Bluetooth Half Helmets That Work? Try Sena Cavalry 2
Evan Rally
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Half helmets are all about freedom, until you try to talk to someone. Most Bluetooth headsets weren’t built for open-face riding. Boom mics whip in the wind. Audio turns to static over 40 mph. And just when you need directions or a call to come through? The connection drops—again.
The Sena Cavalry 2 is a rare exception. It’s the only half helmet with a factory-installed Mesh intercom and a wind-shielded hidden microphone that actually holds up at speed. No clamps. No duct tape. No shouting into the void, just clean, reliable communication in a purpose-built shell.
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In this guide, we break down the top Bluetooth half helmet options, from plug-and-play setups like the Cavalry 2 to high-performance DIY builds using the Sena SPH10H-FM and Cardo Packtalk Pro. If you’re done settling for dropped calls and muffled audio, you’re in the right place.
Top Picks for Bluetooth Half Helmets & Setups
Whether you want an all-in-one solution or the best parts for a custom setup, these are the top choices that deliver.
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Best DIY 
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The only half helmet with a factory-installed Mesh intercom system and a hidden microphone. The ultimate in seamless, modern communication for half helmet riders. | A purpose-built headset for half helmets, featuring boom-mounted speakers and a jog dial for easy control, delivering clear audio where other headsets fail. | A popular half helmet with a comfortable long oval fit and a drop-down sun shield, making it a fantastic and stylish foundation for adding your own communicator. |
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The only half helmet with a factory-installed Mesh intercom system and a hidden microphone. The ultimate in seamless, modern communication for half helmet riders.
- Premium fiberglass shell with aerodynamic design
- Built-in speakers and hidden mic for seamless communication
- Mesh 2.0 supports group chats with up to 24 riders
- DOT approved, low profile, Bluetooth ready
- Wind noise reduction is limited above 60 mph
A purpose-built headset for half helmets, featuring boom-mounted speakers and a jog dial for easy control, delivering clear audio where other headsets fail.
- Large jog dial makes volume and track control easy
- Built-in FM tuner adds entertainment off-bike
- Helmet-specific fit snugly integrates on half lids
- 4-way intercom allows multiple riders to chat
- Bluetooth 3.0 tech is dated compared to newer units
- Not fully waterproof—best for moderate weather
A popular half helmet with a comfortable long oval fit and a drop-down sun shield, making it a fantastic and stylish foundation for adding your own communicator.
- Lightweight KPA shell reduces neck fatigue
- Built-in sun visor blocks glare on the fly
- Flow-through vents keep your head cool
- Quick-release micrometric strap is glove-friendly
- Sun visor optics are a bit distorted
- Limited color options beyond basic finishes
Before You Buy: Common Myths About Bluetooth Half Helmets
Let’s clear the air on a few things before you spend your hard-earned cash.
“You can’t get good audio quality in a half helmet.” False. While challenging, it’s not impossible. The Sena Cavalry 2’s hidden mic and the unique boom-speaker design of the Sena SPH10H-FM are engineered specifically to overcome wind noise and deliver surprisingly clear audio.
“A Bluetooth half helmet is just a gimmick that won’t last.” The Cavalry isn’t a toy. It’s built with a fiberglass composite shell and a comms system from an industry leader. It’s a real piece of protective equipment with integrated tech, not a cheap gadget glued on.
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“Any clamp-on headset works well with a half helmet.” Not really. This is where most riders get frustrated. A standard boom mic on a half helmet is completely exposed to the wind. You need a headset with a high-quality, noise-canceling boom mic or a purpose-built system like the SPH10H-FM.
“The integrated system can’t be as good as a high-end clamp-on.” In this case, it is. The system in the Cavalry 2 is equivalent to the Sena Spider RT1, a modern Mesh intercom unit. And a premium DIY setup using a Cardo Packtalk Pro can offer the absolute best audio quality available.
So, What’s the Big Deal with the Sena Cavalry 2?
Getting a headset to work on a half helmet is usually a joke. You’re left with a boom mic dangling in the wind, picking up more hurricane noise than your actual voice. It’s clumsy, looks ridiculous, and barely works over 40 mph.
That’s the exact problem the Sena Cavalry 2 was built to solve.
Its killer feature, the thing that sets it apart from every other option, is the hidden microphone. Sena didn’t just stick a mic on a boom; they built it right into the brow of the helmet. That’s why the Sena Cavalry 2 is the undisputed king of this category because it’s the only half helmet on the market with a fully integrated, modern communication system. The big news for the V2 is the upgrade to a Mesh intercom, equivalent to Sena’s Spider RT1 system. This means you can connect with a virtually limitless number of other Sena Mesh riders with incredible stability.
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The real magic, however, is the execution. The speakers are recessed just above the ears, and the microphone is brilliantly hidden in the brow of the helmet. This completely eliminates the need for a boom mic hanging in the wind. The result is surprisingly clear audio for both you and the person you’re talking to, even up to highway speeds. The helmet itself is a quality DOT-rated fiberglass composite shell with a comfortable intermediate oval fit.
A sleek half-shell helmet with fully integrated Bluetooth and noise-reducing audio features. Shockingly clear mic with no boom - it's hidden in the brow.
- Premium fiberglass shell with aerodynamic design
- Built-in speakers and hidden mic for seamless communication
- Mesh 2.0 supports group chats with up to 24 riders
- DOT approved, low profile, Bluetooth ready
- Wind noise reduction is limited above 60 mph
The Catch? The intercom is Mesh only. It will not communicate with older Bluetooth-only headsets via intercom (though it still connects to your phone via Bluetooth for music/calls/GPS). The included peak visor is designed to stay on; the look underneath is unfinished if you remove it.
The Silver Lining: The integrated hidden mic is a game-changer. You get all the benefits of communication without the hassle or look of a boom mic. The value is also excellent—you get a quality helmet and a modern Mesh system for less than buying them separately.
Alternative Option: There is no direct integrated alternative. The only other path is the DIY route: pairing a helmet like the LS2 Rebellion Helmet with a purpose-built headset like the Sena SPH10H-FM.
Our Rating 4.7/5: The Sena Cavalry 2 is the most elegant and effective communication solution for half helmet riders. The hidden mic and Mesh intercom are phenomenal features that make it the clear winner in its class.
Bluetooth Half Helmets & Comm Setups
If you’re committed to riding in a half helmet but want a setup that fits your exact needs, the DIY route opens up some great possibilities. With the right headset and a half helmet that plays nice with audio gear, you can get surprisingly good performance, sometimes even better sound than the built-in stuff.
Let’s take a look at the best half helmet setups that give you more flexibility without giving up on communication.
LS2 Rebellion Helmet
If you’re planning to build your own Bluetooth comms setup, the LS2 Rebellion is one of the smartest starting points. This half helmet is a top pick for cruiser and V-twin riders who want modern functionality without giving up classic style.
The Rebellion features a long oval internal shape, which is a relief for riders who experience forehead pressure with rounder helmets. Comfort is dialed in even on longer rides, and the lightweight, DOT-certified shell keeps things manageable in hot weather.
Where this helmet really stands out is Bluetooth readiness. LS2 designed the Rebellion with internal speaker cutouts that allow for easy installation of clamp-on Bluetooth headsets. You won’t get those painful pressure points some half helmets are notorious for when you add comms gear.
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It also comes equipped with a drop-down internal sun shield, adjustable to different riding angles and light conditions—ideal for riders who hate fumbling with sunglasses at every stop.
You can choose from multiple graphic styles, including crowd favorites like the ‘1812’ and ‘Bones’, so you don’t have to sacrifice personality for practicality.
The Catch? It is a half helmet, offering minimal protection compared to full-face designs. It does not come with a communication system or pre-molded speaker pockets like the Bell Pit Boss.
The Silver Lining: A true long oval fit in a stylish half helmet. The drop-down sun shield is a massive convenience feature. It’s a comfortable and affordable base for a custom audio setup.
Alternative Option: The Bell Pit Boss Helmet is another excellent host helmet, offering a more traditional look and dedicated speaker pockets, though with a different adjustable fit system. If you’re into classic cruiser or vintage café style, the Pit Boss is a solid pick. But if you’re really leaning retro, our top retro helmets roundup dives deeper into style-focused picks with great protection.
The LS2 Rebellion is a lightweight half helmet featuring a drop-down sun visor, excellent ventilation, and Bluetooth readiness.
- Lightweight Kinetic Polymer Alloy (KPA) shell (approx. 2.1 lbs)
- Comfortable, moisture-wicking liner
- Adjustable top vent for airflow
- Sun visor optics could be clearer
- Limited color options
- Ventilation may be less effective at lower speeds
Our Rating: 4.5/5: The LS2 Rebellion is a top choice for a host helmet due to its comfortable long oval fit and integrated sun shield, making it a stylish and functional base for any clamp-on headset.
Bell Pit Boss Helmet
The Bell Pit Boss is another fantastic choice for a DIY Bluetooth setup. It’s a popular, DOT-approved half helmet renowned for its innovative Speed Dial adjustable fit system. This allows you to turn a dial at the back of the helmet to create a snug, secure fit, which is crucial for both comfort and ensuring the helmet stays put.
What makes it a great audio host are the built-in speaker pockets, which make it incredibly easy to install speakers from a clamp-on communicator without them pressing painfully against your ears. It also includes a drop-down internal sun shield and a removable neck curtain for cooler weather.
It’s a comfortable, feature-rich helmet that’s ready for your choice of headset.
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The Catch? It does not come with a communication system. The included neck curtain, while great for colder weather, can sometimes interfere with the placement of some clamp-on units.
The Silver Lining: You have the freedom to choose any clamp-on headset you want. The adjustable fit system and speaker pockets make it one of the most comfortable and audio-ready non-integrated half helmets on the market.
Alternative Option: The LS2 Rebellion Helmet offers a similar feature set but with a long oval internal shape, which is a better fit for some riders.
A lightweight half helmet built for comfort, sun protection, and all-day cruising.
- Ultra-light TriMatrix shell blends Kevlar, carbon, and fiberglass
- Speed Dial fit system ensures a snug, lift-free ride
- Drop-down sun shield and removable neck curtain for added versatility
- DOT approved, low profile, sun visor
- Limited face protection compared to full-face options
Our Rating 4.5/5: The Bell Pit Boss is our top recommendation for a non-integrated half helmet. Its adjustable fit and speaker pockets make it the ideal foundation for building your own custom Bluetooth setup.
Sena SPH10H-FM Bluetooth Headset
If you already have a half helmet you love and just need to add premium audio, the Sena SPH10H-FM is your go-to solution. Unlike clamp-on units designed for full-face helmets, this system is purpose-built for half helmets—no modification required.
Its standout feature is a pair of adjustable boom-mounted stereo speakers that sit comfortably over your ears. This design allows you to position the speakers exactly where they need to be for clear, immersive sound, even with road and wind noise in the mix.
The glove-friendly jog dial makes volume and playback control intuitive while riding. The unit supports a 2-way Bluetooth intercom with up to 700 meters (760 yards) of range in open terrain, perfect for rider-to-rider communication. A built-in FM radio tuner is also included for riders who like tuning in while cruising.
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The noise-canceling boom mic is specifically tuned for half helmet use, meaning it filters out wind and background noise while still picking up your voice clearly, even at highway speeds.
For riders who want the freedom to keep their favorite lid and still enjoy clear comms, calls, and music, the SPH10H-FM is one of the best-designed options on the market.
The Catch? The boom-mounted speakers are more visually prominent than a fully integrated system. The intercom is 2-way Bluetooth, so it’s best for solo use or rider-to-pillion, not large groups.
The Silver Lining: A purpose-built design that delivers much clearer audio in a half helmet than most universal clamp-on units. The jog dial is incredibly easy to use.
Alternative Option: For a premium DIY setup with the best possible audio and Mesh group connectivity, pairing a helmet with the flagship Cardo Packtalk Pro is the ultimate choice, though it uses a traditional boom mic.
A helmet-ready Bluetooth 3.0 intercom designed for half helmets, offering clear 4‑way intercom, FM radio, jog-dial controls, and 700 m range—built for simplicity and versatility.
- Large jog dial makes volume and track control easy
- Built-in FM tuner adds entertainment off-bike
- Helmet-specific fit snugly integrates on half lids
- 4-way intercom allows multiple riders to chat
- Bluetooth 3.0 tech is dated compared to newer units
- Not fully waterproof—best for moderate weather
Our Rating 4.5/5: The Sena SPH10H-FM is the best purpose-built headset for a DIY half helmet setup. Its unique speaker design and jog dial control make it a smart and effective solution.
Cardo Packtalk Pro
If you’re building a DIY setup and want the best-in-class audio, group communication, and tech features, the Cardo Packtalk Pro is the undisputed top-tier choice. This is Cardo’s new flagship communicator, built on years of proven performance and now enhanced with crash detection, voice-activated operation, and 45mm JBL speakers that deliver truly rich, high-volume sound even at highway speeds.
It runs on Cardo’s 2nd Generation Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC) system, currently the most robust group comms platform available, offering seamless, self-healing connectivity for up to 15 riders with no pairing headaches. The Packtalk Pro is also fully IP67 waterproof, meaning rain, sweat, or dust won’t slow it down.
For half helmet riders, the included boom mic and noise-canceling software offer the best possible performance short of an integrated system. While any open-face setup will deal with wind challenges, Cardo’s advanced audio processing and mic gain tuning help minimize that interference, especially when paired with proper placement and optional wind covers.
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The Cardo Packtalk Pro is Cardo’s new flagship, but if you’re still torn between the big players, we’ve broken it all down in our Cardo Packtalk Edge vs. Sena 50S comparison. Spoiler: there’s no one-size-fits-all.
The Catch? The price is significant. It uses a standard boom mic which will be exposed to wind, though its noise-canceling is excellent.
The Silver Lining: You get the best audio quality and most advanced features available in a clamp-on unit, which you can mount to any half helmet you choose. Crash detection adds a layer of safety.
Alternative Option: The Sena SPH10H-FM offers a more purpose-built physical design for half helmets, though with less advanced Mesh technology and audio quality.
The King of motorcycle intercoms and Bluetooth headsets, the Pro comes with every top of the line feature Cardo offers and their stellar 45mm JBL speakers, the best helmet speakers money can buy.
- 15+ rider intercom over Mesh (even Senas)
- Magnetic air mount
- Auto on-off
- Crash detection and emergency call
- 45mm JBL speakers in the box (the best)
- Costs as much as a mid-range helmet
Our Rating 4.9/5: The Cardo Packtalk Pro is the ultimate choice for a high-performance DIY setup, offering the best audio, Mesh tech, and safety features you can get in a clamp-on unit.
Comparison Tables
Here’s how the integrated helmet compares to the best DIY host helmets, followed by a look at the headset options.
Comparison Table: Half Helmets (Integrated & DIY Hosts)
| Feature | Sena Cavalry 2 (Integrated) | LS2 Rebellion (DIY Host) | Bell Pit Boss (DIY Host) |
| Primary Style | All-in-One Half Helmet | Stylish Half Helmet | Classic Half Helmet |
| Key Protection | DOT Fiberglass Shell | DOT HPTT Composite Shell | DOT Polycarbonate Shell |
| Comms System | Integrated Sena Mesh | Pockets for Speakers (System Separate) | Pockets for Speakers (System Separate) |
| Internal Sun Visor | No (Peak Visor Included) | Yes | Yes |
| Fit System | Standard Pads | Standard Pads (Long Oval) | Speed Dial Adjustable Fit |
| Price Range | $$$ | $$ | $$ |
| Get One | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Comparison Table: Headsets for Half Helmets
| Feature | Sena SPH10H-FM | Cardo Packtalk Pro (Premium) |
| Primary Use | Purpose-Built for Half Helmets | High-Performance Universal |
| Intercom Tech | 2-Way Bluetooth | 2nd Gen DMC Mesh & Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Max Intercom Riders | 4 (Universal BT) | 15 (Mesh) |
| Microphone Type | Boom Microphone | Boom Microphone |
| Speaker Design | Boom-Mounted Speakers | Standard In-Helmet Speakers (45mm JBL) |
| Key Feature | Unique Speaker Design, Jog Dial, FM Radio | Crash Detection, JBL Audio, Voice Operation |
| Waterproof | Water Resistant | Yes (IP67) |
| Price Indicator | $$ | $$$ |
| Get One | Check Price | Check Price |
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Bluetooth Half Helmet
Choosing the right setup comes down to the integrated vs. DIY decision. Here’s what matters for each path.
Path 1: The Integrated Solution (Sena Cavalry 2)
- Intercom Type: Be absolutely sure you understand the Cavalry 2 has Mesh only intercom. If your riding buddies all use Sena Mesh, it’s perfect. If they use older Sena Bluetooth units or Cardo units, you will not be able to talk to them via the intercom.
- Fit: The Cavalry 2 has an Intermediate Oval fit. Since you can’t change the helmet, make sure this is the right head shape for you.
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Fit matters, especially for riders who’ve never felt quite at home in most gear. If you’ve struggled with helmet shape or glove sizing, our women’s motorcycle gloves guide is packed with gear that actually fits right.
- Simplicity: You’re paying for the convenience of a system that works perfectly out of the box with no installation headaches.
Path 2: The DIY Solution (Helmet + Headset)
- The Helmet: Prioritize a helmet with built-in speaker pockets, like the Bell Pit Boss, for easier and more comfortable installation. A helmet with an internal sun shield, like the LS2 Rebellion, is a huge plus.
- The Headset: Look for a unit with a high-quality boom microphone and good noise-canceling technology. A purpose-built system like the Sena SPH10H-FM with its unique speaker setup is ideal. For ultimate performance, a premium unit like the Cardo Packtalk Pro will provide the best audio processing to combat wind noise.
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FAQ: Bluetooth Half Helmets
Still have questions about how all this actually works in the real world? You’re not alone. Half helmets come with unique challenges, and Bluetooth setups aren’t always plug-and-play. Below are answers to the most common questions riders have when trying to get solid audio and comms in an open-face lid.
How does the microphone on the Sena Cavalry 2 work without a boom?
Sena cleverly integrated the microphone into the front brow area of the helmet, just above your eyes. This location is shielded from direct wind blast, allowing it to pick up your voice clearly while the system’s software cancels out the background noise.
Can a Mesh system like the Cavalry 2 talk to a Cardo Mesh headset?
No. Currently, Sena’s Mesh and Cardo’s Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC) are proprietary technologies and are not cross-compatible for Mesh intercom conversations. You can still connect via a universal Bluetooth phone bridge, but you lose the benefits of Mesh. 👉 Learn how to make it work in our Cardo and Sena pairing guide.
Is the audio really loud enough on a half helmet at highway speeds?
It’s a challenge. For the Sena Cavalry 2, users report clear audio up to around 60–65 mph. A purpose-built headset like the Sena SPH10H-FM, with speakers positioned closer to the ear, can perform even better. Your bike’s windscreen and your tolerance for wind noise play a huge role.
If wind noise is a dealbreaker, and you want something quieter that still supports a Bluetooth setup, it might be worth looking at certain full-face or ADV-style helmets. Some enduro and dual sport models have enough space and padding flexibility to work well with clamp-on or integrated comms. 👉 See our top picks for enduro helmets for high-protection alternatives that can still support a comm system with the right setup.
Wrapping Up…
You no longer have to choose between the freedom of a half helmet and the convenience of modern communication. The Sena Cavalry 2 offers a brilliantly simple, all-in-one solution that finally solves the dreaded “boom mic in the wind” problem. It’s a clean, effective, and modern setup.
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If you prefer more choice in your helmet style, the DIY path offers excellent possibilities. By pairing a quality host helmet like the Bell Pit Boss or LS2 Rebellion with a purpose-built headset like the Sena SPH10H-FM, you can build a custom setup that perfectly fits your needs and style.
Either way, adding clear audio and communication to your ride makes every mile safer and more enjoyable.
And if your rides go beyond pavement, especially dual sport or ADV trips, make sure your boots can keep up. We’ve tested the best options in our dual sport boots guide.
