The use of mesh systems isn't required by every motorcyclist. Four-rider Bluetooth headsets will get the job done for those who primarily ride solo or with one or two additional riders, and they cost much less than mesh systems. That's the market space the Fodsports FX4 Pro occupies. It offers 1200 meters of claimed range, auto-answer for hands-free operation, FM radio capabilities, and voice control for those with smaller groups. It is listed within our intercom comparison chart as part of the small-group Bluetooth category, alongside the Fodsports M1-S Plus. Check current pricing on Amazon.
You can see current pricing on Amazon.
## Communication and Connection
The FX4 Pro allows connection of 4 riders per intercom network. According to Fodsports, the FX4 Pro provides up to 1200 meters of communication between riders in open terrain. However, the actual distance will depend upon the terrain ridden in. For example, in general conditions of riding (e.g., hills, trees etc.) the average distance between riders is typically 400 to 700 meters. However, because of daisy-chaining, as long as each rider remains in range of another rider, the total distance covered by the group will be greater.
As with any Bluetooth device, the initial pairing of devices is achieved through a universal Bluetooth process. Therefore, as long as the other rider's headset is manufactured by a company that produces compatible Bluetooth headsets, connecting the two headsets for easy two-rider calls will be a straightforward process. Additionally, phone Bluetooth connectivity enables music streaming, GPS navigation and phone calls.
The auto-answer function on the FX4 Pro activates approximately 12 seconds after an incoming call is received unless manually answered by the user. This can prove to be a big advantage during heavy city traffic or at constant highway speeds.
Audio Quality
The FX4 Pro utilizes 40mm high fidelity speakers, providing a slightly bass forward audio quality. Users agree that the volume levels provided by the FX4 Pro are sufficient to cut through wind noise at highway speeds and that voice clarity was maintained throughout the entire 4-rider group. When transitioning from music listening to speaking during a call, audio multitasking disables music playback automatically allowing users to avoid interrupting their own music while engaging in conversation.
A built-in FM radio receiver is also included. Although FM radio usage is becoming less frequent due to increased availability of mobile cellular service, the capability to listen to local broadcasts is still beneficial in areas lacking strong mobile cellular signals.
Noise Reduction
CVC (acoustic echo reduction) noise reduction technology used in combination with a foam windshield mounted on top of the boom microphone provide effective noise suppression in both urban and moderate-speed highway environments up to approximately 60 to 65 mph. Wind noise experienced at higher speeds with open and three-quarter face helmets are present on all Bluetooth intercoms at this price point.
Build Quality & Installation
The FX4 Pro mounts onto a helmet using a sliding metal clamp with an adhesive mounting base. The build material is water-resistant to withstand riding in rainy conditions. Several owners have reported zero issues after repeated exposure to rain.
Volume adjustment is controlled by a rotary dial located on the front of the unit. All three controls are large enough to be easily operated with gloved hands.
Intercom installation is similar to previous generation entry level models and requires approximately 15 minutes to complete on the first helmet, less thereafter. The clamp is suitable for modular style sport/half/touring helmets. However, half-helmets often require adhesively attached speaker pads due to the fact that the clamp sometimes does not fit comfortably around shallow helmet shells. Standard ear pocket speaker pads with velcro strips attach directly into ear cups. A boom microphone fits modular/open-face helmets. And a wire-bound microphone with a padded windshield is available for snug fitting full-face helmets. Printed instructions assist new users.
Battery Performance & Charging
According to specifications, the FX4 Pro provides up to 15 hours of continuous intercom use and 300 hours of standby battery life. Micro USB charging occurs within approximately 3 hours. Weekend tourers reporting ride times ranging from 6 to 8 hours indicate having finished the day with approximately half of their battery capacity remaining. Consistent with manufacturer specs.
What Reviewers Are Saying About It
Over 260 reviewers have posted reviews and assigned an overall rating of 4.3 stars out of five. Many reviewers praise the reliability of the auto-answer feature and how much louder the audio is compared to many lower priced competitors. Several owners specifically state that the low-end (bass response) exceeded their expectations for such an entry-level model.
Reviewers criticize the product as expected: The advertised 1200 meters of signal strength only appears in completely unobstructed terrain. And first-time buyers sometimes found the instruction manual slightly too brief on explaining how to link multiple units together. Once completed once, linking is easier.
Who Should Purchase This Product?
The Fodsports FX4 Pro will appeal to motorcyclists forming groups of two through four that desire reliable communication, music, FM radio reception, and call functionality without entering into mesh-based products. Commuter motorcyclists that primarily travel individually but periodically gather with fellow riders to communicate and receive calls using universal Bluetooth connectivity for easy two-rider conversations will also benefit from purchasing this product.
This product should be avoided for larger groups of riders numbering six through ten due to its design as a traditional daisy-chain Bluetooth intercom whose performance diminishes with increasing numbers of connected devices. Motorcyclists currently operating in Cardo or Sena ecosystems may choose to remain within their existing ecosystems due to proprietary features exclusive to their respective companies. Track-day riders requiring certified frequency-hopping radios should seek special purpose equipment instead of generic Bluetooth based products such as this.
FAQ
How many riders is the FX4 Pro truly capable of supporting?
Four riders comprise the primary intercom mode. Universal Bluetooth pairing also permits compatibility with other brands for easy establishment of a two-rider conversation.
Are 1200 meters realistic?
Several riders have approached the claimed distance while riding in wide-open flat terrain with unimpeded lines-of-sight. In normal varied terrain, experience suggests that riders will achieve distances of 400 to 700 meters between themselves and their immediate neighbors, and longer ranges among additional members of their group utilizing daisy-chaining techniques.
Does FX4 Pro offer hands-free calling?
Yes. The FX4 Pro includes voice control functions for calls and assistants and auto-answer automatically answers incoming calls after a 12-second delay period.
What is the IPX rating for water resistance?
Fodsports states that the FX4 Pro meets water-resistance standards for typical motorcycle riding applications. Owner experiences confirm no failures were encountered after numerous rides in inclement weather.
Read more about Fodsports intercoms at the official product page.