Sena Built An Adventure Motorcycle Helmet With Comms. It Also Has Brakelights

You can only re-invent the wheel so many times. And when it comes to helmet technology, aside from updating the protection parts, there’s not much a company can do to differentiate itself from another.

Most helmets these days, especially in the ADV space, offer a lot of the same stuff. Peaked visor, Pinlock-ready shield, communications compatibility, a drop-down sun visor, and most are made from the same material – carbon fiber. So, how does a brand stand out in a space oversaturated with much of the same?

Sena is known for its Bluetooth communication systems. The kind you stick onto the side of your helmet, then install a wiring loom with speakers and a microphone. Pair that system to your phone, then connect with your friends and loved ones rocking the same comm system, and you can now listen to your significant other complain about being cold during your cross-country ride.

I’m not trying to knock the need or desire for a communication system integrated into your helmet. Honestly, it was a Sena headset that saved my life during a ride from California to Florida. It was dark and there was a car coming toward me in the opposite direction without its headlights on. I didn’t see it, but luckily my riding partner did, and managed to notify me moments before I would have otherwise turned out in front of the headlight-less driver.

But one thing that has always bothered me about these comm systems is the install process. It seems painless, mostly an exercise in Velcro and adhesives, but if you don’t install things correctly, the headphones can dig into your ears, or the microphone and rub against your chin while you ride. Annoying, sure, but not a deal breaker.

Photo by: Sena

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Sena is looking to solve that problem with the introduction of the Outlander, a dual-sport and ADV lid that was purpose-built for riders who split their time between the blacktop and the backcountry. But what sets this new Outlander apart is the built-in Mesh Intercom 3.0, which provides stable and clear communication within a 1.2‑mile range. The comm system also includes Wave Intercom, which uses cellular data to keep groups connected even when they’re spread far apart. Smart.

The Outlander features reinforced, high‑strength materials and a multi‑layered impact‑absorbing structure. Inside the Outlander you’ll find a semi‑oval fit and moisture‑wicking, quick‑drying fabric. The helmet features a peak visor and a Pinlock‑ready clear shield, but if you’re more keen on wearing goggles when you ride, there’s a tool-free system that lets you remove the shield without taking off the peak. Handy.

The integrated audio system is manufactured by Harman Kardon, with premium speakers and microphone tuning built into the helmet. SENA has also incorporated an AI-based noise control protocol to help keep music, calls, and intercom conversations clear in windy conditions or when riding off‑road.

Photo by: Sena

Let’s say you’ve separated from your friends during a late summer ride in the backcountry. Comms are down. You’re too far from them to utilize Bluetooth connectivity. Simply switch between the Mesh and Wave Intercom systems via a new glove‑friendly control layout built around a central joystick (gone is traditional three-button layout), and you should be able to reconnect with your riders, assuming there’s cellular service available.

All of this is built into the new Outlander, meaning the days of stuffing wires underneath your helmet liner are behind you.

Lastly, and perhaps the most interesting feature the Outlander offers, is the integrated lighting system. The helmet includes a built‑in headlight on the chin bar that is designed to improve visibility on dark trails and also features a brake‑activated taillight to alert the friends following you that you’re slowing down or stopping. Notably, the headlight automatically shuts off after ten minutes to preserve battery life, however riders can adjust the auto shut-off via the SENA Motorcycles app.

All of this comes in a helmet with an MSRP of $599, which will be offered in five sizes (Small, Medium, Large, X-Large & XX-Large) and is available now on Sena’s website or at authorized dealers.

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