The F1s is an intercom system for motorcycles. It's priced at 265 dollars for two units. The units are capable of supporting a maximum of ten riders in a group and can recharge their batteries in approximately 50 minutes.
Each unit has a 1250mah battery. The F1s uses the Bluetooth 5.3 wireless standard. Bluetooth is used to communicate with the user's phone and the mesh protocol is used to allow the multiple units to communicate with each other. The F1s is waterproof.
It contains 40mm speakers that have been balanced for clarity when traveling at high speed. One of the unique features of the F1s is its ability to be used while it is charging. This means a rider can take a long trip without needing to worry about running out of battery.
Specifications and Build
The F1s uses a clip-on design with a snap-in mounting system. There are no magnets in the design. Instead, there is a mechanical locking mechanism.
Each unit has a 1250mah battery that takes 50 minutes to fully recharge. Each unit provides 22 hours of continuous talk-time and 35 hours of continuous music playback. Each unit provides standby time of 192 hours.
There are two separate Bluetooth 5.3 modules inside each unit. The first module is dedicated to providing connectivity to the user's phone. The second module provides connectivity to the other units. The units provide protection against water and dust. They have an Ingress Protection rating of 7 (IP67).
The F1s has an equalization-balanced audio profile that is specifically tuned for clarity at highway speeds. Check the ASMX F1s on Amazon for current pricing.
Battery and Charging Details
The 50-minute full charge time is notably faster than most intercoms in this price range. Many competing units take 1.5 to 2.5 hours for a full charge. The 1250mah battery capacity is moderate, but the fast recharge means you can top up during a lunch break or gas stop. The ability to use the unit while charging is a bigger deal than most buyers realize. On multi-day trips, you can run GPS and intercom off a USB power bank mounted to your bars.
Intercom Features
The F1s has a mesh networking capability that allows up to 10 units to communicate with each other simultaneously. If one unit loses connection with the others due to distance or obstruction, the mesh networking capability will automatically reroute communication to ensure all connected units remain in contact with one another. Compare with other options on the motorcycle intercom comparison table.
According to Asmax, the range of the units operating in mesh mode is up to 5 miles (8 kilometers). However, actual range may vary based upon terrain and obstructions.
Asmax also includes Cloud Talk mode, which utilizes a user's cell phone carrier's data plan to enable communication among up to 50 units regardless of distance.
Cloud Talk requires a constant connection to cellular service to operate. Therefore, it cannot be utilized in remote areas lacking cellular service.
However, for large group events utilizing set paths and having reliable access to cellular service, Cloud Talk represents an attractive solution compared to competing products available at similar price points.
Mesh vs Bluetooth Comparison
One thing that sets the F1s apart from cheaper intercoms is the mesh network structure. Traditional Bluetooth intercoms drop the entire group connection when one rider falls out of range. With mesh, the remaining riders maintain their link and the dropped rider can rejoin automatically when back in range. For group rides with 4-10 people, this is a meaningful reliability improvement over standard Bluetooth-only systems.
Audio/Mic Quality
Audio performance of the F1S headsets has received widespread praise from reviewers. Compared to many intercoms offered at this price point, the F1S headsets offer superior bass response.
They also include audio multitasking capabilities via their dual-module setup. Music continues to play while receiving calls or messages via the intercom. Conversely, the intercom takes precedence over music should either receive an incoming call or message.
Noise cancellation was implemented as part of the headsets' feature set and includes seven layers including Encrypted Noise Cancelation (ENC), Digital Signal Processing (DSP), and Conversation Voice Control (CVC) software. Additionally, they incorporate dual hardware filters and foam-wrapped microphones.
Reviewers report that these noise-cancellation capabilities have made a noticeable improvement in call clarity while traveling at higher speeds above 60 mph.
Additionally, the F1S headsets support music-sharing between two units. To initiate music sharing between two units, simply double-press the function button to begin transmitting music to the paired unit. Conversely, pressing the intercom button once will end music transmission.
While quality decreases as distance increases between the two headsets, music sharing works well as long as both headsets are close to each other.
Reviews
The product currently holds a collective rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 1235 total customer reviews. Positive comments regarding the product's performance generally focus on ease-of-use related to the quick-release mounts, effectiveness of noise-cancelation technology at high speeds, and overall value for money relative to comparable offerings from competing manufacturers.
A number of customers reported difficulty navigating aspects of the application-based configuration process associated with setting-up mesh networks and adjusting EQ settings. Others indicated difficulties experiencing acceptable voice-control functionality while driving with open face shields due to increased ambient noise from wind resistance.
In terms of reliability and build-quality, several reviewers stated that issues experienced with earlier versions of the product were resolved through ongoing firmware updates distributed via the company's mobile-application interface. Read more Amazon reviews for this product.
Target Customer Segment
This product is intended for individuals interested in establishing communications between themselves and passengers without incurring costs associated with purchasing individual systems from Cardo or Sena.
Additionally, the faster-than-average 50-minute charging cycle makes this product ideal for long-distance travelers requiring back-to-back day-long periods of operation without downtime.
From a practical standpoint, this product would be suitable for couples desiring rider/passenger comms or pairs frequently traveling together who require affordable, robust comms solutions.
For solo travelers or those solely looking for comms between driver and rider pairs, purchasing individual units would likely represent a cost-effective alternative. See the ASMX F1s on Amazon for the latest deals. Check blog posts for more intercom comparisons and riding tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the F1s work with other brand intercoms?
The F1s supports universal pairing and can connect across brands using Bluetooth, though compatibility varies. The mesh network is proprietary to ASMAX units. You need F1s headsets on both ends for mesh mode.
How long does the battery last?
ASMAX rates it at 22 hours of talk time and 35 hours of music playback. Real-world usage typically falls in the 18-20 hour range for mixed intercom and music use. It charges from empty to full in about 50 minutes.
Is the F1s waterproof?
IP67 rated, so it handles rain, mud, and dust without issues. Not designed for submersion, but it survives heavy downpours and washing.
Can I use it while charging?
Yes, the F1s supports pass-through charging. You can run navigation and intercom while plugged into a USB power bank. This is useful for long touring days.
How do the voice controls work?
Say "Hi Max" followed by a command like "Free Mode" to enter open intercom mode. The voice recognition works offline for basic commands, so it functions even without cellular service. Online mode adds smartphone assistant integration.
What comes in the box?
The 2-pack includes two F1s headset units, two sets of 40mm speakers, two microphones (boom and wired), two quick-release mounts, charging cables, and helmet speaker pads. A 2-year warranty is included.