Rider Insights: Royce from SandHollow.UTV Talks Cardo Packtalk & Trail Communication
When it comes to off-road communication, having a reliable system that can handle the elements, maintain clear audio, and keep everyone connected is essential. That’s why we reached out to Royce Lauck, better known as @sandhollow.utv, to get his take on the Cardo Packtalk system. Royce is a well-known off-road enthusiast who regularly rides and creates content at Sand Hollow State Park in Utah. He’s tested several iterations of the Cardo system and has extensive experience using it with his riding crew and family. In this Q&A, we ask him all about his first impressions, real-world use, and tips for other riders considering the system.
General Experience & First Impressions
What was your first impression of the Cardo Edgephones / Packtalk system when you started using it?
"I used several prototype and first-edition versions of the Cardo headphones before Edgephones came out, but my first impression of the Edgephones was very positive. They’d taken all the feedback from the setups we tested early on and put them into the Edgephones product we have today. The ear cups seal up nicely, the noise canceling is good enough to drown out wind and exhaust noise, and the music and call quality is great!"
Before using the Packtalk, what challenges did you face with rider communication on the trails?
"I’ve always been a fan of having some sort of communication ability on trails. Before comms, I was constantly flashing my headlights, waving my arms, or honking the horn of my street-legal kit just to get someone’s attention. Whether it was to let them know we’d been driving the wrong way on the trail for the last few miles or to warn them about a washout, it was frustrating. Communication has been a total game-changer."
photos by @beferalmedia
Function & Usability
How easy was it to set up the Cardo System and can you walk us through the process of connecting the system with your riding group?
"If you’ve ever paired anything to your phone, you know how to set up a Cardo. From unboxing to chatting with your group, it should take less than 5 minutes, including the time it takes to download the app (which is optional for use)."
We read that the Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC) 2.0 works better, distance-wise, compared to traditional Bluetooth. Have you experienced this at Sand Hollow? You’re often riding in areas with very different elevations and large rock formations in between. How has the DMC performed for you?
"One cool thing about DMC is that each person/unit you add strengthens and extends the signal for the entire group, and you can have up to 16 riders in a group. If the line-of-sight connection ever breaks for you or someone in your group, it’s almost an immediate ‘self-healing’ reconnection. It’s one of the best features for riding through Sand Hollow's hills and canyons."
How has the hands-free voice control changed the way you ride and communicate?
"I even use the Cardo Edgephones/Helmet kits with my kids. The hands-free aspect has been huge in helping them learn the ropes in their little side-by-side and on their dirt bikes. They can focus on driving and talking to me instead of thinking about pressing a button."
How well does the system handle the transition when walking in and out of your UTV? For example, if you need to scout the layout of an obstacle or act as a spotter for your group, does the system maintain the connection?
"Having no wires is a HUGE win for Cardo. Being able to jump out of the car with your headset on to help another rider navigate an obstacle, without yelling over their engine noise, is a game-changer."
Sound Quality & Clarity
The Cardo Packtalk is powered by JBL speakers — we experienced its noise-canceling feature and clarity when we were using it. What’s your experience with the audio quality? Can you still hear the system clearly when you’re riding at high speeds or during windy conditions?
"The noise-canceling feature is legit. The speakers’ clarity remains strong even when the wind picks up or when we’re going full-throttle. It’s so clear that sometimes I forget I’m on a trail."
Have you noticed a difference in sound quality compared to other headsets you've used in the past?
"One of the most popular features of Cardo is that you get true stereo (not monotone) music, pumped out through JBL speakers. Each rider in the group can be paired to their own phone, listening to their own music, but still chatting on the same group. My wife loves this because she can play whatever she likes while I’m jamming my Creed playlist on repeat."
Do you use the Cardo system to listen to music or take calls while riding? If so, how is the experience?
"Yes, all the time. Calls are crystal clear, and I’m able to keep riding while talking. For music, it’s amazing being able to have my own soundtrack while out on the trails."
Durability & Longevity
Have you had any issues with water, dust, or mud affecting the system's performance? The system has an IP67 waterproof rating, but have you experienced any extreme weather while using your headset? If so, how did it handle it?
"Having used several different Cardo units over the past several years, I’ve never had one fail or be damaged due to the elements — rain, snow, dust, or sand. They’ve held up in every condition."
How long does a single charge last, and have you found the quick-charge feature useful during your rides?
"I could quote what’s on the box, but I’ll just tell you this — I’ve never started the day with a charged Cardo and had it die before I’m done riding. Typically, I’m able to use it for an entire weekend before needing a recharge."
photos by @beferalmedia
Have you ever had to use the fast-charge option mid-ride? If so, how long did it take to get back on the trail?
"Never needed to charge on the go. But it’s nice to know the option’s there if I ever need it."
Real-World Use With Your Riding Group
How has the Packtalk’s group communication changed your riding experience with friends and your crew?
"No more honking horns, hand signals, or yelling! Everyone’s connected, and the ride just flows better."
Is there a memorable moment or ride where the Cardo Packtalk system played a major role in your adventure?
"One feature a lot of people don’t know about the Cardo ORV is the app’s ‘record audio’ feature. If you want to make some memories, you can record funny moments or trail trash talk, and it’s saved directly to your phone. I’ve used it to overlay audio on trail videos for some good content."
Tips & Recommendations
If someone was on the fence about buying the Packtalk, what would you say to them?
"For a person, family, or group that doesn’t need a full, wired, and complex ‘race radio’ setup for long-distance communication, you really can’t beat the Cardo Edgephones or Cardo ORV Helmet kit. The ease of use, reliability, and versatility is really hard to beat."
About Royce
Known as @sandhollow.utv on social media, Royce is a fixture in the off-road scene at Sand Hollow State Park, Utah. He’s the face behind the popular "Off Camber" YouTube channel, where he shares trail rides, wild obstacles, and unfiltered moments from his off-road adventures. His authentic approach and passion for riding have earned him a loyal following in the UTV community.
Royce’s playground is Sand Hollow, Utah—one of the most iconic off-road destinations in the country. With its slick rock, deep sand, and dynamic elevation changes, Sand Hollow provides the perfect stage for Royce to put his skills and gear to the test. It’s also we have met with him on a few occasions to trail and build our skillset out on terrains we don’t get to see as often, being from Southern California.
But Royce’s role in the off-road community goes beyond content creation. He’s an experienced trail leader, family man, and active participant in major off-road events. He’s competed in the Maxxis Roxxzilla SXS Shootout at Trail Hero, one of the toughest off-road competitions around, where he’s faced off against brutal obstacles like the infamous Nasty Half trail. This level of real-world experience gives him a unique perspective that resonates with his followers.
Family-Focused Off-Roading Royce’s love for off-roading isn’t just about personal thrills—it’s a family affair. He’s often seen on the trails with his kids, helping them learn to navigate their side-by-sides and dirt bikes. As someone who’s been riding for years, Royce’s patience and guidance shine through as he encourages the next generation of off-roaders. This family-oriented approach adds a relatable touch to his content that appeals to riders of all experience levels.
A Trusted Voice in the UTV Community With his in-depth knowledge of Sand Hollow’s trails and years of experience behind the wheel, Royce has become a go-to figure for off-road tips, gear reviews, and insight on the best routes to ride. His candid, unpolished commentary gives viewers a front-row seat to the reality of trail riding. No fluff, no pretense—just honest, helpful advice from someone who’s done it all.
Where to Find Royce To catch more of Royce’s adventures, follow him on Instagram at @sandhollow.utv and check out his videos on the "Off Camber" YouTube channel. Whether it’s navigating a gnarly climb, tackling a muddy trail, or sharing some trail banter with friends, Royce’s content gives you a front-row seat to the off-road world at Sand Hollow. If you’re an off-road enthusiast, his channel is a must-watch.
