Radio Opportunity

I have been promoting the use of GMRS/FRS radios for ride coordination. While I haven't been very successful, I do think I have made a few converts. I continue to think that having the radios and a helmet headset would be a great idea for our group rides. It is inexpensive and a good way for everyone to be in communication.

However, I used an amateur radio handitalkie on my recent trip to Shasta Lake and was able to communicate--when I wanted--with various people in all the towns I passed through. Furthermore, I had a conversation with a guy in San Francisco, and could have talked with folk in other places as I rode. Unlike GMRS/FRS, ham radio, as amateur radio is often called, is not restricted to line-of-sight.

I became an amateur radio operator at a very young age and used it to communicate with people from all over the world. Even during the cold war, I had friends in Russia, Sweden, South Africa, Brazil and Israel. (In fact, I was talking with three guys, in Sweden, Russia and Israel, right after the Russian's wife had a baby. We drank a toast to her--on the air. )

Ham radio is a great hobby. I had not put it together with motorcycling until just recently. I'm not trying to convince everyone to give up your other hobbies, but only to offer you the opportunity to take a class and pass the test. It does require a license and taking a test. But the test is not difficult and the license is free.

Today I had lunch with a local volunteer examiner/trainer. He does a one-day class which is followed by the test. (Pass rate is close to 100%.) The charge is $25--which includes the test fee. He offered to put on a class if I had a group of folk who would be interested. (No, I don't get a cut.)

A good amateur radio handitalky will cost about $100. This will give you communication to friends and family in "far-flung" places. (You can go up from there, as I did, but don't need to.)

If this interests you, let me know.

For more info:
http://www.kansascity.com/238/story/694071.html
http://www.hello-radio.org/

David,

Sounds interesting. I will bring my radios and headsets next time we both ride. I know you won't be on the July 19th ride but the next ride I will make sure I bring what I have so you can look at them, and maybe we can use them. I think it is a great idea of yours. I may even be interested in the class too.