Rugged Radio GMR2 vs GMR2 PLUS Range Comparison... THANK YOU FOR 1 YEAR!!

We test out the range of Rugged Radios GMR2 and GMR2 PLUS radios, and the results were interesting...
Thank you for one year on KZbin!! you guys have been so supportive over the last year, and we are so grateful! Go to our website www.d3offroad.com to get 10% off our new merch till January 14th.
#krx1000 #ruggedradios #sxs #d3offroad

[@gfb_steve]

Hey guys! Steve G, Product Development at Rugged Radios, here. Thanks for the video and field testing. I love stuff like this! Your experience with the upgraded antennas is super interesting. I'm pretty sure one of you contacted our tech team about this recently as we've been discussing and attempting to duplicate your results (unsuccessfully but are still trying). I'm glad I was just forwarded this video as it gives me a little more insight into what might be happening. At about 18:30, something is opening the radios' receivers (static can be heard and the receive light is on). Something in the area is creating RF when it shouldn't (might even be something on the car). This happens from time to time and normally not a big deal, but I'll try to explain why I find it interesting... in a way that makes sense! Haha. At about 21:49 in the video, Mel holds the radio up to the camera. I was trying to see which channel you were using... looks like 1-10. Can you confirm this or let me know the channel (or channels) you were using? I ask because the interference heard at 18:30 in the video is incredibly rare when using a tone code (on channel 1-10, the "10" is a tone code). This leads me to wonder if you were testing on a non-tone code channel initially, then a tone coded channel after. Tone codes won't typically make a noticeable difference in range, but it is one more variable we'd like to test as we try to duplicate your results. I've also forwarded the video to Lance, our Service / Tech Manager, who is working on this project as well and will certainly be in touch. Thanks again for the video!

[@d3offroad]

Steve, during this video all our testing was done on 1-10 channel I agree about the tone thing, I have recently learned all about that and how it works. We almost exclusively use channel 1-10 here in Ontario Canada and never hear other people on it. To sum up our test the radios (gmr2+) went the furthest about 4km with the standard antenna that comes in the box. When we tried the long range or the roof antenna it roughly cut the range in half. I have since tested the roof antenna with a watt meter and made sure it was outputting and receiving the correct wattage. If you want to email me with any further questions I would be happy to help and learn and get these antennas working correctly. My dad is a retired radio specialist and he was explaining to me about how the signal can come off the antenna at an upward angle or a flat plane angle and other interesting facts! We just expected when adding these long range antennas to go from the 4km roughly to maybe 4.5 or 5km not have it cut in half to 2km 🙂 Thanks Steve!

[@evanmiller1642]

So maybe this fancy golf cart killed a radio sell. Ill watch some other rest vids. Thank you rugged for commenting on this video

[@RuggedRadios]

We appreciate your interest in testing our GMR2 and GMR2+ walkie talkie, and we'd like to offer some insights for optimal usage. Typically, handheld radios are recommended for spotter communication, or as an additional device for individuals without a dedicated radio in the group. For UTVs in the States we highly recommend our G1 mobile radio, boasting a 41-watt power output and designed for secure hard mounting. They are also waterproof. We understand the limits of the regulations in Canada and the use of walkie talkies in UTVs as an alternative. Furthermore, it's essential to consider the channel selection during testing. FCC regulations stipulate varying power limits for different channels - specifically, channels 8-14 are restricted to 0.5 watts, channels 1-7 are limited to 2 watts, while channels 15-22 offer the longest range. Knowing the channel used during your test can provide valuable context to better understand the observed performance. We're here to assist and ensure our products meet your expectations, so feel free to reach out for any clarification or guidance on optimal usage scenarios.

[@1TEN0TOESDOWN]

Stoked on new year! All the best - glad yall are havin fun!

[@gouletfilms]

Congrats guys!!! Great job! Super proud and happy for you guys, and it feels like forever since I’ve visited and made the video of the shop. I will stop by to pick up my giveaway soon. Cheers!! 🍻

[@danielanaya267]

Thank you two for dealing with that weather for us !

[@user-rm8yf1zx9f]

I wanna see a video of you're boat sides install/ product comparison

[@user-es7cy7jq2z]

Hey from NB …. Love the content . Keep it coming

[@hexhound2273]

I have had fantastic results with baofeng radios. At a fraction of the price. might take a look at them! fully programmable. And you can use their software to program them and flash any additional radios that you get. Very power radios!

[@hexhound2273]

You guys do a great job with the videos! And provide really good info!

[@d3offroad]

Thanks so much!

[@michaeldyrcz2545]

Just bought one of the 2+ radios today. That's how I found you guys. Enjoyed your video, and w be sharing w friends. Thank you for what your doing! Strong work!!!

[@d3offroad]

Thanks for the support!! We carry a lot of rugged products on our site as well if we can ever help get you stuff! Www.d3offroad.com

[@michaeldyrcz2545]

@@d3offroad definitely looking into antenatal upgrades today!

[@hillbillycustom1730]

Good things to good people you guys do a great job.

[@WVbilly]

Great job guys keep up the good work. Just got a new 23 KRX 2 miles on it.

[@d3offroad]

Awesome! Hope you love it!

[@jassonquinn3251]

Happy new year all good stuff here keep rocking it

[@d3offroad]

Happy new year!!

[@robertsanborn1056]

Just want to say hello , I live in Northern Vermont 30 minutes from Canada 🇨🇦 . My family and I are big in the off-road lifestyle. I really enjoyed your video on the Rugged Radio. We have Radios from Walmart that work ok but not like the Rugged radios that you were showing on your video. Thanks again for the awesome video.

[@d3offroad]

Thanks for watching and the kind words 😁

[@oldbronco7340]

I really enjoy all of your KRX content.

[@d3offroad]

Thanks!

[@bep6060]

You guys put out some great content. I have a KRX also so the info is useful and educational. Thanks

[@d3offroad]

Thanks so much!!

[@hillbillycustom1730]

Don’t no if ya have any skids on your machine the one D3 sell fit as well as factory and are very well made.

[@bep6060]

@@hillbillycustom1730 yes I’ve got one thanks. I put a cab seal kit on it so between the both of them it cuts the dust down, I live and ride in the Arizona desert.

[@hillbillycustom1730]

@@bep6060 awsome I’m in West Virginia yes the cab seal kit helps i can’t wait to get there rocks slides as well.

[@TheRagingHillbilly]

I have also been running the Baofeng UV-9G GMRS radios. I can say for sure, there are some build difference between the units. One gets better reception than the other. Also, Bulletpoint mounts makes a fantastic holder for these radios. You can purchase their ball, and arm the length you need, and attach the holder. I am curious of the external antennae you have would work with the Baofeng units. That would be really nice to hide the wire, and just plug it in when I go ride.

[@darrellmitchell2574]

Hi, guys i just bought a 2021 special edition i'm new to utv riding i enjoy your content and info that's why i decided on getting a krx. Thanks.

[@d3offroad]

That’s awesome you will love it thanks for watching!

[@AlexSagisi]

update video? is it still cutting out?

[@Bloomers731]

Good info, been thinking about comms but need to get everyone in the group on board. Would've been nice a couple weeks ago when i got separated from the group but luckily we had cell service. Haha

[@d3offroad]

They are so handy! Also makes riding way more enjoyable when you can talk vehicle to vehicle or even just speak clearly with your passenger!

[@brianswingley7099]

I think it's 70$ to get your license. And a call sign. You can speak or use Morse code. Is there a button to hit for your call sign?

[@mikecaisse-ch5ok]

Would like to see you guys promote some. Digital radios Japanese radios would be interesting to see. Used in the field....

[@timmyphillips9023]

Can you hear me now? It was like watching an old Verizon commercial 😄. I swear I don’t know how you two drive around in the cold cold weather with no windshield! I couldn’t do it.

[@d3offroad]

🤣🤣 it was exactly like one of those old commercials!!!

[@hillbillycustom1730]

Thanks so much guys

[@d3offroad]

Our pleasure!

[@hillbillycustom1730]

Thanks so much to you guys all the content and videos are very much appreciated I enjoy watching your videos and learning thank you again.

[@kuuipoalohalawler755]

We use baofeng. Check out youtubers info on programming to walking talkie mode. We have 8 of them. We used them for UTV rides. 4 radios Amazon less $100. Get gmrs so you can do programming to the same channels for walkie mode. Basic model Uv5R. 1.5 miles with basic antenna 1.9 for extended antenna. They work great. We do put them in with ear plugs to talk if you are riding UTV.. Inside A jeep no ear plug. check out youtubers for info on programming

[@jimlaus1058]

Another great vid. It’s a shame that you guys can’t use the 25watt radios. Your shock video was excellent, I learned a lot. Have you guys ever had a rear axle stuck in the trans? That’s my current situation! Slide hammer hasn’t worked.

[@d3offroad]

Ya we would have to sneak them across the border haha a bit of a pain… as for the stuck axle I feel your pain luckily we have not had to deal with that yet! Goodluck

[@Brandy2024.]

Radioddity G30 we have 5 of them bad terain. 5 to 8 mile. Different channels different power. Battery excellent

[@CRazy.CAnucK..]

Hey guys! Really thinking about ditching the Cobra set up and head twords Rugged. Do you have anyone running the GMR45 box style mike? If so are they legal in ontario? Awesome content like always keep up the great work🍻

[@d3offroad]

No we don’t have anyone with that and cannot get it here unfortunately!

[@bobfisher9452]

Congratulations on your one year anniversary with the show, you guys do a great job. I have a KRX question. My dad just purchased a 2023 base model. Last two rides we went out his engine light is coming on. All fluids and air filter are fine and it's not over heating the fan is working fine as well. Have you had anyone experience engine light issues? I know Full Access has mentioned grounding issues in the past, so I'm going to work on that next to see if that will fix the problem. The light goes off after sitting setting in-between rides. Then approximately after 15 miles or so it comes on and stays on for the entire ride. I also want to try running codes, I saw a short video on how to do that. If nothing works gonna have to take it in to Kawasaki next I guess. Thanks

[@d3offroad]

Thank you!! Our one krx has check engine come on all the time and it’s the o2 sensor after you shut it on and off a few times it clears its self and always run fine even though the light comes on… maybe that is the same on yours!

[@bobfisher9452]

@@d3offroad That's exactly what his does. 100% of the time the next day it is gone. Why do you think it's the 02 sensor? Engine code? We are going to re-do his grounding points and see if that works. Thanks for replay.

[@d3offroad]

I think it’s that because mine tells me on the 7” dash that it’s the o2 sensor and as long as I cycle the ignition a few times it fixes itself 🤣 that’s one big benefit of the dash it tells you what each code is

[@bobfisher9452]

Gotcha, he has the 7” dash as well. I don’t care about the engine light all that much but it is annoying. First time it came on we were out in the middle of nowhere out here in AZ and it was a little concerning. But we never ride alone so all good. lol

[@d3offroad]

If he goes into the vehicle section on his screen it will tell him what the code is!

[@Brandon549100]

Get a SWR meter so you can test / tune your antennas, lower the SWR longer distance you can transmit

[@d3offroad]

Thanks!

[@cdugan74]

Curious about what you find out on the new radios.

[@d3offroad]

Rugged got back to us and found out the long range antennas have an issue and are recalling them sending us all new inventory with correct working antennas 😎 they were quick to respond and rectify the situation

[@evanmiller1642]

2.0 to 2.0 didnt seem like it realy did any better. She couldnt really hear better. No idea what to buy. Had a bca 2.0 but it stayed on the mtn last sno bike ride. Wasnt super impressed. Used my cheap midland radio yesterday and honestly it worked well. Might just go walmart and grab another pair.

[@redw0lf848]

whats the battery life on these rugged radios

[@d3offroad]

Regular battery we see around 5-6 hours with lots of talking, we also sell the XL battery to get around 8-10 hours and a battery eliminator to plug directly into the sxs for 12v for unlimited time. You want to keep atleast 1/4 charge for decent range we find the lower they get the range suffers!

[@redw0lf848]

thanks for the reply @@d3offroad

[@ElfMaster-pf2vx]

Your Repeaters for GMRS

[@hillbillycustom1730]

Don’t think you have full power till 150 degrees

[@phillhimelrick7400]

We have these ares are blue I have talk 4 miles away

[@d3offroad]

That’s amazing!

[@d3offroad]

Ya the blue ones are business band more powerful nice units!

[@ElfMaster-pf2vx]

Tidradio looking

[@gbemmx3]

Bad test of extend antenned. Tester put radio outside window on regular antenna, did not do so with extented which means the tests done with 2 different situations. Please repeat with same test situation.

[@d3offroad]

Thanks for the feedback, but we reached out to rugged radios and it turns out there’s some faulty extended range antennas. We will be redoing the test once we receive new antennas and implementing a few tips from people. Even with the radio inside the machine it should of performed better than it did.

[@gfb_steve]

Hey there, Steve G, Product Development at Rugged Radios, here. I also replied in a standalone comment here but wanted to clarify that we don't have faulty extended range antennas, but I appreciate the comment so that we know to address this with our team. We're trying to duplicate your test results... so far unsuccessful but will continue to work on it so that we can make sure you're getting the most out of your antennas. Thanks for the video!

[@d3offroad]

Hey Steve G, oh sorry I was under the impression from our sales rep that there is an issue with the extended range antennas, I am happy to have a meeting on the phone with you when you have time to discuss this further and help us out. Currently our best range and results are with the small antenna that comes on the radio, a roof antenna or extended range both cut our distance in half rather than extend the distance… thank you for commenting!

[@hexhound2273]

idk how you guys roll without full windshield?? lol

[@d3offroad]

🤣🤣🤣 can’t stand scratched windows to look through

[@hexhound2273]

😆@@d3offroad

[@ronaldgrimmig6659]

Rugged sucks. Sorry you had to find out the hard way. I use baofeng uv-82, quansheng uv-k5(8) handhelds with nagoya gmrs antennas. Takes some programming but work great. I also just mounted a mobile radio in my sxs with a roof mounted antenna that gets many fars. Btw legal gmrs radios are set to limited watts on certain channels. Channels 1-7 (5 watts) 8-14 aren't supposed to be transmitted on over .5 watts. Channels 15-22 are allowed the highest wattage (up to 50) from the radio. Also gmrs requires a license from the FCC to use in the US. Not sure where you are.

[@d3offroad]

Thanks for the info!

[@bigsexysadventures3942]

Need bigger sizes in merch for us big boys!!

[@d3offroad]

Thanks for the feed back! We ran a preorder to gauge what the most popular sizes were. These are small bath orders so we have to estimate which sizes will sell the most. Next round, let us know what size and we’ll make sure to be more inclusive in sizing!