space under the innermost padding for speakers and microphone connections. My Shoei RF-SR, for instance, had space for the Cardo system’s JBL speakers and wired microphones. 

A Cardo Packtalk Edge Bluetooth system for a motorcycle helmet.
A helmet with a Bluetooth system | Cardo

Better yet, unlike some cheap, flimsy systems, the PACKTALK EDGE features clear, sharp fidelity– a must on a motorcycle. However, Bluetooth systems aren’t just for listening to music and making calls; I paired my Bluetooth system with a handlebar-mounted smartphone holder. As such, I can reference a navigation app like Google Maps as I listen to turn-by-turn navigation prompts through my Cardo PACKTALK EDGE system’s speakers. It’s night and day compared to the analog practice of stopping to reference a map or smartphone. 

What’s more, out-of-the-box Bluetooth systems can connect via a universal intercom with other riders. As such, a gathering of motorcyclists can stay in touch on group rides without having to place individual calls.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).