Gear

Sena 50R And 50S Bluetooth Headset Preview

Sena shows off its new top-spec Bluetooth-enabled motorcycle communication headset.

April 28, 2020

Sena Technologies releases its new top-of-the-line Bluetooth headset in the 50R and 50S. Both headsets benefit from louder speakers, a new form factor and enhanced Bluetooth and Mesh 2.0 intercom software.Sena Technologies

Sena Technologies has unveiled its new top-of-the-line wireless and Bluetooth-enabled motorcycle headset in the 50S and 50R. Smaller than a deck of cards, the device attaches to a motorcycle helmet and facilitates communication with the rider’s smartphone and/or other riders who wear Sena headsets. For 2020, the 50S and 50R offer improved form factor, wireless connectivity, charging, and, perhaps most importantly, the speaker setup for a superior riding experience.

Related: How To Install A Sena 20S

The Sena 50R Bluetooth headset is the slimmer of the two options. It benefits from a smaller form factor and four-button configuration instead of the S model’s multi-function dial.Sena Technologies

The 50R is the sleeker of the two units and uses a four-button interface. The 50S on the other hand utilizes a multifunction dial (in addition to two buttons) to manipulate settings. It also benefits from a slightly larger battery. Both devices use Bluetooth 5.0 technology (used to wirelessly pair your smartphone or GPS) and Sena’s proprietary Mesh 2.0 communication software. Mesh 2.0 enables more stable data transfer and communication between up to 24 riders with compatible headsets. Range is listed at 1.2 miles, claims Sena. Additionally range can be extended to 5 miles while riding with a group of six or more. Existing 30K, Momentum EVO, and +Mesh users can upgrade their devices free of charge with the Mesh 2.0 Firmware Update that will be released May 1, 2020.

Riders who want slightly longer battery life and a multi-function dial in lieu of traditional buttons will appreciate the design of the 50S.Sena Technologies

The charging system has been redesigned and the mini-USB-style charging input has been jettisoned for a more modern USB-C design. Sena claims a 30-percent improvement in charge time with it reaching full charge in one hour. The 50R has a rated Bluetooth talk time of 13 hours and eight hours of Mesh intercom use. The S model boosts talk time by one hour across either setting.

New speakers produce 60 percent greater audio clarity and volume with elevated bass. This will be a big improvement for riders who routinely travel at freeway speeds. The speakers use a bevel-shape to enhance fitment and mitigate irritation against the rider’s ears.

iOS- and Google-compatible voice commands with support for eight languages allow users to talk to their smartphone and manipulate the settings.

Updating the firmware on Sena headsets has always been a pain. Sena has made it less of a chore by including a Wi-Fi-enabled dongle that automatically updates the headset to the latest firmware.

Both Sena headsets are available now and are priced just over 13 percent more than the 30K headset, which will continue to be offered in Sena’s lineup.