yeah the ones I have been using are Cobra. But any radio that supports the FRS frequencies should work, however I'm sure the more expensive ones will have a little better transmission/reception. FYI I have been using channel 6 - as you get into the higher channels not every radio supports them. There are also ones that support subchannels like 6.1 6.2 etc. but I tend to use the main channels because it's easier and more people will have radios that support them. The downside is that the lower/simpler channels are popular and you will get cross talk in busy areas... probably not so much a problem on our back roads though.
I am thinking a scouting run on Saturday afternoon, around the same time that we would be doing the run on the 27th. roughly 2-3pm. Would prefer to not have it be a big group though, as it is meant to be a scouting run and I may stop sporadically to check for stopping points or photo locations etc. Everyone will get to drive it on the meet day soon enough.
Those of you interested in helping be a lead or tail car on the 27th, are welcome to join me though and it would be best if you had a radio though not required.