IT MAY not look much in the accompanying photograph, but Acumen has developed a nifty Bluetooth intercom package, using their acclaimed Interphone module, complete with a specifically designed on-bike charger that enables users to top-up the unit's battery.

Acumen's Dave Martin explain-ed: "When most people go touring on a motorcycle, they are limited in carrying capacity so everything they can leave behind is a bonus. One of the things we don't want to carry with us is a mains charger, so we engineered a bespoke on-bike charger that plugs directly into the bike's battery."

The Bluetooth module will connect to a mobile phone or a GPS system and it may also be paired with another unit to function as either a rider-to-passenger or even a short-range bike-to-bike intercom. It can even toggle' between intercom and mobile phone modes.

The design is waterproof (when the microphone is connected) and has large buttons for easy use even with gloves on.

With a 700-hour standby and seven hours of talk time this is a seriously useful piece of kit. Acumen is marketing the system under the Acucom name and the package includes the Blue-tooth module with a universal-fit boom microphone and slim speaker. Also included are two helmet fitting kits (one self-adhesive and the other a screw-mount), mains charger (for home use), and an on-bike charger.

The Acucom sells for £149.99 including the on-bike charger (£20 when purchased separately). If you can't find one locally call 08702 403257 or go to www. acumen-electronics.co.uk.