Mounting a Sena communication system on your helmet involves several key steps to ensure a secure fit, optimal audio quality, and rider comfort. The exact process can vary slightly depending on the specific Sena model and helmet type, but core steps like positioning components and securing the unit are universal.
Here's a breakdown of typical steps involved in mounting a Sena unit, incorporating specific instructions for the microphone and securing the clamp.
Preparing Your Helmet
Before installing the Sena unit, it's often necessary to remove or loosen helmet components like cheek pads or neck rolls to route wires and position speakers and microphones.
Installing Components
This phase involves placing the speakers, microphone, and routing their wires.
- Speaker Placement: Position the speakers in the ear pockets of the helmet. Use the included hook-and-loop fasteners or adhesive pads to secure them. Ensure they are centered over your ears when you wear the helmet.
- Microphone Placement: The type of microphone (boom or wired) dictates placement.
- For a boom microphone, position the microphone end near your mouth. According to Sena guidelines, it's often recommended to position the mic in between snaps within the helmet's cheek pad area. This helps secure the microphone and prevent it from moving or interfering with the helmet's liner.
- For a wired microphone (often used in full-face helmets), attach it inside the chin bar, directly in front of your mouth.
- Wire Routing: Route all wires neatly under the helmet's liner or through designated channels. Avoid creating bulges that could cause discomfort or affect helmet safety.
Securing the Main Unit
The main Sena unit typically attaches to the side of the helmet shell using either a clamp mount or an adhesive mount.
- Clamp Mount:
- Position the clamp mount on the left side of the helmet, ideally below the shell's bottom edge to allow the unit to clip on easily.
- Carefully insert the clamp mount between the helmet shell and the internal EPS foam liner.
- Once positioned correctly, use the hex wrench to tighten the clamp. This secures the mounting bracket firmly to the helmet shell.
- Adhesive Mount:
- Choose a clean, flat surface on the side of the helmet shell.
- Peel the backing off the adhesive mount and firmly press it onto the helmet surface for at least 15 seconds.
- Allow the adhesive to cure for the recommended time (usually 24 hours) before attaching the Sena unit.
Reassembling the Helmet
After positioning and securing the speakers, microphone, and main unit mount, you will need to put the helmet's internal components back together.
- Reinstall Cheek Pads: When putting the cheek pads back into the helmet, make sure to pull the D-ring straps out of the cheek pads. This ensures the helmet's retention system remains accessible and functional.
- Tuck in Liners: Reinstall any other liners or neck rolls that were removed or loosened, ensuring wires are neatly tucked away and do not interfere with the fit or comfort.
Final Checks
- Ensure all components are securely attached.
- Check that wires are not pinched or causing discomfort.
- Verify that the D-ring straps are freely accessible and functional.
- Test the Sena unit to ensure all functions (intercom, music, phone) are working correctly and audio quality is good.
By following these steps, including properly positioning the microphone and securing the clamp mount as recommended in the reference, you can effectively mount your Sena system for clear communication and enhanced riding experience.
| Component | Typical Location | Key Mounting Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Speakers | Helmet Ear Pockets | Centered over ears, secure with fasteners |
| Microphone | Chin Bar / Cheek Area | Near mouth, position in between snaps |
| Main Unit | Side of Helmet Shell | Clamp or Adhesive mount, tighten clamp |
| Cheek Pads | Helmet Interior | Reinstall after routing, pull D-rings out |
