Best Aftermarket Speakers

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Apr 4, 2011 | 07:51 PM

gtbiker81

Thread Starter

6th Gear

Joined: Apr 2011

Posts: 11

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From: Corfu, NY

Best Aftermarket Speakers

I just picked up my first Harley - A 2011 Road Glide Custom, 103ci, Sedona Orange. I love everything about the bike, well almost. The speakers suck! I have a whopping 85 miles on the bike and cant stand the crackling stock speakers.

Having said that i have been doing some reading about speaker upgrades... there is a lot of info out there, maybe too much.

I'm looking for info on the best sounding speakers to replace the stock. I dont want to add an amp at this time - though maybe in the future. I'm looking at the J&M 7.25" kit as well as the HogTunes 5x7.

The 7.25" seems better at first glance but they offer less warranty 2 years vs. 20 years. I also realize the stock head unit might be a little weak for them big 7.25" speakers but like i said i do see an amp in the future just not yet.

Does anyone know any specs on the HK head unit?

Thanks in advance for everyones help!

Apr 4, 2011 | 07:58 PM

IAMSWUTIAMS

Extreme HDF Member

Joined: Nov 2006

Posts: 18,664

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From: San Diego, Mexifornia

That's a subjective question. There's been much debate about which is "best". You need to listen for yerself and decide.

Apr 4, 2011 | 08:08 PM

BadX

Elite HDF Member

Joined: Oct 2005

Posts: 3,507

Likes: 95

From: Maiden, NC

Quote:

Originally Posted by IAMSWUTIAMS

That's a subjective question. There's been much debate about which is "best". You need to listen for yerself and decide.

I some what agree but after going through several sets of speakers on my street glide and never getting the sound I wanted when I upgraded the speakers on my Road Glide I upped the ante and went with a J&M set up with amp and couldn't be happier. Amp makes a HUGE difference so you definitely want a amp.

Apr 4, 2011 | 08:11 PM

FFeric

Outstanding HDF Member

Joined: Jun 2006

Posts: 2,670

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From: Waukesha WI

I went with Hawg Wired. Not cheap but a very nice product.

Apr 4, 2011 | 08:12 PM

gtbiker81

Thread Starter

6th Gear

Joined: Apr 2011

Posts: 11

Likes: 0

From: Corfu, NY

I understand anything to do with "sound" and "looks" is subjective. I dont know anyone else with a touring bike let alone one with upgraded audio. I'm intersted in being able to hear the tunes while crusing. I realize its a bike in the open air and will never get the sound of a car audio system. If whats best isnt something that can be suggested can anyone maybe offer up some pros and cons to each or any other system someone might have had luck with.

Apr 4, 2011 | 08:18 PM

rg_dave

Outstanding HDF Member

Joined: Nov 2008

Posts: 2,246

Likes: 19

From: Cypress, TX

You can't go wrong with the arc amp. Many other companies use it and just set it up for you then call it their own. Get some adapter rings and go with 6.5" speakers. I would strongly recommend going to some bike nights or shop events and listening to some systems. I personally think motorcycle specific systems are overpriced but that's just my opinion.

Apr 4, 2011 | 08:39 PM

PoppaEvil

Intermediate

Joined: Feb 2011

Posts: 32

Likes: 0

From: Tulsa

gt,

For every person that says one brand of speakers is super, there is another that says a different label is smokin' hot.

New technology is rapidly emerging with respect to bikes and speaker systems. From 6x9's speaker lid setups to 7.25 subs to 5.25 stock sizes, as well as Rockford Fosgate mini amps that are right on the horizon, and little feedback is available on them. The market is expanding and makes the choices unlimited for bikers.

I encourage you to go out to some bike nights in and around your area if possible, or ask your dealer(s) if you can listen to some of the other bikes that are in their shop for service and repair and judge for yourself. It is much different cruising down the freeway with the headwind than just listening while soaping up the bike pushing a tall one back getting ready for the eve'.

Windshields will play a role in how one will hear the music while cruising which is another aspect to keep in mind. Road Glide is an awesome bike and I'm sure you will find what you are looking for, don't skimp and you won't have buyer's remorse in the end.