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6 Best Motorcycle Fairing Speaker Systems (Reviews) in 2023
Are you looking for a quality sound system for your motorcycle but have little time to spend on searching for and reading dozens of reviews of motorcycle fairing speakers? Then you should find the top picks presented below as helpful, as we’ve chosen the ones that offer the highest quality and most features for the price.
1. Hoppe Quadzilla Fiberglass Fairing HDF-RK
If you’re looking for one of the reliable motorcycle fairings with speakers available online, then this model is certainly one you should really look into. This weatherproof fairing is made of top-quality fiberglass which is hand-laid and bound with high-grade resins so it will last for a very long time even if you love riding on bumpy roads or in extreme weather and it will go perfectly with your new Harley Davidson gifts that you can look up if you are a moto enthusiast.
This unit comes with Eclipse AM/FM/CD/USB radio and packs 4 speakers, each with a 40W power rating which will provide you with an amazing sound anywhere you go, and you'll be able to hear them even through the helmet, so check out some options if you are in need of one. You also get a 3-band EQ so you can customize your audio experience and enjoy every minute of your rides, whether you’re on the bike or resting on the side of the road.
The fairing also features a 12-inch clear windshield that will protect you from the elements and ensure that you ride safely. The antenna is concealed in the interior so you won’t have any parts hanging on the outside of the motorcycle. This model is compatible with 1994-2017 Harley Davidson Road King motorcycles.
2. Hoppe Industries Stereo Fairing Rd.King Hc HDF-RK-QZ-HC
This is a highly popular fairing speaker system manufactured by the legendary Hoppe Industries and suited to a variety of Harley Davidson Road King models. This stereo device is made of heavy-duty materials and it comes with a marine-grade weather door that will keep the electronic components safe from wind and rain.
The four 5-inch 40W speakers come pre-installed so you don’t have to waste your time with wiring and enjoy loud and beautiful music right from the start. Not only do you get supreme quality out of these speakers, but you can also listen to your favorite tunes on the CD player or via the USB port, or you can tune in your favorite AM/FM radio anytime.
The handlebar controls allow you to easily change settings while you’re riding even if you’re wearing some thick Harley Davidson gloves. This fairing is made of fine fiberglass that comes with a black-gel gloss that you can leave as it is or paint it over so that it will match your retro motorcycle helmet. You also get a large windshield for extra protection so you can enjoy the ride in any kind of weather.
3. J&M Rokker Series XT Lower Fairing Speaker Kit for Harley Davidson
The J&M Rokker XT is a lower fairing speaker that comes with a waterproof driver cone that’s made of injection-molded polycarbonate which is strong as well as lightweight. You get housing inserts that fit the lower fairing of 2006-2013 models of Harley Ultra or Harley StreetGlide and RoadGlide.
The speakers have a diameter of 7.25 inches and they actually have the cone mass and volume comparable to 6 x 9-inch speakers. You get a maximum of 140 watts of power and 2 ohms impedance which means you’ll even be able to throw a little barbecue party and use this fairing system as a music station while you read more about different speakers or headsets.
The system also comes with dual-donut Neodymium magnets which are lightweight yet capable of high-flux strength. The speakers benefit from voice-coils with efficient venting which help cool them down when they’re operating for long periods of time, especially at high volume.
The molded speaker inserts have a matte finish which enables you to paint them over to match your exhaust pipe wrap or any other accessories and improve its looks.
4. Hoppe Industries Mediazilla Fairing CM0119-MZ-RK
With the Hoppe Industries Mediazilla, you get an amazing sound quality as well as the comfort you deserve. This complete system gives you a JBL Black Box Edition AM/FM radio with a 180 wattage that can help you tune into any radio station with ease and listen to your favorite radio program in stunning audio clarity.
You also get four 5-inch coaxial marine speakers that will let you listen to anything regardless of how loud your exhaust pipes are or how fast you’re traveling. There’s also a 3.5mm mini-jack auxiliary which should allow you to connect other audio devices as well as accurate motorcycle tracking devices and modern motorcycle GPS units.
There’s also a USB port that you can use, while the two 12V sockets can help you charge various accessories. You also get a 12-inch windshield that should have you protected from the elements, although you can quickly detach it if you want to. This unit is compatible with 1994-2017 Harley Davidson Road King models.
5. Hogtunes Speaker System Kit for Memphis Shades Batwing Fairings
The Hogtunes Memphis Shades is a batwing speaker system kit that comes with everything you need for a quick install so that you get to benefit from a high-fidelity sound wherever your motorcycle takes you. This model provides you with a custom pod and dual 4.25-inch speakers, as well as a 50-watt amplifier.
There’s also a USB charge port that enables you to charge a variety of 5V devices, including your smartphone, GPS system or power bank. The audio perch has an integrated volume control for easy tweaking. With this kit, you get all the mounting hardware and wiring you need to install it on your motorcycle, and you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure out how to get this simple gadget working.
The entire kit weighs 6 pounds so it won’t weigh your motorcycle down while offering you the quality sound that you deserve. This product fits all Memphis Shades Batwing fairings but it may not fit if gauges, handlebars or other accessories are riser-mounted.
6. J&M Audio Rokker 330 Watt 2 Channel Amplifier Kit for Harley-Davidson
The J&M Audio Rokker 330 is a complete motorcycle audio kit that gives you a 330-watt amplifier with 2 channels, brackets, fasteners, and everything else you might need to properly install it on your motorcycle, and that for a price you wouldn’t expect for this kind of craftsmanship. The 2-channel amplifier has an output of 165 watts for each speaker with an impedance of 2 ohms.
The amplifier measures 7.25 inches in length, 4.72 inches in width, and 1.75 inches in height, which means it is compact enough to fit quite a few motorcycle models, from 2006-2013 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide to both older and newer Street Glide, Ultras, and Tri-Glide Trike models.
Another advantage is that you won’t need a Radio Software Flash to get this amplifier to work properly. This unit is easy to install; just follow the instructions in the user manual, make sure you use the mounting brackets and fasteners properly, and also pay attention to the wiring harness and that you plug in all wires accordingly.
This Year’s Buying Guide
Choosing the right motorbike fairing speakers can be a challenging task, especially when compared to buying simple accessories such as secure motorcycle locks or durable motorcycle exhaust wraps. This is because you need to pay attention to many features, from power output to sound quality, compatibility issues, etc.
The following guide is meant to help you navigate through these features so you’ll know which ones to prioritize when searching for a reliable audio system for your beloved bike.
Size and power
Before choosing a speaker system, you should consider the power or wattage ratings of the speakers. Many systems come with two or four speakers that have a power of about 40 or 50 watts. Of course, there are more powerful speakers to choose from, such as 330-watt 2-channel amps with 165-watt outputs for each speaker.
The size of the speakers is also quite important, as larger speakers are probably going to offer a much better sound quality at higher volumes. Many standard systems come with speakers which are 5 inches in diameter, although it’s not uncommon to find 7-inch or even larger speakers, especially on some high-end models.
Weatherproofing and durability
Because motorcycle speakers take a lot more beating than any other type of speakers, you might need to make sure that you are getting some sturdy devices if you want them to hold well and deliver a quality sound for a long time.
You can get marine-grade speakers that are waterproof, which wouldn’t be such a bad idea, especially if you love riding in humid climates or during the rainy season. These speakers should have no problem with normal rain conditions, provided that you don’t overdo it with exposure.
A good option would be to get a complete fairing speaker system that has everything built in if you value durability above all else. There are lots of models made by reputable manufacturers, and these are usually made of strong yet lightweight materials such as hand-laid fiberglass layers bound with tough resins, ABS, polycarbonate, and others.
The mounts should also be quite sturdy, especially if the speakers aren’t integrated into the fairing, as that might help reduce vibrations which could otherwise diminish the sound quality. The mounts could also ensure that the speakers are secured tightly so you won’t have any unpleasant surprises down the road.
Radio, USB, and other features
When considering a sound system for your motorcycle, you can either go for some cheap motorbike fairing speakers which connect to an external device such as an MP3 player or buy one of the fancier models that come with a head unit with many other functions such as AM and FM radio, CD players, USB charging ports, charging sockets, etc.
Besides being able to tune in to your favorite radio stations to hear the news or learn about weather alerts, you’d also be able to use and charge many of your gadgets, from your smartphone to your GPS system.
Getting a fairing that also comes with a windshield is also a smart choice since you’ll enjoy protection from the elements for yourself as well as for your sound system.
Ease of use
When looking at audio systems for sale, you might also want to check out what sort of controls you get by purchasing a particular model. It would be ideal to go for a system that gives you an easy-to-use interface and accessible controls, especially for the sound volume, as well as for other things such as Equalizers, radio channels, etc.
A model that’s easy to install is also a good choice, especially if you’re not really that good when it comes to wiring and mounting the hardware.
Don’t forget to check for compatibility
Before buying a fairing speaker system for your motorcycle, you shouldn’t forget to check for compatibility. The last thing you want is to spend over one thousand bucks only to realize that it doesn’t fit your motorbike.
The good news is that this information is always visible so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding out if the sound system you’re about to buy is compatible with your cruiser, tourer or street bike.
Frequently asked questions about motorcycle speakers
Q: Who makes the best motorcycle speakers?
There are quite a few manufacturers that make amazing motorcycle speakers as well as reliable ATV speakers, although these two are usually not interchangeable. More important than brand and model are the features that you’re after, whether it’s powerful speakers, a multi-channel amplifier, a weatherproof design or other aspects.
Another important thing is compatibility, as there’s no use in getting the best motorcycle speakers if they won’t fit your particular motorcycle model. So make sure that you have a specific set of features in mind and that you check for compatibility issues, and you’ll certainly find the right fairing speakers for your needs.
Q: How to wire motorcycle speakers?
If you have just received your motorcycle speakers and have no idea how to wire them, then don’t panic, as the entire operation might be a lot simpler than you think. First of all, you should check the instructions in the manual, as each kit has its own hardware, harness connectors, and installation steps.
You should make sure that you attach the cone inserts into their housing inside the fairing and then mount the cones. If the speakers get mounted directly on the handlebars, don’t forget to use all bolts, nuts, and fasteners. Mount the amplifier as well, making sure that you connect all wires to their corresponding positive and negative sockets according to your manual’s diagram.
Q: Can you hear motorcycle speakers?
Depending on several factors, you might or might not be able to hear your speakers perfectly. The power of the speakers is one important factor, and so is the type of helmet, as wearing a full-face model and riding at top speeds on the freeway might result in you not hearing much from the speakers.
You can get an amp that also has Bluetooth and pair it with a Bluetooth helmet to use when riding on highways. The speakers will be great when cruising at low speeds on your bagger or when you’re camping or having a barbeque. They’ll even brighten your mood when trying to revive your battery with a powerful motorcycle jump starter on the side of the road.
Q: How do motorcycle speakers work?
Motorcycle speakers work just like any other speaker, by translating electrical signals (music) into audible sounds. They do this with an electromagnetic coil which changes the direction of its magnetic field as electric current flows through it. There’s also a larger fixed magnet which attracts or repels the electromagnetic coil depending on the orientation of the magnetic field.
This coil is also attached to the speaker’s cone, which can be made of plastic, paper or other materials. As the coil vibrates so does the cone, amplifying the vibrations which translate to sounds of different volumes and pitch levels depending on their amplitude and frequency.
Q: How to waterproof motorcycle speakers?
For starters, you could buy some marine-grade motorcycle speakers from the get-go, as they are already waterproof and they’ll save you quite a lot of hassle, even if you have to spend a few extra bucks to get them. However, that does not mean that you can’t build your own waterproofing system.
Another easy way to make your speakers more resistant to the elements would be to install a windshield and a front fairing. You can also improvise your own by using thermoplastic or other similar materials to create an additional case. You can also buy some quality sealants or coat the speakers with a high-gloss polymer spray or paint.
Q: Are motorcycle helmet speakers illegal?
Different US states have different laws and regulations so you might want to check them out if you’re planning to ride your motorcycle there and use helmet speakers. It appears that most states have no issue if you’re wearing a high-tech Bluetooth motorcycle helmet with speakers.
There are some states such as Massachusetts or Rhode Island where it’s illegal to wear or even possess helmet speakers, while other states allow you to use helmet speakers but not your effective noise canceling earbuds. Some states allow helmet speakers for communication purposes only, so as mentioned above, make sure you check the laws of each specific state.
Q: The motorcycle environment and your speakers
Getting some good motorcycle fairing speakers is a great idea if you want to spice up your riding. You can enjoy a quality sound wherever you go, and there are lots of options and speaker configurations to choose from.
However, there is something really important that you should consider, and that is related to the fact that motorcycle speakers usually take a lot more beating than their regular counterparts. Your home speakers aren’t bumped and moved all the time, and even the speakers in your car are safer from the environment than the ones on your motorcycle.
The trouble is that motorcycle speakers perhaps face the harshest environmental conditions, as they are exposed to the elements everywhere you go. This is one good reason to consider getting a speaker system that can be mounted on or which is already incorporated into a motorcycle fairing, as that offers a good amount of protection.
Adding a windshield is yet another option that can protect your speakers from frontal winds and rain. You should think about getting weatherproof speakers if you ride in humid environments or rainy weather, as most common speakers aren’t really weatherproof and might get damaged if exposed to too much water.
Your speakers aren’t just affected by the elements, but also by your motorcycle’s vibrations. This is because most of these speakers are mounted on the handlebars, and these do tend to vibrate a lot along with the entire motorcycle.
Since the speakers actually rely on vibrations to emit quality sounds, you need to find a way to minimize vibrations. One way is to get a full kit with cone inserts for fairings and with other stabilizers. You can also try to find solid mounts which can dampen these vibrations so that the sound quality coming from your speakers won’t be greatly affected.
Q: Are motorcycle helmet speakers better?
Motorcycle speaker systems are an awesome addition to any bike, although there are situations where they are unable to provide the expected results. Riding a cruiser at low speeds while wearing an open-face or half helmet would surely allow you to enjoy your audio system, but that can’t be said about riding on the freeway at top speeds while wearing a full face helmet.
In the latter scenario, you’d probably be unable to hear much, if anything, coming from the speakers, as the sound insulation from the helmet and the powerful wind noise created at high speeds would probably cancel any sounds the speakers are capable of outputting.
In these cases, getting helmet speakers is probably a much better idea. Doing so would ensure that you get to enjoy your favorite tunes every time and everywhere, no matter how fast you’re riding.
You can opt for some freestanding speakers that you can mount into any helmet or get a sturdy and protective helmet that comes with integrated speakers. These can be wired to the audio system or they can work via Bluetooth if you aren’t a big fan of wires. These helmets can have the speakers glued to the helmet or they might be attached with Velcro or other systems.
When choosing helmet speakers, you have to decide whether you want some larger speakers with more power or smaller ones which might be more comfortable to wear. Sound quality is yet another factor that will influence your buying decision. A good idea would be to try some speakers beforehand if it is possible.
A thing to remember is that you should check the laws of the states where you want to travel with your motorcycle to make sure that helmet speakers are legal. And don’t think that fairing speaker systems and helmet speakers exclude one another, the former can be quite handy, especially when on long tours, festivals or camping trips.
Bibliography:
1) Is it possible to listen to music while driving a motorcycle?
2) Motorcycle equipment and legal aspects that you should know
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June 27, 2019 at 3:47 pm
Everything I’ve seen says the Hog tunes system is the only one that will fit in a memphis shades batwing fairing. Is this true. All i really want is radio capability but it doesn’t seem to be available in anything else for my fairing and all of the reviews are all over the place.
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April 19, 2020 at 6:55 am
Google for Marine audio and you’ll find a lot of waterproof stuff that should fit in your fairing. I like it when they are invisible, build inside the fairing, less attractive for theft and vandalism.
A simple amplifier with bluetooth should do the trick, you can stream FM from your phone/GPS to the amplifier.
A lot of these systems let you know they are turned on with a loud beep or voice, very annoying for your neighbours and makes it all look kinda cheap.
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June 27, 2019 at 7:20 pm
What kind of motorcycle do you own, Jeffrey?
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