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Antennas for Trail Riding

Characteristics of a Good Trail Antenna

The trail can be a very hostile environment for antennas, which can be easily torn off by overhanging brush and rocks. Bystander safety is also a major consideration on trail rides where spectators often congregate to watch vehicles traverse obstacles.

A good trail ride antenna should:

• Mount rigidly to vehicle
  
  Magnetic mounts just won't stay on the vehicle.
  
  
• Short
  
  Shorter antennas don't provide as much gain and thus have shorter communications range, but they are less likely to be snagged by brush. Shorter antennas are also less likely to be a hazard to bystanders.
  
  
• Flexible but not limber
  
  Antennas should be flexible enough to bend rather than break but not so limp as to sway wildly and cause a safety hazard.
  
  
• Not fold over
  
  Avoid antennas with a fold-over feature since the hinge is a weak point where breakage will occur.
  
• All metal
  
  Some antennas have a ceramic section in the base. If overhanging brush puts enough pressure on them, they will snap.

Recommended Antennas

Rugged antennas suitable for offroad use are hard to find. Antennas made from stiff, black powder-coated spring-wire seem to work best. I formerly recommended the dual band Maldol EX-107, but it has a ceramic section in the base and eventually broke when hit by brush..

I am now evaluating the dual band Black Diamond NR770HB although it is a bit longer than I would like.

Antenna Location

The best location for an antenna on a trail vehicle is the rear of the vehicle where the antenna will be somewhat protected by the vehicle body. Antennas on the side of the vehicle can easily be knocked off by trees and overhanging brush and rocks. Mount the antenna clear of roll cage, high lift jacks, or tire carrier uprights since that will detune the antenna and reduce effectiveness.

Antenna Safety on the Trail

Antennas can be a safety hazard on the trail. Rough trails can cause long, limber antennas to sway wildly, which can cause injuries to bystanders. Shorter, stiff but flexible antennas are best. Avoid long whips or heavy stick antennas mounted with springs.

Antennas for Remote Operating

If operating remote mobile on good roads, antennas can be the same as those used for mobile operation on the highway. If operating outside the vehicle much larger and less robust antennas can be used. The main consideration is that they be easily transported.