Imagine cruising down the open road, the wind in your hair, and your favorite tunes blasting. But wait, is your Harley’s sound system truly letting you feel the music? Many Harley riders dream of a richer, more powerful sound that can keep up with the rumble of their engine and the open air. If you’ve ever felt like your current speakers are just not cutting it, you’re not alone.
Choosing the right saddle bag speakers for your Harley can be a real challenge. There are so many brands, types, and features to consider. You want something that sounds great, looks good, and fits your bike perfectly, but sifting through all the information can be overwhelming. It’s easy to get lost in technical jargon and wonder which speakers will actually deliver the experience you’re looking for.
This post is here to help you cut through the noise. We’ll break down what makes a great saddle bag speaker for your Harley, what to look for, and how to avoid common mistakes. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of your options and feel confident in choosing speakers that will transform your rides into a concert on wheels.
Our Top 5 Saddle Bag Speakers For Harley Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Saddle Bag Speakers For Harley Detailed Reviews
1. BOSS Audio Systems BHD98 Harley Davidson 6 x 9 Inch Saddlebag Speaker Kit – Fits Select 1998-2013 Road Glide and Street Glide Motorcycles
Rating: 8.9/10
Upgrade your Harley Davidson’s sound with the BOSS Audio Systems BHD98 Saddlebag Speaker Kit. These 6×9 inch speakers are designed to fit select 1998-2013 Road Glide and Street Glide motorcycles, delivering a powerful 300 watts per pair. Get ready for clear, full-range audio on every ride.
What We Like:
- The polyurethane cone is tough and lasts a long time, giving you great sound.
- Voice coils handle heat well, allowing for longer listening sessions.
- Rubber surrounds protect the speakers from everyday wear and tear.
- The sturdy stamped basket ensures your music sounds clean and clear.
- Lightweight polyimide tweeters don’t need much power to sound good.
- Comes with a generous 3-year warranty when bought through Amazon.com.
What Could Be Improved:
- Professional installation is strongly recommended, which may add to the overall cost.
- The product description doesn’t mention if grilles or mounting hardware are included.
This speaker kit offers a solid audio upgrade for your Harley. Enjoy your favorite tunes with improved clarity and power on the open road.
2. WOWTK Waterproof Saddlebag Speaker Audio Lid Bras/Lid Covers fits for Harley Touring Electra Glide Road Glide Street Glide Road King models 1994-2025
Rating: 9.1/10
Protect your Harley’s saddlebag speakers from the elements with these WOWTK Waterproof Saddlebag Speaker Audio Lid Bras. These covers are designed for a snug fit on a wide range of Harley Touring models, from 1994 to 2025. They offer a simple yet effective way to keep your audio system safe from rain and dust, so you can enjoy your rides worry-free. Made from durable, waterproof nylon, these lid bras are built to last. They are also easy to install and adjust for a perfect fit every time.
What We Like:
- They are 100% waterproof, keeping your speakers dry.
- The elastic edging ensures a snug and secure fit.
- Plastic lock buttons let you easily adjust how tight they are.
- They fit many Harley Touring models, so they are widely compatible.
- Installation is straightforward and doesn’t require special tools.
What Could Be Improved:
- While they are waterproof, they don’t add any extra padding for impact protection.
- The design is functional but doesn’t offer much in terms of style customization.
These WOWTK lid covers are a practical choice for any Harley rider. They provide essential protection for your saddlebag speakers.
3. Dasen Saddlebag Speaker Lid Bra Protective Covers PU Leather Compatible with Harley Touring Road King Electra Road Street Glide 1993-2013
Rating: 9.4/10
Protect your Harley’s saddlebags in style with the Dasen Saddlebag Speaker Lid Bra Protective Covers. These covers are made from tough PU leather. They look good and keep your lids safe from damage. You can put them on your bike in just a few minutes.
What We Like:
- They fit many Harley Touring models from 1993 to 2013.
- The PU leather is strong and keeps water out.
- They stop scratches and protect your speaker lids.
- Installation is super easy and takes no time at all.
- You get a pair of covers in the package.
What Could Be Improved:
- They don’t fit some special edition 2013 models like the FLTRXSE, FLHRSE, or FLHXSE.
- The fit might be a little tight on Tour Glides with hard saddlebags.
These Dasen covers are a great way to add protection and a custom look to your Harley. They are a simple upgrade that makes a big difference in keeping your bike looking its best.
4. TCT-MOTORPARTS Vivid Black 6X9 Cutout Grills Saddlebag Speaker Lids Fit for Harley Touring Road King Street Electra Glide 2014-2024
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your Harley’s sound and style with these TCT-MOTORPARTS Vivid Black Saddlebag Speaker Lids. They’re designed to give your bike a sleek look while making room for bigger sound. These lids are made for Harley Touring models from 2014 to 2024, so they’ll fit a range of popular bikes.
What We Like:
- They give your saddlebags a custom look.
- They have cutouts for 6×9 inch speakers, letting you add better audio.
- The lids are made from strong ABS Black Plastic, so they will last.
- The vivid black finish looks sharp and matches many Harley colors.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need to buy special speakers that fit the cutout; regular ones won’t work.
- These lids don’t fit some of the newer, special edition Harley models. Always check your bike’s model year and specific type before buying.
If you want to boost your bike’s audio and give it a custom touch, these speaker lids are a solid option. They offer a great way to personalize your ride and enjoy your favorite music on the road.
5. TCMT Vivid Black 5″ Stretched Saddlebags 6X9 Speaker Lid Latches Fits For Harley Touring Models CVO Road Glide Road King Street Glide Electra Glide Ultra Classic 1994-2013
Rating: 8.5/10
Upgrade your Harley Davidson motorcycle with the TCMT Vivid Black 5″ Stretched Saddlebags. These high-quality ABS saddlebags come in a sleek vivid black finish with chrome accents, meaning no painting is needed. They offer a stretched look that enhances your bike’s profile and include everything you need to get them installed, including speaker lids and mesh covers. They fit most Harley Davidson Touring models from 1994-2013 and can also be adapted for Softail, Dyna, and Sportster models with separate conversion brackets.
What We Like:
- High-Quality Material: Made from durable ABS plastic for a long-lasting finish.
- Ready to Install: Comes in a vivid black color with chrome hardware, so no painting is required.
- Complete Package: Includes saddlebags, speaker lids, mesh covers, and keys for a full upgrade.
- Wide Compatibility: Fits a broad range of Harley Davidson Touring models and can be used on other models with conversion brackets.
- Easy Installation: Designed for straightforward mounting back to the original position.
What Could Be Improved:
- Conversion Bracket Not Included: If you own a Softail, Dyna, or Sportster, you’ll need to buy separate brackets.
- No Install Instructions: While designed for easy installation, the lack of instructions might be a hurdle for some DIYers.
These TCMT saddlebags offer a stylish and practical upgrade for your Harley Davidson. They provide ample storage and a custom look without the hassle of painting.
Your Guide to Saddle Bag Speakers for Harley Davidson
Hitting the open road on your Harley Davidson is an amazing feeling. What makes it even better? Great tunes! Saddle bag speakers are a fantastic way to pump up your playlist and share your music with the world. This guide will help you pick the best ones for your ride.
What to Look For: Key Features
When you’re shopping for saddle bag speakers, keep these important features in mind:
- Sound Quality: This is the most important thing! Look for speakers that deliver clear, loud sound. You want to hear your music over the roar of your engine and wind noise. Check reviews for comments on bass, treble, and overall clarity.
- Power (Wattage): More wattage usually means louder sound. For cruising, 50-100 watts per speaker might be enough. If you like to crank it up, aim for higher wattage.
- Water Resistance: Your bike will face all sorts of weather. Speakers need to be able to handle rain, splashes, and dust. Look for an IP rating (like IPX5 or higher) which tells you how well they resist water and dust.
- Durability: Harley riders go places. Your speakers need to be tough. They should be made from strong materials that can handle vibrations and bumps on the road.
- Ease of Installation: Some speaker kits are plug-and-play, making them easy to install yourself. Others might need a bit more wiring. If you’re not a wiring expert, look for kits with simple instructions.
- Compatibility: Make sure the speakers are designed to fit your specific Harley Davidson model. Some speakers are made for certain years or saddle bag styles.
Important Materials
The materials used in saddle bag speakers affect how they sound and how long they last.
- Cone Material: The cone is the part that moves to make sound. Polypropylene is a common and good choice because it’s durable and sounds clear. Some high-end speakers use materials like silk or carbon fiber for even better sound.
- Grilles: Speaker grilles protect the cones from damage. Metal grilles are strong and look good. Some are coated to resist rust.
- Housing: The part that holds the speaker together should be tough. ABS plastic is often used because it’s strong and lightweight.
What Makes Speakers Great (or Not So Great)?
Several things can make your speaker experience fantastic or disappointing.
- Factors That Improve Quality:
- Good Amplification: A strong amplifier powers your speakers and makes a big difference in sound quality and volume.
- Proper Mounting: Speakers that are securely mounted in your saddle bags will sound better and last longer.
- High-Quality Wiring: Good wiring prevents signal loss and ensures your speakers get the power they need.
- Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Poor Fit: Speakers that don’t fit snugly in your saddle bags can rattle and produce distorted sound.
- Low-Quality Components: Cheap materials in the speakers themselves can lead to weak sound and quick wear and tear.
- Exposure to Elements: If speakers aren’t well-sealed, water and dust can damage them.
Your Experience on the Road: User Experience and Use Cases
Imagine cruising down a scenic highway, your favorite band playing loud and clear. That’s the experience saddle bag speakers provide.
- For the Solo Rider: Enjoy your personal soundtrack without disturbing others. It makes long rides more enjoyable.
- For Riding with a Buddy: Share your music and make the journey a shared experience.
- For Bike Shows and Gatherings: Show off your bike and entertain friends with your tunes.
- For Road Trips: Keep the energy high with music that matches the adventure.
Saddle bag speakers can truly enhance your Harley Davidson riding. By knowing what to look for, you can choose a set that will provide great sound and last for many miles to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Saddle Bag Speakers for Harley
Q: Are saddle bag speakers difficult to install?
A: Installation can vary. Some kits are designed for easy plug-and-play, while others may require more wiring. Always check the product description and reviews for installation difficulty.
Q: Do I need an amplifier for saddle bag speakers?
A: While some speakers can work without an amplifier, most will sound much better and louder with one. An amplifier provides the power needed for clear, strong sound.
Q: Can I use any speakers with my Harley’s saddle bags?
A: No, it’s best to use speakers specifically designed for Harley Davidson saddle bags. They are sized and shaped to fit properly and often come with the necessary mounting hardware.
Q: How do I know if speakers are waterproof?
A: Look for an IP (Ingress Protection) rating. An IPX5 rating means they can withstand low-pressure water jets from any direction, which is good for rain. Higher ratings offer even more protection.
Q: Will saddle bag speakers affect my bike’s battery?
A: Yes, any audio system will draw power from your bike’s battery. Ensure your bike’s charging system is in good condition, especially if you plan to use high-wattage speakers or run them for extended periods with the engine off.
Q: What is “impedance” and why does it matter for speakers?
A: Impedance is a measure of electrical resistance, measured in ohms. It’s important because your amplifier needs to be compatible with the impedance of your speakers for optimal performance and to avoid damage.
Q: Can I connect my phone or MP3 player to saddle bag speakers?
A: Most modern saddle bag speaker systems are designed to connect to various audio sources, including smartphones and MP3 players, often via Bluetooth or auxiliary input.
Q: How loud can these speakers get?
A: The loudness depends on the wattage of the speakers and the power of the amplifier. Higher wattage generally means louder sound, but it’s also important to consider the sound quality at higher volumes.
Q: What if my Harley doesn’t have saddle bags?
A: If your Harley doesn’t have saddle bags, you might consider fairing speakers or other types of motorcycle audio systems. Saddle bag speakers are specifically designed to be mounted inside or on the exterior of saddle bags.
Q: How do I clean my saddle bag speakers?
A: For most speakers, a soft, damp cloth is sufficient for cleaning. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the speaker cone or grille.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.