New to off-roading, do I *need* a radio?

[l88m22vette]

So, as I've been making of list of stuff to eventually get, a radio keeps coming up as something I feel like I need. The catch is that I don't have an offroading group yet, and everything is waiting until my 7MT gets handled. Basically, I'm in the thinking about everything phase of stuff.

Do I just call it a day and get a GMRS, probably an MTX575? Or, do I wait and see if I'll really need it?

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[mcinfantry]

Handheld
If you like it throw it in the glove box for spotters and a loaner and add vehicle mount

 

[Roger123]

If you don't have a group then I'd wait on a radio. If you do get connected with someone you can see what they use and get something compatible. But if you really just want to spend some money then go for it!

 

[indio22]

I'd wait. As you off-road you'll start to learn what you need or don't need, without having to guess and burn money. If you're like me, you might be happy not to have electronics and stuff along. I work in IT, and like exploring the back country to get away from all that stuff.

 

[wizardoforange]

I've never used one and likely never will, but I usually avoid traveling in groups. I'm with indio22 - take the wait and see approach.

 

[kodiakisland]

If you're going to wheel with other people, you need to be able to communicate with them. Cell phones are not reliable off road. Lots of options when it comes to GMRS, but it's good to have one even if you don't plan on using it. You never know when you need help and a radio is the only thing working. They start around $40, so it's not like it's a big investment.

Even if you are solo, you can monitor the trail in front and behind you. I use mine even when I'm not using it.

 

[Snacktime]

Required if you want to do group runs, just get a cheap Baofeng. I treat it as a must have here, we get some nasty fires and I rather have a way to get rescued.

 

[Bearcat1]

I bought these, very easy to use. I did get a GMRS license as well, they are cheap.
Use them for mainly for spotting, but I like the insurance of being able to reach someone when there is no cell signal.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09BMWNLBG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

 

[Bikeric]

At the Toyota Jamboree last year the GMRS radio's were Mandatory. I knew that ahead of time and bought the cheapest pair I could find. I never figured out how to use them though. I failed to get the required License from the FCC.
https://midlandusa.com/blogs/blog/why-do-i-need-a-gmrs-license-how-do-i-get-it

 

[kodiakisland]

At the Toyota Jamboree last year the GMRS radio's were Mandatory. I knew that ahead of time and bought the cheapest pair I could find. I never figured out how to use them though. I failed to get the required License from the FCC.
https://midlandusa.com/blogs/blog/why-do-i-need-a-gmrs-license-how-do-i-get-it

Many handhelds don't need a license. Pretty easy to use with minimal buttons. on/off, volume, channel. Channel 16 is where most people leave it, but most can monitor all channels.

 

[swooshdave]

I went with these. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DM7AJ62?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details

Durable, waterproof and while not the cheapest they will last a long time. No license needed. I like that they will just be handy for any time of camping/outdoor activity. But perfect for when you have a spotter.

 

[Karl_in_Chicago]

So, as I've been making of list of stuff to eventually get, a radio keeps coming up as something I feel like I need. The catch is that I don't have an offroading group yey, and everything is waiting until my 7MT gets handled. Basically, I'm in the thinking about everything phase of stuff.

Do I just call it a day and get a GMRS, probably an MTX575? Or, do I wait and see if I'll really need it?

I don't plan on buying one until I know I will need one. If there's a specific event I'm going to attend I'd expect to see what all the requirements are which would include a radio and, importantly, *what type*. Group rides may also require them but until you know which group you may not know *what type*. There's still a good number of folks out there on CB!

The *first* telephone was useless until there was a *second* telephone. Until I know who I'm calling I don't know what I need. I'm waiting until I actually have a real *need* vs my normal WANT for all things shiny and new.

 

[Scooter2]

Both. Handhelds for spotters and most "pick up groups" still require them, and CB to listen to the truckers on the way to the trail and be horrified at the conversations.

 

[l88m22vette]

Lots of good thoughts here! I know there are other things to spend money on, its mostly being torn on the future need/ability, though I'd certainly try using it.

I'm fine with getting a license, and I tend to troll until I find a good deal, so the investment of it doesn't bother me. I have seen a few combo sets with something like the MTX+handheld, which is what I'd get.

Good idea on the handheld, and the combo lets that person you're riding with be the spotter. I also like the emergency abilities, but would have a GPS beacon if I really went out there.

 

[kodiakisland]

The only reason I’d buy a new CB is if you travel on active logging roads that require them. You know if you do. Everything else is GMRS.

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