Riding Connected — Testing the SENA Bikom 20 Dual Around Lake Viñuela

There are days when cycling in southern Spain feels like a privilege. Warm, golden light, a steady breeze, and the endless undulation of dusty trails around Lake Viñuela, framed by olive groves and mountain silhouettes. It was on one of those near-perfect days that Sean and I decided to put SENA’s new Bikom 20 Dual communication system through its paces.

As a triathlon coach and gear tester, I spend plenty of time experimenting with new technology that claims to make training smarter or safer. The Bikom 20 Dual promises both — a wireless intercom designed specifically for cyclists, allowing you to chat, take calls, and ride connected without breaking rhythm. But how would it hold up in real-world conditions: gravel, climbs, and the occasional Andalusian gust?

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SENA Bikom 20 on a Mountain Bike Helmet at Lake Vinuela

First Impressions and What’s in the Box

Unboxing the Bikom 20 Dual set is the first hint that SENA knows its audience.

Inside, you get two sleek Bikom 20 units with a boom mic, helmet strap mounts, clip mount Caps, USB-C charging cable, and microphone sponges. Everything feels solid and neatly organized — no unnecessary fuss, just ready-to-ride simplicity.

Before we hit the trail, we both downloaded the SENA Cycling App. It guided us through pairing the units with our phones and even prompted a firmware update, which was quick and painless. A small but reassuring step that shows SENA is serious about keeping their tech products current.

SENA Bikom 20 Dual Unboxing Video

Setting Up and Clipping On

Installation was refreshingly straightforward. The clips attach firmly to most MTB helmets, and the mic arm adjusts easily to find the sweet spot. The clever flip-up-to-mute feature instantly became a favourite — intuitive, mechanical, and something you can do without breaking concentration or reaching for buttons.

Within minutes, both headsets were paired, tested, and ready. Sean’s e-MTB and my dual-suspension MTB were about to get a little more connected.

Note: They also include a clip so you can use the headset on a standard cap.

SENA Bikom 20 headset securely attached to the helmet strap

On the Trail – Riding Around Lake Viñuela

Our chosen route around Lake Viñuela is a local gem: a mix of smooth gravel, muddy corners, and rolling hills. It’s scenic but challenging — perfect for testing range, sound quality, and stability.

We powered up our headsets and heard the voice saying “Hello, battery level high,” which reassured us that the unit was on and had plenty of power for our ride. We then pressed the centre button and heard it say “mesh intercom on, open mesh, channel 1” followed by “connect to phone”. We both made sure we were on channel 1 and set off. The open mesh setting is for open group intercom conversations.

From the first kilometre, we were impressed. The clarity of speech was exceptional — natural tone, no distortion, and almost no wind interference. Even on open descents where crosswinds can drown out conversation, we could talk as if we were side by side.

The noise reduction works quietly in the background, taking away the harshness of the wind but keeping the ambient sounds of the ride — tyres crunching, birds overhead, and the occasional friendly “¡Hola!” from passing walkers with their friendly dogs.

Midway through the loop, Sean’s phone buzzed. Without stopping, he flipped the mic down and answered. The call connected seamlessly via Bluetooth, and I could still hear the intercom reconnect automatically once the call ended — slick and seamless.

The only time the connection faltered was when one of us rounded a bend or dropped behind a steep embankment. The signal appears to need line of sight to stay stable, so we learned to keep each other visible when possible. On open ground, though, the range was better — not the advertised 900 metres but a solid 220 metres measured on my COROS Pace 3 watch.

We both liked the way you could swivel the microphone arm up and down to mute/unmute the microphone.

SENA Bikom 20 is ideal for Mountain Bike Rides

The Ride Experience

After two hours in the saddle, what stood out most wasn’t just the convenience — it was the sense of calm. No more shouting over the wind or waiting at places to regroup.

Coaching feedback, route decisions, and casual chat all flowed naturally. The Bikom 20 Dual made the ride feel more social and, in a subtle way, safer.

Battery life was solid throughout, and the units never once slipped or loosened on our helmets. They’re light, discreet, and designed to survive the dust and sweat of real rides.

Lake Vinuela in Southern Spain - an ideal location to try the Bikom 20 Headsets

Verdict – Clear Voices, Clear Winner

The SENA Bikom 20 Dual strikes a rare balance between tech sophistication and simplicity. The sound quality is superb, the controls intuitive, and the overall experience remarkably smooth.

Sure, it’s not immune to terrain-induced signal loss — no intercom really is — but for day-to-day riding, training, or coaching sessions, it’s hard to fault. The fact that you can also take calls, listen to music, or update firmware via the app adds real-world versatility.

For anyone who rides in pairs or groups — whether coaching, training, or just exploring — the Bikom 20 Dual adds a layer of connection that transforms the experience. Around Lake Viñuela, it didn’t just keep us talking — it kept us riding as a team.

Highlights:

• Crystal-clear intercom audio
• Flip-up mic mute is genius
• Seamless phone call and app integration
• Wind and noise suppression that really works
• Light, durable, and easy to mount
• Can be used with a bike helmet or standard cap

Could be better:

• Needs line of sight for the best connection
• Slightly bulky on minimal helmets

Near the end of our MTB ride, and impressed with the Bikom 20 Headsets

Final thoughts: The Conclusion

The Bikom 20 Dual isn’t just a gadget — it’s a training tool, a safety enhancer, and a social connector all in one. It keeps riders talking naturally, whether you’re coaching, exploring new trails, or just enjoying a casual ride with a partner or group. With Mesh Intercom, you can stay connected even on larger rides, and Bluetooth integration allows seamless calls, music, and Shimano Di2 notifications.

What really stands out is how it blends into the ride — light on the helmet, intuitive to use, and reliable across varied terrain. SENA has nailed the formula for cyclists who want to stay connected without losing focus, letting you concentrate on technique, pace, and the trail ahead while keeping conversation flowing.

Ultimately, it transforms ordinary rides into more connected, informed, and enjoyable experiences, making every kilometre safer, smarter, and just a little more fun.

Karen Parnell is a Level 3 British Triathlon and IRONMAN Certified Coach, 8020 Endurance Certified Coach, WOWSA Level 3 open water swimming coach, and NASM Personal Trainer and Sports Technology Writer. 

Karen has a postgraduate MSc in Sports Performance Coaching from the University of Stirling.

Need a training plan? I have plans on TrainingPeaks and FinalSurge:

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I also coach a very small number of athletes one-to-one for all triathlon and multi-sport distances, open water swimming events, and running races. Email me for details and availability. Karen.parnell@chilitri.com

SENA Bikom 20 bike headset box contents

SENA Bikom 20 Dual – Rider FAQ

1. What is the SENA Bikom 20 Dual?

The Bikom 20 Dual is a cyclist-focused communication system that supports both Bluetooth intercom and Mesh Intercom 3.0. It allows riders to talk hands-free in pairs or join larger groups using Open Mesh or Group Mesh modes. It also connects to your smartphone for calls, navigation prompts, music playback, and even Shimano Di2 notifications.

2. Can I listen to music or podcasts while riding?

Yes. When paired with your phone via Bluetooth, you can stream music, podcasts, or any audio app. The open-ear speaker design means you’ll still hear surrounding sounds — a safer alternative to earbuds.
When your riding partner speaks through the intercom, your music automatically lowers in volume so you don’t miss a word.

3. How do I install the Bikom 20 on my helmet?

Each unit comes with a helmet clip and boom microphone.

1. Attach the clip to the helmet shell or strap.
2. Slide the unit into place until it clicks.
3. Adjust the mic boom near your mouth.
   The system feels secure, even on bumpy off-road rides.

4. How do I pair the two headsets?

You can pair them directly using the buttons on each device, or use the SENA Cycling App for a faster, visual setup. The app also lets you adjust settings, manage devices, and update firmware.

5. Do I need the SENA Cycling App?

Not strictly, but it’s strongly recommended. The app makes pairing smoother, keeps your firmware up to date, and gives access to audio and intercom settings that aren’t available from the device alone.

6. How far apart can we ride and still stay connected?

The Bikom 20 Dual has a theoretical range of up to 900 metres (line of sight). In open areas like fields or quiet roads, that could be possible but we tested it on a beach side paseo and only got 220 metres measure using my GPS sports watch.
However, on hilly or wooded terrain, the signal can weaken if one rider goes behind a bend or a steep bank — we found staying in visual range worked best.

7. What about phone calls?

You can take and make calls directly through the headset — your phone stays safely in your pocket or jersey. We tested this mid-ride, and the clarity was excellent. The system automatically switches back to intercom once the call ends.

8. How’s the sound quality?

Speech clarity is the standout feature — voices sound natural and crisp, with impressive wind and noise reduction. Music and podcasts sound good too, though the emphasis is on voice performance and safety rather than deep bass.

9. How long does the battery last?

Expect around 8 hours of talk time on a full charge. Charging takes roughly 2.5 hours via USB-C. For most riders, that’s plenty for a full day’s training or touring.

10. Is it waterproof?

It’s rated IPX6, meaning it’s splash and rain-resistant. A downpour or a muddy section won’t hurt it, but it’s not meant for full submersion.

11. Can more than two riders connect?

Yes — thanks to Mesh Intercom 3.0, the Bikom 20 Dual can support multiple riders beyond a pair. Use Open Mesh to let nearby SENA users join automatically (unlimited riders), or Group Mesh for a private network with your team (up to 24 riders). This makes it suitable for both casual group rides and organized training sessions.

12. What’s the best feature?

Unanimously: the flip-up-to-mute mic. It’s intuitive, tactile, and works flawlessly — no button fumbling or voice commands needed.

13. Any downsides?

Only minor ones:

• The connection can drop behind hills or sharp bends.
• Slightly bulky on ultra-aero road helmets.
• Audio is tuned for clarity, not booming sound.

But for reliability, safety, and ease of use, it’s an excellent companion for MTB, gravel, and training rides.

14. Who is it best suited for?

The Bikom 20 Dual is ideal for cyclists riding in pairs or groups, whether for training, coaching, touring, or e-MTB adventures. Thanks to Mesh Intercom, it works equally well for larger group rides, while still providing clear, hands-free communication for coaches, couples, and training partners who want to stay connected and safe without shouting.

15. Does the Bikom 20 support Mesh Intercom?

Yes — the SENA Bikom 20 Dual features Mesh Intercom 3.0, allowing seamless, real-time communication with nearby riders. It supports two modes:

• Open Mesh: Any nearby SENA users on the same channel can join automatically — great for larger rides or club events. Unlimited users in each of the 6 available channels.
• Group Mesh: A private, invite-only network for your team, ideal for coaching sessions, small groups, or private tours. For up to 24 participants.

These modes make it easy to stay connected, whether you’re riding in a pair or a larger group, with minimal setup and reliable performance.

16. Can the Bikom 20 connect to Shimano Di2?

Yes — the Bikom 20 Dual can pair with Shimano Di2 electronic shifting systems via Bluetooth. This allows you to hear audible shift confirmations and notifications through the headset, keeping you informed without looking down at your bike. It’s a handy feature for road cyclists and e-MTB riders who want seamless integration between communication and bike electronics.

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