Sena 50s mesh vs Shoei Neotec ll SRL

[offroadfx4_imp]

2/5 guys I ride with just upgraded to the Sena 50 mesh coms.

From what I understand they have an upgrade program where you can trade in your old Sena for some credit on your purchase.

The mesh is suppose to connect automatically with better range etc than Bluetooth.

But you are limited on Bluetooth connections.

My warning or advice is if you have an integrated SRL Sena like I have on my Shoei Neotech ll you can't upgrade to the mesh system.

The best you can do is get an adapter that pairs your Bluetooth with the adapter and the adapter pairs with the mesh system.

This adapter (looks like a little walkietalkie) has to be mounted in best line of sight to the other coms... like to top of helmet, handle bar etc and cost $100.

I'm disappointed my 1-2 year old $300 com can't be upgrade without this clunky adapter but that's just the way it goes I guess.

So if you're thinking about getting a helmet with an integrated com you might want to think twice if you want the mesh system.

[LongRanger_imp]

Great point about trying to upgrade if your com system is built into your helmet and the new mesh capability is something you need. I purchased a set of Sena 20S Evo’s two years ago and have been extremely happy with them. I don’t chat with other bikes but I do use them to chat with my pillion. Mostly I use them to connect to my iPhone for music and access to hands-free calls. I’m not reliant on GPS and don’t bother connecting to it. For my purposes, I’m not interested in upgrading to the 50’s simply for their expanded mesh capability — I have no need for it.

[KiowaEagle_imp]

I was talking to a riding buddy the other day that said he had connected with a group of others using older Sena's and daisy chaining them as opposed to using mesh. He said it wasn't perfect but it worked. I didn't have a chance to get into details with him. I'll try to find out more the next time I see him.

To be honest I don't see the point of mesh. I use my 20s on group rides to connect between the leader and sweep but I wouldn't want everybody in my ear, too distracting.

[LongRanger_imp]

I suppose if you were leading a tour, it could be helpful to have everyone connected, but otherwise, I agree with you.

[Mtneers]

Last I checked at buysena.com, both the 50S and 50R were out of stock. Upgrade program ends 6/30. For now, I’ll keep using he 20S I’ve used for the past 5 years.


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[offroadfx4_imp]

Great point about trying to upgrade if your com system is built into your helmet and the new mesh capability is something you need. I purchased a set of Sena 20S Evo’s two years ago and have been extremely happy with them. I don’t chat with other bikes but I do use them to chat with my pillion. Mostly I use them to connect to my iPhone for music and access to hands-free calls. I’m not reliant on GPS and don’t bother connecting to it. For my purposes, I’m not interested in upgrading to the 50’s simply for their expanded mesh capability — I have no need for it.

I envy you for living in such a great riding area and having all those great roads/passes memorized!

SW CO is still on my bucket list, hope we can ride that area someday!

I was talking to a riding buddy the other day that said he had connected with a group of others using older Sena's and daisy chaining them as opposed to using mesh. He said it wasn't perfect but it worked. I didn't have a chance to get into details with him. I'll try to find out more the next time I see him.

To be honest I don't see the point of mesh. I use my 20s on group rides to connect between the leader and sweep but I wouldn't want everybody in my ear, too distracting.

When we had a group of 4 for a 17 day trip last summer we had to create a group on the sena app to get everyone connected. Once it was done it was ok, but a pain to set up.

Now we have different riders in and out on local trips where mesh would be more convenient with the auto connect.

I never thought much about talking on a com since I did most of my miles alone....but after experiencing that group connection I miss it when not connected. It sure helps melt the miles away in longer trips and takes your mind of the saddle sores ;-)

Maybe I'm one on the ones who 'talk too much' lol so I don't notice the conversation being too much. In general is like a group sitting around a table talking, self modulating and sometimes silent except for watch that car, anyone need a restroom break, gas etc.

If there are just 2, blue tooth is easy and I highly recommend trying it.

I did order the adapter, so I'm ready for any situation LOL

[offroadfx4_imp]

Just one more thing for me to charge before riding LOL

Maybe it will come in handy in NC!