How to Improve Your Harley’s Audio System?

Motorcycling is an escape that few other activities match. After all, that’s why we do what we do here at Motorcycle.com. Listening to crystal-clear audio amplifies the riding experience for some touring riders, but stock audio systems aren’t always up to the task. Let’s face it: listening to music while riding a motorcycle is a challenge, seeing as it’s an open environment, and there’s wind and traffic noise to contend with – you get the picture.

Many of these audio tips will apply to Harley-Davidson touring owners. Yet, these suggestions can be applied to any motorcycle equipped with a stereo system, whether you’re on an American V-twin, metric, or European motorcycle. So, without further ado, let’s dive into improving your Harley’s audio system.

Factory-installed speakers on many of today’s touring motorcycles are often chosen due to cost instead of premium sound quality. Keeping total MSRPs in check is why a base model bike will use less or lower specification speakers than top-tier trims, as seen with high-quality audio systems installed in the Harley-Davidson CVO and Indian Motorcycle Challenger Elite range of bikes. Put simply, an upgraded speaker often utilizes improved materials like polypropylene or Kevlar in the cones and more durable rubber surrounds that increase clarity. A better speaker will deliver a higher dynamic range with deeper bass, balanced mids, and crisper highs. Lastly, aftermarket speaker solutions typically handle higher wattage levels, which equates to enhanced audio quality at high volumes.

We’ve touched on the importance of better materials, though weather resistance is another key factor. Well-built aftermarket speakers can go the extra mile in harsher conditions, dealing with rain, UV exposure, and dust much better than stock solutions. Consider the environment a touring rider might face: While we all want blue skies and bright sun, that doesn’t mean we’ll always get it. Riders that store their motorcycles outside should always pick speakers with extra weather-resistant features.

Replacing your factory speakers will often deliver improved sound quality across the board, yet that doesn’t necessarily mean it will increase outright volume. A lot of touring riders are also searching for more headroom on the highway, and the only way to do that is with more power. So, let’s talk about amplifiers.

Pump Up the Volume: Adding Amplifiers

An amplifier does precisely what its name implies: Amplify power supplied to your speakers. For reference, many motorcycle audio systems provide 10 to 20 watts of power per speaker. Those looking to increase volume output dramatically will want an amplifier capable of pushing anywhere from 75 to 150 watts per speaker, which will help cut through road, wind, and exhaust noise even when traveling at freeway speeds. Adding an amplifier is the only way to realize the full potential of your speakers, ensuring that your music is heard without distortion. The size of your amplifier comes down to how many speakers you’ll be using and their wattage rating, so this isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. We suggest working with a qualified audio professional or audio specialist at Dennis Kirk if you have any questions.

Note that motorcyclists cannot simply purchase an amplifier designed for automotive use. Mainly, motorcycle amplifiers feature a compact design and can be discretely installed inside fairing or other locations. Those aren’t the only considerations because we must ensure the amplifier we want is compatible with the motorcycle’s head unit and electrical system. Amplifier manufacturers will cite what platforms their product supports but consult an authorized retailer with any technical questions.

Upgrading the Head Unit

The head unit is your command center, and any touring rider is intimately familiar with them. Over the years, head units have become increasingly feature-rich with improved sound processing capabilities, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, advanced equalizer profiles, smartphone integration, and more. However, that wasn’t always the case, and those with older machines might want to consider an upgrade that includes such niceties. For example, your bike may not support Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, while an aftermarket head unit most likely will.

Gaining functionality is something that many motorcyclists will gladly take. Yet, modern aftermarket head units can also provide improved sound quality thanks to enhanced audio signal processing, delivering clearer sound output regardless of the speaker or amplifier. In addition, an owner may need to upgrade their head unit if they’re adding speakers or amplifiers to their system.

Subwoofers are becoming increasingly common in the motorcycle world, as they can make a notable difference in the listening experience. Ol’ Cousin Jimmy probably had a subwoofer installed in his lowered Honda Civic when you were in high school, which he thought was dandy. But we’re after subwoofers that will fit into saddlebags or fairing slots. Subwoofers can add depth to your stereo by increasing low-frequency bass sounds, which are usually the first to be lost in the mix while out on the open road.

A subwoofer is an extra to your overall stereo package and fills out the low-end frequencies that a standard set of speakers may not achieve. In fact, they’re a standard feature on the 2024 Harley-Davidson Road Glide CVO ST, which our very own Troy Siahaan rode at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway earlier this year, who used the sweet sounds of Taylor Swift to lower his lap times.

Proper Installation: Do It Right, MOrons!

Everyone likes a good deal. The problem is cutting corners can lead to disappointing issues like power loss or excessive interference. It’s best to use high-quality and proper gauge wiring that manufacturers suggest when upgrading audio components. Taking the time and care to install your components per manufacturer recommendations will ensure you get the most out of your new hardware.

Additionally, sound-deadening materials are beneficial to ensure that no unwanted vibrations sour your audio experience. Remember the way Jimmy’s Civic rattled when the bass dropped? Well, that’s because he didn’t have any sound-damping materials installed! Don’t be like Jimmy. Situations like this are conducive when the fairing or saddlebags are modified to install a speaker.

Crank that Hog, Brother

Upgrading your Harley-Davidson, metric, or European touring motorcycle’s audio system is a worthy investment for enhancing sound quality. Whether you’re replacing speakers, adding an amplifier, or upgrading the head unit, they can all impact the result to a notable degree. Whatever steps you take, always consult manufacturer specifications and ensure these components are compatible with your applications. After all, we’d all rather rock out than be left singing the blues.

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