Communication System on 2011 RT Limited

[Electrified]

Hello, I have a new 11 RTS and did the BRP CB, intercom route and have had no problems what so ever. It is a little pricy, but so was the CB on my goldwings and my victory vision (and the victory had the same thing with the extra cable you needed to buy to get it to work).
I use the ipod, and ipad in the trunk with the connector supplied and the S O says she has more volume control that we ever had on the wing. The vision just worked no problems with it either. I use the J&M headsets (Nolan Helmets) and the lower cord they provided and as stated have no problems. My zumo 660 has not been an issue either. If I switch to aux I can listen to the the music I have on the Zumo as well. If you like integration, I think any of the manufacture's options are the way to go. If you don't mind a little extra to try to get the same functionality there are options out there. If you read here it is unfortunate, but the problems were with the 10 model year and not the 11.

Willy

You are the first one to say there are no problems with the set up. I don't mind spending extra money if it does what it says it will do. Unfortunately, I simply have not found too many people who can corroborate what you are saying as the pool of people that have purchased the 2011RT and the CB set-up is limited. I will keep looking as I have a couple of weeks before we take our extended ride and make a decision.

 

[2NFrnt]

Electrified, you might want to read thru this thread. My input was post #4. It is a workaround solution for the tunes, but it does work real well and we have great intercom and phone access.

http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=27052

 

[Y Rider]

Electrified, check out these two threads. Lots of discussion on bluetoothing the Spyder stereo output.

http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=24907&highlight=phil%27s+mods

http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=27308&highlight=phil's+mods

I haven't completed it yet but so far I have two Nolan N43 Triligy helmets with the Nolan built-in N-Com intercom system. My RT Limited has a Zumo 660 GPS that is BT connected to my N-Com. My Blackberry 9700 is BT connected to the Zumo. All calls coming in and out are easily controlled from the Zumo and in connected to the N-Com headset.

My next step is to connect a Scosche LOC80 speaker to line converter which is a passive device requiring no power to the rear speaker wires. The line converter will connect to a Miccus Blubridge BT transmitter that will connect to the N-Com.

This will give me driver to passenger (or bike to bike) intercom, stereo audio, GPS navigation and cell phone to the N-Com headset.

 

[NancysToy]

Scotty,

I have not had an opportunity to listen to the RT's audio system at highway speeds and am not sure if it is loud enough to hear through full face helmets. To be perfectly honest, I have never owned a bike with a stereo system so I have no idea what to expect. I have been told that using anything other than a full face helmet will allow you to hear bike radio's at highway speed but my wife and I have been whacked in the face far too many time to wear anything other than a full face set-up. In your post above, you mentioned that it is "not necessarily that useful" so I assume that you do not listen to music while riding???? I love listening to music while riding as it really enhances my experience. Thanks for the info!:2thumbs:

I get the feeling that you may be confusing the Spyder's two systems...or that I have confused you. The audio system alone on the Spyder, plays music through the external speakers. I do listen to the music...I prefer music while I ride, but I do not like external systems as well I like as helmet speakers. The Spyder System is loud enough to be heard at highway speeds, windshield down, with my custom earplugs...set at only a bit above half volume. By the same token, at those settings it is a distraction to others. I'm not a fan of noise pollution. I mute it when I enter a town. There is considerable sound distortion with external speakers, due to wind buffeting. It varies with the helmet, speed, and wind conditions.

The Spyder CB/Comm System allows the audio output to be directed to the BRP (or compatible) helmet speakers. The external speakers can be shut off or left functional along with the helmet speakers. The CB/Comm System also adds an intercom function, and CB radio capabilities. You cannot but part of the package.

Aftermarket systems can fulfill all these functions on a stand-alone basis, using their own variety of helmet speakers. They can even integrate additional devices. They are not controllable from the handlebars, or show settings or what's playing, in the dash display, however. As I said, they cannot readily be integrated to the Spyder Audio system...although some degree of integration is possible with skill, ingenuity, and the right components. The stand-alone systems work well, and are generally cheaper. They require additional devices, though...most do not have their own audio components. Having my iPod play through my helmet speakers is adequate for me, but may not be for others. I hope this clears up some of the confusion I may have caused.

 

[Electrified]

I get the feeling that you may be confusing the Spyder's two systems...or that I have confused you. The audio system alone on the Spyder, plays music through the external speakers. I do listen to the music...I prefer music while I ride, but I do not like external systems as well I like as helmet speakers. The Spyder System is loud enough to be heard at highway speeds, windshield down, with my custom earplugs...set at only a bit above half volume. By the same token, at those settings it is a distraction to others. I'm not a fan of noise pollution. I mute it when I enter a town. There is considerable sound distortion with external speakers, due to wind buffeting. It varies with the helmet, speed, and wind conditions.

The Spyder CB/Comm System allows the audio output to be directed to the BRP (or compatible) helmet speakers. The external speakers can be shut off or left functional along with the helmet speakers. The CB/Comm System also adds an intercom function, and CB radio capabilities. You cannot but part of the package.

Aftermarket systems can fulfill all these functions on a stand-alone basis, using their own variety of helmet speakers. They can even integrate additional devices. They are not controllable from the handlebars, or show settings or what's playing, in the dash display, however. As I said, they cannot readily be integrated to the Spyder Audio system...although some degree of integration is possible with skill, ingenuity, and the right components. The stand-alone systems work well, and are generally cheaper. They require additional devices, though...most do not have their own audio components. Having my iPod play through my helmet speakers is adequate for me, but may not be for others. I hope this clears up some of the confusion I may have caused.

Thanks Scotty. I don't believe it was you that caused the confusion but rather me not being able to communicate what I was hoping to achieve. Between your posts as well as others that have commented, I have a very good idea of what I will need to do to get the desired results.

 

[Electrified]

http://www.cardosystems.com/scala-rider/scala-rider-g4-powerset
This is what I use to do just what you're looking for. I can chat with the and pair with my iphone that's hooked into the RT and that lets me change tracks on the iphone with the RT.

You are correct in that what you have described may do exactly what I need. Thanks for the advice.

 

[Electrified]

Electrified, check out these two threads. Lots of discussion on bluetoothing the Spyder stereo output.

http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=24907&highlight=phil%27s+mods

http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=27308&highlight=phil's+mods

I haven't completed it yet but so far I have two Nolan N43 Triligy helmets with the Nolan built-in N-Com intercom system. My RT Limited has a Zumo 660 GPS that is BT connected to my N-Com. My Blackberry 9700 is BT connected to the Zumo. All calls coming in and out are easily controlled from the Zumo and in connected to the N-Com headset.

My next step is to connect a Scosche LOC80 speaker to line converter which is a passive device requiring no power to the rear speaker wires. The line converter will connect to a Miccus Blubridge BT transmitter that will connect to the N-Com.

This will give me driver to passenger (or bike to bike) intercom, stereo audio, GPS navigation and cell phone to the N-Com headset.

I like your way of thinking. Since I don't have the Spyder yet and cannot look at possible mounting places....where do you mount the equipment?? Is there enough room under the seat somewhere or does it go in the trunk???:dontknow:

 

[Y Rider]

I like your way of thinking. Since I don't have the Spyder yet and cannot look at possible mounting places....where do you mount the equipment?? Is there enough room under the seat somewhere or does it go in the trunk???:dontknow:

The line converter and BT transmitter are very small. Plan to velcro to the top half of the rear trunk. The Miccus Blubridge mini-jack transmitter will operate while charging via the USB port. The RTS has a powered 12V accessory outlet also in the rear trunk. Makes for easy access for power and adjustments if required. The only difficult part of this setup is getting access to the rear speaker wires to make the connection to the line converter. I'll tackle this job after I get back from Spyderfest.

 

[stevedfive]

temp solution

I plugged in a bluetooth headset convertor in the rear cargo plug (using the aux 3.5 connector), then sync'ed the convertor to the GPS, set my controls to AUX. I sync'ed my phone to the GPS. I just added music to the GPS memory card and Bam!, got music, GPS directions, and phone to the wired headset.
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[ThreeWheels]

I plugged in a bluetooth headset convertor in the rear cargo plug (using the aux 3.5 connector), then sync'ed the convertor to the GPS, set my controls to AUX. I sync'ed my phone to the GPS. I just added music to the GPS memory card and Bam!, got music, GPS directions, and phone to the wired headset.
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WOW so you can make outgoing calls on your cell phone now .
Terrific. PLEASE post details.
You may have very well found the Holy Grail.

 

[baldman902]

I use the J&M Elite 629 headset with the Vision lower cord in my Nolan n103 helmet and I have no trouble hearing thru the headset my radio or cb and my Garmin 660 GPS!:2thumbs:

 

[GadgetGuy442]

More Weird CB Stuff Happening!! (2010 RT-S with CB, Entertainment Harness & BRP Headset / helmets):

I noticed now, after using CB extensively over the weekend, that the TX will linger for up to 3 seconds about 30% of the time when using the driver's PTT button. When the passenger uses their PTT, it NEVER lingers. Even more interesting, is that after using the CB for about 15 minutes, the linger time reduces to about a quarter of a second when / if it lingers, and the frequency it lingers is reduced to about 10% of the time. Maybe something warms up in the circuitry affecting whatever's going on? Also, while it is "lingering", a quick push of the PTT (driver's button) unsticks it.

Also, when I evaluated the CB in a quiet setting (in garage with ignition on, engine off), the rear speakers broadcast the CB transmission when PTT is pushed. It's not very loud, but it's audible, and only from the rear speakers. It does this whether the "External Speakers" are turned on or off, and regardless of the setting for the "Headset Mode" (Off, Mix or Mute). Also, it's unaffected by the setting of the "Fader" - the CB transmission will always be heard coming out of the rear speakers! Has anyone else noticed this?? :dontknow:

The good new is the CB function is very good... strong, clear transmission and good for plenty of distance.

Bill

 

[stevedfive]

My CB TX sound also comes out the rear speakers, but I only noticed that when the engine was not running, just the switch was turned on.

 

[GadgetGuy442]

Steve,

Thanks for the feedback... I never would have noticed it with the engine running. I wonder if it's designed to do that as a "self-check" so that a tech or operator wouldn't need a partner CB to confirm transmit modulation? Or at least modulation into the transmitter... doesn't really confirm that the transmitter transmits!?

There must be some madness to this method... if that's the way it's designed?

Bill

 

[stevedfive]

You should try it with the engine running to see if the sound comes out the rear speakers. It's madness! I have been working with BRP and my dealer on the whole CB/intercom/GPS headset thing for months. It is a complicated system to say the least. The 2011 RT's don't have these problems. I am hoping that BRP does not write off the 2010 models because it would be too expensive to replace whatever is wrong with it, i.e.; main onboard computer has a bad circuit or something soldered to the wrong connection on the mother board thing. I guess time will tell.

 

[Electrified]

Based on what I have read on this site, it seems like kind of a gamble to purchase the stuff from BRP as some have had an "OK" experience while others have had a bad experience. It doesn't seem like BRP is willing to delve right in and fix problems sometimes so I will probably go BT using some of the suggestions posted previously on this post. The one about tying into the rear speaker seems like a winner to me.

 

[GeoffCee]

If the BRP radio had something as common as a stereo line output it would make it instantly compatible with a variety of headset and amplifier options.

I don't think this is an oversight on BRP's part, there is a BRP exclusivity involved in the whole set up which makes it necessary to purchase a CB radio in order to be able to speak to your pillion passenger. How ridiculous. This expensive and phoney setup can only be there as a money making scam on BRP's part and IMO it stinks.

Just my 2 cents.

 

[Mr. White]

Tomorrow I take my Spyder in for it's 600 miles check. The only real thing I have a problem with is the CB! I have talked to Stevedfive about this and am really aggravated at the very poor overall comm system of the Spyder. My Gold Wing's ('95 and '02) CBs were perfect...

My Spyder transmits maybe 200 yards before it is scratchy and with static to the person in front of me...I can't make out my other buddies (who I ride with every weekend) transmission over 1/8 mile....POOR at best...

I don't ride with a passenger, so that is not a problem. I will see if the dealer can check his installation connections...that is about the end of my electronic knowledge. BRP sure dropped the ball on this part of the Spyder.

Bill says here his CB is strong and clear....WOW....lucky you. I am very disappointed with my CB as I use it a lot in my group riding.

:spyder2:

 

[Marker]

Scala Bluetooth and CB

Hi 'Electrified'

IMHO, at least at this time, investing in the BRP communications system for the Spyder RT is a bad value. Yes. It's 900 bucks, plus whatever you spend in time and/or money to install it. It's a CB/Intercom system. Moreover, its reputation in this forum is troublesome. $900+ for a troublesome unit, 50% of which (the CB) you're unlikely to use doesn't sound like it has bang for your buck.

So if all you're looking for is ryder-to-passenger commo, then look at alternatives. I would recommend the Cardo Scala Rider Multiset. This system is easily integrated into different helmet types, and communicate ryder-to-ryder, or bike to bike at ranges rated up to about a half mile. The entire Cardo investment will be about $340.00

Do I own the Scala? No. I am a single ryder, but do a lot of group and formation work. Therefore, I need a CB or FRS/GMRS bike-to-bike solution. Still, I have to date avoided the BRP solution; again, because of its cost and troublesome reputation. I have two units, both portable with long battery life. My FRS/GMRS solution is a Chatterbox FRS2. My CB Solution is a Midland 82-755 40 ch portable CB. I bought the midland on a package deal from hightechwireless.com, where they have the radio plus a headset, mic and PTT button (to velcro around handlebars). It has a powersave function that pushes rechargeable NiMH or Lithium Ion batteries (chargers provided) to over 12 hours. That's more time than anyone will ever use it in one day. My total investment for both units was $418.00. They work.

Best,

Paul :yes:

P.S. If you don't have any BRP communications equipment on your Spyder, you will find that lonely PTT butt on the front of your left handlebar. Alas, it doesn't work with anything else, but BRPs communications. It is a custom button and sending module that is integrated into the Spyders CAN Bus system, specifically for the BRP CB/Intercom package. I looked into this because I wanted to use it with my other communications gear. No such luck.

Hey Silversurfer.
I am very interested in your setup with midland cb and chatterbox .How did you set your cb to work with your chatterbox at the sametime, and through the same headset.Where did you locate your push to talk button on your handlebars? You will have to excuse my ignorance as I am new to the world of bikes and just got my 2010 Spyder RT SE. I have been looking at sena bluetooth headset and the midland CB . I have found through Sena web site a bluetooth SM10 that fits on 2way radios to make them transmit through their headsets and will connect to a PTT button , I e-mailed them with suggestions on mating the CB and comm system together, but have not heard back yet from them.

Thanks
Marker

 

[ThreeWheels]

You are the first one to say there are no problems with the set up. I don't mind spending extra money if it does what it says it will do. Unfortunately, I simply have not found too many people who can corroborate what you are saying as the pool of people that have purchased the 2011RT and the CB set-up is limited. I will keep looking as I have a couple of weeks before we take our extended ride and make a decision.

I think you'll find in general, people are more likely to post negative comments. This forum is more positive than most, but there is still that posting bias.
I tried installing a Starcom intercom system on my Spyder at first. I wound up with a whine that I could never get rid of. When I hooked up a CB, I could hear my fellow riders, but I was transmitting nothing but static. I understand that I was one of the few that couldn't get the Starcom to work.
I took out the Starcom and had the OEM system connected. I'm pretty happy with it. One feature that I miss is that the OEM system doesn't easily incorporate a cell phone. I've got a work around, but it's a work around, not as good as if it was designed into the system from the beginning.
The advantage is that all the electronics are integrated. You can set the volume controls, sensitivities, ipod, etc from the left hand control cluster. That includes muting the tunes when you want for those times when you just want to hear the wind.
I already owned a Zumo 550 and that integrates into the system quite well.

As always, my free advice comes with a double your money back guarantee.