THINGS TO CONSIDER

Here are a few things to consider when buying, installing and using a CB radio:

1) Yes, CB radios are the same as those you heard about in the 1970’s. They are old school, clunky technology, but remain (unfortunately) the best tool that a group such as the Trillium Miata Club can use to communicate between a group of vehicles.

2) Generally speaking, all CB radios are the same. They have the same transmitter power and reception capability. It really doesn’t matter which radio you use.

3) Your choice of a CB radio is more dependent on how you might install it, and use it, in your vehicle. Some prefer a permanently mounted unit, while others opt to place their radio in the car on an “as required” basis.

4) Generally speaking, CB antennas are NOT all the same. Your choice of antenna, and its location, will have the greatest impact on transmit and receive distance. Longer antennas, mounted on a steel surface, will perform the best. Very short antennas will provide reduced coverage.

5) Your choice of antenna will be limited by your vehicle model. Later models such as ND’s have significantly less steel surfaces available to mount a good CB antenna.

6) Your choice of CB radio installation might also be influenced if you are a “talking car” such as a Lead or Sweep. Vehicles in the middle of a group are usually not required to communicate as often.

7) Current distracted driving legislation restricts the use of communication devices to “hands free”. Unfortunately there are limited options for hands free operation of CB radios.

8) Learn how to use your CB radio, including the mysterious “Squelch” control.

9) Having a CB radio, regardless of make or model, is highly encouraged. It allows Lead and Sweep cars to communicate instructions to participants. It also permits vehicles to communicate any necessary route changes due to mechanical or other issues.