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Buyers Guide & Information

Best Motorcycle Speakers Reviewed

Our buyer’s guide will help you find the loudest sounding handlebar, Bluetooth and helmet motorcycle speaker models.

by

Imagine being out for a beautiful afternoon motorcycle ride on your favorite twisty and curvy roads. What can be better than that? If you were able to listen to your favorite tunes while you ride. Motorcycle speakers make this possible.

We will cover a few different kinds of speakers in this review. We recommend checking this buyer’s guide out before you make your big purchase.

Do you enjoy listening to music while you are riding, but don’t want to fumble with clumsy headphones? A simple solution to this is to invest in a great set of motorcycle speakers. You can use them to listen to music while you ride.

Most motorcycle speakers include Bluetooth functionality. You can hook up your phone to stream music or other playlists. Some of the helmet speakers have telecom included. This means that all of your riding friends can sync up to one another and chat while you ride.


Motorcycle Speakers Compared

Image

Model

Type

Wattage

Check Price

Rockford Fosgate TMS6SG Power Harley-Davidson...

Rockford Fosgate TMS6SG

Fairing

75 RMS / 150 MAX watts

KICKER PSM3 Weather-Proof Enclosed Mini System,...

Kicker

PSM3

Handlebar

50 RMS / 100 MAX watts

Celtic Blu Bluetooth 5.0 Speaker 16W 100ft...

Celtic

Blu

Bluetooth Handlebar

16 Watts

Sena 20S-01D Motorcycle Bluetooth 4.1...

Sena

20S-01D

Helmet Bluetooth

20 Watts

Polk Audio 2 DB692 6x9 450w...

Polk Audio 2 DB692

Fairing

150 RMS / 450 MAX watts

UClear Digital Pulse Wired Drop-in High Definition...

UClear Digital Pulse

Helmet

14 Watts

BOSS Audio Systems MCBK420B Bluetooth Speaker...

Boss Audio Systems MCBK420B

Handlebar

600 MAX watts

GoHawk TN4-R Amplifier 4' Full Range Waterproof...

GoHawk

TN4-R

Handlebar

100 Peak Watts

Choosing a Quality Motorcycle Speaker Brand

Speaker Type

You need to consider what model you would like to purchase. First, you should consider your motorcycle design. This may determine the type of speaker that you should buy. There are handlebar, helmet, and fairing speakers. Most fairing speakers will be geared towards larger Harley style motorcycles. Handlebar speakers can be installed on any cycle. Helmet speakers are built into your helmet.

Sound Quality/Audio Performance

When you invest in a new set of motorcycle speakers, you want to make sure that the audio is up to par. Sound quality will be determined by the quality of the speakers, the proximity to your ear, and the additional components of the speaker. You should also consider the Bluetooth connectivity. All Bluetooth devices have a range of distance that they will work.

Ease of Installation and Compatibility

Once you make your new purchase, you need to know if you can install it yourself or have a professional do it. Most speakers can be wired with the components that are already present on your motorcycle. They all come with instructions that are typically easier than you would think. You should check to see if the speakers are compatible with your bike. Some models are made for specific types of bikes.

Input Sources

Unless your motorcycle comes with a built-in FM radio, you need to consider the input sources that are available on your speakers. Most of the speakers that we are going to review will include an AUX input, Bluetooth, SD card, and USB. Each set of speakers is different, so check on the spec sheet to see what is offered.

Power Rating/Handling

Motorcycle speakers work the same as any other speaker in that they output a certain amount of wattage. The number of watts is directly related to how loud the speaker will be. The number of watts determines how much power the speakers will draw. Since riding a motorcycle is loud, you want to make sure your speakers have enough wattage to be able to hear them.

Weatherproof/Waterproof Design

As every rider knows, the weather can be unpredictable when you are on your motorcycle. It can start raining at any time. You may experience riding through some dust or debris. The direct sunlight can also make an impact. Your motorcycle speakers should be able to combat the weather under any circumstances. 

Safety

The number one concern while you are riding is the safety of yourself and other drivers. When you purchase new motorcycle speakers, you should keep in mind the safety features that are included. Some helmet speakers will include the ability to connect to your GPS so that you can hear directions instead of looking at them. Always remain safe and keep your music at a reasonable volume so that you can hear other cars.

Price and Warranty

Everyone has a budget when they are shopping for a new product. Whether your budget is large or small, we can help you find motorcycle speakers that will suit your needs. There are budget models, and there are more expensive models. Every set of motorcycle speakers comes with some sort of warranty. Register your product when you receive it so that you can activate the warranty.


8 Best Motorcycle Speakers Reviewed

1. Rockford Fosgate TMS6SG

Best Motorcycle Fairing Speakers

Type

Fairing

Size

7.9 x 4.9 x 15.9 inches

Wattage

75 RMS / 150 MAX watts

Wireless Transmission Range

N/A

Waterproof

Yes

Warranty

Yes, 2 years

Do you ride a Harley Davidson Street Glide motorcycle? It is one of the most popular models of motorcycles on the market. We chose the Rockford Fosgate as the best 6.5 motorcycle fairing speakers. This model is customized exclusively for the 2006 - 2013 Harley Street Glide. Not only is this a fantastic motorcycle, but you can make it even better by installing these speakers into the fairings.

The Rockford Fosgate model is a pair of top quality 6.5-inch coaxial speakers. I loved that this model came ready to install on your Street Glide. There is no modification needed since these speakers fit directly into the location of the factory-installed speakers. There is no need to buy any additional mounting hardware or parts.

They boast a whopping 150 watts of max power with a 25 mm dome tweeter. You will have the best high frequencies even while you're cruising at high speeds. These speakers are waterproof, vibration-free, and UV resistant. I loved that these speakers were so easy to install. It couldn’t be any easier.

“Kudos to Rockford Fosgate for making an all in one, easy mount, great sounding speaker…” 

These speakers are truly a beautiful addition to the Rockford family. I liked that they sounded great even at high cruising speeds on the highway.

Pros

  • Easy to install
  • Great sounding high frequencies at high speeds
  • Features 150 watts of max power

Cons

  • Only fits 2006 - 2013 Harley Davidson Street Glide motorcycles

2. Kicker PSM3

Best Waterproof Motorcycle Handlebar Speakers

Type

Handlebar

Size

10 x 10 x 10 inches

Wattage

50 RMS / 100 MAX watts

Wireless Transmission Range

N/A

Waterproof

Yes

Warranty

Yes, 3 years

If you have the same luck that I do, then you have definitely been caught in the rain while riding. You need speakers that can keep up with the ever-changing weather. That’s why we chose the Kicker PSM3 as the best waterproof motorcycle handlebar speakers. They are built to handle the elements and keep up with your rugged adventure riding. Since they are made for your handlebars, they are easy to install. You just need to tighten the clamp around the bar.

This Kicker model comes with 100 watts of peak power, so you can hear the music even while ripping through a trail ride. They feature 4 ohms of impedance and can be paired with an amplifier for even better sound. They come in an easily cleanable chrome finish so that you can wipe them down without a problem. This model includes all of the mounting hardware that you need in the package.

Many customers, myself included, liked that these speakers were completely waterproof. I liked that they were also dust resistant even in trail riding conditions. They were easy to clean after a tough ride. I thought these were super easy to install. Even having never installed them before, I was able to quickly mount the clamps to the handlebars of my favorite ride. You can add an amplifier to these speakers for more power on the road.

Pros

  • Water and weatherproof design
  • Easy to install to handlebars
  • Chrome finish that looks great and cleans up easily

Cons

  • May not be as loud as some users want

3. Celtic Blu

Best Bluetooth Speakers for Motorcycle

Type

Bluetooth handlebar

Size

7.1 x 2.7 x 2.7 inches

Wattage

16 watts

Wireless Transmission Range

100 feet

Waterproof

Yes

Warranty

Yes, lifetime

Most people like streaming music from their phones, whether they're at home, on their way to work, or going out for a motorcycle ride. Most of us have our favorite playlists ready to go on our favorite music app. The Celtic Blu model is the best Bluetooth speaker for motorcycles. It allows you to take your music on the go even while riding.

The Celtic Blue model comes loaded with features. This model has 16 watts of power to give you that 360-degree surround sound experience. It is about the size of a cup holder, so it won't get in your way while riding. It comes with a massive 6000 mAh battery that can last up to 30 hours.

This model has a far-reaching capacity at 100 feet. You can park your motorcycle and still be playing music from afar. It features a built-in power bank, so you can charge your phone with it while riding. I enjoyed that this speaker came with a bike cage, which allowed you to clip in and out easily. If you park your motorcycle, you can remove the device and keep on playing your favorite tunes. 

"I absolutely love this speaker. It is loud and the quality of music is clear not fuzzy at all.”

I agree with her that this speaker has truly amazing sound and functionality.

Pros

  • 100 feet of range
  • Versatile bike cage for easy manipulation
  • microSD slot for storing songs

Cons

  • May not be loud enough for fast highway speeds

4. Sena 20S-01D

Best Motorcycle Helmet Speakers

Type

Helmet Bluetooth

Size

10.3 x 6.4 x 3.6 inches

Wattage

20 watts

Wireless Transmission Range

1.2 miles

Waterproof

Yes

Warranty

Yes, 2 years

One of the top names in motorcycle speakers and listening devices has created the ultimate helmet speakers on the market. We chose the Sena 20S-01D as the best motorcycle helmet speakers that money can buy. Not only are they great sounding speakers, but they work as a communication device too. You can always stay connected to your riding crew with this model.

Sena has created a fantastic set of speakers with this model. This model comes as a pair so that you can give one to your friend. They are easy to install within your helmet and fit most standard sizes. It features Bluetooth 4.1 technology that has a range of up to 1.2 miles!

You will never lose track of other riders with this device. You can use the audio management tool for smooth multitasking between music, intercom, and pairing. The Sena 20S features excellent sound and an easy to use helmet clamping system. Most customers liked that this device was easy to install and use.

According to James from Revzilla,

"I'm impressed with the accessories included to customize the install." 

I thought it was easy to install, and it fit my helmet wonderfully. I found that you could still listen to music in the background while chatting with your friends, which was a cool bonus feature.

Pros

  • Impressive range of up to 1.2 miles
  • Can be used as an intercom system with riding friends
  • Easy customization during installation

Cons

  • May not have enough bass for listening to music

5. Polk Audio 2 DB692

Best 6x9 Speakers For Motorcycle

Type

Fairing

Size

15.3 x 11.5 x 5.1 inches

Wattage

150 RMS / 450 MAX watts

Wireless Transmission Range

40 feet for Rockville Bluetooth speaker

Waterproof

Yes

Warranty

Yes, 1 year

As you may be seeing from our reviewed products so far, fairing speakers tend to be a bit louder than other types. The Polk Audio 2 model are the best 6x9 speakers for motorcycles on the market. They pump out great sound for your afternoon motorcycle madness adventures. This model packs a punch with a max output of 450 watts. That is more than enough to satisfy your ears even at top highway speeds.

The DB692 model is water, dust, salt, UV, and humidity proof. It is made to last in any condition, which makes it perfect for your motorbike. It features a drop-in installation technique that is sure to be easy for anyone. One unique feature of this speaker package is that it also comes with a mini Bluetooth portable speaker, as well. This is an added bonus, and who doesn't like bonuses? The Polk Audio 2 has rugged external grills that will protect the cones from damage.

I really enjoyed that this package came with two high-quality fairing speakers as well as a Bluetooth speaker. It gives you the whole package in one easy to install product. Most customers liked that these speakers were loud and crisp sounding. There was no distortion at high speeds or volume. These speakers allowed me to transform my bike into a music powerhouse that I could enjoy in any climate.

Pros

  • Max wattage of 450 makes for loud speakers
  • Includes a small Bluetooth speaker
  • All weatherproof design

Cons

  • May not be suitable for users with sportbikes

6. UClear Digital Pulse

Best Budget Helmet Speaker

Type

Helmet

Size

6.5 x 3 x 1 inches

Wattage

14 watts

Wireless Transmission Range

N/A

Waterproof

No

Warranty

Yes, 1 year

With all of the new motorcycle technology on the market, it can get quite expensive to buy the top-notch gear. It is refreshing to find a good quality product that is also within most user’s budget. We found the UClear Digital Pulse model to be the best budget helmet speaker available. It features high-quality sound at a reasonable price. The universal fit makes it easy to install into any helmet. UClear offers a drop-in system that will turn your helmet into an advanced audio machine.

With this model, you can easily place the speakers in the foam padding of your motorcycle helmet and run the cable to your phone or another audio device. It features a 3.5mm jack that is the universal connector to smartphones, GPS, and music players. The UClear package includes foam spacers and velcro so that you can attach them to any helmet. I thought that the ease of installing these speakers made them perfect for any user. It was nice to have flexibility and simplicity in one package.

I like budget items that can keep up with my needs. These helmet speakers exceeded my expectations when it came to simplicity and versatility. The sound quality was good enough to hear at high speeds. While they may not sound as loud as other models, I thought they served their purpose really well. It was great to have the ability to connect them directly to my smartphone, so I didn’t have to worry about Bluetooth connectivity. 

 “Installing the UCLEAR speakers was straight forward.”

Pros

  • Universal fit
  • Easy to install
  • Best bang for your buck

Cons

  • May not be as loud as other products

7. Boss Audio Systems MCBK420B

Best Motorcycle Speaker with Built in Amp

Type

Handlebar

Size

3.5 x 3 x 1.5 inches

Wattage

600 MAX watts

Wireless Transmission Range

33 feet

Waterproof

Yes

Warranty

Yes, 3 years

Everyone enjoys big sound, especially if you are cruising on the highway at top speed on your motorcycle. Not only do you want to be able to hear your speakers, but you want to show off the high quality and sound. We named the Boss Audio MCBK420B the best motorcycle speaker with a built-in amp. This package includes two handlebar speakers and an integrated amp for extreme power.

This Boss Audio model comes highly reviewed and recommended. I couldn’t agree more with consumers. It features Bluetooth connectivity, so you can easily stream your favorite tunes from any device. The included amplifier is also Bluetooth enabled and compact.

This entire setup is weatherproof, so you won't have to worry about damage whether you're riding in the rain or direct sunlight. The included speakers are easy to attach to most standard size handlebars with the included brackets. The package includes an inline audio control switch so that you can easily change to your favorite riding song.

I thought that this model stepped up the game in handlebar speakers. They are relatively easy to install since they are Bluetooth enabled. You just connect the speakers to the amp via the provided cables. Then, you can mount the amp wherever you want on your motorcycle. It is a versatile product that produces a loud, distortion-free sound. If you are looking for a model that features a built-in amp, then this is the product for you.

Pros

  • Bluetooth enabled
  • Included amplifier
  • Loud, distortion-free sound

Cons

  • The amplifier runs a little hot under extended use

8. GoHawk TN4-R

Budget Bluetooth Handlebar Speakers

Type

Handlebar

Size

11.7 x 5.5 x 4.9 inches

Wattage

100 peak watts

Wireless Transmission Range

49 feet

Waterproof

Speakers are waterproof, but the amp is not

Warranty

Yes, 1 year

In this category, we have another budget option for users who want good quality at a bang for your buck price. The GoHawk TN4-R model is rated as the best budget Bluetooth handlebar speakers. They come in a nice package that will have you riding and listening to your favorite music in no time.

The GoHawk package includes two handlebar speakers, a built-in amp, and remote control. You can easily change to your favorite songs without taking your eyes off the road. The TN4-R features Bluetooth functionality so that you can connect your smartphone or another music device. It comes with easily mountable handlebar speakers that can fit most standard motorcycles. This model boasts 100W of peak power, so you will be able to hear your jams even at high speeds.

The included 3.5mm audio jack fits almost any smartphone. This product is easy to install. The speakers are fully weatherproof and can resist water, dust, and intense UV rays. One important note is that the amp is not waterproof. You will need to mount the amp in a place where it will not be directly impacted by rainy weather.

I liked that this model had the most bang for your buck of any speaker set with a built-in amp. It can be challenging to find amps and speakers for your handlebars. I enjoyed the ease of installation. I would recommend checking to see if your motorcycle has a place to hide the amplifier. If not, then you cannot take the amp out into inclement weather climates, so keep this in mind when purchasing.

Pros

  • Built in amp with Bluetooth
  • 100W of power
  • Great budget option

Cons

  • Amplifier is not weatherproof

How Motorcycle Speakers Work

It can be a relaxing experience to listen to music while you are riding. It helps you get into a riding zone. Motorcycle speakers make this experience even better. Depending on the model that you purchase, they work in a couple of different ways. 

If you have fairing speakers, then they are generally wired to your motorcycle. They draw power from your motorcycle battery. Helmet speakers are normally charged and contain Bluetooth connectivity. They can be connected to your smartphone for streaming. Handlebar speakers are attached to your steering column by way of a U-clamp.


Types of Motorcycle Speakers

  • Fairing Speakers
    This model is generally set into your motorcycle fairings. They are wired using the existing system within your motorcycle. The motorcycle battery often powers them. This is the only model that is actually set into the structure of the bike. 
  • Handlebar Speakers
    This model is usually clamped onto your steering column. It is not built into the fairings, but on the handlebars instead. It is bolted down by a U-clamp device that fits most standard motorcycle handlebars. They can be wired to your motorcycle battery or external device.
  • Helmet Speakers
    This type is connected by Bluetooth and offers a few different functions. Some of them also act as a communication telecom between riders so that you can chat with your riding crew.

Motorcycle Speaker Pricing Costs

One aspect that goes into everyone's decision-making process when they make a new purchase is budget. There are so many different motorcycle speakers on the market. When it comes to cost, you can expect a low, medium, to high end.

The low budget speakers will serve their purpose, but they won't be as loud or clear as higher-end models. They will have little resale value in the future since they are inexpensive, to begin with. These models will not have as much bass as other products.

The medium-range speakers will have louder sound and more crisp high frequencies. If you plan to resell your speakers, you may be able to get some money back, but not as much as you spent on them.

The high-end models will be the loudest and have the most punchy bass sounds. They will be able to be heard at highway speeds. They often come with extra features such as Bluetooth and amplifiers.


Installing Motorcycle Speakers

Now that you have decided on which model to buy, you need to know how to set it up and get on the road. Installing motorcycle speakers is generally pretty straightforward, but the steps vary for each kind.

To install fairing speakers, you need to remove the manufacturer speakers from your motorcycle. A good example is product number one on our list of reviews. They can often be wired directly into the motorcycle using the wires provided. If they are a perfect fit, like product one above, then you simply place them into the existing box. If they are not an ideal fit, then you need to widen the hole or use baffles to make them fit snugly.

Most helmet speakers are easy to install. They are meant to drop into the existing helmet without any tools. You should attach the velcro to the existing space in your helmet padding. Then, place the speaker onto the velcro. The wiring is usually plug-and-play using a 3.5mm jack.

Handlebar speakers come with everything that you need to get started. They feature a clamp that you wrap around your handlebars. You may need an Allen wrench to make sure that the clamp is tight.


Motorcycle Speaker Accessories

Everyone likes bonuses when they make a new purchase. Many motorcycle speakers come with accessories that can enhance your audio experience. All of the products that we have reviewed come with mounting kits and wires.

One accessory that is nice to have is a built-in amp. It will allow your speakers to perform better at higher volumes.


People also Ask (FAQs)

How do you wire motorcycle speakers?

The speaker kits that we have included in our reviews have all of the necessary components for you to wire them yourself. To wire fairing speakers, you should use the existing wiring that came with your motorcycle. Remove the old speakers and attach the new ones with the wires provided. You may need to screw the speakers into the existing slots. If you have purchased a Bluetooth enabled speaker, then the installation is merely hooking up the speaker to your smartphone.

Do I need amplifiers for my motorcycle speakers?

Some models that we have reviewed, such as products 7 and 8, come with a built-in amplifier. While amplifiers increase the volume of your speakers, they are not necessarily required for use.

What determines the sound quality of motorcycle speakers?

Several different specs can determine this, but the important ones to check out are wattage, decibels, and sound frequency (Hz). The higher these numbers are on the spec sheet, the louder and better sounding your speakers will be.

Which model on our list is the loudest?

Boss Audio Systems MCBK420B is the loudest model on our list at 600 MAX watts and decibels reaching to the upper 90s. Since it comes with its own built-in amp, the power output is greater than other models.

Where is the best place to buy these motorcycle speakers?

We recommend shopping on Amazon for all of your motorcycle speaker needs. Not only do they have fast shipping and excellent customer service, but you also won’t find a broader selection of products anywhere else.


Conclusion

We have scoured the internet and completed our own user testing to bring you the 8 best motorcycle speakers on the market. We have reviewed many different categories and products to bring you the best possible option for any need or budget.

You are probably wondering by now which model is the absolute best. In our opinion, the Kicker PSM3 is the best option for waterproof handlebar speakers. They are loud, weatherproof, and Bluetooth capable. For the best helmet speakers, we highly recommend the Sena 20S-01D.

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