Communication (Coms) on the Trail
Communication (Coms) on the Trail
...written by Brad Yhard
Being able to communicate between rigs, especially between the trail lead and tailgunner, can be important for a variety of reasons. Coms will help you keep the group together, let the trail leader announce oncoming groups and your tailgunner announce when a faster group catches up to you. It also allows group members to announce when they have problems or need assistance. Some friendly banter on the trail also adds to the experience!
There are a variety of choices for communication. To get you started, let’s take a look at a few of the available options.
There are a variety of choices for communication. To get you started, let’s take a look at a few of the available options.
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Citizens Band
Citizens Band (CB), is probably the most common, and what most people think of when they consider vehicle coms. Very popular in the 70’s and featured in many movies, it is probably the oldest and most common method of trail communication in Ontario. CB’s are readily available, easy to install, do not require a license, and have many options and price points. CB’s work in the AM band and are channelized with 40 channels to choose from. Legally, they are limited to 4 watts in Canada. While CB’s are limited in the distance they can reach, they have plenty of range for a trail ride. |
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Cell Phone
There are a variety of smartphone apps that simulate a CB. Unfortunately many of them rely on having a cell phone signal, which isn’t always available on the trail. |
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Ham Radio
Ham Radio is probably the most complex and difficult coms system to use, and are often more expensive. HamRadio requires a license from Industry Canada and specialized equipment. While there are not a lot of offroaders that use them, it is the method most likely to reach the furthest distance. They use frequency modulation, and with 50 watts of power common to many mobile rigs they can easily reach a hundred kilometers. If a ham radio club in the area has a repeater (equipment that will relay your signal) you can triple that distance. |
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Family Radio Service
Family Radio Service (FRS) radios are an evolution of the handheld “walkie talkies” that you might have had as a kid and are readily available in any electronics, sporting goods, and many department stores. They are generally 2 watts or lower, work on the UHF band, and do not require a license. While they can be useful communicating between vehicles that are close to each other, their range is limited. Their main use on the trail is driver/spotter communication. In Canada they are regulated to 2 watts or lower (most are 0.5 watts), work on the UHF band, and do not require a license. |
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General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) is an evolution of FRS radios. They also work on the UHF band and do not require a license in Canada. Although they do have a reputation for better range than FRS, in Canada they are limited to 2 watts, making them comparable to a 2 watt FRS. In the US, GMRS radios require a license and can have higher power. For this reason, Industry Canada prohibits the importation of GMRS radios that do not bear a label with an Industry Canada registration/certification number. |
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So which do you choose? Every area has its own preferences for trail communications. Check with local groups and make sure you can communicate with them. In Ontario, CB is the most common, but GMRS is catching up. |
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Caution
According to the Ontario.ca website, “Ontario’s distracted driving laws apply to the use of hand-held communication/entertainment devices”. This includes when you are driving, stopped in traffic or at a red light.
However, under section 13(1) of Ontario Regulation 366/09 of the Highway Traffic Act, Amateur Radio (Ham) operators are allowed to “drive a motor vehicle on a highway while holding or using a two-way radio”.
According to the Ontario.ca website, “Ontario’s distracted driving laws apply to the use of hand-held communication/entertainment devices”. This includes when you are driving, stopped in traffic or at a red light.
However, under section 13(1) of Ontario Regulation 366/09 of the Highway Traffic Act, Amateur Radio (Ham) operators are allowed to “drive a motor vehicle on a highway while holding or using a two-way radio”.
The information below was originally written by Rick from www.buytwowayradios.com. It is being re-posted here with permission of the author.
While the article was originally written to discuss the variability of range for GMRS radios, the terms and descriptions apply to all types of radio’s you might use on the trail: CB/FRS/GMRS/HAM
Range is a popular word in the world of portable handheld two way radios or walkie talkies. Ironically, it's also one of the least understood among the masses, which makes it quite controversial. This simple, five letter word is easy to enunciate, yet it is perhaps one of the most complicated to resolve in the consumer radio marketplace.
The reason for this is contained in the word itself. Although range has an absolute definition, it is defined by a range of variables. In short, range is absolutely relative.
The reason for this is contained in the word itself. Although range has an absolute definition, it is defined by a range of variables. In short, range is absolutely relative.
The Variables of Range
A number of variables determine actual range. These include (in no particular order):
Type of Radio Signal
Obstructions
Terrain
Distance to Horizon
Antenna
Radio Power (Wattage)
Atmospheric Conditions
A number of variables determine actual range. These include (in no particular order):
Type of Radio Signal
Obstructions
Terrain
Distance to Horizon
Antenna
Radio Power (Wattage)
Atmospheric Conditions
Type of Radio Signal
The type of radio signal is a significant variable in determining range. Lower frequencies such as those on the VHF band travel farther but can be more easily blocked. Higher frequencies in the UHF band do not travel as far but can pass around obstacles more easily. The GMRS operates on UHF frequencies around 460 MHz.
The type of radio signal is a significant variable in determining range. Lower frequencies such as those on the VHF band travel farther but can be more easily blocked. Higher frequencies in the UHF band do not travel as far but can pass around obstacles more easily. The GMRS operates on UHF frequencies around 460 MHz.
Obstructions
GMRS radios operate on "line-of-sight", which simply means that as long as they or their operators can clearly "see" each other with nothing between them to obscure their view, the radios should be able to communicate with one another. Anything that gets in the way can adversely affect the line of sight. Such things include, but are not limited to, hills, trees, bridges, buildings, vehicles and anything else that can potentially block, deflect or divert the radio signal away from its intended target.
GMRS radios operate on "line-of-sight", which simply means that as long as they or their operators can clearly "see" each other with nothing between them to obscure their view, the radios should be able to communicate with one another. Anything that gets in the way can adversely affect the line of sight. Such things include, but are not limited to, hills, trees, bridges, buildings, vehicles and anything else that can potentially block, deflect or divert the radio signal away from its intended target.
Terrain
The terrain between the radios is another important consideration. If the area is flat with few or no obstructions, the signal can freely travel unencumbered towards the horizon, even at a very low power. If the terrain is populated with vegetation such as trees or heavy brush, such obstructions can slow or eventually block the signal at some point along the way. Higher frequency GMRS radio signals cannot penetrate earth, so if the terrain is hilly or mountainous, the distance the signal can travel may be reduced significantly.
The terrain between the radios is another important consideration. If the area is flat with few or no obstructions, the signal can freely travel unencumbered towards the horizon, even at a very low power. If the terrain is populated with vegetation such as trees or heavy brush, such obstructions can slow or eventually block the signal at some point along the way. Higher frequency GMRS radio signals cannot penetrate earth, so if the terrain is hilly or mountainous, the distance the signal can travel may be reduced significantly.
Distance to Horizon
Since the earth is round, GMRS radio signals do not have an unlimited line of site across the entire globe. At some point, they are blocked or diverted by the curvature of the earth. This is the earth's horizon. In an area of open, level terrain with no obstacles or over open water, the average distance to the horizon is just a few miles. On the roof of a very tall building or mountaintop, the horizon could be ten, twenty or thirty miles. The higher you are over the terrain, the greater the distance between you and your horizon, hence the farther the line-of-site. Conversely, the closer you are to the ground, the nearer you are to your horizon, thus the shorter your line-of-sight.
Since the earth is round, GMRS radio signals do not have an unlimited line of site across the entire globe. At some point, they are blocked or diverted by the curvature of the earth. This is the earth's horizon. In an area of open, level terrain with no obstacles or over open water, the average distance to the horizon is just a few miles. On the roof of a very tall building or mountaintop, the horizon could be ten, twenty or thirty miles. The higher you are over the terrain, the greater the distance between you and your horizon, hence the farther the line-of-site. Conversely, the closer you are to the ground, the nearer you are to your horizon, thus the shorter your line-of-sight.
Antenna
The antenna is one of the most critical components of a radio. It converts the radio signals into the electrical signals the radio can understand and vice versa. Without an antenna, your radio could neither receive nor transmit across any perceptible distance at all. This means the type, height, location and quality of the antenna will have a significant impact on the overall range of the radio signal.
The antenna is one of the most critical components of a radio. It converts the radio signals into the electrical signals the radio can understand and vice versa. Without an antenna, your radio could neither receive nor transmit across any perceptible distance at all. This means the type, height, location and quality of the antenna will have a significant impact on the overall range of the radio signal.
Radio Power (Wattage)
Obviously, the more powerful a signal, the greater its potential range. Or is it? When comparing a 5 watt radio transmission to a 50 watt signal, the difference in range can be quite significant. However, when comparing two low power signals between 1 and 5 watts, the difference is not as impressive. Depending on some of the other variables, there may not be much of a difference at all. For instance, an entry level GMRS handheld walkie talkie operating at about half a watt in an open field may have about the same coverage as a five watt model in the middle of a large city. Depending on the distance to the horizon and/or the height and quality of antenna, it may be even better! The moral? Don't let the wattage rating alone dictate your choice of radio. Consider all of the variables.
Note: In Canada, FRS and GMRS are limited to 2 Watts, while CB’s are limited to 4 watts.
Obviously, the more powerful a signal, the greater its potential range. Or is it? When comparing a 5 watt radio transmission to a 50 watt signal, the difference in range can be quite significant. However, when comparing two low power signals between 1 and 5 watts, the difference is not as impressive. Depending on some of the other variables, there may not be much of a difference at all. For instance, an entry level GMRS handheld walkie talkie operating at about half a watt in an open field may have about the same coverage as a five watt model in the middle of a large city. Depending on the distance to the horizon and/or the height and quality of antenna, it may be even better! The moral? Don't let the wattage rating alone dictate your choice of radio. Consider all of the variables.
Note: In Canada, FRS and GMRS are limited to 2 Watts, while CB’s are limited to 4 watts.
Atmospheric Conditions
One variable that is sometimes overlooked is the atmosphere. While not as disruptive as many other variables, atmospheric effects such as rain, snow and fog can interfere with a radio signal and may slightly reduce overall range.
One variable that is sometimes overlooked is the atmosphere. While not as disruptive as many other variables, atmospheric effects such as rain, snow and fog can interfere with a radio signal and may slightly reduce overall range.
The Confusion with Range
Considering all the variables, calculating range still doesn't seem too complicated. It isn't, really. So, why the confusion? To answer that question, all we need to do is pick up a brand new pack of consumer FRS or GMRS radios and look at the packaging.
One of the first things you may notice, more often than not, is a great big number emblazoned in bold and prominently displayed on the front of the package, usually designated in mileage. It may read 16 Miles, 26 Miles, 36 Miles or more, and is implied to be the mileage rating of the radios enclosed. The higher the number, the greater the range, and the more powerful or higher wattage the radios are perceived to be. But are they? Not necessarily.
Remember, power/wattage is only one of the many variables used to calculate range, and as we've noted, it is not the most influential. After all, a low wattage handheld radio can have a greater range than a higher wattage handheld radio within reason, provided the other variables exceed those of the higher wattage model.
It's easy to pick out the big bold number on the box, but miss the words "up to" in the small print above it. As a result, many who latch onto the large font and tune out the tiny type naturally assume the double digit figure is an absolute, when it isn't. In fact, the mileage on the package doesn't really figure into the range equation much at all.
Considering all the variables, calculating range still doesn't seem too complicated. It isn't, really. So, why the confusion? To answer that question, all we need to do is pick up a brand new pack of consumer FRS or GMRS radios and look at the packaging.
One of the first things you may notice, more often than not, is a great big number emblazoned in bold and prominently displayed on the front of the package, usually designated in mileage. It may read 16 Miles, 26 Miles, 36 Miles or more, and is implied to be the mileage rating of the radios enclosed. The higher the number, the greater the range, and the more powerful or higher wattage the radios are perceived to be. But are they? Not necessarily.
Remember, power/wattage is only one of the many variables used to calculate range, and as we've noted, it is not the most influential. After all, a low wattage handheld radio can have a greater range than a higher wattage handheld radio within reason, provided the other variables exceed those of the higher wattage model.
It's easy to pick out the big bold number on the box, but miss the words "up to" in the small print above it. As a result, many who latch onto the large font and tune out the tiny type naturally assume the double digit figure is an absolute, when it isn't. In fact, the mileage on the package doesn't really figure into the range equation much at all.
The Truth About Range
Are the manufacturers lying? Well, technically, maybe no. If the radio is advertised to transmit (up to) 36 miles, you might get 36 miles - that is, if you're transmitting from a mountaintop or hovering somewhere in the upper troposphere and the horizon is at least 36 miles away. If you're orbiting the earth and there are no obstructions, you might even get more. But then, how often do you go there? Exactly.
The truth is, the number on the box only indicates how far the radio has supposedly been tested to transmit and receive under what the manufacturers refer to as optimal conditions. This phrase or a variation thereof is usually found in even smaller type somewhere on the back, side, or bottom of the box. Unlike those big numbers, you'll probably have to look around to find it.
Are the manufacturers lying? Well, technically, maybe no. If the radio is advertised to transmit (up to) 36 miles, you might get 36 miles - that is, if you're transmitting from a mountaintop or hovering somewhere in the upper troposphere and the horizon is at least 36 miles away. If you're orbiting the earth and there are no obstructions, you might even get more. But then, how often do you go there? Exactly.
The truth is, the number on the box only indicates how far the radio has supposedly been tested to transmit and receive under what the manufacturers refer to as optimal conditions. This phrase or a variation thereof is usually found in even smaller type somewhere on the back, side, or bottom of the box. Unlike those big numbers, you'll probably have to look around to find it.
Optimal vs. Actual Range
Forget the fantasy figures. Let's get real. If those numbers mean anything, they serve as a general reference as to which tier the radio is placed within the industry. It works like this. GMRS radios with a low optimal range of 10-16 miles typically have basic features and functionality. These are considered low-end or entry level models. Those labeled as a higher optimal range of 35 miles and above with the most wattage, add-ons and options are considered the high-end models. The mid-tier models consist of everything in-between. While not perfect, it's a fairly reliable method and goes a long way towards simplifying the confusing marketing hype surrounding the range claims created by the manufacturers of FRS/GMRS two way radios.
Forget the fantasy figures. Let's get real. If those numbers mean anything, they serve as a general reference as to which tier the radio is placed within the industry. It works like this. GMRS radios with a low optimal range of 10-16 miles typically have basic features and functionality. These are considered low-end or entry level models. Those labeled as a higher optimal range of 35 miles and above with the most wattage, add-ons and options are considered the high-end models. The mid-tier models consist of everything in-between. While not perfect, it's a fairly reliable method and goes a long way towards simplifying the confusing marketing hype surrounding the range claims created by the manufacturers of FRS/GMRS two way radios.
To simplify things further, the charts below were created to convert the manufacturer's advertised range to an actual, real-world range and assigned to a tier as a range rating. The chart is further divided by type of terrain for greater accuracy. Note: These are real world estimates only.
Rick's Simple GMRS Radio Range Charts
Urban Terrain
Advertised Range |
Actual Range |
Range Rating |
16 miles |
1-2 Blocks |
Low |
20 miles |
2-3 blocks |
Low |
26 miles |
3-4 blocks |
Mid |
30 miles |
4-6 blocks |
Mid |
36+ miles |
0.2-0.25 mile |
High |
Suburban Terrain
Advertised Range |
Actual Range |
Range Rating |
16 miles |
300-800 feet |
Low |
20 miles |
0.1-0.3 mile |
Low |
26 miles |
0.4-0.5 mile |
Mid |
30 miles |
0.6-1.0 mile |
Mid |
36+ miles |
1-2 miles |
High |
Open (Level) Terrain
Advertised Range |
Actual Range |
Range Rating |
16 miles |
0.5-1 mile |
Low |
20 miles |
1-3 miles |
Low |
26 miles |
3-4 miles |
Mid |
30 miles |
4-5 miles |
Mid |
36+ miles |
~6 miles |
High |
No Terrain
Advertised Range |
Actual Range |
Range Rating |
16 miles |
Up to 16 miles (est.) |
Low |
20 miles |
Up to 20 miles (est.) |
Low |
26 miles |
Up to 26 miles (est.) |
Mid |
30 miles |
Up to 30 miles (est.) |
Mid |
36+ miles |
Up to 36+ miles (est.) |
High |
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