Not a new device – we have even mentioned it before – but it stands repeating in the context of the WHIM, because in this section, we rely on the information we are given, rather than test it.
The FreeWire is a quick way of connecting a single Bluetooth headset to a Harley-Davidson Touring model with a Boom!Box and a wired headset plug – basically anything with a 7-pin DIN socket from 1997-on. It can take power from the cigarette lighter socket, but also has a built-in battery that’s reckoned to last for up to seven hours if you want minimal wiring.
How much impact the wiring has is really down to you: it is designed to mount on a handlebar and one lead obviously runs to the DIN socket, but there are cubbyholes where you can hide it: you will only need access to it to switch it on and off, and to pair.
Disappointingly, you will need a second FreeWire if you want a pillion riderto be able to share wireless audio from the Boom!Box, but they will be able to continue using the wired headest and retain all the regular functions. And with a second Freewire, they will be able to do that and pair to their own phone, giving them control of their own music for the journey, and their own call handling.