To get straight to the point, the Simpson Packtalk Edge intercom is simply a Cardo Packtalk Edge. When you look closely, you'll see the truth. Cardo developed the Dynamic Mesh technology found inside this unit and JBL tuned the speakers. Simpson packaged it in their helmets.
On paper, this pairing seems logical. If you've bought into Cardo products and currently wear Simpson helmets, then why not pair them?
As far as features go, the main attraction is the range. With rider-to-rider communication you're looking at approximately a mile. Expand to group mesh mode and that jumps to five miles. On top of being able to connect 15 riders on a single private channel, you also have Bluetooth 5.2 running in the background for your phone, music, GPS and whatever else you may be using while riding.
Spec Sheet and Build Quality
You won't mistake this for anything other than a high-end unit based on the specs. You have Bluetooth 5.2 for seamless and speedy connections to your bike's TFT display along with your phone. Beyond that you have Cardo's proprietary Dynamic Mesh, the next generation. The difference between this unit and a cheap Bluetooth headset available on Amazon is that mesh doesn't require a central unit. Each rider on the network relays the signal. If a rider drops out of sight, the rest of the riders continue communicating with each other. That is what mesh communications were designed for and no one does it better than Cardo.
Up to 15 riders can communicate on the same channel. Approximately 1 mile rider-to-rider communications. Approximately 5 miles for group communications with dynamic mesh. These numbers are overly optimistic depending on the terrain, however these numbers represent a class standard and are not marketing hype. There isn't another low-cost headset anywhere close to this spec sheet.
Yes, this unit is waterproof. Rain, road spray, everything. A full recharge takes approximately 2 hours. This unit weighs in at approximately 1.3 pounds with all of the included hardware for attaching the unit to your helmet, so it's not going to be the lightest item you attach to your helmet, but it's strong and it feels that way.
Then there is the Air Mount. Magnetically attaches and detaches. Simply position the unit near the baseplate and snap it onto the mount. Don't worry about trying to deal with hooks, rails or whatever while wearing gloves. Drop it off for charging or parking somewhere less-than-ideal. Cardo got it right with this mounting design, and Simpson didn't mess with it.
Control options include a physical button, an app, or voice commands. Your choice. The same premium package Cardo offers under its own name, so we know the build quality is going to be excellent. Simpson merely branded it. If you've ever owned a Packtalk Edge prior to this, you're aware of exactly what you'll receive here. Same plastics, same buttons, same internal components, new Simpson branding.
Audio and Microphone Performance
If there was any value in having a Simpson logo on this unit, it would come down to the audio performance. This is where the Simpson branding becomes relevant. You get JBL-tuned speakers from Cardo underneath. Whether it's music, phone calls, GPS directions, everything sounds clear and loud. This is NOT some tinny-sounding low cost speaker setup. This is literally the exact same speaker system that has made Cardo famous.
The major enemy when it comes to wind noise on a motorcycle is handled by the microphone. Hands-free voice control continues to function at speed. You can tell the assistant to make a call or play a song without taking your hand off of the bars.
Intercom and music operate simultaneously, which many lower priced units don't allow. You can maintain your music, GPS and group chat all at the same time. In fact, this is probably the most premium aspect of purchasing this level of hardware, allowing you to multitask.
What Amazon Reviewers Are Saying
Keep things realistic here regarding expectations. At this time, there are only three reviews listed here. Three. This tells us that this unit is relatively new to Amazon. Don't evaluate this product solely based upon three reviews in regards to reliability issues down the road.
All three reviewers have provided a favorable assessment of the unit. The overall rating for the product averages 5 stars perfectly. One reviewer, jack g., stated Good Product. That was his entire review, no details offered beyond that, but he gave it a 5-star rating nonetheless.
Those are essentially the comments from all three reviewers thus far. As such, it is difficult to draw any conclusions based upon those comments alone in terms of whether or not they are indicative of potential problems, although it is certainly encouraging. Three reviewers, all pleased, very little said in terms of content. It is not proof of a problem, but neither is it an abundance of reviews either. Use the rating as a positive starting point rather than a final determination. The actual reputation for longevity exists with the Cardo Packtalk Edge name, and that name has a multitude of long-term reviews associated with it.
Who Is This Intercom For?
Specifically, you already ride Simpson motorcycles. You have faith in their helmet brand and want an equally good quality comm device versus cheaply constructed headsets mounted to their higher-quality lids. The proven Cardo hardware matches seamlessly to create a clean fit and functional communications system.
Additionally, riders who desire full mesh functionality and are unwilling to accept a simple 2-way Bluetooth gadget. If you frequently ride with groups, plan large-scale rides, or need riders to join and exit channels without disrupting communications among remaining members of the group, then this is the solution. The 5-mile group range capability and 15 riders per channel are not for solitary commuters. These capabilities are specifically designed for serious multi-riders.
Lastly, passenger compatibility should not be overlooked. Dynamic Mesh provides equivalent connectivity for rider and passenger pairs alike, two riders can stay connected via the mesh channel all day long while music continues flowing. Compare it against the rest of the field on the intercom comparison table and you'll see why the mesh hardware sits at the top of the price ladder.
Obviously, if you're riding alone, seldom interact with others, and simply desire music streaming through your helmet, then this represents an excessive expense for mesh functionality, range and capacity that will likely remain unused by you. A reliable Bluetooth headset accomplishes virtually all needed functions for significantly less money. Browse the rest of our intercom reviews if you want a cheaper alternative. You can also read more about the underlying tech over at cardosystems.com.
When you're ready, you can check the current price and shipping for the Simpson Packtalk Edge on Amazon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Simpson Packtalk Edge, really?
It is the Cardo Packtalk Edge hardware sold under the Simpson Motorcycle brand. Same Dynamic Mesh system, same JBL audio, same Air Mount, new shell. Model number 850-CSPT0001.
How many riders can connect?
Up to 15 riders on one Dynamic Mesh channel. The system also supports standard Bluetooth pairing for two rider setups.
What is the actual range?
About a mile rider to rider and up to five miles for a full group on Dynamic Mesh. Expect less in hilly or built up terrain, as with any wireless comms.
Is it waterproof?
Yes. Cardo rates the unit as waterproof and it handles rain and road spray without issue. Two hours gets you a full charge.
Can I listen to music and use intercom at the same time?
Yes. Music, phone calls, and GPS all run alongside the mesh intercom. That multitasking is a key premium feature.
Does it work with Simpson helmets only?
No. It mounts to any helmet with the Air Mount base plate. The Simpson branding is a bundle, not a lock.