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I bought my FLHS new, predecessor of the RK, because I didn't like the extra expense of the batwing bikes, or the looks of the sharknose models. What I found was that I got buffetted around a lot in certain conditions and couldn't cure it, so installed a batwing in an an attempt to improve life. Haven't looked back - it's great! I have no interested in music while riding, the engine supplies all I need, but the improved rider comfort was well worth it.
Rode a RK for 62k miles loved it, now have a Limited still love the looks of the RK but the Batwing is nicer for comfort IMHO and I have tunes. It's easier for me to put down more miles in a day with the Limited than the RK.
Had a Fatboy........put a fairing on it (tunes ect.) big difference in the ride. If you are looking to save money build your own fairing via theses guys.
I installed a fairing on my 2012 RK this summer, and love it. Handling is nearly the same as the stock windshield and the tunes/wind protection are a great bonus. I bought a Woody's fairing. Great service at the right price.
I went with the Infinity PRV-250 radio, Polk 5.25 DXI525 speakers and Alpine Amp KTP-445U 4 channel. I think the amp is worth it...no problems listening to music at highway speed. Everything but the amp is marine grade is I don't have any covers on the radio or speakers.
You wouldn't NEED an amp as long as it's a decent quality head unit. The touring bikes do not come with an external amp from the factory. When shopping for speakers look for something with a higher sensitivity rating of at least 91dB. The higher the number, the more efficient they are, and they will be driven by a stereo's amp more easily.
Ok, being a stereo dummy, do I need an amp or would a marine grade radio and speakers be sufficient?
When I built mine I used all marine grade equipment...........even the epoxy I used inside the fairing to hold down the terminal block was marine grade. It can't hurt!
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