Has anyone suggestions on the installation and use of two way radios for communicating with your passenger, or another biker? Was wondering if those small walkie talkies could be used with the right head piece. thanks
Chatterbox has a GMRS frequency unit for about $350 that would get you an addl headset and ext cord. Ability to use Ipod and cellphone, supposedly 5 mile range. Other option would be Autocom unit w/ Kenwood 2way radio, about twice the money but better quality and range. Both come with ptt (push to talk) buttons that mount on the left bar.
I just used the Autocom units on my coast to coast ride. It's good enough that you don't even need to use a push to talk system for bike to bike communication (although I'd recommend if you road with a passenger a lot to keep bike-to-bike from interfering). We actually used a set of $80 motorola's instead of the recommended Kenwoods. It took a $16 patch cable from Autocom and the units worked great. The big advantage to the Kenwood unit is that the Autocom can power it so no need for batteries. Our motorolas ate 3 double-a's every other day. As far what the Autocom can do? VERY good stereo quality, ipod, radar & gps plugged in simultaneously with bike to bike... Amazingly adjusted volume of the headsets (and VOX trigger) to the ambient noise in the helmet. So you could ride with the visor open without kicking the mike on (up to about 80). Even cruising 120, we were able to chat back and forth all voice activated. Only thing I'd knock are the large speakers they expect you to use. We both ended up ditching the speakers and using the Sure earbuds. I know a lot of people with Chatterboxes and hear mixed reviews. Don't expect communications to be clear bike to bike at high speed. But they are good units all-around and are easy to install.
