2 way radio/throat mic question - Snowmobile Forum: Your #1 Snowmobile Forum

hoamskilet · 11-21-2007, 12:46 AM

My fiance and I are looking into getting some sled to sled communication before our trip to the U.P. I'm thinking I want to go the 2 way radio/throat mic route with PTT as opposed to VOX. I know some people are going to suggest the Collett's, but seeing as we are just starting out and still have other gear to buy yet, I'd like to keep the cost down. So for those of you who have this type of setup, what's products are you using? I see Gander Mountain has a set of the "26 mile" Midlands on sale for $80 and was thinkin about picking those up. I know the range isn't near what they advertise. Are any of the radio's significantly better than the others? We both have Ski-Doo modular helmets if that makes any difference. Any help would be appreciated, thanks.

Nate

Jaded · 11-21-2007, 12:57 AM

About 5 or 6 years back the wife and I tried the Collette system and it was absolute crap. We spent more time screwing around with the system than sledding. Whether or not they've improved since then, I don't know.
Now we just use the higher end FRS radios. They definitely have their limitations too but we keep them turned off unless we get separated then we turn them on to find where each other is at.
Can listen to my MP3 instead of the wife this way too.

RenegadeSnowman · 11-21-2007, 08:07 AM

I would try the hand held units first as well and use them if you you get separated. My wife and I were talking about the helmet systems at one time as well. However, we both agreed the one thing we like about riding was not hearing people talking while we are enjoying the surroundings. And then when we pull over for a break or make a stop some where it makes for good conversation to talk about things that happened on the trail. Also, cell phone coverage is getting better and better every day. So thats another avenue for contact to your riding partner depending on wher you ride of course. Have fun, be safe! Happy Turkey Day folks!!!!!!

WolfOne · 11-21-2007, 08:14 AM

I don't know nothing about frequncy you can use in USA but me and my friends we use bike to bike radio with earphon and mic installed into helmets.

at the beginning we use VOX but it make us crazy due to engine and wind noise that is too much variable ... it's impossible to have a right setting on VOX sistems

so we changed to PTT with a switch on the handle bar and it works great

our radios are like toys ... at very low price ( 20 euros for 2 radio) but they have a short 'working range'.

**RJ Gleason** · 11-21-2007, 01:10 PM

A few of my friends have the FRS radios ( Garmin Rhino) and use a earbud with mic on the wire under the helmet. Works well and you can put the radio in an inside pocket so the battery's last longer. You will still have to stop to use them to talk, but there is a PTT setup that can be gotten that will mount on the bars.