Since 2015, it has been illegal in France to ride an electric or regular bike while using earphones or an audio headset, according to Article R412-6-1 of the Road Code. This rule carries a fine of 135 euros. However, listening to music while cycling is still allowed using external speakers, which can be attached to a helmet or used with a hands-free kit. These devices were originally designed for motorcycle and scooter helmets but are now being adapted for cyclists. Brands such as Sena and Tenways have already released similar products, and in September 2025, Lazer, a helmet brand owned by Shimano, launched the Lazer VeloVox in partnership with Cardo, a specialist in motorcyclist intercoms. The VeloVox are designed to be attached to the helmet's straps in front of the ears, allowing cyclists to enjoy music and communicate legally without violating the law.
The Lazer VeloVox are sold in pairs and weigh just 34 grams. They attach to the lateral straps of the helmet and are described as comfortable and robust, though not very attractive. Their dimensions are 7 centimeters in height, 2.5 centimeters in width, and 1.2 centimeters in thickness. However, they are not very aerodynamic and have a somewhat crude appearance. Some users have noted that the VeloVox may not fit well on certain urban helmets, where there is limited space on the straps. In some cases, it's difficult to wear glasses alongside the devices, and the straps on some helmets are hard to adjust precisely. There is also no option to add ear covers, and the design could have been more refined with smoother shapes or additional color options.
In terms of comfort, the VeloVox do not come into contact with the skin and do not exert any pressure, allowing users to forget they are even there. The devices are rated with an IP54 rating, meaning they can be used in dusty environments and light rain. They were tested in heavy rain without any damage or loss of sound quality. After nine months of use, including exposure to rain, pollution, dust, sunlight, and even a few falls, the devices remained in excellent condition. The sound quality is directional, and a slight shift in position can affect the balance of the audio. Once properly adjusted, the VeloVox provide surprisingly good sound quality for their size, though they cannot match the best earphones or Bluetooth headphones on the market. The sound is neutral, with a lack of deep bass due to the small size. At two-thirds of the maximum volume, users may struggle to hear clearly in noisy conditions or when there is wind, but they are advised not to increase the volume too much to stay aware of their surroundings.
The VeloVox also allow for calls and intercom conversations, with satisfactory listening quality. However, users may need to raise their voice when speaking on a moving electric bike at 25 km/h. Call announcements are barely audible, with the name of the caller and numbers of unknown contacts being difficult to distinguish. Each VeloVox has two buttons: one for turning the device on and adjusting settings, and the other for controlling calls and music. The Cardo Connect app is used for customization, offering options to adjust sound settings, button functions, and access to quick features like volume control or favorite contacts. The app supports French and 10 other languages, and the intercom function uses the smartphone's mobile data, allowing up to 30 cyclists to communicate in a group as long as there is a network connection. However, in areas with poor signal, the intercom may not work, and audio quality can vary among participants based on their network provider.
One notable feature is the compatibility with Shimano devices, such as electric bikes with home assistance or the Di2 electronic shifters. This allows the handlebar buttons on these bikes to control music and calls, enhancing safety without requiring the user to take their hands off the handlebars. The Lazer VeloVox have a battery that provides 11 hours of use in conversation mode, with real-world testing showing about 10 hours at two-thirds volume. Charging is done via a USB-C port at the base of the device, with Lazer providing special cables that allow both earpieces to be charged simultaneously. While the charging time of three hours is not particularly fast, it is sufficient for regular use. A slightly longer cable would have been a welcome addition to make charging easier without removing the devices from the helmet.
New Legal Cycling Headphones Introduced in France
AI-rewritten from original reportingHow it works
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