Portable acoustics for bicycles. Choosing a portable speaker for a bicycle. Sound, autonomy, communication

Portable speakers or portable acoustic system are a type of acoustics characterized by small dimensions. The system is connected using Bluetooth or AUX cable. The popularity of a portable speaker system arose as a result of the massive appearance and availability of gadgets.

Speakers for cycling include all the capabilities of conventional speakers, but in addition they must have a durable and reliable case with a protective device against the penetration of foreign objects into the device.

Bicycle speakers are also distinguished by increased battery power, the ability to work in autonomous mode and a high volume level, since when riding fast, the music will not be heard well with weak speakers.

And one of the important components of excellent speakers is reliable fastening to the frame, steering wheel, etc.

Types and features of the gadget

A portable speaker for a bicycle differs from a conventional speaker system primarily in its small size. The device is easy to use and has many advantages compared to headphones.

  • Waterproof and durable;
  • Possibility of installation in a special mount for bicycle handlebars;
  • Bluetooth function, standard memory card slots, charging connectors.

Band format and frequency

The speaker format is responsible for the quality of the reproduced sound. Portable bicycle speakers usually come in three formats:

  • 1:0 – speaker format with mono mode, implying single-channel sound even with several speakers. They are characterized by low power and unexpressed sound.
  • 2:0 – this format works in stereo mode with high-power surround sound and characteristic sound.
  • 3:0 is the highest quality sound transmission format; the stereo system is equipped with a subwoofer that enhances low-frequency and emphasizes high-frequency sound.

The sound quality and radius width are determined by the number of frequency bands.

Speakers that support one frequency in mono mode are marked with one band, dual-frequency speakers with two, and for music lovers, three-band speakers that support all frequencies of the range.

Offline mode

One of the main indicators of any portable equipment is the ability to operate autonomously, which is provided in various ways.

Some speakers are powered by AA batteries or rechargeable batteries, while others are equipped with their own battery, which is charged using a charger.

Interface and connector

These parameters are considered additional functions, but popular models include the maximum functionality of the gadget.

For bicycle speakers, there are two main ways to connect to the media: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, as well as AUX, with which you can connect to the playlist of any smartphone, tablet or laptop computer.

Appie has limited capabilities in this sense and connecting speakers is only possible using Wi-Fi or AUX.

The best cycling speakers

So, when choosing a portable speaker with a bicycle mount, you need to rely on the following criteria:

  • Volume and sound range;
  • Column dimensions;
  • Battery;
  • Mounting options;
  • Remote control system;
  • Without a control system with forced stops to select a playlist.

“Venstar-Sport” is in first place:

  • The speakers are firmly fixed to or;
  • There is a device for a water bottle holder;
  • The system is easy to control from a distance;
  • Compact, transportable;
  • Has high-quality, powerful sound;
  • Reliable and durable gadget.

“Goal-Zero” is optimal for cyclists: the battery can work online without interruption for 5 hours.

One of the main advantages of the system is that it can be charged using sunlight. The sound of the speakers is top class, the gadget is compact and securely fixed on the bike.

The best ratio of quality and cost. A small drawback is the lack of a remote control system.

"Ivation BikeBeacon" - mini speakers with two amplified speakers and high-quality sound. The speakers support radio wave reception and the ability to use a memory card. The kit includes mounts for fixing on the handlebars of a bicycle.

The gadget has a built-in battery; online operation time varies from 4 to 5 hours. Additional features include a flashlight and a built-in alarm.

Homemade bike speakers

It will not be difficult for cyclists to assemble a high-quality speaker from purchased parts. To do this, you need to connect the elements correctly to get a simple, wired audio system. A homemade structure is installed on the steering bar.

Required parts:

  • Mini-speakers with a USB input in the amount of 2 pcs., for a bicycle system, mini-speakers can be purchased at any computer store;
  • Battery pack and USB connectors (purchased from radio products);
  • MP3 system with 4 volt batteries;
  • Standard clamps for mounting speakers (you can use regular clamps for bells and mirrors).
  • Glue.

Collection technique:

  1. Glue a clamp to the columns, and after complete drying, attach them to the steering part of the bike.
  2. Connect USB connectors to the battery.
  3. Pull the wire from the speaker to the unit and connect them via USB.
  4. Connect the battery pack to the MP3 player.
  5. The system can also be equipped with a speaker switch, but this is not a mandatory function; you can simply remove the wiring from the system.

If you are an avid cyclist, then there is no reason not to combine business with pleasure and enjoy music while riding. The best modern bicycle speakers have much more to offer than quality sound. They can be wired or cordless, can be battery-powered or rechargeable, and some can even double as a phone charger while you ride.

Functions, brands and all sorts of devices are numerous and varied. If you can't decide which column to choose, read this article and maybe it will help you make a choice. You will understand what key points you need to pay attention to so that your purchase lasts a long time and is pleasant to use.

The best speakers for a bicycle: key points when choosing

When choosing a column you need to look at certain criteria.

  • Sound quality and volume. Choosing a cycling destination really makes this criterion important. How loud should your speaker be? If you are driving on noisy roads, the volume should be high. If you prefer quiet roads, this criterion is not paramount.
  • Case size. The size of the bicycle speaker housing is very important because it guarantees that it can be connected to your smartphone or player. So the body should be as compact and light as possible.
  • Battery selection. What kind of battery do you want? Replaceable or rechargeable? Both options have their advantages and disadvantages. If you choose a rechargeable one, you will have to constantly check that it is charged. If you choose battery-powered ones, you will always need to carry spare ones with you.
  • Mounting options. You can choose a speaker with a Velcro strap or an adjustable mount. Obviously, Velcro is a less expensive option, but also less durable. The mounts are more difficult to install and also quite difficult to move if necessary.
  • Full control system. Gives full control over song selection, music source, and sound adjustments. You can even call!
  • Sound control system. With this option, you will not be able to control anything other than the volume.
  • No control system. This is an option in which you must first select a playlist and then go. There is no system for safely switching songs while driving: you have to stop and switch manually.

10 best speakers for bicycles: comparison of models

Picture Name Color selection Rating
(1-5)
No 4.9
Yes 4.6
Yes 4.5
No 4.4
Yes 4.3
Yes 4.3
No 4.3
8. Schwinn Blue Tunes Bike Speaker No 4.2
No 4.2
Yes 4.0

Reviews of the three best bicycle speakers


Wireless speaker Can be securely mounted to the frame or steering column and can be used as a water bottle holder.

It is easy to operate with a full control system.

It is very compact, it can be removed from the bike and used almost anywhere, as it is easily transported.

As for the sound, it is quite powerful, with a stereo effect. You can download music from your tablet, smartphone, player, computer, game console and DVD player. This device has a 1 year warranty.

Most likely, you won't need it, because reliability and durability are another advantage of this speaker.


Ideal for bicycles: Just connect it to your device and enjoy!

The battery can withstand 4 hours of use and, if possible, can be charged using solar energy.

The sound of this speaker is top notch.

It is compact and fits perfectly on your bike.

The best option in terms of price-quality ratio.

At the same time, among the minuses, Goal Zero There is no control system and it is wired.


The perfect small accessory for your bike.

The set includes two powerful speakers that promise excellent sound quality.

Moreover, with this speaker you can listen to the radio and even use a memory card.

The kit also includes special fasteners.

It has a built-in battery, the operating life of which varies from 3 to 4 hours, as well as a flashlight and sound alarm.

Using the control system, you can control everything: switching songs, pauses, etc.

Ideal for cyclists who like to spend time on the road listening to music.

How to make bicycle speakers with your own hands - video

To add drive, brightness and emotion to your trip, you can install speakers on your bike and complement the trip with listening to music.

Despite the fact that all bicycle audio systems offered on the modern market have a similar combination of characteristics and operate on the same principle, they are still divided according to the method of signal transmission:

  1. Wireless RF speakers use an internal radio transmitter that takes advantage of unused frequencies. The advantage of this technology is a combination of simplicity and efficiency - bicycle speakers transmit a signal at a distance of up to 100 meters from the source. Disadvantages of the system include interference from signals from other devices: extraneous noise, deterioration in sound quality.
  2. Wireless Bluetooth speakers are the most common on the market. Connecting to devices is only possible via Bluetooth and at a distance of no more than 30 meters. The only drawback of this type is its incompatibility with desktop computers, phones and TVs that do not support Bluetooth. But such devices are practically not used in the modern world.
  3. Wireless Wi-Fi speakers are the most high-tech and convenient option with the highest quality sound. The signal is transmitted over a Wi-Fi network, that is, anywhere in space, regardless of distance and without any interference. Unfortunately, technology has not yet equipped all devices with Wi-Fi transmitters, so this type of speaker cannot yet 100% conquer the market.

Main characteristics and how to choose

Before purchasing a speaker, a cyclist should determine his requirements for a pocket device. We recommend paying attention to the following technical characteristics:

  1. The speaker body must be made of durable, reliable material that is resistant to shock and water ingress. A good option is a lightweight aluminum case.
  2. It’s good if the bicycle column is equipped with a special mount for the handlebars, but if there is none, then you need to purchase it separately. The ideal option would be to have fastening axles made of hardened steel, the fastening body itself made of steel and a shock-absorbing rubber gasket.
  3. The functionality of the speaker system depends on the presence of the Bluetooth function, connection to Wi-Fi or via AUX. The buyer chooses these characteristics in accordance with his desires. But a standard connector for a flash card and a charger must be present.
  4. The sound quality and radius width are determined by the presence of frequency bands. Marking with one band means that the speaker supports one frequency in mono mode. Accordingly, two bars mean two frequencies, and three bars mean support for all frequencies.
  5. The appearance of an acoustic device is an important factor. Stylish design is a nice addition to good performance.
  6. Let's move on to questions about price and size, which are directly proportional to each other. Without a doubt, everyone dreams of a compact device, but designing a small speaker capable of transmitting low frequencies over an impressive distance is not yet possible.

Band format and frequency

Since sound quality is the main criterion when purchasing a speaker, it is worth taking a closer look at what it depends on.

The speaker format is responsible for the richness of the sound. Portable bicycle speakers come in three formats:

  • 1:0 – mono mode format, assumes sound from one channel, even if there is more than one speaker. This format corresponds to low power and unexpressed sound;
  • 2:0 – this format supports stereo mode. The mode includes enveloping sound and corresponding rich sound;
  • 3:0 is considered the most favorable sound format. The stereo system is equipped with a subwoofer, which emphasizes the sound at low and high frequencies.

Installation

Assembly and installation of Bluetooth speakers on a bike with a built-in mount or with a purchased specialized mount is not difficult and can be completed in 5 minutes using a wrench. Another thing is installing a speaker using improvised means.

How to install acoustics on a bicycle with your own hands


The easiest homemade method is to install bicycle speakers with a wired system.

For this you will need:

  • small speakers that support USB - sound quality is achieved using 2 pieces;
  • a set of batteries;
  • mp3 player;
  • USB – connectors – 3 pcs.;
  • Plastic clamps – 2 pcs.;
  • glue "Moment".

Any small computer speakers will do. They are installed on both sides of the steering wheel. Plastic clamps are used as fastening. They can’t always be purchased separately in stores, but ordering them online is also a good option. Also, the clamps left over from the old bell may end up on the farm. In the radio components department we purchase a block of a 4-battery system at 5V. Here we take USB connectors.

  1. We secure the speakers with clamps using glue and place the clamps on the steering wheel. Be sure to check the strength of the fastening.
  2. The USB connectors are attached to the battery. A pair are for speakers and one for a player.
  3. The wires are pulled from the speakers to the battery pack and connected via USB.
  4. The wire should connect the battery and the mp3 player.

All that remains is to launch the player and check the system for functionality. If desired, you can build a power button in the space between the speakers and batteries.

Rating



  • Bluetooth modification: 3.0, Class 2
  • Supports different Bluetooth formats: HSP, HFP, A2DP and AVRCP Profiles
  • Supports mp3, wav
  • Speaker Power: 5W x 2
  • Operation in active mode: up to 6 hours.
  • Stays on pause for 40 hours
  • Charges in approximately 3 hours
  • Bluetooth range: up to 9 m.
  • Frequency range: 100Hz ~ 20KHz
  • Width x Height x Depth: 180 mm x 71 mm x 71 mm
  • Weight: 443 g.

A decent speaker with a confidence-inspiring cylinder - heavy, strong, waterproof - portable anywhere in the world. Suitable for long-term cycling along the highway or through forests. Spice up your ride with rhythm and mood.



  • Supports stereo
  • Total sound power: 2×10 W
  • Powered by battery
  • Frequency range: 65 - 20000 Hz
  • Signal to noise coupling: 75 dB
  • Number of frequency bands: 1
  • Speaker without frequency division: 50 mm
  • Own battery
  • Staying in active mode for 15 hours
  • Functions: Bluetooth, USB Type A for charging
  • Advantages: the case is protected from moisture, built-in microphone
  • Width x Height x Depth: 214x90x88 mm
  • Weight: 0.75 kg (including battery)
  • Additional components: passive emitters
  • sound saturation
  • Compact in size and weight
  • long charge
  • not afraid of water
  • excellent design
  • high quality materials and good assembly

  • music does not play from memory card
  • there are no track switching buttons on the panel

Sounds great indoors and outdoors. An indispensable item for noisy gatherings in nature, near water. Not afraid of bad weather. The purity of sound and pumping bass will not make you bored.



  • Monophony
  • Total power: 3 W
  • Powered by batteries and USB
  • Number of frequency bands: 1 pc.
  • Battery type: own
  • Active operation: 5 hours
  • Functions: Bluetooth
  • Supports microSD
  • Additional features: flashlight, mount
  • powerful speaker
  • flashlight
  • bike mount
  • The charge lasts for at least 4 hours
  • not found

The Partner Rebel portable audio system is of interest to fans of sports and active pastimes. The main material of the device is reliable plastic. Creative appearance and beautiful colors are a nice bonus. Allows you to listen to tracks by connecting via Bluetooth or using microSD. You can also establish a signal on all existing radio waves. Partner Rebel is a model that will delight bicycle owners. The delivery does not lack reliable fasteners for the steering wheel and a flashlight with a wide range of light dispersion.



no remote control

18 W are delivered by two speakers 95mm in diameter. The functionality contains everything you need: bluetooth, slots for USB flash and microSD, FM radio.



  • Total power: 11 W
  • Radio receiver present
  • Supports stereo
  • Power is supplied from batteries
  • Frequency range: 150 - 30000 Hz
  • Number of frequency bands: 1 pc.
  • Speaker without frequency division: 78 mm
  • Battery type: own
  • Signal to noise ratio: 74 dB
  • Active operation: 6 hours
  • Functions: Bluetooth, USB Type A (for flash drive)
  • Supports microSD
  • Stereo line input (mini jack)
  • Width x Height x Depth: 250x116x126 mm
  • Additional features: subwoofer with passive radiator
  • strong volume
  • Bluetooth reception is good and far
  • ergonomics accompanies widespread use
  • Bass depth leaves much to be desired

Ginzzu GM-986B is a portable speaker that plays music in any environment. You will go on a journey with confidence that your favorite music tracks will accompany you along the way.

Pleasant, favorite music is what will add energy and vivacity to a bike ride. A good, high-quality portable speaker system will provide comfort and a good mood.

Driving long distances can feel tiring, especially on flat highways or through wooded areas. To somehow add some variety to the road, your imagination throws up your favorite tracks. However, such “silent music” can only be compared with real music with a stretch.

Many cyclists choose the simplest option – headphones. Yes, your favorite compositions sound in reality, but they have a number of disadvantages when driving a bicycle, and a little later we will look at them in more detail. Bicycle acoustics - a small audio system built into the design of the bike - allow you to listen to music and at the same time control the sound environment around you. Let's find out what advantages it has in comparison with headphones, its varieties and, of course, how to make it yourself.

Why are speakers better than headphones?

Why choose headphones? Mainly due to simplicity and accessibility. To play your favorite tracks while traveling, all you need is a mobile phone and a regular headset. Then it’s just a matter of small things – connect it to the phone and open the playlist. However, in terms of security, this option is very risky. For example, when driving in a dense stream of cars or along an unfamiliar mountainous route, headphones are generally contraindicated, since concentration of attention decreases, and external sounds are not always heard, by which the lion's share of the situation on the roads is determined.

Alternatively, you can listen to music through one earphone, leaving the other ear free. True, the sound quality will be much worse, and attention will also be distracted due to cacophony - road sounds will interrupt the music, and vice versa.

The sound is transmitted outside through the speaker system. Both the cyclist and those around him can hear it. This maintains a balance between listening to songs for the soul and focusing on control.

Advantages of audio speakers on a bicycle:

  • realistic musical accompaniment;
  • the speakers do not interfere with monitoring the road situation: determining distances to other vehicles by sound, hearing surrounding people, cyclists, danger signals, etc.;
  • comfortable communication in a column of cyclists.

Portable audio system for bicycle

The portable speaker is an independent device with a built-in battery, has outputs for a flash card, headphones and a USB socket for recharging. This type of device greatly facilitates operation - there are no wires that always get in the way, neat attachment to the handlebars of a bicycle, and, of course, small dimensions.

Let's look at the New Angel CX as an example of what bicycle speakers should be and what to strive for. Main advantages of the model:

  • versatility;
  • connecting devices;
  • all audio player functions;
  • radio;
  • two powerful speakers on the sides;
  • convenient control panel;
  • reliable fastening to the steering wheel + strap and latch.

Key Features of a Bicycle Portable

The column can be used not only on a bicycle, but also on the handlebars of a moped or scooter. Separately from the bike, it can be used to listen to music while running, walking or at home on your desktop.

The portable audio system has outputs:

  • for Flash cards and micro SD;
  • USB socket for recharging from a PC, laptop or USB network charger;
  • standard headphone output;
  • connecting a phone and using it as an amplifier.

Powerful acoustics and bass are achieved thanks to the placement of the speakers on the sides. In principle, in terms of sound quality, devices with one speaker can easily compete with them, but across the entire front surface. In the second case, the sound is directed directly at the cyclist.


Audio system with all-round speaker

The portable bicycle player includes all the basic player options - managing folders and files, stopping, rewinding, equalizer settings, etc. There is also a clock and an alarm clock. The control panel is located at the top, which will allow you to switch through the playlist without being distracted from the road. Tired of listening to music from a flash drive? An FM radio is available to the cyclist - we can tune in the desired wave.

Mounts included with the New Angel CX speaker:

  • on the steering wheel with adjustment for pipe diameters;
  • rubberized belt for running or walking;
  • plastic belt clip.

It is worth noting that portable speakers work without recharging the battery for 3 to 5 hours, which fits within the standard time of cycling. On longer trips you will have to save the charge and give the device a rest.

Bicycle speakers with Bluetooth technology

This option differs from a standard portable audio system in that the music files are transferred not from a memory storage device, but via a wireless connection. The data source-transmitter is a mobile phone, smartphone or player with Bluetooth functionality.

Bicycle speakers with wireless data transmission are powerful, compact and long-lasting devices. Let's look at their main advantages using the example of the Monoprice High Performance bike model:

  • compact dimensions and weight – 120 g, which will not cause inconvenience when driving a road bike;
  • retractable corrugated column;
  • control buttons on the front panel;
  • high transmission speed via Bluetooth, on this model – 24 Mbit/s;
  • stable connection over a distance of up to 8 m;
  • powerful acoustics;
  • Long battery life – 7-8 hours.

Despite its modest size, the speaker transmits a wide (from 16 kHz to 220 GHz) frequency range, making the sound more rich and spacious. The maximum pressure reaches 80 dB, which can be compared to the noise of a busy road. Thus, the music will be heard even in dense traffic.


Kit: bluetooth speaker, mount, USB charger, cable for mobile phone

Moving in the wind, rain and mud - all this is not a novelty for a cyclist. But for attachments this can be sad. Fortunately, the Performance bike's audio system is completely sealed from external negative factors.

Installation on the bike is very simple: the device is inserted into a durable plastic socket and fixed to the handlebar with a screw clamp.

Other models from the manufacturer Moonprice:

– compact Bluetooth player of medium power. Works continuously for up to 6 hours, has a lower battery capacity. However, a significant drawback is the lack of moisture protection of the case. The transfer speed via Bluetooth is lower, but through it you can listen to music from a micro-card. Of course, the cost of this model will be lower compared to the Performance bike.


Parther Rebel with vertical control panel

- “column-headlight”. It is shaped like a bicycle light. The direction is adjustable, like previous models. This player is cheaper due to the low battery capacity and, accordingly, short continuous operation time - up to 3 hours. However, for short rides this option will be quite acceptable.


Bluetooth speaker Osell Ma-861

Installing a ready-made device and enjoying music on the road is today no longer a dream, but a reality, especially since the prices for portable devices are quite reasonable. However, amateur craftsmen will find this option too simple, and they will prefer to assemble the audio system themselves. We'll find out how to do this further.

How to put music on a bicycle with your own hands

At school, those who attended radio classes were required to assemble a simple receiver or tape recorder. By analogy, you can assemble a turntable for a bicycle, if you have all the necessary parts and, of course, skill.

Of course, it's great to be able to assemble all sorts of things, but it's not always possible to find the right parts. Therefore, let's consider a simpler and more universal method - a wired bicycle audio system.

So, to work you will need:

  • small speakers with USB output – 2 pieces for high-quality sound;
  • battery pack;
  • mp3 player;
  • USB connectors – 3 pcs;
  • clamps for fixing the speakers on the steering wheel – 2 pcs;
  • glue "Moment".

Computer speakers can be purchased at any specialized department. We choose the smallest ones that would not interfere with control. The speakers are installed on the steering wheel on both sides.


This is what the finished acoustics on a bicycle will look like

Fastening - standard plastic clamps, which are usually used to hold reflectors, bells, mirrors, etc. They are sold separately in stores in limited quantities, but they are available on the Internet or, as an option, removed from a bell or lantern.

A battery pack can be purchased from Radio Supplies. In our case, we will need a 4-battery 5V system. We also buy USB connectors there.

How to assemble an audio system for a bicycle with your own hands:

  1. Place the speakers on the clamps using “Torque” and tighten the holders on the steering wheel. Check how firmly they fit.
  2. Attach USB connectors to the battery pack - two for speakers and one for the player.
  3. Stretch the wires from the speakers to the batteries, connect them through the USB outputs.
  4. Connect the battery to the mp3 player via a wire.

Launch the player and check the system's functionality. Additionally, you can make a switch - a relay in the area between the speakers and the battery pack. In principle, this is not necessary, since it is enough to remove the player's wire from the battery.

Conclusion

A music system for your bike, whether it’s a Bluetooth player or homemade wired speakers, will undoubtedly give you a new riding experience and add energy and vivacity on long runs.

So, today we are reviewing an interesting gadget - a portable audio speaker with a bicycle mount from the company InterStep. The kit also includes a remote control panel for the steering wheel. I’d like to note right away that the speaker is not only intended for bicycles – it’s simply equipped with a whole set of convenient mounts, and the SBS 120 Sport version will please cycling enthusiasts more.

Main characteristics

Stereo sound

Speaker power 2x4 W

Sensitivity 85 dB

Frequency range 80 Hz – 20 KHz

Resistance 4 ohms

Battery powered, USB powered

Battery 2500 mAh, 3.7 V, Li-Pol

Operating time up to 12 hours

Charging via microUSB, 5 V / 1 A

There is a radio

Number of AC bands 1

Inputs linear (mini jack connector)

Interfaces Bluetooth 4.0 + EDR, 2.42 – 2.48 GHz, up to 10 m

Profiles HFP, HSP, A2DP, AVRCP

microSD memory card support

Supported formats mp3, wav, wma, ape, flac

Dimensions 60x60x110 mm

Functions: waterproof housing, speakerphone

Carabiner set, bike mount on the handlebars, control panel on the steering wheel

with built-in speakerphone and microphone

A few words about the speaker manufacturer. The company was created in Russia in 1996, and was engaged in accessories for mobile phones - primarily covers, cases, bags, etc. Today InterStep is a large company that is also represented in the fields of leather goods (women's and men's bags) and all kinds of electronic accessories: chargers, portable speakers, headphones, tripods. Such gadgets are in great demand today because they can greatly simplify our lives.

Unboxing

The speaker is supplied in a separate box, and in another box the mounts and remote control panel for the steering wheel are packed.

The box with the column is made of thin hard cardboard, the printing is glossy in places, and looks very nice, the InterStep corporate style can be seen.

On the back side there is a lot of information on the speaker, the main functions and connectors are indicated, and the specification of the speaker versions. Mine says SBS-120, but it differs from the SBS-120 SPORT version only in the inclusion of a second box with bike racks. On the sides are marked the methods of reproduction and the possibility of attaching the speaker to a backpack using the included carabiner.

We open the box and see that inside there is an additional cardboard frame for the speaker. It firmly fixes it, preventing mechanical damage.

In the package we have:

· SBS 120 speaker · microUSB – AUX cable · microUSB – USB cable · carabiner · instruction insert

In principle, there is everything you need, and even a carbine. One might wish, perhaps, some other waterproof case for particularly harsh operating conditions, kayaking and all that wet stuff.

The box with fasteners and remote control is made of cardboard, reminiscent of craft paper. Open it up and see the following:

· Remote control · Set of clamps of different widths · Bike rack · Handlebar clamp · Rubber lining · Hex wrench and two bolts

This composition is more than enough to mount the speaker anywhere on the frame or handlebars of a bicycle. The plastic is high quality, dense, matte. The steering wheel clamp has two sealing pads, so that the column can be securely mounted on a steering wheel of any thickness.

Portable speaker - first look, features

I received a gray speaker for review. There is also a model in orange, it will look more energetic, gray is also good, but more discreet.

The speaker has a waterproof IPX5 housing, which means it is protected from low-pressure water jets from all sides. Thanks to the additional rubberized casing (the coating resembles soft touch and is pleasant to the touch), it will be really difficult for water to get inside the speaker, but I still don’t recommend checking this. The case must also withstand light falls, which can occasionally happen when used for cycling.

A silver strip, screwed with hex bolts, just secures the upper protective housing. This strip is made of plastic, although it looks very similar to aluminum. Under the side mesh there are two speakers located close to each other, so that the sound from the speaker is stereo.

The carabiner is attached to the side eye - it is metal and firmly mounted into the body. With its help it will be easy to attach the speaker to your backpack.

On the bottom edge of the speaker there are connectors covered with a rubber plug. It is not so easy to open - you need to pick it up with something sharp. This is a big plus in terms of moisture protection, although it can be inconvenient to use.

Opening the flap, we see a charging port - microUSB, an AUX connector, a slot for a microSD memory card and a charge indicator that glows red when connected via USB. You can install a card with a capacity of up to 32 GB, which is very convenient, as it allows you to use the speaker autonomously, without a smartphone. The card for the column will have to be formatted in FAT 32.

On the front panel of the speaker there are control buttons and a microphone hole for speakerphone.

The buttons are classic navigation forward/backward along tracks, in radio mode they switch radio stations, and also rewind a track when pressed for a long time. The +/- buttons control the speaker volume.

Bottom buttons from left to right: pick up/hang up, pause playback; switching playback modes radio/microSD card/Bluetooth; turn on/off the speaker.

Don’t forget that the speaker has HSP and HFP profiles, which makes it a full-fledged headset, so it will be convenient to answer calls while driving a bicycle. Well, if there are not too many people nearby, or you are not afraid of making the telephone conversation public.

Sound, autonomy, communication

SBS 120 has a Bluetooth 4.0 + EDR interface, which allows you to transmit a signal over a distance of about 10 meters, with a throughput of 1 Mbit/s. Version 4.0 also features the ability to operate in low power mode compared to previous versions of the interface.

At a distance of up to 10 meters, the speaker reliably maintains communication without straying or losing the signal. However, it doesn’t really need such a distance - by the nature of the gadget itself, it is assumed that it will be very close to you most of the time.

The sound of the speaker can only be praised - for its size and low weight (302 g) it is very loud, and even at maximum sound levels there is almost no wheezing. Let me remind you that it uses two 1.5” speakers with neodymium magnets, which allow you to achieve good, balanced sound. In the rear part there are broadband emitters that provide distributed stereo sound.

The sound is juicy, warm, with pronounced, strong and clear lows. Best suited for hip-hop or similar music, rich in bass and rhythmic, which is what most people need for cycling. Of course, the sound here hardly claims to be ideal, but it is quite detailed and pleasant, there is no noise or rattling of the case, and this is more than enough for portable audio. I want to use the speaker and carry it with me, even “just in case.”

The speaker is powered by a 2500 mAh lithium-polymer battery. When used at maximum volume, this is not so much; a full charge lasted me about 2-3 hours. At medium volume, the speakers last for almost twice as long – 4-5 hours of playback. You can’t complain about such indicators either - this is enough even for a small bike trip: in 5 hours you can cover 100 km. Charging the gadget takes several hours.

FM radio here works without an antenna, but high-quality sound is not so easy to achieve - only a few radio stations were received normally, the rest are received with interference, but this may depend on your location.

Control panel and mounting

Let's look at the control panel first. It connects to the AUX jack on the speaker using a cord. The cord is of very high quality, braided in a material reminiscent of polypropylene - it will not stiffen in the cold and will be slightly susceptible to abrasion. The length is approximately 110 cm, enough to attach to the handlebars and stretch to almost any place where the column is mounted on the frame.


There are 3 buttons on the remote control – previous/next track, call/pause, and call. The first two are standard, but the call function deserves attention - it’s a rather interesting solution. The beep here is very loud. Very! And I couldn’t turn down the volume - the beep is always at maximum volume. Pedestrians will flinch in surprise, so it's best to use it carefully.

There is also a microphone hole on the remote control, so you can use the speaker as a speaker while driving. The remote control is attached using high-quality “thick” Velcro.

The mount is similar to the mount for a bicycle bottle - the column sits firmly and will not pop out when moving over obstacles. The mount is screwed to the clamp with two hex bolts, and the kit even includes a key for them. The clamp has two pads for different diameters of the steering wheel tube, and is fixed with a clamping bolt.

The kit also includes a rubber lining designed to prevent scratching the frame if you secure the mount with plastic clamps (not all frames may have special holes, or suddenly you get the idea to fix the speaker in a completely unpredictable place).


There are really many options for attaching a column. The obvious ones are on the handlebars, or on the down tube of the frame - where a water bottle is usually attached. But you can place the column on the top tube, or even somewhere under the saddle. The equipment is excellent, so you can use your imagination.

Impressions and results

I strongly recommend the SBS 120 Sport speaker for purchase! It’s hard to find any faults with it, except maybe to find fault with the lack of a cover and the price. This is a really good, compact speaker with excellent sound for its category. It is protected from external influences, and has an excellent set of bike mounts - for lovers of bike rides with music, this is the best choice!

Advantages

· Excellent sound · Good equipment · Bicycle horn · Convenient bike mount · Waterproof · Multifunctionality: FM mode, speaker, reading from microSD · Small dimensions and weight combined with a good battery

Flaws

· Price above average