Communicating Between Bikes

[corey]

I'm not sure whether this belongs in "Accessories & Mods" or not..

I'm curious as to what types of products you guys are using to communicate between bikes on long rides/tours. We've got some older chatterboxes here, and are looking to replace soon. Any recommendations?

Could be a useful thread for all, thanks guys.

[Wonked]

I just bought an autocom system. Has a plug-in for walkie talkies or even a cell phone (which I do not want to use). I mainly use it in conjunction with my satellite radio.

[rmcobb]

Yeah, thats a pretty wide open topic, and depends so much on what you want in addition to bike to bike communicating. Do you want other things such as music, radar, gps, etc.?

The industry is right on the verge of bluetooth getting more feasible (yeah its been around for a while but most of the units being marketed have been pretty useless).

I use Autocomm (older version) and have been very pleased with that setup (using the Kenwood XL radio). Compatability with other systems/radios has been an issue though for reasons I haven't quite figured out yet.

I'm really waiting for a system that can be truly wireless (no cables between you and the bike) that can provide all the functions the current cabled systems provide, and that works effectively.

I like the concept of Chatterbox, but anything above 40 mph and every Chatterbox user I've ever communciated with sounds like a mouthful of marbles     You can't understand what they're saying. If they could ever perfect their system to work as good as the Autocomm, they'd be on top of the list.

There are other entries to the market similar to Autocomm (Baer, Starcom, J&M, others I've seen lately but can't remember) so the choices are prevelant, and the prices are up there.

I was looking at the new Autocomm the other day (on the internet) and it appears to have bluetooth capability that will allow connection to a radio for bike to bike with an accessory thing they sell you have to connect to the radio....hmmm, we're getting closer.

Price is mostly the issue though for most folks. You can get basic bike to bike that works reasonably well (under 50 mph) for less than $200-$300 for the whole setup, but my experience says you'll be disappointed with the poor performance after a while, and want more functionality eventually, and ultimately it will start collecting dust in your garage 

The real simple method is purchase a headset and radio and your done. But the proper headset (noise cancelling mics) is important.

All I can say is start doing research in order to learn about what each system can provide.

Have fun. 

[Hi_Fi_Guy]

BlueAnt Interphone works well but is mono only and can only pair two riders at a time.  I would assume future upgrades will include stereo and the ability to pair with more than one other bike at a time.

Also works with bluetooth phones (for when you are not in motion of course).

[Ducatista]

Autocom is pricey, but well worth it.  There are other systems out there, but they can be really quirky and more hassle than the money you saved. 

[Manny]

We have lost of riders who use the Chatterboxes around here. Not on the highway, but useful in the canyons (lower speeds, more hazards to warn about).

[Speeddog]

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[55Spy]

We have lost of riders who use the Chatterboxes around here. Not on the highway, but useful in the canyons (lower speeds, more hazards to warn about).

lost or lots ?  kinda sounds bad if you lost guys

[ArguZ]

Cardo Systems Scala Rider Q2
http://www.cardowireless.com/Q2
I only have the normal one that came with my TomTom Rider 2 and I truly love it.
The Q2 adds a full duplex connection between two bikes for at least 300 meters...
Perfect !

[Manny]

lost or lots ?  kinda sounds bad if you lost guys

lots...