Upgrading Stock Radio Harley Bagger Discuss Upgrading Stock Radio in the Motorcycles forums; I own a 2008 FLTR. I am interested in upgrading the stero system so it will be louder and sound better. Currently, when I increase the volume the output from ...

[08roadglidejoe]

I own a 2008 FLTR. I am interested in upgrading the stero system so it will be louder and sound better. Currently, when I increase the volume the output from the speakers gets louder and more distorted as the volume increases. This is especially true if the radio station signal is weak. I have also experienced it with certain CDs.

I have seen ads for amps and speakers or just speakers or just amps. I assume H-D does not install the highest quality speakers at the factory. Therefore, I think I will need at least new speakers and possibly an amp. I want to keep the two stock speaker locations (do not want four speakers). I do NOT want to put an amp in a saddle bag(s). I also do NOT want to replace the stock radio.

The system I have seen, and has really sparked my interest, is the Custom Chrome Bazooka 2-speaker system. Does anyone have this system? Does anyone have another system to recommend? Does anyone have any other ideas?

Thank you your ideas and suggestions.

Joe

[NightGlide]

The factory radio actually isn't that bad... it actually puts out some power, but the speakers suck.

I would suggest you start with just a new pair of speakers; such as from J&M Audio. You'll probably find that it sounds clearer at higher volume, and won't need an additional amp. I swapped the speakers on my Electra to the J&M ones, and it is clear as a bell cranked all the way up. Also, it's tough to go wrong for less than $150.

If you shop elsewhere for speakers, make sure they are 2ohm. Before they started using the Harmon Kardon radio in 2006, the speakers were 8ohm; put those on the new radio and it won't last too long.

[08roadglidejoe]

Thanks NightGlide I will try those first.

[texan321]

I installed Hog Tunes on mine without the amp - works fine at about 85......

[Scruffy Pup]

08roadglidejoe,

Nightglide is telling you straight - last year I replaced the factory speakers on my '07 Street Glide with a set of the J&M 2 ohm speakers and it is unbelievable the difference it made. I went to J&M's web site and ordered and had 'em delivered for about $100. Installation is a snap - just go slowly and make sure you get the wiring plugged in snugly. Even when wearing a half helmet, I can crank up the sound at 70 mph and it is very clear and even louder (or maybe it just sounds louder because it's clear?). Actually was able to hear some previously unheard guitar riffs due to clarity. I did not install an amp. Some of my bagger buddies (one with an '07 FLTR) were so impressed with the sound they made the same upgrade to their bikes.
Good luck.

[aceharleywrench]

I have the Hawg Wired 150 watt amp on my 99 FLHT and have mixed feelings about it.I originally installed it with the Hawg Wired premium speakers & found it to be a gorgeous unit (it seems a shame to hide it under the fairing).Initially I was quite pleased,however,after only two days the right speaker blew while at a very low volume,I realize this was probably a defect & I should have contacted the company,but I was too busy at the time.I installed a set of Blaupunkt speakers and have had no further problems.

[Gas Man]

I went with the complete Hogtunes front setup. $300 +/- and it has the new speakers and an amp. I did the speakers first and while it sounds better it wasn't enough. Still had the same crappy amount of sound going to the good speakers. So I put the amp in. I love the setup and it is LOUD!!! Plug n play and 20 yr warrenty. Can't beat it!

[aceharleywrench]

I have (since my last post) installed a Sony deck,Biketronics amp,6.5" speakers & the adapter so I can still use the hand controls.I can now drop birds out of the sky from 100 feet!I wish I'd done this conversion years ago.

[cpooser1]

I put Hog tune speakers in my 08 FLHX and am very happy with the sound and clarity. I also wired mine so that I could use Surer ear buds and that gives you unbelievable sounds at any speed.
Chris