Mesh intercoms tend to lose usefulness once riders go out of range. ASMAX S1 is different, and that difference is all about keeping the group connected. Unlike other intercoms, S1 layers CloudTalk cellular service on top of its eight rider mesh network so that when a rider drops out of mesh range, the group can continue talking using the phone network rather than losing that rider. Touring couples and small groups that split up and rejoin really appreciate this clever trick. S1 sits in the mid to premium segment of our comparison table of intercoms alongside single unit ASMAX F1s reviewed in another blog post. Check current pricing on Amazon.
Communication and Connectivity
The S1 uses ASMAX proprietary mesh technology and supports up to eight riders on one network. ASMAX claims a range of five miles in open terrain but in practice, riding with trees, hills and traffic results in roughly ranging from 700 to 1100 meters between the closest riders. Mesh daisy chaining lets the rest of the group travel much farther behind the lead rider. There are two operational modes. Free Mode is an open Bluetooth intercom whereas Group Mode sets up a private channel just for your group and blocks units outside.
One standout feature of S1 is dual network system 5G. If a rider leaves the mesh range, the unit switches to CloudTalk paired with a smartphone and continues group conversations via cellular rather than dropping that rider. This hybrid approach excels particularly on long adventure tours where riders split off to explore and later rejoin. Bluetooth pairing across different brands also handles calls with Cardo or Sena units.
Audio Quality
The S1 uses 40 mm speakers that are tuned both for voice and music. Owners consistently describe audio as clean and loud enough to remain enjoyable while driving at high speeds wearing full face helmets. Music can be shared between paired S1 units and FM radio is there for rural riders where streaming is unreliable. Background music continues to play while you get directions via GPS or intercom calls.
Noise Cancellation
ASMAX boom microphone with foam windscreen transmits clear voice to all riders in a group of eight. Owners report that voices are easy to distinguish even when riders are packed closely on narrow roads. ASMAX applies noise cancellation to outgoing voice to reduce wind and rumble from roads. S1 performs well up to about 70 mph if fitted with full face helmet. Open and quarter helmets let in more wind at sustained speed and this is true of all mesh intercoms in this class. ASMAX also regularly updates tuning via FOTA and these updates are a nice long term benefit.
Build Quality and Installation
Mount is thin clamp slide with adhesive backing plate. Body is waterproof for normal riding and owners report no failures after prolonged exposure to rain. Smart voice control is built in so you can handle common tasks without taking your hands off handlebars. Intercom and phone functions use physical buttons and volume is controlled by a rotary dial. First helmet installation takes about fifteen minutes and subsequent ones are much faster. Speaker pads with Velcro backing drop into standard helmet ear pockets. Boom microphones included for modular and open face helmets and wired mics with fabric windshields handle tight full face lids. ASMAX app handles firmware updates, group creation and EQ settings.
Battery Life and Charging
ASMAX rates talk time for S1 at 15 hours and standby time at more than 240 hours and reports that charging via USB-C takes just over 2.5 hours. Riders who mix mesh connectivity with intermittent CloudTalk report finishing the day with 30 to 50 percent battery left which lines up with specs.
What Reviewers Say
Owners average 4.4 stars on more than 1,000 reviews. Consistently owners highlight three positives. Owners get easy life because the 2 pack comes pre paired for touring couples. Reliability of handover to 5G works well where good cellular coverage is available and keeps groups connected over long distances. Many owners also find audio quality better compared to designs at similar price level.
Criticisms are fair. Units struggle in areas with weak cell coverage and revert to mesh only. Minor software issues shipped via FOTA updates frustrate early adopters until follow up firmware fixes them. This is typical behavior for connected devices but information is useful to know.
Browse more intercom reviews for other options.
Who Should Buy This
The ASMAX S1 is a strong choice for couples and pairs of riders who want matching mesh units with cloud long distance communication. Clubs of four to eight members who ride together and split off on adventures and then rejoin will also get good value. FM radio, FOTA updates and Smart Voice Control complete a package undercutting Cardo Packtalk pricing.
Skip if mostly riding where cellular coverage is hard to get because CloudTalk becomes less useful there. If you already own Cardo or Sena gear, staying within that ecosystem makes more sense because mesh only works between ASMAX units. Track riders who need certified radios should look elsewhere. You can check the ASMAX S1 on Amazon to see current pricing, and browse more intercom reviews for other options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the S1 different from the ASMAX F1s?
Both use ASMAX mesh networking. The S1 is sold as a pair of two units while the F1s is a single unit. The S1 supports up to 8 riders while the F1s supports 10, and the S1 is sold as a matched pair.
Is CloudTalk free to use?
CloudTalk routes group chats using cellular data when you are beyond mesh range. ASMAX charges no subscription fee, though your carrier data plan applies.
How realistic is the five-mile range?
That range only works well in open terrain with a clear line of sight. In typical mixed terrain, adjacent riders are separated by roughly 700 to 1100 meters. Each rider relays the mesh, and this extends the total reach of the group.
Does the S1 pair with Cardo or Sena units?
Yes. It pairs via universal Bluetooth for two-person voice calls. Only ASMAX S1 units along with compatible ASMAX models join into the eight-person mesh.
How long does the battery last?
Rated for 15 hours of talking and 240 hours of standby time. Typically after riding all day with intercom and music going, there are 30 to 50 percent of battery left. Having a USB-C outlet mounted on the bike is helpful for tours that last more than one day.