Road Cycling - 2-way radios

I see the pros using 2-way radios. Does anyone know what types they are using? Most I have seen in stores do not seem to be hands free and I would think that would be a necessity.

I see the pros using 2-way radios. Does anyone know what types they are using? Most I have seen in stores do not seem to be hands free and I would think that would be a necessity.

I know that USPS uses the Alinco DJ-C5T (http://www.durhamradio.com/alinco-djc5t.htm)... probably specially "tuned" for their needs (ie. encrypted channel, special frequencies, etc...). It's the size of a credit-card. It probably doesn't have the same range as the standard model either because most likely they're using a more compact antenna.

http://www.durhamradio.com/gifs/alinco-djc5t.jpg

As far as something you can pick up at Radio Shack and Walmart, there are FRS radios with VOX features. And most of them I've seen have a place to plug in an external headset/mic. I actually picked up a set of two budget FRS radios (Audiovox) that have VOX capability for $12/pair. They're also very small. I've used them a couple of times for cycling. They don't have great range (listed as 2 miles but realistically only a mile or so) and don't support sub-channels. More sophisticated ones (such as the Motorola T5950) can be had for $50/pair at Costco. They will go 5 miles, support GMRS, include NOAA weather band monitoring, support sub-channeling and have a vibe-mode like on some mobile phones and pagers.

The radio pictured above is an "Amateur Radio" and requires an Amateur Radio License prior to transmitting.

I suggest you stick with FRS radios. There are many that now have VOX (Voice Activated Switching). Many of them now use the same hands free device as a cell phone.

GMRS is another licensed service. The FCC site has the following to say:

General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS)

The General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) is a land-mobile radio service available for short-distance two-way communications to facilitate the activities of an adult individual and his or her immediate family members, including a spouse, children, parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, and in-laws (47 CFR 95.179). Normally, as a GMRS system licensee, you and your family members would communicate among yourselves over the general area of your residence or during recreational group outings, such as camping or hiking.

The FCC grants five-year renewable licenses for GMRS Systems. The individual licensee is responsible for the proper operations of the licensed GMRS system at all times.
FRS/GMRS Dual Service Radios


Some manufacturers have received approval to market radios that are certified for use in both the Family Radio Service (FRS) and the General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS). Other manufacturers have received approval of their radios under the GMRS rules, but market them as FRS/GMRS radios on the basis that:

* Some channels are authorized to both services, or
* A user of the radio may communicate with stations in the other service.

Radios marketed as "FRS/GMRS" or "dual-service radios" are available from many manufacturers and many retail or discount stores. The manual that comes with the radio, or the label placed on it by the manufacturer, should indicate the service the unit is certified for. If you cannot determine what service the unit may be used in, contact the manufacturer.

If you operate a radio that has been approved exclusively under the rules that apply to FRS, you are not required to have a license. FRS radios have a maximum power of ½ watt (500 milliwatt) effective radiated power and integral (non-detachable) antennas. If you operate a radio under the rules that apply to GMRS, you must have a GMRS license. GMRS radios generally transmit at higher power levels (1 to 5 watts is typical) and may have detachable antennas. The current fee for a new GMRS license is $75.
Licensing


Before any station transmits on any channel authorized in the GMRS from any point within or over the territorial limits of any area where the FCC regulates radio services, the responsible party must obtain a license. The FCC usually grants GMRS system licenses for a five-year term. To apply for a GMRS system license, you may file online through the Universal Licensing System (ULS), or file FCC Form 605 manually. New filers can learn more about ULS in its getting started tutorials. See Fee Requirements for FCC Form 605 for current licensing fee information.


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The FCC has a ton of information. I'd check with their site to find what is best & legal for you to use. Unlicesed operation in Licesed radio service frquencies can carry stiff fines and prison time.

http://www.fcc.govhttp://wireless.fcc.gov/services/amateur/

The radio pictured above is an "Amateur Radio" and requires an Amateur Radio License prior to transmitting.

Right... although I suspect USPS has had their radios retuned to special frequencies probably similar to those of business radios. Of course you need a special license to operate on those bands too. I doubt they're operating on the HAM bands.

I own a pair of Midland G-225 that have 22 stations with 15 being high power or GMRS stations. The radio also has 21 security codes for each station so you can set your radios to the same security code and lesson the chance of someone bleeding over on yours or they listening to you. It has a 7 mile range, but these ranges given by all radios are based on going to the Salt Flats under idea weather conditions. You might not be able to transmit more than a block if your in a steel building and that building is surrounded by other similar buildings.

The Midland can be hands free if you buy the optional microphone and use the VOX mode.

Also even though the GMRS is suppose to be licensed the FCC is not enforcing that rule for units with less than a 10 mile range.