Instructors -- Range Comm. Systems?

[jim schmidt]

We've decided to experiment with a GMRS based comm system for instructors to be able to discuss on range issues and to communicate between ranges on opposite sides of our campus.

Anyone have any thoughts or experience on this? Any single-ear headset advice? Sources?

Oh and I forgot that most states and the MSF call us rider coaches. No need for a linguistic tune-up. We don't do that in MD.

[harleyxlc]

Assume you mean stand alone units and not anything to mount to a helmet?

[Squid Killer]

For several years I used a Motorolla radio with a headset to communicate with the other instructor on the range with good results.

[NeonspeedRT]

Me and a few other coaches I work with have been toying around with the idea of picking up some 2 way radios. I can see where it would make communication on the range, much easier.

[ozman]

I know of some Ridercoaches that use them here in N.C. , but I have never used them. Let us know how they work out.

[Josh D]

Those are a no-go for us.

[Moon]

Have occasionally used them with new RCs or maybe even a time or 2 during an RCP but I try to teach the RCs to maintain "visual " communication to know what to do and when to start transitions and such on the range. VOX units FRS or CB type. We found ourselves making remarks to each other about "certain" students though. Amusing

[jim schmidt]

We'll be trying it this year. I think it will improve coaching and communication. Getting to talk about the most unique students should help with counseling out decisions. Telling jokes is just a bonus.

[Hidebound]

Our classes don't start until the end of April, if yours go sooner please post up about how well this works. It sounds like it could be good for a few of our coaches who aren't quite as adept at 'flagging traffic' as it were.

[jim schmidt]

We're in our third week but we haven't bought them yet.

[Jim Moore]

I like to wave my arms and yell, "Watch out for this guy. He's a dumbass!" It has a calming effect on the students.

[CBRWildChild]

it seems like a great idea only as long as visual comms are not forgotten...

[jim schmidt]

Originally Posted by Jim Moore

I like to wave my arms and yell, "Watch out for this guy. He's a dumbass!" It has a calming effect on the students.

We could use a guy like you!

[Hidebound]

Originally Posted by CBRWildChild

it seems like a great idea only as long as visual comms are not forgotten...

Nah, was thinking it would be an idea to help out a pair of our twice-a-year coaches who have a wee bit of difficulty picking up on the student swap during the split exercises.

[Hidebound]

Originally Posted by Jim Moore

I like to wave my arms and yell, "Watch out for this guy. He's a dumbass!" It has a calming effect on the students.

Thanks man, that's a great morning laugh!

And then there are days like this: