Go with the valentine one
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Go with the valentine one
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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..
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