Best RD for Texas Highways?

[jeremy45]

I've been reading alot and have narrowed it down two RD's. The Bel STi and the V1. The V1's arrows are appealing but after reading about Texas DPS using radar detector detectors to target vehicles using RD's I started looking into the STi. I would like to hear everyones opinion on this situation.

I drive a 2000 Toyota Tacoma and rarely go 20 over, usually about 10 over and generally that is on the highways only. I live in West Texas and alot of my family life in the Houston and Beaumont areas so I travel alot on I-10.

Thanks in advance,
Jeremy45

[erickonphoenix]

I still recommend the valentine. Although the spectre can pick it up it's range is not very good so you would only be vulnerable to a very specific type of statioonary instant on. Remember you can't eliminate risk only minimze it

[jeremy45]

Erick,

Thanks for response. I wasn't sure if this was a major concern. Since it's not and the V1 is cheaper I think I'll go that way.

Thanks,
Jeremy45

[Motor On]

I'd get the V1 and take that spare $100 and put it into a CB to help get the other drivers to warn you about I/O and blitz pacing traps. Then you'll have a sensitive top preforming RD that has the chance of alerting to to I/O and a second tool that helps alert you to I/O and non radar threats.

[stlcardsfan]

Out in West Texas you are going to be getting C/O radar detection distances that most people in the Eastern US (me) could only dream off. Out there it is flat and dry. Those 2 factors will increase detection.

[Motor On]

Out in West Texas you are going to be getting C/O radar detection distances that most people in the Eastern US (me) could only dream off. Out there it is flat and dry. Those 2 factors will increase detection.
Well a growing TX DPS tactic is to use Spectre IV+ to time the I/O shots to target RD users.

[jeremy45]

Ya, that I\O tactic is why I started this thread. However, I do realize the benefit of a flat and extremely dry climate.

Motor On,
Any specific recommendations for the CB set up?

[trailtow]

Ya, that I\O tactic is why I started this thread. However, I do realize the benefit of a flat and extremely dry climate.

Motor On,
Any specific recommendations for the CB set up?
Depends how much space you are willing to give go check out the cb,scnner section great info there

[Motor On]

Ya, that I\O tactic is why I started this thread. However, I do realize the benefit of a flat and extremely dry climate.

Motor On,
Any specific recommendations for the CB set up?



Ya, that I\O tactic is why I started this thread. However, I do realize the benefit of a flat and extremely dry climate.

Motor On,
Any specific recommendations for the CB set up?
Depends how much space you are willing to give go check out the cb,scnner section great info there
Yeah +1, it'll be worthy of it's own thread the CB section, you can put in $75 and get a setup that'll give you miles of warning, or you can put a few hundred into a setup that'll have you broadcasting out 10+miles and have a ton of bells and whistles. So it's all based on what your needs are.

A common basic start up setup is a Cobra 19 (their radios are good) or Uniden 510/520 a wilson magnet mount antenna and those two can often be found for $60-80 and be all you need for countermeasure purposes.

And in that kind of flat dry (better than labratory perfect conditions) enviroment I picked up a 9.xx mile warning vs CHP Stalker Dual I/O in the central CA desert, so the V1 does alert to I/O if they've got rabbit ahead of you to hit.

[jeremy45]

Thanks,

I'll check out the CB forum. I'll probably start off with the smaller set up as there isn't alot of extra room in my truck. Thanks for all the help.

Jeremy45

[snoopyc4]

Go with the valentine one

[Gokhos]

I've been reading alot and have narrowed it down two RD's. The Bel STi and the V1. The V1's arrows are appealing but after reading about Texas DPS using radar detector detectors to target vehicles using RD's I started looking into the STi. I would like to hear everyones opinion on this situation.

I drive a 2000 Toyota Tacoma and rarely go 20 over, usually about 10 over and generally that is on the highways only. I live in West Texas and alot of my family life in the Houston and Beaumont areas so I travel alot on I-10.

Thanks in advance,
Jeremy45


The Bel STi and the V1 are both good RD. But you may want to consider some other factors.

The DPS does use Spectre. From what I understand, they use it to find vehicles using RD and then use I/O radar. IMO, there is very little defense to I/O other than to drive at or below the PSL. Most of the DPS on the highways that I see are just sitting on the side of the road, generally right on the shoulder in plain sight. But they also use concealment sometimes.

You may want to consider getting a CB radio, My esperience is that you will generally get warning on the CB long before your RD picks up anything. I always use a CB on the road and almost without fail, I received warning way before the RD.

Most Sheriffs, in my experience use C/O - almost any detector will pick that up a good ways off. But some will use I/O, and Laser. Any many local LEOs run enforcement on the highways that run through their jurisdictions. Generally more of a threat than DPS, IMO. Watch out for LEO way back up on highway entrance ramps running radar and LIDAR from behind. Keep and eye on your RVM. - again, another good reason for a CB. At night, be aware of vehicles behind you. One could be a LEO pacing you.

I don't know much about the Bel Sti but the V1, while great on the highway can be a bit noisey in built up areas. That's why I decided against it but most of my driving is in town. So I am more concerned about C/O and I/O in town - yes it is used, Laser, and red light cameras. An Escort 9500IX is great in town because of the RLC feature, and just about any good RD is good on the road. The Whistler XTR-695 is very good.

Running at 20 over is risky, IMO, regardless of countermeasures. (Even in a pack of vehicles) That just is too obvious. If you stand out, you will draw attention, so try not to standout. Let other vehicles stand out and draw attention. Also, try to stay in with other vehicles and try to stay out of the hammer lane (far left lane). Lots of drivers seem to need to be out front - leave that for someone else. A lone vehicle is a great target. I like to get with some big trucks and stay with them. They will chit chat back and forth and generally have very good CBs and since they can't legally use RD, they do use CBs to warn. (And if you ever need help, many truckers will help or will help get you help). Most truckers are well experienced, professional drivers. They generally know the roads, and can see alot farther ahead from their cabs than most of us can. Some will disagree with the trucker advice but it has served me well for many years of driving.

Three things to consider: Where you drive, what you drive, and how you drive. Think about those three things and everything that comprises them, and you will have lots of information to use to help make your decisions.

Good luck.

[Stealth Stalker]

Any fear of Spectres to anyone except a truck driver is seriously overblown in Texas. Most troopers don't even have them. And those that do are probably not giving them much consideration unless they spot a truck using one. DPS troopers use I/O on everyone, regardless of whether their Spectre is beeping or not. Machts nichts.

The V1 is absolutely the best RD for Texas highways, without any doubt whatsoever. Whether or not it is the best RD for you is the only remaining question.

[Just1n]

The V1 is absolutely the best RD for Texas highways, without any doubt whatsoever. Whether or not it is the best RD for you is the only remaining question.
Plus, the V1 will out detect the Belscorts when it comes to I/O bursts hands down.

TX DPS love to use moving oncoming instant-on.

[jeremy45]

Gokhos,
Thanks for the detailed response, I am definately going to be getting a CB radio as you and several other members have mentioned it is the best defense against I\O. As far as using the left lane and standing out I learned not to do that the hard way a couple of months ago (only 11 over but still got a ticket).

I really am feeling that the V1 is going to be the best detector for me and in combination with a CB should make me fairly aware of what is going on up ahead.

Jeremy45

[djrams80_2]

I travel between San Antonio & Houston. All the DPS I come across use I/O. I was driving behind one. He did not turn on his RD untill a lone car came over the hill. Be very carefull when driving over those hills.

[erickonphoenix]

Any fear of Spectres to anyone except a truck driver is seriously overblown in Texas. Most troopers don't even have them. And those that do are probably not giving them much consideration unless they spot a truck using one. DPS troopers use I/O on everyone, regardless of whether their Spectre is beeping or not. Machts nichts.

Agree^ The risk of running into a spectre equipped Trooper that knows this trick is pretty low. TrooperX didn't know about it until I told him and then he got a spectre and messed around with the technique. After some experience he said it wasn't very effective but late at night when your trying to stay awake it was a clever little game to play but not good for much else.

[rocky2]

I would think by the time they picked up a V1 on Spectre you would be able to see them very clearly. I would think this technique would only work with Cobras that they could pickup from 2000 ft away.

[texasspeed]

where abouts in west texas..i live in Abilene and i often rome ballinger, san angelo..and let me tell you..the DPS around here use I/O. ive only had one trooper that was using C/O...be careful and use a rabbit..

[jeremy45]

Texasspeed,

I live in Odessa. If the spectra has suck a limited range it sounds like the V1 and a radio would suffice as protection and paying attention to whats around you. Ya, rabbits are mandatory on the interstate.

Jeremy45

[texasspeed]

go with the V1..nough said.

[Jag42]

This is a going to start a fight :) I have a Whistler Pro 78 REV C and it does very very well on Texas highways. Look at my videos on youtube. On many encounters i have had were well over 2 miles on DPS I/0 and detecting DPS shooting over hills and over passes outside of Abilene,Tx. If you can fork the money out for a V1 then go for it.

[jeremy45]

Jag42,

I have already saved half the money for the V1 and should have the rest by the end of the month. I have a bad habbit of not being happy if I "settle" for something so I think I'm going to hold out for the V1. But thanks for the info and from watching your videos I see why you like your whistler.

Jeremy45

[QuickCummins]

Just my two cents, im in west TX and i run the STI and havent had a problem with any IO encounters, the reason i got the STI was because i was a victim of Spectra(DPS) when i had a BEl 965 it just pissed me off so much i said never again, weather it be in TX VA or were ever i might go with an RD ...........but everone is right the chances are slim but it could happen

[jeremy45]

QuickCummins,

In your opinion, is the risk of Spectra attack enough to justify the extra $100 for the STi. Would the addition of a CB sway you opinion either way?

Jeremy45

[QuickCummins]

To me it was worth the extra money,as ive been a bel fan for a while,but i dont put down the V1 its a good choice, so everyone says, do the trial thing, i believe both companys offer a 30 days trial to test them out, it might be worth it, as for a CB im still debating weather to get one or not, if interstate is your choice of travel id say get a CB ..... just another tool in the arsenal

[jeremy45]

All of my long trips are on the main interstates so I think a CB is in order. The thirty day trial is great, I think I'll order the V1, take it on a trip and see how it goes. If I don't like it, I'll return it and give the STi a shot.:)

Jeremy45

[texasspeed]

oh ya, i forgot that the whistlers where pretty darn good at picking up I/O. that is correct right? i think ive read somewhere a while back about whistlers being really good at that..im pushing the girlfriend to get a new pro 78 se or xtr690..

[Freebird]

I prefer the Bel STI on 34.7 to the V1 especially if its hilly.
http://www.radardetector.net/forums/valentine-one/37255-v1-vrs-bel-sti-12-thousand-mile-review.html

:popcorn:

[Jag42]

oh ya, i forgot that the whistlers where pretty darn good at picking up I/O. that is correct right? i think ive read somewhere a while back about whistlers being really good at that..im pushing the girlfriend to get a new pro 78 se or xtr690..

Yes Whistler is very good at detecting distant I/0 coming at you.

[jeremy45]

Freebird,
Thanks for the link to your review of the two detectors, it was a great read! Now you've got me thinking hard about which is the best choice for me. Most of my trips are to south-east Texas which takes me right through the Texas hill country. So I will definately be dealing with radar coming over hills. Decisions, Decisions!:)

Jag42,
Is I\O the main plave the Whistlers shine or do they preform well all around when compared to the V1 and STi?

Jeremy45

[happya$$]

V1 all the way

[hockey005]

v1 + cb and then some jammers

[djrams80]

I personally would choose the V1 over the STi. The STi might be slightly more sensitive to 34.7Ka and invisible to Spectre, but I'd have to say that I think the V1's arrows will come in more handy, than the STi's advantages.

[jeremy45]

Well, looks like the V1's still have it.:D Thanks for all the input guys.

Hockey005,
I'm sure jammers are in the future but it's going to be awhile. Unfortunately money's tight right now, but I'm sure ya'll all know that.

Jeremy45

[Jag42]

Keep in mind you are in West texas and its flooded with door openers and leaky Cobra,Uniden, RD'S. Your V1 might J out alot and pick up grocery stores twice as far. For some people its to noisy :) Its your decision. Tx DPS like to quick-trigger and a V1/Whistler is excellant. Belscort had to step up up there game on response time recently. My cousin was a State trooper for 3 years in Hale county allot of his costumers were Belscort users. :eek: They claimed no Alert

[jeremy45]

Thanks Jag42,

It's a tough decision and with everyone here sharing their knowlegde at least I get to make an informed decision. The research continues.

Jeremy45

[Jag42]

Thanks Jag42,

It's a tough decision and with everyone here sharing their knowlegde at least I get to make an informed decision. The research continues.

Jeremy45

Keep us informed :D

[Freebird]

You cant go wrong with the V1 or the STI. I agree with DJ, I like my arrows on my V1, but I like my freq showing on my STI and being stealth also.. You said it best decisions decisions.


Give the V1 a 30 day test drive.

[Gokhos]

oh ya, i forgot that the whistlers where pretty darn good at picking up I/O. that is correct right? i think ive read somewhere a while back about whistlers being really good at that..im pushing the girlfriend to get a new pro 78 se or xtr690..

I have a Whistler XTR-695 and it does a very good job picking up I/O. I try to stay n a group of vehicles and watch the flow and timing of vehicles in front when I pick up blips when the traffic in front crests a rise or goes around a curve.

I don't know anything abou tthe XTR 690 except what I have read on here. the 695 is good and I hear the Pro 78 too.

I've always believed, know where you are driving, what you drive, and how you drive. Be observant.

[jeremy45]

Well, I ordered the V1. It should be here Thursday and I'm going on a road trip in two weeks, so I'll have a good chance to test it out in the 30 day trial period.

Jeremy45

[ka34.739]

In my opinion go with the bel sti but that's just what i say

[Gokhos]

Well, I ordered the V1. It should be here Thursday and I'm going on a road trip in two weeks, so I'll have a good chance to test it out in the 30 day trial period.

Jeremy45

Jeremy,

Hey,

The V1 is reportedly a good RD. I've never owned one but most of the reviews that I read are positive.

Not to toss more indecision in your decision, but Escort just came out with the Redline RD. Supposed to have all the sensitivity (and maybe more than) of the V1 but with the stealth of the STi (I don't own one of these either).

RadarRoy has some reviews on the Escort forum that you may want to look at.
If you like it and want one, you may be able to return the V1 if you got it from Valentine. I'm not trying to steer you away from the V1, but in your original posting you had narrowed down your choices to the STi and the V1. Supposedly, with the Redline, many of the features of both the STi and V1 are included in the Redline.

Personally, I use a Whister XTR-695SE now (upgraded from the XTR-695) and it works fine for me. I am also starting to work with the Pro 78SE but have not logged hardly any miles on the highway with it. I like the blue display of the 78.

I don't do much long highway driving anymore so I am not the best source of info for you. But I am watching the reviews of the Redline, and I think if nothing else, it is worth considering. I think that if I did do much TX highway driving I would take a serious look at the Redline.

[stlcardsfan]

I recommend the V1. It will absolutely pwn in West Texas with the flat terrain and low humidity. Let's not recommend the Redline until it has been tested. Also with all the quick triggering by TX DPS you want the best radar detector for picking up quick radar blips (V1).

[djrams80]

I recommend the V1. It will absolutely pwn in West Texas with the flat terrain and low humidity. Let's not recommend the Redline until it has been tested. Also with all the quick triggering by TX DPS you want the best radar detector for picking up quick radar blips (V1).I'd have to agree. The V1 would be my first choice for West Texas.

[Gokhos]

I recommend the V1. It will absolutely pwn in West Texas with the flat terrain and low humidity. Let's not recommend the Redline until it has been tested. Also with all the quick triggering by TX DPS you want the best radar detector for picking up quick radar blips (V1).I'd have to agree. The V1 would be my first choice for West Texas.

It would be intersting to read some real world comparisons between the V1 and Redline.

[Freebird]

STI is a slightly better performer against 34.7 DPS. I own both and have driven Texas alot comparing their performance. They are very close but the STI does outperform the V1 by a small margin.

Question is stealth, is spending 100 bucks extra for a slight performance gain and stealth worth it.


Another option is the Redline from Escort, rumored to have better 34.7 than either the STI or the V1 and Stealth.