BMW ConnectedRide Com U1 Intercom: Test & Review

What could be better than riding a motorcycle while listening to your favorite song, chatting with your passenger, your friend, or simply being guided by your GPS? The BMW Motorrad ConnectedRide Com U1 intercom promises all these features and more, representing an innovation in rider communication. With smooth and efficient technology, this easy-to-use accessory ensures a significant improvement in your riding experience.

This universal intercom quickly became a top seller, mainly because it is universal and compatible with all helmets and devices. So, after exploring it in detail, our team had to test this new BMW ConnectedRide device and provide you with a complete review of the experience. Here is our test and review of the BMW ConnectedRide Com U1 intercom.

Introducing the ConnectedRide Com U1

The ConnectedRide Com U1 intercom, created in collaboration with Sena, a well-known brand in the intercom field, was developed to offer motorcyclists an exceptional communication experience.

The technologies of the BMW motorcycle intercom ConnectedRide Com U1

Let's take a first look at the technologies offered by this BMW Com U1 intercom, as there are many! Firstly, like any intercom, the ConnectedRide Com U1 offers Bluetooth connectivity and can be connected to multiple devices at once. In addition, there is an extra connection mode: Mesh 2.0, offering additional possibilities. One can also count the radio as an additional listening technology, although it is one-way.

There are two particularly appreciated technologies in this ConnectedRide communication system: noise reduction, ideal for making phone calls on the road, and the use of voice commands (available in 8 languages).

An app is available to control the intercom via your smartphone, and it is a Sena app.

As a universal BMW intercom, the Com U1 is designed to fit all types of helmets, regardless of their shape.

Performance of the ConnectedRide Com U1 Intercom

On paper, the ConnectedRide intercom offers good performance, while providing HD sound. You can expect an intercom that offers up to 13 hours of autonomy on Bluetooth or 8 hours on Mesh for a charge of just one hour.

The range also varies depending on the chosen connection mode, with up to 2 kilometers on Bluetooth and up to 8 kilometers on Mesh.

Additionally, the number of participants in the conversation is quite limited on Bluetooth but unlimited on Mesh.

Installation of the BMW Motorrad ConnectedRide Intercom: First Impressions

The first step for me was to install the intercom on my Xomo helmet. We start with a promising unboxing, the box presents a concise content and a user manual. In total, the installation took me about 30 minutes, the connections were very simple.

The launch was immediate when I turned it on, with very clear and concise voice instructions. I used the different pairing modes to connect the intercom to my phone and to another intercom, which was very simple.

The first experience with the Com U1 ConnectedRide was satisfactory; using the 4 buttons is very easy, even when wearing motorcycle gloves.

Conditions for testing the BMW Motorrad Com U1 intercom

It is important that I explain the conditions in which I carried out my test of the BMW ConnectedRide Com U1 intercom; here is everything you need to know.

I tested this intercom for several weeks (around 4), in the city center, on highways, and during mild enduro rides. Installed on my Xomo helmet, the intercom accompanied me everywhere and in all weather conditions, but especially in very hot weather.

I connected the intercom to my smartphone to test the call, music, and GPS functions, as well as to other intercoms (passenger and other riders). I also tested it with the Com U1 app.

I was able to test the intercom's voice commands in French and English.

Review of the BMW ConnectedRide Com U1 intercom

Now, after several weeks on the road and numerous rides, I can finally share my review of the BMW Motorrad ConnectedRide intercom. Does it live up to its promises?

Highlights of the BMW ConnectedRide Com U1 Communication System

I was pleasantly surprised by the sound quality, which remains very clear even on the road and does not diminish the listening experience. Its features were quite easy to grasp, especially after a few days of use.

I loved the option of using a fast charger, allowing me to quickly recharge the battery while on a ride.

I was able to share music with my passenger while talking to them through the Mesh connection, perfect for long trips.

During a call, my interlocutor confirmed that the noise reduction was effective, only hearing my voice.

Using the app really simplified my use of the intercom, and I appreciated that it displays the battery level in percentage.

Another strong point noted during the unboxing was the presence of a wired microphone and a headset microphone, allowing installation on virtually all types of helmets.

Weaknesses of the BMW ConnectedRide Com U1 Intercom

I did note a few weaknesses for this ConnectedRide communication system, but nothing too serious.

Compared to Mesh connection, it significantly reduces battery life, 5 hours less than in Bluetooth mode, which quickly limits the number of outings possible on a single charge.

Also, in Open Mesh mode, we were surprised by outsiders joining the conversation, but that’s what allows for an unlimited number of participants.

Finally, I found creating a Group Mesh a bit complicated the first few times from the intercom; you have to get the hang of it or, like me, use the app to simplify things.

I found saying "Hey Sena" to use voice commands somewhat reduced the BMW experience, but it's probably easier to say than "Hey, Com U1"!

Finally, I found it unfortunate that the helmet needs to be kept near the outlet while recharging the intercom.

Overall, I really enjoyed the BMW ConnectedRide universal intercom and will certainly use it again. Its few drawbacks are quickly outweighed by the positive experience it offers. I highly recommend it to all motorcyclists, whether you have a BMW helmet or not, as it truly provides extra features compared to a standard intercom and offers a premium experience. Visit our site for this BMW intercom for under 200€ (price subject to change) and many more accessories!