FAQ’s – MC-100 System

The answer may be here – or ask a different question

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[toggle title_open=”What bikes are compatible with the MC-100 audio system?” title_closed=”What bikes are compatible with the MC-100 audio system?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]The system will operate with any cycle or ATV. The location of the audio controller will vary due to the available space depending on the size and compartments of your bike. Some choices are under a fairing, in a glove box-like compartment, under the seat, etc. RKA Motorcycle Luggage also makes a tank bag for various devices so you can even put there. We like to hear about the creative spots the audio controller units end up. Let us know about yours.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”What music devices can I use with the system?” title_closed=”What music devices can I use with the system?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]Any device that uses a standard audio cable (included) can be connected to the MC-100 system. This can include and iPod®, MP3 player, CD player, satellite radio, GPS unit, radar detector, or any other audio source.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”How big is the audio unit?” title_closed=”How big is the audio unit?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]photo of MotoChello MC-100 audio unitThe Audio unit dimensions are 5″ long x 3″ wide. The depth of the case is 1¼” thick.

Please note that when selecting a location to mount it, you’ll want to allow at least 1” at each end to allow for the connectors.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”Where do I put the systems audio unit?” title_closed=”Where do I put the systems audio unit?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]The audio unit can be placed at many convenient locations of your choosing, such as a glove box, in the tank bag (such as an RKA IN-charge bag) or in the trunk compartment of the Gold Wing. Please see the Photos page for some installation ideas. If you find a more creative spot for it – send us a picture.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”How big is the display?” title_closed=”How big is the display?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]The Display unit dimensions are 4 3/4″ wide x 3 3/4″ tall x 1″ thick.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”How do I mount the display?” title_closed=”How do I mount the display?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]photo of the MotoChello MC-100 display unit mountA Ram Handlebar mount is included for the touch screen display that fits the Honda Gold Wing, Kawasaki Concours and many other bikes (RAM-B-3091U). A Reservoir mount is also included that fits most BMW’s and other cycles (RAM-B-345U).

Should they not fit your specific bike, we have included instructions for using the RAM Mount wizard to determine which lower mount only that you may require for your specific bike (the part that actually attaches to the handlebars). The upper mounts are included in the MC-100 package.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”What if the mount doesn’t fit my bike?” title_closed=”What if the mount doesn’t fit my bike?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]Ram Mounts makes handlebar mounts for just about anything you may want to attach to your bike. Use our instruction guide for determining the bike specific mount you’ll need from the Ram Mounts website wizard. If you do need a different RAM mount for your cycle, only the lower mount (that directly attaches the display to your handlebars) will be needed. The rest of the mounting kit is included in the MC-100 package.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”How long does it take to install?” title_closed=”How long does it take to install?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]That is difficult to answer as there are so many variables (particular bike, ability, etc.). We suggest that unless you are comfortable and experienced getting “under the fairing” of your bike, you may want to have your dealer install the system. Anyone who has changed the oil filters in a Gold Wing will better understand this.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”Does the MC-100 use a lot of power?” title_closed=”Does the MC-100 use a lot of power?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]No. The sophisticated electronics in the MC-100 use very little power, 300 milliamps at 12V which is equivalent to a GPS unit. Additionally, if using the MC-100 manually (rather than with accessory power) and the system, if left on after the bike has been turned off, will draw about 140 micro-amps. That is an insignificant amount that would take more than 10 years to discharge the battery. You’ll probably go riding before then.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”Why isn’t the system wireless?” title_closed=”Why isn’t the system wireless?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]Bluetooth/Wireless systems have limitations in the technology that affect the quality of music and cause delays in communication from switching back and forth between channels. You are also limited to a small number of other riders you can “synch” with, or talk to. If you plan to occasionally talk to just one or two people and aren’t really concerned about listening to music or using a GPS and other devices, you may find these systems work for you. That’s fine.

We happen to believe that music should sound the way it was recorded, in full dynamic stereo, and you should be able to hear it clearly at any speed of travel. We also think talking to someone in a normal voice should have an immediate and clear response.  (Imagine trying to get someone’s immediate attention to a situation and having to wait several seconds for them to get the message. Will they hear it in time?). With a MotoChello system, you can have instant conversations without taking your hands off the handlebars. We think that’s a good thing.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”Do I need to charge the MotoChello system?” title_closed=”Do I need to charge the MotoChello system?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]No. MotoChello offers great sounding music and effortless communications that turn on and off with your bike (when connected to accessory power). You will not need to charge the MC-100 system and your connected devices should benefit from this also. So you can either plug in a single cord on a great sounding system – or you can compromise on sound quality and carry power strips and multiple charging devices on trips and remove your devices daily to charge them. The choice is yours.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”Why would I want to use an FRS radio?” title_closed=”Why would I want to use an FRS radio?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]The new, digital FRS radios are an inexpensive and versatile alternative to CB radios. They can also be used as hand held “walkie-talkies” and have improved reception over conventional CB radios, making them the more popular choice for many. The MC-100 has a dedicated port for an FRS radio and cables are included for Cobra®, Midland® and Motorola® radios. Some FRS radios also have a USB connection that will charge them automatically while you’re riding.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”Can I use a CB radio with the MC-100 system?” title_closed=”Can I use a CB radio with the MC-100 system?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]The MC-100 has been tested with the Midland portable CB Model #75-822 and is compatible. Riders can use the Midland FRS cable provided with the MC-100 system to connect to the FRS port on the MC-100 audio controller.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”What about a UHF radio?” title_closed=”What about a UHF radio?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]Some riders prefer to use a portable UHF radio. MotoChello has an available UHF interface adapter that lets you connect a Kenwood® compatible UHF radio to the FRS port on the MC-100 system.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”Can I use my Gold Wing CB radio with the MC-100 system?” title_closed=”Can I use my Gold Wing® CB radio with the MC-100 system?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]The GL-1800 CB Adapter will let Gold Wing riders interface to the Honda CB. With the adapter, GL-1800’s can choose to use either the CB radio, FRS radio, or both. [/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”Can I leave the display unit on my bike when I wash it?” title_closed=”Can I leave the display unit on my bike when I wash it?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]While the MC-100 is designed for outdoor use, we strongly recommend you remove the display from your cycle before washing it, just as you would your other electronic devices. At the very least, you should cover it with a plastic bag beforehand and avoid using soap and power spray directly on your electronics.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”Can two people on different bikes listen to the same music?” title_closed=”Can two people on different bikes listen to the same music?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]No. One rider can have the audio system for music and communicate with another rider on an additional bike through the two-way radio, but you cannot “share” music from one audio system with additional bikes.

The MotoRfPlus lets riders listen to their own music and talk to each other bike-to-bike using a two-way radio. You may also consider having an MC-100 system on the bike you use when you ride 2-up and use the MotoRfPlus on additional bikes to communicate when you are riding separately. [/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”If I mess up the settings can I get them back?” title_closed=”If I mess up the settings can I get them back?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]With so many choices, it’s easy to get carried away sometimes. But if you save the system settings in the “Settings: SAVE SETTINGS” screen after adjusting them to your liking, you can then reset them any time you want by using the “Settings: RESTORE USER SETTINGS” screen.

If you have not saved your personal default settings, you can either make further adjustments (then save them as your own) or you may restore the system to the factory defaults and start over. If you choose this method, you will need to restart the system for them to take effect. After you have made your adjustments, remember to save them as your User Defaults in case you want to restore to them later![/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”Do I need to replace the headsets I have?” title_closed=”Do I need to replace the headsets I have?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]MotoChello uses custom headset drivers (the little speakers that go in your helmet) that are comparable in quality to expensive, premium head phones and take full advantage of the MotoChello firmware in providing amazing sound quality. Several users with hearing issues have told us they are surprised at how much they help. So yes, you should replace your current headsets with the ones made for, and provided with the MotoChello system. [/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”If I get the single rider system, can I upgrade later for a 2-riders?” title_closed=”If I get the single rider system, can I upgrade later for a 2-riders?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]Yes. The single rider system includes a single headset and microphone, but has all of the features to be upgraded later by adding an additional headset and microphone for a passenger (or an additional helmet). However, if you know you are going to want a second helmet installation, ordering the 2-up rider system now will save you money over adding them at a later time.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”Can I use my earbuds  instead of the headsets with the MC-100?” title_closed=”Can I use my earbuds instead of the headsets with the MC-100?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]We  have an adapter available that can accommodate your ear bud speakers. We cannot attest to their sound quality, however, since we have not been able to test with all of the brands available. The MC-100 is an upgraded system, and not merely a better headset, so you should still hear quite an improvement in music quality.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”I am picking up noise on my audio device when the engine is running?” title_closed=”I am picking up noise on my audio device when the engine is running?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include excerpt_html=”no”]Noise can sometimes occur from powered devices like a GPS, Radar detector, or an MP3 player with a USB power connection. It happens due to a ground loop issue in the bike wiring and not from the MotoChello system. The Zumo® 550 GPS does not have this problem, but the Zumo® 650-665 models do appear to exhibit the ground loop issue with the power supply. The good news is that there is an easy and inexpensive solution for it.

Ground loop isolator for bike wiringTo eliminate this problem if it occurs, you need to use a ground loop isolator. We have tested and recommend the PAC SNI-1/3.5 3.5mm Ground Loop Isolator for solving this issue with any powered device on your bike. The isolator is available from Amazon.com  and it can also be purchased elsewhere.[/toggle]