We are attending MOTD this year for the first time. The FRS radios we have are just a few years old and I am looking to upgrade before the trip.

Our current radios only have 14 channels, and recently we have been on a few events where everyone was using higher channels.

Is there a common channel used while at MOTD?

 

Yes, correct me if I'm wrong guys, but I believe its Channel 7, Subchannel 28.

 

I can't remember the sub, but it was Ch 7. I had my FRS tuned to it while driving the Dragon and I rarely heard anything other than some chatter back and forth between 2 MINIs driving the road together or a few people trying to find their friends at Fontana (cabin to cabin FRS - was kinda funny). I kept my earbud on during the Brew Swap and caught a friend of mine when he came in late to MOTD 2006.

For the scenic drive through the Smoky Mountains, I chose a different channel (ch 8, no sub, I think), one that all FRS radios could use, not just the higher-end sets.

If EVERYONE had one of the sets that had more range it would be nice as the signal would come through much more clearly, but I don't think that's gonna happen... the $10 sets are just too convenient.

 

Thanks! My current radios are 14 channel/38 subchannel so I should be okay.

I am still going to upgrade, but won't feel like I have to hurry to get it before the Dragon. If a deal presents itself, I'll take it, but if not I won't feel pressured.

 

Different MINI clubs across the nation do use different settings, but the most common, defacto standard for MINIs in most cases is Channel 7, Subchannel 21.

One option for people is to have 2 radios, leave on on 7/21, and put the other on a different channel with a small group of your friends, so you can have both a "private" and "public" channel.

 

You need an FCC operators license to use the upper channels on those units.

http://wireless.fcc.gov/services/ind...general_mobile

 

Just remember FRS is publicly boradcasted, there is no true "private" conversation.

 

Yes, of course. Perhaps I should have said "smaller audience".

 

If I had to get a license to use a walkie talkie from Wal-Mart, they would make me show it before selling it to me.

That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

 

Just a heads up on the FRS radios.
As already mentioned there is NO conversation that is not public. Sometimes with very funney results. With MINI owners at the Dragon not only the roads are twisted.

FRS uses line of sight signal. Once you get into the hills the range becomes very limited because of the ridge lines and hollows the roads follow. At times you may not be able to talk to everyone - in even a small group.

If you are traveling in a group decide on several channel/subchannel settings for backup in case you find others using the one you planned to use.

 

Funny thing is when you get enough MINIs in a group using FRS, you sometimes have to "daisy chain" the message from the lead car, to the tail car.

Oh, and I will second the use of 7/21 as the unofficial official MINI channel.

 

I've always used subchannel 22, but others use 21. Reception is ok on the way to and from, but once you are in the mountains, it gets really dicey, at best.

 

7/21 is it....I was wrong with 28.

 

Sounds like someone might be dipping into the Brewswap a bit early .

 

I must be one of the few people that have an FCC license.

 

I've been privy to much information that was precieved personal because of misconceptions about the technology
To use not to own. There are so many of those out there using it w/out a lisence I'm amazed the FCC has changed the rules about it.