Best Communication System for Honda Talon — NZ & AU Guide
Aaron HarrisThe Honda Talon is a high-performance sport UTV that has built a strong following in New Zealand and Australia since its release. Whether you're running trails, competing in off-road events, or exploring the back country, a proper intercom and UHF CB radio system is essential for safe and effective communication between driver and co-driver — and with the rest of your group.
What You Need: The Two-Part System
A complete Honda Talon communication setup requires two separate systems:
- Intercom — for driver-to-co-driver communication inside the vehicle
- UHF CB Radio — for vehicle-to-vehicle communication with other vehicles in your group
These serve different purposes and cannot replace each other. Both are required for a complete setup.
Recommended System for Honda Talon
| Component | Recommended Product | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| In-vehicle UHF CB radio | Rugged RDM-DB | UHF CB, legal in NZ & AU |
| Intercom (2-seat) | Rugged 696 Plus | Integrates with RDM-DB |
| Intercom (2-seat with headsets) | Rugged RRP6100 with headsets | No helmet required |
| Helmet kit (premium) | Off-Road Helmet Kit with M102 Mic | Best noise cancellation for open cab |
| Helmet kit (standard) | Off-Road Helmet Kit with 3.5mm | Open & full-face helmets |
| Complete kit | Honda Talon Communication Kits | Vehicle-specific wiring included |
Complete Honda Talon Communication Kits
Harris Race Radios stocks vehicle-specific communication kits for the Honda Talon that include pre-wired harnesses and mounting hardware designed for your specific Talon model. These kits ensure correct fitment and a clean installation without cutting or splicing factory wiring.
View all Honda Talon Communication Kits →
If your specific Talon variant isn't listed, contact us — we may have a kit available that isn't yet on the site, or we can advise on the correct universal fit option.
Helmet or Headset?
The Honda Talon is used in both competition and recreational contexts, and the right choice depends on your application:
Competition Use (Helmet Required)
For any MSNZ or Motorsport Australia sanctioned event, a helmet is mandatory. You'll need a helmet kit that fits inside your helmet and connects to the intercom. The Honda Talon's open cab generates significant engine and wind noise at speed, making the Off-Road Helmet Kit with M102 Military Mic the recommended choice — the M102 noise-cancelling microphone is substantially better at rejecting background noise than a standard mic.
Recreational Use (No Helmet Required)
For trail riding and recreational off-roading where helmets are not required, noise-cancelling headsets are the most practical option. They provide hearing protection as well as communication. The RRP6100 with headsets bundle is the most popular choice for recreational Talon use.
UHF CB Radio — Not GMRS
Many US-based Honda Talon guides recommend GMRS radios. Do not follow that advice in NZ or AU. GMRS is a US-only radio standard and is illegal to operate in New Zealand and Australia. The correct radio is the Rugged RDM-DB, which operates on UHF CB (476–477 MHz) — fully legal and licence-free in both countries.
Aaron Harris — Honda Talon Setup Advice
Aaron Harris is an active racing driver and race engineer — Barcelona 24 Hour 1st in Class 2013, Bathurst 1000 and 12 Hour competitor, BMW Race Driver Series Champion 2011, and race engineer for Earl Bamber Motorsport, TekworkX, Matt Stone Racing, and Porsche Carrera Cup Australia/Asia-Pacific/NZ. Aaron is also an MSNZ Licence Examiner for helmets, racewear, FHR, and HANS devices.
Harris Race Radios is the Exclusive Official Authorised Distributor and Dealer for Rugged Radios in Australasia. We supply and fit communication systems for off-road racing and recreational use across NZ and AU.
Not sure which kit suits your Talon? Email Aaron or call +64 27 449 9654 with your Talon model, helmet or headset preference, number of seats, and intended use — we'll confirm the exact kit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What intercom should I use in a Honda Talon?
The Rugged 696 Plus or RRP6100 are the recommended intercoms for the Honda Talon. Both integrate directly with the Rugged RDM-DB UHF CB radio.
What radio should I use in a Honda Talon in NZ or AU?
The Rugged RDM-DB is the recommended UHF CB mobile radio for the Honda Talon in NZ and AU. Do not use a GMRS radio — GMRS is illegal in NZ and AU.
Does Harris Race Radios stock Honda Talon-specific fitting kits?
Yes. We stock vehicle-specific intercom and radio fitting kits for the Honda Talon. View the Honda Talon collection or contact us if your model isn't listed.
Do I need a helmet kit or headset for my Honda Talon?
For competition use, a helmet kit is required. For recreational use without a helmet, noise-cancelling headsets are the most practical option. Contact us to confirm the right choice for your application.
→ Read the full guide: Off-Road Radio Communications for NZ & AU — What You Need to Know Before You Buy
→ Related: Why GMRS Radios Are Illegal in New Zealand and Australia
→ Related: Best Communication System for Polaris RZR