Brad Morris and JD Keating
Words by JD Keating
Photos by Brad Morris and JD Keating
One experience that brings enjoyment to us while wheeling is chatting with our buddies over the radio. Whether it’s on the trail, on route to the trailhead, approaching a tough obstacle, or talking about the day’s events, a good onboard communications unit is crucial.
After using every manner of citizen band (CB) radio known to man, it was time for us to find a better way to communicate and share some humour with our friends during weekend wheeling trips. MidlandUSA has been providing two-way radio communication units for more than five decades and while they are a staple in the agricultural industry, we thought that any radio robust enough to be used by Canadian farmers would be more than tough enough for off-road use.
Brad Morris and JD Keating
We were super excited to replace our aging, finicky, CB radios with something new and improved. After receiving the MicroMobile MXT400 and MicroMobile MXT275, the installation was a breeze as they connected directly to our existing 259 cm (102 in) whip-coax CB antenna. The company offers a variety of compact radio models for every application. So, the ultra-compact version with a hand-held mic and channel receiver was designated for the centre console of one Jeep, and a second unit with all controls on the panel was placed overhead in the other.
After installation, the true test was the reception on the road. Once underway, we quickly realized these units would work exceptionally well for us. The sound on both was clearer than even cell reception in certain areas – thanks in part to the incredible external speaker – and we were able to maintain clear communications up to 11 km (7 mi), even when out of line of sight.
Brad Morris and JD Keating
When we went off-road, there was no longer the chatter or squelch we experienced with our old radio and the reception was again, crystal clear. We also found that the mic is smaller than previous models we’ve used, making it easier to handle.
Certain versions offered by MidlandUSA even come with an additional USB charging port. In all, the clarity, ease of installation, and great range had us scratching our heads as to why we hadn’t switched to GMRS/FRS earlier.
As off-roaders, we are a brand-loyal and skeptical bunch who are often resistant to change. But in this case, we couldn’t be happier with this upgrade. Now, if we could just convince our old cronies to join us in the 21st century, we’ll be laughing all the way through the trails and back.
Ed Note: It’s important to note that the Mid- land USA MicroMobile MXT400 and MXT275 GMRS radios are illegal to use in Canada and are only available for use in the U.S. among licensed radio operators.