Even though they get mixed reviews on Amazon.com, I ordered a pair of Midland GXT500 walkie talkies this past spring because I couldn’t afford a Chatterbox Communicator system, and these radios have a motorcycle headset kit. At a sale price of less than $60 for the pair of radios, and then $45 or so for the headset kit (also available for open-face helmets), I had to give it a try.

As I wrote in my review on Amazon, so far, I’m very happy with the quality. For example, most recently, I was on my Vespa and my bf was in his truck behind me, and we could communicate clearly with significant space between us. We’ve also use these while kayaking with no problems.

We had one problem with a battery going dead fairly quickly on one of the units on a trip - I’m not sure if that’s my fault or the battery. It seems fine now, so maybe I didn’t put it in the charger correctly. In any case, I’m getting extra batteries and car chargerfor longer rides.

I didn’t like all the wires I had to rig up to use with the helmet kit - I had to tuck a lot of extra length inside my jacket - but considering the price compared to some of the other motorcycle-to-motorcycle set-ups, I think it’s worth the savings. The push-to-talk button straps to the left handbar and is easy to use, and doesn’t get in the way of other controls as long as you make sure you attach it with the cord out of the way. The weather channels are a bonus.

My recommendation is that if you’re just looking for walkie talkies, you can find some good ones for a lower price. If you want an alternative to high-priced motorcycle-to-motorcycle communication systems, it may be good for you - I’m very happy with it so far.