Sena Spider RT1 and ST1 Mesh Comm Systems Review

Sena Spider Mesh Comm Systems: rvz.la/3y1Aq26
The Sena Spider RT1 and ST1 Mesh Comm Systems are Sena’s first mesh only comm units that give riders a simple and easy way to stay connected with their fellow riders. 40mm HD speakers ensure your music and calls can be easily heard while an IP65 rating guarantees water resistance in case of rain.
Questions? Give our gear experts a call at 877.792.9455, or email/chat here: rvz.la/31xnH9M

[@donmartin9567]

Each manufacturer has their own "mesh" technology. In this case, you will ONLY be able to communicate to folks that have Sena systems. As someone else said, a GIGANTIC step backwards for users while a manufacturer tries to corner the market. We need the manufacturers to agree on a mesh standard, not isolate riders from one another. Oh, and yes, not waterproof is just dumb. And a couple of hundred bucks isn't "cheap", especially when they reduce the functionality.

[@vyrnmn]

I've been using a very entry level Sena SMH5 for a while now, and ridden in all weathers with it. Sena doesn't list it having a specific IP rating for water resistance but I've never had any issues with water at all. If these spider units do have an IP rating then it's likely they're more robust than the old SMH5, so I personally wouldn't have any issue with using them in the rain.

[@onionknight2239]

Thanks Spurg. Great break down. Answered all my questions. 👍

[@McAdamSandwich]

Looking good, Spurgeon! You are rocking whatever you are doing.

[@ram-zgraphics8812]

So my brother bought this for me for Christmas the spider st1 me and my wife use this for snowmobiling. First off installing it was scary seeing I had to carve out my helmet to fit the speakers. Second it is amazing I was able to keep track of my wife and talk to her like we were standing next to each other. I have no idea how but I never head her snowmobile through my helmet Best gift I have ever gotten we love it 10 stars for sure everyone should own these now I need them in every helmet sadly biking sxs Motocross and skiing that’s4x2. 8 more units omg.

[@TankToChest]

Buy multiple mounts.

[@DeepPowTherapy]

was it decent for boondocking?

[@eduardomolinares7281]

mesh is a much better and easier way to connect with other riders than bluetooth. i also agree mesh is the future of rider communications

[@capaiz11]

The base where it goes will be the same as the 30k seine?

[@evvlau]

Is RT1 and ST1 both charge with USB-C cable??

[@fussyjason]

Eyy another video! good timing bc i just finished watching the other latest video

[@malvinacarabas5768]

OMG! Revzilla got the new management .

[@wrathofdiablo]

I’m a newbie to these comms and judging from all comments it seems cardo is better? Can someone suggest what cardo to go for ?

[@puresportbmx]

Can the spider RT1 be paired to a KTM my ride system?

[@paolobianchetti5195]

A question, what about communication quality, is it comparable to Bluetooth?

[@TheRidersHub]

Loved it! Thank you!!

[@karenshoucairmcgray4902]

From all the comments……Looks like Cardo would be the one to purchase.

[@BareTheMark]

Yeah can attest to the short comings w Sena. I've had 3 including the rt1, all have had issues connecting

[@PkwyDrive13]

True... But unfortunately everyone I have ridden with always has Sena...so if I get a Cardo, I won't have anyone to talk too :(

[@trblsom77]

@@PkwyDrive13 people are overrated anyway 🤣 just use hand signals until they conform to your beautifully functioning Cardo

[@blackswanodysseys]

Is the Spider backwards compatible with the 20S?

[@zero11010]

… so which units or what year of units will it not connect to? And what about Sena to other systems? About 50% of the riders I know have Cardo units. This seems like it’s going to be a big step backwards in connection if you’re suddenly not only virtually unable to connect to people who don’t have Sena, but ALSO not able to connect to people who have Sena but it’s an older unit.

[@patrickmchugh8039]

These would connect with any Sena-MESH units on the market at the moment. Unfortunately, no brand that is playing in Mesh is doing a "Universal-Mesh Pairing Mode" at the moment, similar to where BT comms were when they first launched. Definitely a bummer that there isn't a Cardo-Sena option on these, but since Sena is really pushing new boundaries and offering the first Mesh-only unit (my belief being mesh in the future of moto-comms, IMHO) I'm somewhat OK with it. I'm sure Mesh will have to figure out a Universal way to communicate in the future, but both Sena and Cardo make units like the 50S/R or Packtalk that already accomplish that. This is just the budget entry into Mesh and I'm somewhat OK with losing features for that, but that just might be me.

[@mollysmoshingtankcrew9441]

So you can just ride up to another user who has this and seamlessly talk? Or do you have to pull over whip out your phone and add them to the call

[@MrFlynn125]

What's the water resistance like on these? I live in the UK and it rains all the damn time haha 😂

[@lovelessissimo]

So these units can't communicate with non sena comms?

[@martonlerant5672]

Yup, and shills making the video make a good job in dancing around the topic, and not mentioning it.

[@sgtace]

So I can get freecom 4+ for same money with open system? I'm sorry but sena tactic to lock out helmets with their intercom instalation didn't work out (pushing for intercoms that are built in and are only sena's). So now they are trying to sell something that they claim is better but it's not. And third thing, half of my friends own cardo, other half that doesn't have huge budget bought cheap chinese intercom. We ride in 2-3 people max. It's enough to talk. I wish they would have cardo so we could play music together during rides via spotify, but maybe some day.

[@ffBkLee]

Does mesh only mean that I can't connect with my friends who have older sena units?

[@RevZilla]

It will only pair with mesh capable Sena Units like the 30 series, 50 series, and other Spider units.

[@nastythomashobbs]

I really like my Spider RT1

[@blakemorris6893]

I heard you can only have a minimum of 6 people. Is that true?

[@nastythomashobbs]

@@blakemorris6893 not sure. Think the most I have ridden with is 5 to 6 people. Really makes the ride more fun though. I think though it should be more as it is just a channel setting. Maybe if you switch to the private group setting it would be only six but in an open channel setting I think it would be many more than that.

[@jackmetzger8644]

Is this unit compatible with Shoei RF 1400 helmet? If so , Is there anything else I need to get for it to work? Like a mounting system

[@Branagorn]

Shoei have brought out a ‘universal intercom mount’. It’s basically a rubber square that you 3M stick onto the side. Looks kinda ugly, but once the intercom is on it, I guess you wouldn’t know it was there?

[@jonnysmith8714]

Most Bluetooth units are going to be difficult to install on the RF1400 bc of the collarbone padding on the helmet. Adhesive mounts may be your best option, but it is possible to use the ST1 Mount as well. You just have to find the right spot.

[@billvick7011]

The plastic body on my (old) Sena 5 has become a sticky mess much like a Sony video cam back in the day. It does still work though. You just can't touch it. :)

[@demonkey123]

Just to point out that Cardo units are rated at IP67 and are relatively waterproof (backed by the manufacturer) whereas Sena units are NOT waterproof or water resistant in any way. Sena units come with 'dust covers' for open ports and button gaiters etc but are not suitable for rain! Sena make no mention of 'weatherproofing of any of its product documentation. I live in Northern England and found out the hard way. Wet weather riders be warned!

[@szymonsmagowski5062]

Hey doesn't IP65 mean waterproof from rain? I am looking for some intercom to drive with friends but it has to be waterproof. Can you share your experience with sena? Maybe yours did not have ip65?

[@barrettwbenton]

So (in the voice of RyanF9): Sena throws a slow pitch to the plate, Cardo knocks it out of the park. Again. When a company's biggest pitch for a new product starts with what they left *off*, my teeth start to itch. Of course, I bought Cardo's Packtalk Slim over two years ago, so I'm definitely not among their target audience. (And, yeah...lookin' pretty trim there, Spurge.)

[@shopcatt643]

Can someone recommend a com-system if I don't care about Rider to Rider communication I just want good sounding music and phone calls

[@benwichser2991]

For brand name, Cardo FreeTalk 1+ or 2+. Amazon also sells some for much cheaper that seem to perform ok (based on anecdotes).

[@TheGeekZone]

I'm looking at this to replace the Cardo system I bought less than a year ago. So disappointed with Cardo. Hoping this will be better.

[@here2enjoy-bt8jq]

How did it work out?

[@tiborsz9939]

So... sena trying to stay in business made a cheaper system, ‘cause they cannot beat cardo systems in any level?

[@brucewaters4262]

Cruisemans garage tested this with the Honda Goldwing 2018-2021. He was not able to pair it to the motorcycle watch his KZbin videos for more info

[@akousticplyr1]

He was able to get it working with a firmware update.

[@jalsa123e]

Can the ST1 and RT1 connect to 50S in mesh ?

[@RevZilla]

Yes, it is all the same Mesh technology from Sena.

[@ReQuiem_2099]

So I haven’t been able to get a straight answer, but is it okay to use low profile bluetooth earbuds? Ex the Jabra Active t75?

[@comradealexie]

The reasons I've usually heard for not using earbuds inside of your helmet are generally thus: jamming something into your ear that could be forced even farther into your ear if something hits your helmet from the side is probably not a good idea. Ear buds are not hearing protection and the amount that you have to increase the volume on them to be heard above the wind and other noises is increasing the amount of damage being done to your hearing. Finally, motorcycle coms usually come with some way to externally turn them off without needing to get directly to your phone, and they can have passthrough features that allow you to hear things around you without needing to take you helmet off or shout at each other.

[@ReQuiem_2099]

@@freebehindbars8654 He's talking about non-motorcycle specific wireless bluetooth earbuds, ala things like those ugly Apple airpods that look like you shoved toothbrush heads in your ear, for those not heavily into tech. Which is what I was asking about though, I'm sure that the newer mesh systems are really cool, and meet the needs of rider-to-rider communication much better than any bluetooth earbud, but I was asking because I don't have a riding group, and it's a big investment when I already have multiple pairs of wireless earbuds. Including a pair with hardware active noise cancelation, but definitely not something that can compete with road/motorcycle noise. The concern for potential catastrophic damage in an impact, as well as hearing protection, are a valid concern though, and worth further consideration...

[@Otterplus]

@@ReQuiem_2099 I’m a solo rider and I picked up a Cardo Packtalk Bold for my needs. I’ve tried AirPods and other earbuds and they frequently get displaced when putting the helmet on or from wind flowing through my vents. I did happen to find my unit on Amazon for $243 and it does the job really well. I can take calls and the other person barely hears anything other than my voice. It connects easily to my phone and mounts a lot more securely to the helmet. Plus the Cardo mesh system is future ready without losing any features compared to ☝️

[@antoinegauthier7027]

I tried to use mine if you turn to the left they disconnected from my phone

[@ReQuiem_2099]

@@antoinegauthier7027 mine are working so far, and have ANC to help with the road noise. But the big problem comes anytime you have to take off your helmet, or reseat them, which of course you do, because you just squeezed your head into a helmet. Upon taking off your helmet, there is simply no graceful way to prevent your earbuds falling to the ground.

[@SmokeyA55]

Will the RT an ST still hookup by bloothtooth to my Sena Freewire

[@RevZilla]

Yes, you should be OK using one of the BT profiles for devices with the Spiders and Freewire. If you would like to be 100% certain, contacting Sena might be the best bet so they can check with their current firmware specs.

[@garrettr4752]

I have the Sena 50R If I get this, can I put this on my brother's helmet and he chat with one that only does bluetooth through mine. Like my uncles is an old style that only dose bluetooth and mine dose both if mine acts as a middle-man and isconnected to both my uncles and his will that work?

[@RevZilla]

According to Sena, yes you can use your 50R to bridge between the Spider and older Sena BT unit. We've found that in practice the connection isn't as sturdy as just doing BT or just doing Mesh connections though. But it is technically possible and something Sena advertises.

[@monocogenit1]

Will these 40 mm speakers fit the hjc i10?

[@patrickmchugh8039]

Yeah, they would fit those pockets.

[@monocogenit1]

@@patrickmchugh8039 thanks

[@garrettbutler3734]

Something I don't understand about "mesh" is can a stranger connect to me or the people I'm riding with on their own?

[@RevZilla]

Is Sena's "public" mode they can connect with you. If that isn't something you are interested in, you can just switch over to the "private" mode.

[@monkeyCmonkeyDoo]

It's 2021, IP65 is unacceptable. Combine that with Sena's horrible customer service, when trying to get rain soaked units replaced, and it's a big hell no.

[@weshussey8295]

Sena doesn’t cover water damage

[@moysey89]

@@weshussey8295 they dont cover anything at all. worst customer service ive ever had to use

[@weshussey8295]

@@moysey89 actually they do cover defects from the manufacture. But if you buy it from cyclegear and I think there sister companies you can get there warranty which covers everything. But a lost unit

[@moysey89]

@@weshussey8295 untrue. i brought directly from sena and still had no luck. gone to cardo instead

[@weshussey8295]

@@moysey89 I 100% agree I’m cardo all the way but I only buy from cycle gear so I can get there warranty for a extra 15 bucks

[@denchua]

Even Spurgeon is having a hard time selling this thing in the video. lol

[@benwichser2991]

I have found that the RZ presenters frequently mention weaknesses or disappointments in products. Even those products made by some of their “exclusive” brands. I don’t always agree with their assessments, but they always seem fair.

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

It's not my job to sell it, I just explain it and educate. You then get to make the choice as to what's right for you. Personally I think there is a lot of value here for folks looking to get into a mesh unit. Also, I've used Sena for years and while they've got some issues, for basic functionality, they work just fine. While I do think Cardo has a better overall design in their top of the line systems, they're also more money.

[@trblsom77]

@@SpurgeonDunbar well said

[@drumz0rz]

I'll give a use case for which I bought one. I have a 30K and want to talk with my partner who is either riding pillion or soon on his own bike. Yes, Cardo has been getting better reviews, but they're expensive and I'd rather spend $200 to get my partner seamless connection with me and their music, without dropping $500+ replacing both of our units with Cardo. I imagine though that in the future if we get into more group riding we will probably switch both to Cardo when the budget permits.

[@youtubeisasshoe69]

Everyone focuses on the mesh and stuff. What kind of cable does it use for charging? USB C, or micro? What kind of cables and compatibility you have with them when riding is important, and no one ever mentions this except for the 50s/r. Say you're adv riding and get your power from a solar bank and a battery pack. Not knowing what kind of cable it uses is a hard stop on a purchase for some.

[@drumz0rz]

It uses USB-C and includes a 90 degree angle connector so that you can charge the unit without having to remove it from the helmet.

[@TRAVISTAURUS]

Ok so the difference is, these units only connect to other Mesh Units! Got it!😎

[@timyassa4343]

Is the st1 compatible with the Sena 10s

[@RevZilla]

No, the ST1 uses Mesh only while the Sena 10S is Bluetooth only. You'd want a Bluetooth only unit (10S) or a hybrid unit like the 50S to chat with the 10S.

[@brentfrank7012]

I’ve been waiting years for Sena to create a microphone cancelation. Microphone turns off unless you speak. Very very quiet system like a Cardo. Sena’s microphone never turns off, after a long day in the saddle hearing your partners wind noise gives you a big fat headache.

[@shawnkumerow3166]

On the Sena 30 k you can hold the mesh till you hear a double beep turns mic off

[@brentfrank7012]

@@shawnkumerow3166 on the Cardo it turns off automatically and the moment you speak it comes back on. I finally gave up on Sena and have gone Cardo for that one feature. But thank you for the tip.

[@Unavenged]

@@brentfrank7012 which Cardo unit did you go with?

[@thewiredfox2691]

In the Sena Firmware app, and the advanced settings Phone App, you can turn VOX on so that it turns the mic off when you are not talking. There is also a sensitivity setting 1-5.

[@nilbenetes]

Does it connect to cardos mesh?

[@patrickmchugh8039]

No, neither Cardo nor Sena have made their Mesh networks open to connecting with other brands. The 50S/R and Packtalks do allow you to bring in a BT unit into Mesh comms (if you have a friend still on BT only comms), but that tech comes at a much higher price tag.

[@nilbenetes]

@@patrickmchugh8039 thanks that one is not for me then since i think cardo in general is superior.

[@patrickmchugh8039]

@@nilbenetes can’t argue with that, I daily a Packtalk Bold. 🤙

[@nilbenetes]

@@patrickmchugh8039 rn i got the 2 but i want to upgrade i just dont like how bold it is

[@JonR_1138]

CruiseMan found out that these will not pair with older GPS systems or the new Goldwing. These will only pair with BT4.1 or newer systems. Most GPS systems only use bt2.1 which won't pair.

[@dlos1987]

They have an update now. v1.1.1

[@JonR_1138]

@@dlos1987 I saw Cruise man's review of the update. I'm glad Sena was able to fix the issue with an update.

[@bobnafzinger3300]

Is it waterproof?

[@adrianlapaz5505]

no

[@RSBrsurfer]

No thanks, already lost one Sena unit due to rain. IP65 is not acceptable.

[@B1ueStryk3r]

Unless the mesh network is open source, this is a waste of time and a useless product.

[@DanielGoepp]

When will you guys just say price instead of price point? Are you sure you mean price point? Do you know what price point means?

[@KorosuzoXSR]

If I could ask my helmet to go get my laundry and see it actually do it, I’d be 1: afraid of the rise of the machines 2: be sure not to ask for SIRI to do it. She’d probably bring someone else’s laundry instead

[@rench55]

I'm a "wait n see". Where's the beta testers?

[@thinkdunson]

Fortnine has tested these and the sound systems are NOT comparable to Cardo. according to him, Cardo wins hands down in the majority of tests.

[@jcollins2826]

Why introduce a new product with a “line in the sand” stance on mesh, but still not make it waterproof? I won’t be buying one.

[@lampereira]

Forget the Sena communicators as options because they cannot withstand the rain. I have a 50C (very expensive) that behaved unsatisfactorily (not to say chaotically) after a light rain, which significantly harmed the videos from a trip to Argentina from then on. It's unbelievable how little attention the Sena design team gives to the subject of rain resistance.

[@KingFriday274]

I live in a very rainy place, The Pacific Northwest and I have 7 sena systems and I've never had a problem with any of them.

[@michaelbretzke2207]

The Cardo units are horrible. We absolutely HATE ours. The voice commands are useless as they don’t work. I’ve tried, wife tried, daughter tried, son tried, and others from my family that don’t ride have also tried and none of them were able to use voice command. I thought there was a way you had to turn in voice command but supposedly it’s “always on”. Cardo sucks. Hence why I’m watching this video.

[@brentfields93]

Use discord on your phone and connection restrictions no longer Matter lol

[@adrianlapaz5505]

why would I even buy a non waterproof intercom.... even it is a Sena.... My 40$ kypro does all the job and it is waterproof... Come one.. nitpick is just right... it is a major blunder in my opinion not having waterproof in 2021 release... it is just bad and absurd.

[@Steve-ec6ed]

this seems pointless

[@iamroyalty607]

this is not a review this is a overview

[@JosephActivate]

Looks like he’s on a diet

[@nelsontrujillo615]

And he cut his hair

[@billvick7011]

Once upon a time, moto journos went fairly anonymously through life. A still photo here and there during the year. No more, eh? :)

[@petebusch9069]

So in other words its more electronic junk that never really works right, so disappointing Sena.

[@michaelbarber6215]

DONT BUY IT! Got mine and they haven’t even finished the app for it yet so you can’t do anything with it.