Anyone out there been using these things on the trail? Was tempted to try the VOX (voice operated) unit, but wondering if the race-mod loudness would interfere. I know they have sensitivity adjustments, but wondering if the motor's volume interferes. For now I picked up a push to talk earbud with mic. Anyone's input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Ken

 

Wife & I use a pair of Motorola talkabout FRS radios. They reach 3/4 mile almost all the time, 1 mile most of the time, and yes, they will reach the advertised 2 miles (or maybe even a little more) but only in open terrain.
I would strongly recommend the earbud/microphone with the push to talk button over the VOX feature. This has a small earpiece for listening, and either a throat microphone, or a microphone you can either attatch to your helmet, or fits over your head like a telephone operator's, depending on manufacturer/model. Usually the push-to-talk button is in the microphone line, and for me sits about 3 inches below my throat on my chest (can be clipped to your collar if you want, though).
The reason I recommend the push to talk over the VOX is because either the microphone picks up engine noise all the time, or you have to turn the sensitivity down so much you feel you have to yell to activate it. Also, with the VOX, your buddies/wife/children will hear EVERY cuss word you utter when you hit that gnarly section of trail just a little too fast.

 

Yes we use them on all are rides. Do NOT get the VOX it is too sensitive and the stock motors interfere with it. Keep with the Push to talk. I am actually setting up the PTT (Push to talk) system in my helmet. I really like the FRS Radios. Just make sure they have the sub codes so you can have your privacy on the channel. They are great for communicating along the trail.

 

I gotta agree with these guys. They are too sensitive and are even set off by wind if the microphone is exposed. I personally use the combo mic/speaker that clips on. It works good and is handy.

 

Thanks for the info. I had already picked up the PTT bud/mic, but wanted input before I opened it up. Can't wait to try these things out....breaker, breaker, rubber duck.

Ken