Backcountry Access BC Link 2.0 Group Communication System - Single
The next-gen Backcountry Access BC Link 2.0 Group communication system uses 2 watts of power for an increased usable range and a Smart Mic grill that's impervious to packing with snow.
- Helps you communicate plans, stick your line, share observations in real-time and find separated friends
- Usable range is approximately 6 mi. (9.5km) line of sight; maximum range is up to 40 mi. (64km) line of sight
- On/off/channel selection dial switch is protected from inadvertent channel changing
- Smart Mic user interface is located at your fingertips, meaning you never need to dig the radio out of your pack to change settings
- 0.5 watts on channels with that FCC limit; 2 watts on all other channels
- Integrated 2300mAh lithium ion battery offers an average battery life of 80 hrs. with normal use; maximum battery life is up to 400 hrs. in standby mode
- Comes with long-lasting, built-in, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, durable cord/base unit, and new battery percentage power display
- Battery lasts for several days without recharging, even in cold temps
- Integrates into all Float avalanche airbag packs; not included
Imported.
| Best Use | Backcountry Skiing Splitboarding Snowsports |
|---|---|
| Channels | 22 |
| Privacy Codes | 121 |
| Range | Up to 40 miles |
| Battery Type | Lithium Ion |
| Rechargeability | Rechargeable |
| Radio Class | FRS |
| FCC License Required | No |
| Dimensions | Smart Mic: 3.5 x 2.1 x 1.5. in.; base unit: 6.3 x 2.2 x 1.4 in. |
| Weight | 11 ounces |
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Awful quality and craftsmanship.
There are plenty of risks in the wild. Communication shouldn't be one of them. I have had to warranty these radios 3 different times now for the same reason and I'm officially done with them. It's great that BCA has replaced them each time without much hassle, but the quality is awful for the price. The core issue is that the radios have two separate pieces and the connection ("smart mic") is quite fragile. The screw from the body unit to the smart mic has detached on me several times and recently the hook on the smart mic, has also broken. This happens when I go to remove the smart mic from the body to move from one bag to another or simply to charge the units. I don't beat these things up at all and am quite meticulous with my gear and equipment. These things are just not designed well. On my last trip I had to use zip ties to keep them together. As for actual radio performance when they aren't physically broken, they are great. But if I can't rely on them not failing mechanically for no good reason, then it's not something I want to have with me in the backcountry. I've already replaced these with two "Rockie Talkies" and am way more impressed with the build quality and performance has been quite good in my initial tests. Would definitely NOT recommend the BCA link 2.0 to anyone who is in the market for a quality back country communication radio.
Fatal design flaw renders radio useless
I had high hopes for these radios, but a fatal design flaw in the mic connection makes these very expensive paperweights. I'll cover a few of my thoughts, pros and cons, but ultimately cannot recommend these. Positives are: easy manipulation of the mic/speaker, even with gloves on during the winter. Main unit and battery stay inside my backpack, where they will stay warmer and protected from the elements . The separate mic/speaker unit is plenty loud, weather sealed, and has a long enough cable to easily attach to my backpack strap. Negatives: units themselves output a maximum of up to 2 watts on some channels. This is a federal restriction, so not a knock on BCA, but be aware of their range limitations. You will likely not be able to communicate to your separated party from all areas of a resort, but they still are handy if you are in a group and trying to stay in communication without cell service. Some of the cheaper options may bypass this regulation and allow for higher power transmission. They are still using micro-usb for charging. While many devices are still using this outdated connector, it would have been nice to see usb-c here. The biggest negative here, which has happened on both of the units I have purchased, and ultimately renders the whole unit inoperable, is there is a small hook on the mic which attaches it to the main body of the radio. The other end of this connection is a small thumb screw, which is plenty stout. The hook on the mic connection is made out of cheap, brittle plastic, and will break. Once this piece is broken, the mic will no longer make contact with the body of the radio, and you're unable to use them. Both of my units were very lightly used, stored properly, and had this issue less than one year after purchasing them. I've added a picture of the hook, where you can see it's has broken, but not yet completely detached from the cord. BCA has claimed they have a redesigned attachment in the works, but I have yet to see this on any new units in stores or in person anywhere. To their credit, they have been helpful with warranty claims, but I can no longer trust these units for critical communication in the backcountry. It's disappointing because a pair of these retails for nearly $400. Please consider another option before dropping that kind of cash on something that will break.
Great For Coordinating Whatever Needs Coordinating
I have been using the Link radios for a number of years. I like the remote mic which allows for easy radio communication while the radio is tucked out of the way in a pocket or, better, in the integrated radio sleeve in a BCA pack. This new version is even better with increased power and range - reception and range is noticeably better in the 2.0. Great for talking amongst groups in the field, setting up photos, sharing snow observations, calling for help. Add these radios into your communication and emergency plan.
Game Changer!
I’ve been using these splitboarding in the backcountry and I can’t tell you how much they’ve improved my experience as well as the rest of the group. They are easy to use, powerful in range, lightweight, and I like how you barely realize you have it on. I’ve been able to ride better snow and more fun terrain with having such good communication with my group as we can share bets on our observations from different viewpoints of the terrain. They’ve also helped keep in touch if someone has a mechanical issue and needs some help. I’ve never needed them for any dangerous situations but it’s nice to know they’re on us in case we do.
Super durable do-it-all radio
This is the highest quality radio you can get for consumer use, literally been using it all the time and it still looks new. Great to have on backcountry missions when the group gets too far apart to communicate by yelling. It also has weather channels built in just in case you need to stay updated on weather. Also, the mic is plenty loud and has a dial for switching to preset channels which is perfect for when the channel you're on is busy and need to have your group switch channels. Everyone can just move to a different preset. You usually can't hear people through a mountain, nor can you with any radio I've tried, but as long as you're in the same drainage/valley I havn't had any issues.
Battery Issues
I am having an issue with the battery failing to charge fully. This is approximately less than a year of use. Attempted to contact BC customer support, however, still haven't received a response. Unfortunately the battery is built in rather than being user replaceable. Doesn't do me anygood if I can't get support.
Great idea - not so sure about the cable connector
We use walkie talkies a lot. Ski resorts. Backcountry. Backpacking. Rock climbing. Mountain biking - we're lucky enough to spend 60+ days a year deep in the Rockies. Hooray! We've been using a hodge podge of Motorola radios and the mic/speaker extensions that they sell. The only problem with those products is that the extenders seem to unplug in your pack. The design from Motorola is failed out of the box. We're talking about a headphone jack type thing. Duct tape and shock cord seem to mostly solve this concern, but I thought I'd spend my 20% coupon on a BCA Link 2.0 and try it out. Overall, it's an impressive step up from the Motorola option. Great design. Great functionality. Seems reliable (so far). I love the power/volume dial and quick channel selector on the remote - although I've been talking on the same one channel for decades. The cable is a perfect length for backpack use. Let's be clear that the radio is the exact same thing you're getting from the less expensive options. There are FCC limits for Family Channels and you don't get anymore horse power out of the BCA. Line of sight does work from summits to base camp some miles below, but throw a ridge in the way and no-go. These are solid for nearby comms only, but indespensible at times. Try climbing "the Buldge" in Eldo when the water is high - talkies are a must. My only complaint with the BCA is the connector between the remote and the base. There is a plastic hook that hinges the thing on and it just seems flimsy. I did read other reviews that claim this breaks, and I believe it. Weakest link kinda thing. You will attach/detach this thing every time you thread it out your pack. For 180 bucks, you'd think they'd have spotted this flaw when it was still in CAD. Bummer. I might have bought three more.
Not-so rugged
I’m not normally a reviewer, but felt the need to for this radio. It’s quite pricey for an FRS radio, so what are you paying for? The remote is cool, support is great, but it’s not that rugged… As other reviewers have stated, there’s a major design flaw in this radio that causes the remote attachment point to break. I babied 2 radios over their life & both snapped off. The good news is that BCA is excellent about replacements. The bad news is that due to cost, you’re approaching amateur radio price territory, and that’s exactly what my group ended up doing. You can find magnesium-cased real “rugged” radios for slightly more money with a license (and have replaceable batteries) that will last a lifetime. I like BCA as a company, and their in-person and phone support has been stellar. I just think they under-engineered a radio that people rely on in the backcountry to be rugged.
Underwhelmed by the BCA 2.0.
Received the radios a day before a trip to Moab. Wanted to test the distance. Had my kids stand on our upper deck and drove out of the subdivision. (Subdivision is 1-2 acre lots... no real obstructions). Lost contact at less than a mile. Mic seems to cut in and out when holding PTT button. I am going to allow for user error and test them in the open. Given how they have functioned thus far, my confidence is low. Given the price, I was expecting higher quality. I will repost if they do better in the field. No recommendation for now.
Need to fix mic connection point
These radios are amazing but the connection point to the mic is weak and breaks