Motorcycles and HoH Riders
I just came from a custom fit plugs sales presentation for motorcycle riders.
My un-qualified observation was that they are recommending industrial hearing protection (designed for stationary noises, jackhammers) for motorcycle riding (high speed and wind noises)
… and partially recommending noise reduction solutions, so you may hear your music better (?).
Plus, the audience were, most likely, long-term riders owning their helmets looking for a (quick) solution for the noise reduction … without checking their actual hearing levels and/or bringing their helmets (?), or disclosing their style of riding: city commuting (slow), highway (wind), dirt (high rpm) (?).
My background: I am semi-mature person in my 50s, new to motorcycles, looking for suggestions from actual motorcycle riders who have some scientific background, audiologist, police or military expert, etc., who have their own first-hand experience with noise and motorcycles.
Question 1.) Does it make sense to buy a $300-400 helmet and add custom fit plugs $250 = $600?
Question 2.) Is it better to get $600++ helmet (examples: Shoei RF-SR/RYD, Schuberth, BMW, etc - I have an oval head/ for touring) with no earbuds? https://youtu.be/W3b73xngRwc
Question 3.) Do hearing aids (BTE/ITE) if turned off or at minimum value, protect your hearing like any other plugs?
Question 4.) Is riding a motorcycle without any sound - by protection or by being deft - a smart/safe thing to do - balance and safety?
Question 5.) If communication with other riders is required - instead of the popular bluetooth equipment should I rather look at the TCAPS, Tactical Communication, and Protective Systems used by the army? https://www.digitaltrends.com/cool-tech/army-noise-canceling-headset/
Thank you for any suggestions, and happy riding!
D.