I have a Cardo and Mabel has a Cardo. Whether we are each riding our own bikes or riding two up, it is nice to be able to communicate. Mabel is more hesitant than I in traffic and we can get separated. The ability to communicate when riding separately is really nice.
I do not answer the phone while riding. I can hear the phone ring, but I do not answer or talk while riding. I can dial using voice command hands free - but I do not while riding. I have Mabel' cell number and 911 programed in to use voice commands.
When riding in groups, I do not connect with other riders. I don't need chatter and distractions. The exception to that is I do connect with one of my riding buddies when we are just riding with no particular destination in mind. He does not chatter and we can communicate about where we want to go without pulling off of the road.