Folks, this is a lot like deciding you wanted a CB on your bike EXCEPT no motorcycle manufacturer offers GMRS. So think of it this way; the total number of possible configurations is endless. The Btech radio was the latest and greatest at the time of testing. Technology being what it is, things will continue to change. CB, on the other hand didn’t change much in the last 70 or so years. There is absolutely no way to check every possible radio, every make of motorcycle, every year and every model, all possible mounts and every wiring scenario and every style, model and brand of headset. The good news is; the Btech is known to be a great radio with all the options you can think of and pairs with all the Bluetooth headsets THAT WE TRIED. Get a radio, pair it to your bluetooth headset and you are in business. If you have some other brand headset or save $6 on a different brand of radio, you have just embarked on your own specific journey and we would love to hear if you find something new that works. The same applies to mounts. What works on one motorcycle may not work on the next. Motorcycles are different, handles bars are different, what you already have mounted or where you are going to put it or the PTT are endless. What ever you choose, reinforce it with an extra tie wrap. (just in case) and add some small velcro patches to the clip mounting area. (in case of a big pot hole). I’ve been using these for well over a year on a couple of different motorcycles. No issues. The PTT signal is weak but will usually pass your body. Antennas; the stock rubberduck is probably all you’ll ever need. An extended or even and external antenna are upgrades but may cause mounting or coax issues. Whatever floats your boat. A cell phone holder MAY work for you. Just make sure the fingers on it are long enough for the much thicker radio. Also make sure nothing is holding down any of the radio buttons. An extra battery is fine and they change very quickly. You can also run power from a handy cigarette lighter by putting in an adapter that has a USB port or two. These will reduce your 12V down to what the radio needs. This isn’t necessary but doing it this way will leave you with a radio that is always charged to 100%. Just remember to take it off when you park so it won’t “walk away”. Every motorcycle is different, but the radio/headset gets you in the game. Even without no motorcycle at all! When you start messing with something that works by adding pairing to the motorcycle, GPS, cell phone, another headset, iPod, Sirrius XM, intercom … Well, you can see there is no way to predict what you’ll run into and which one will have priority. Play with your particular setup well in advance of the Run so you’ll know the answers.
BAOFENG RFTW DISCOUNT
We have negotiated a group discount rate with Baofeng. Purchase both a GMRS-PRO and a BS-PTT and use coupon code “RFTW” at checkout and you will receive 17% off your purchase.
I have a Motor Officer style Half Shell helmet. Does anyone have any suggestions for a headset to use with the GMRS Radio. Riding a ‘09 Road King, no factory radio/communication. Been running a J&M handlebar mount CB system for years. Thanks!!
I used one like that for my cell phone for years, but have had the phone bounce out at times. Connecting a tether for when it came out worked as a back up.
Kirk, I have a 2013 Ultra Limited with no Bluetooth connectivity. I’m trying to figure out what Bluetooth device I need for my helmet that will pair with the GMRS. I see tons of Bluetooth headsets on Amazon, but don’t want to spend $250+ for a Sena or Cardo. Any suggestions?
Murf
Hello Murf, Doc here. Most any Bluetooth device should be able to pair with your GMRS radio, you don’t necessarily need an expensive one, One of the great things about Amazon is that if you try a unit and it doesn’t work, it’s easy to return.
I’d like to recommend looking at units with at least Bluetooth 5.1 or better (they pair easier and have more clarity), and a USB-C connector for faster charging. Experienced riders have told me that Bluetooth unit drain when listening to the radio is a real issue, and a faster charging unit would allow you to get more juice in it over lunch or during another lengthy stop.
Another option would be a “secret service-style” earpiece with a push to talk button. I know some people do this as a matter of preference, or because they already have a bunch of things plugged into their helmets (or their existing tech is driving them nuts). This negates the need for charging, of course, but may not be the most comfortable solution.
Just a couple thoughts, hope it helps a little.
-Doc
Hi Doc,
I replied through my gmail, but don’t know if you received it.
I have purchased and returned a couple of the “secret service” style headsets. I don’t feel comfortable that the transmission will be loud or clear enough. I’m the tail gunner for platoon 5, Midway.
Yesterday I ordered a Sena 10S that should arrive today. I’ll hopefully get it paired with the radio and tested prior to KSU to Ontario.
Greatly appreciate your input and time!
Welcome Home!
Murf
Do you have a part number of the URL to this page, or your search criteria? Lots of Ram options.
Thanks!
The Sena 10S is a solid choice. It’s pretty similar to what’s in my Sena Outrush-R helmet. Give me a call if you have issues getting everything synced up and I’ll try to help.
Hi Doc,
I successfully paired the GMRS to the Sena 10-11 this morning. Now I need to test it with another GMRS user. Appreciate the input you provided!
I used a cheap handheld FRS (family radio service) walkie lying around the house to check for connectivity. I used Channel 1 on both radios. FRS and GMRS share channels 1 through 22. No license required for FRS.