The ‘world’s first’ intercom integrated off-road helmet has just dropped courtesy of a mashup between comms specialists Cardo and longstanding protective equipment manufacturer Leatt.  

Dubbed the Venture, the new lid has been developed around Leatt’s existing Moto 8.5 platform and brings integrated mesh intercom tech to an enduro/motocross-specific design for the first time, closing what Cardo describes as a ‘long-standing gap in the off-road motorcycle market.’   

Of course, the existing solution of simply fitting an external intercom will still suffice for most, but this provides an option for those wanting a fully incorporated system.  

Priced at £695 (or €799/US$799 for European and US customers respectively), the Venture is from late summer 2026.  

The new helmet combines Cardo's established Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC) system with 40mm JBL speakers and a range of up to one mile (1.6km), allowing groups of up to 15 to connect via a private channel – the potential practical benefits are obvious, as is the scope for piss-taking between mates while on the move.  

It’s worth mentioning at this stage that, while chatting away or listening to music while trail riding is perfectly kosher, domestic and international competition regulations (e.g. those set by the ACU in the UK and FIM internationally) expressly ban the use of any two-way comms system during competition, on penalty of disqualification.   

That doesn’t mean the Venture would be ineligible for competition use per se - the fact that the intercom unit is factory fitted, albeit externally, may be enough to get it past scrutineering, but having the headset switched on during racing is a big fat no.  

Back to the specs, and as you’d expect, trim is very similar to the aforementioned Moto 8.5 (which costs £399 by itself) from Leatt. That means the inclusion of the brand’s 360° Turbine Technology, designed to reduce both impact forces and rotational acceleration, alongside four-density impact foam construction.  

Inside, an Ionic+ antimicrobial liner manages moisture, while Leatt's Pro-Fit modular padding system allows users to tailor the fit.  

Other details include emergency quick-release cheek pads, neck brace compatibility, and integrated hydration routing.  

Cardo is backing the Venture with a five-year warranty on the helmet, three years on the comms technology and up to two years on the battery, depending on the market.  

Cardo CEO Alon Lumbroso said: "Bringing integrated communication to the off-road helmet segment is not just another milestone for Cardo – it's a genuine game changer for the category.  

"As part of our broader strategy to bring next-generation smart helmet technology to market, we're focused on developing fully integrated solutions that enhance performance, safety and the overall riding experience."