Harley Davidson Softail: Aftermarket Sound System Modifications
Are you looking to add sound to your ride? It won't be as hard as you initially thought, so check out these following stereo options available for your ride. Some systems are just plug and play.
This article applies to the Harley Davidson Softail (2000-2015).
Softails are known for their classic non-fairing design, which usually doesn't include a standard factory radio unit. So you audiophiliacs will not be able to fully enjoy your rides without some serious audio investments. Luckily, there are a few options available, all of which include different audio inputs and speakers. Other types of audio modifications include amplifiers and even small subwoofers, which can either be custom mounted in saddlebags or bolted right onto your motorcycle.
Stereo Upgrades
There are three basic stereo components you need to install in the Harley Softail. The first is a standard head unit installation, the second are speakers and the last is an amplifier, which may be built into the head unit—or in some cases the speakers—or a stand alone piece. Each component will affect the audio quality, loudness and functionality of the stereo system. Like most upgrades, the audio limits on these bikes depends how much you are willing to spend, and also whether you want to mount a fairing and saddlebags. Even with those options though, we recommend riders ensure the safety of their Softail is not comprised in order to carry a high powered sound system that weighs several hundred pounds.
#1 Head Unit
DIY Cost – $500
Professional Cost – $700+
Skill Level – Moderate; you will have to wire the harness, and figure out a place to mount it.
Stock head units are rare on a non-fairing motorcycle, such as a Harley Softail, but there are some companies that make small ones that can mounted without adding a windscreen or fairing. A tiny digital unit like the Rock Box could be all you want, along with an amp, speakers and your smartphone. If you do want to add bodywork, then the sky is the limit and units such as Reckless Rock Hoods models, pictured above, are the simple way to go. These units require a simple 12v connection to function and include features such as MP3, USB charging and a 3.5mm audio jack. However, some people complain about the unit clogging the windscreen or messing up the aesthetic flow of the bike.
#2 Speakers
DIY Cost – $50-250
Professional Cost – $250+
Skill Level – Easy; mounting and wiring speakers requires minimal skill.
There are quite a few different speakers available to be installed on your Softail. The basic models mount to your handlebars and wire into an installed amplifier or radio unit. Some handlebar, or highway bar, mounted speakers have an amplifier built into them. With amplified speakers and an iPod, smartphone or MP3 player, you could have all the infotainment you need. For better sound, and a louder system, many people choose to add a small standalone amplifier as well. A good choice of speakers is the Cycle Sounds Speaker kit, which includes a small amplifier that can be mounted practically anywhere.
#3 Saddlebag Speakers
DIY Cost – $400+
Professional Cost – $600+
Skill Level – Moderate; you'll have to run some wires from the rear of the bike to the amp or head unit.
First, you'll have to commit to at least mounting removable saddlebags, if not permanent units, then you can build a rolling sound system of your dreams. Saddlebag speakers are available in kits or can be custom mounted. Saddlebag speakers are often the last audio component to be installed, when riders want real serious quality sound. Cycle Sound and Biketronics are both reputable companies that make saddlebag speakers.
#4 Amplifiers
DIY Cost – $150-250+
Professional Cost – $300+
Skill Level – Moderate; requires finding a mounting location and routing the wires.
Amplifiers are often installed together with speakers to provide a way to play music from your MP3 player or other source. They are also often used along with head units for high powered systems that can overcome the roar of the open road. When installing larger speakers, such as saddlebags or subs, amplifiers are a necessity in order to achieve the maximum sound potential of your stereo. The smaller units are the size of a cell phone, and practically weather-proof, so they can be mounted anywhere. For more powerful system, MH Instruments, Rockford Fosgate and UNIQ Cycle all make amplifiers that can be mounted in the saddlebags.
Related Discussions
- Custom Speaker Installation in Saddlebag Lids - HDForums.com
- Radio on Softail - HDForums.com
- Sound System on Heritage Softail - HDForums.com
