Do you like listening to your favorite band while driving your car? If you think that you can’t do the same on your motorbike, we’ve got good news for you. Technology makes it possible to listen to top hits while riding your Hog. The best part? The latest stealth designs are so subtle that no one will even notice your radio antenna. Since they have a wide range, you can expect to get good reception on the go.
If you’re looking for the top hidden antenna for your Harley-Davidson, you’ve come to the right place. In this buyer’s guide, we list the top products that will add music to your ride.
Table of Contents
J&M Audio Hidden Antenna For 2014 and Newer Harley Davidson
This discreet radio antenna fits Harley-Davidson Touring bikes with factory radios. It receives all the reception bands — AM, FM, and WB — even when you’re away from large cities. The J&M stealth radio antenna is a fan favorite because of its clear reception and plug-and-play installation. You can remove the rear-mounted Harley antenna and put this in instead.
Key Features
- AM/FM/WB reception
- 3.20 ounces
- In-fairing placement
- Plug-and-play product
Pros
- Easy installation
- User-friendly
- Value for money
- Ideal for newer Harley models
- Replaces rear-mounted antennas
Cons
- Thin insulation
- Shorter lifespan
Krator TLB1800 Amplified Antenna
This amplified antenna kit is designed for optimum AM/FM/WB reception. Its cable is over 100 inches so that it can be easily installed on your bike. For your convenience, it also comes with a hooked fastener. This helps you adjust the antenna so that you can get a better signal.
To install, simply mount it on any non-metal surface. Once it’s attached, plug it into any standard AM/FM antenna jack. This stealth antenna works well for motorbikes where a conventional antenna is challenging to mount.
Key Features
- Receives AM/FM/WB/NOAA
- Smooth exterior
- 12-volt source battery
- Classic black
- Universal fit
Pros
- Easy to install on FHLX
- Value for money
- Suitable for areas with poor AM connection
- Comes with clear instructions
- No extra hardware needed
Cons
- Crackling and hissing sounds
- Quality control issue
CHHLIUT GF-Link AM FM Hidden Antenna
Some people like fiddling and repositioning the antenna to get the clearest signal. If you’re one of them, you will love the velcro mounting on CHHLIUT’s GF-Link. There’s no need to detach the whole unit as you can easily peel off the part you need to adjust.
This compact receiver is easy to mount on your car, truck, or motorcycle. Trying to find the perfect spot for your antenna? You can attach the GF-Link to most surfaces, including glass, metal, and wood. Thanks to its 118-inch cable, you get optimum AM/FM reception.
Key Features
- Receives AM/FM
- Includes velcro mounting
- 118-inch cable
- Comes with an amplifier
Pros
- Easy to install
- Excellent sound quality
- Versatile adhesion
- Sturdy
Cons
- Poor reception
- Limited channels
J&M Corporation FPA-HCFM-P Radio Antenna
Are you driving any of the Harley-Davidson Touring models from 1989 to 2013? J&M’s hidden radio antenna is a great option for these bikes. J&M as a company continues to improve its products with tuning and signal amplification. They’ve come up with the FPA-HCFM, which not only stands up to people’s expectations but even surpasses it. Like the original design, this passive model performs well at a much better price.
Since there are no wires to cut, the installation process is a breeze. The antenna wire is fastened inside the fairing with double-sided tape and wire clips. You get step-by-step instructions so you can install it yourself.
Key Features
- Receives AM/FM
- Painted exterior
- 3.99 ounces
- No folding
- Includes double-sided tape clips
Pros
- Easy to install
- Easy to hide
- No 12-volt connection needed
Con
- Limited reception outside urban areas
Keenso Hidden Amplified Antenna – AM/FM Radio Stereo Antenna
Keenso’s version of a stealth antenna may look unassuming, but this boxy product delivers. With it, you can listen to AM/FM broadcast stations without having an unsightly antenna on your bike. It’s made of high-quality plastic for maximum strength and durability. The material is also resistant to scratches and scuffing.
While it’s designed for cars, this stereo antenna fits perfectly on your Harley or any other vehicle. You can mount it on trucks, golf carts, or even boats. The antenna can be placed in a car’s glove compartment, dashboard, or rear window. It does not have to be properly grounded so you can leave it airborne.
First-timers don’t need to worry as the installation does not require any modification, cutting, or drilling. I have two words for you: velcro mounting.
Key Features
- Input: thoroughfare
- Compact
- Velcro mounting
Pros
- Easy to install
- All-in-one package comes with a cable and adhesive tape
Cons
- Poor reception for some AM stations
- Flimsy wire
Enrock EKMR3 Marine and Motorcycle Radio Antenna
Hiding black wires can be tricky if your Harley has a pale color scheme. Good thing the Enrock EKMR3 dipole radio antenna has translucent wiring that blends with your paint job. Its standard Motorola-type connector is compatible with older radios. This dipole antenna can seamlessly receive signals from AM/FM channels.
Enrock is a brand that deals with vehicle audio accessories. Their products are versatile and durable, so you can use the antenna with your Harley. The antenna can also be used in boats, cars, and trucks.
Key Features
- AM/FM reception
- 1.6 ounces
- 22-inch main wire
- 31-inch extension wire
Pros
- Easy installation
- Compact
- Superior signal
- Flexible wiring
Con
- Poor reception in some areas
- The Motorola-style plug may not fit new radios
Buyer’s Guide: What You Need to Know About Hidden Antennas
Due to the myriad of choices available, buyers find it overwhelming to choose an antenna for their motorcycles. This becomes even more complicated if you shop online. That’s why we’ve come up with this comprehensive buying guide. This way, you know which features to prioritize.
Here’s a list of things you should keep in mind when searching for a hidden antenna:
Antenna Length
Radio antennas can be classified by length. Motorcycle riders can choose from the following options:
- Long antennas measure 19 to 31 inches.
- Short antennas measure 4 to 9 inches.
Those who grew up with analog technology know that getting a stronger reception requires having a longer antenna. Or does it? Nowadays, even the most unobtrusive antennas can receive AM and FM signals clearly.
With the reception being equal, people usually prefer hidden antennas. There’s less chance of anything getting snagged in transit. Also, a long antenna sticking out of your bike does not look appealing.
Antenna Reception
This is non-negotiable. You must buy a hidden antenna with good reception, one that can receive and transmit signals even when surrounded by metal. It should have the same quality you get from a standard radio antenna. If you have poor reception, you can’t enjoy music while riding your Harley. This can range from static and hisses to hearing nothing when you turn on your bike’s radio. Also, don’t forget to check the number of channels that you can receive. The more channels that you have, the better.
Antenna Brand
Do your research and find out which brands work with Harley-Davidson radios. OEM brands are usually compatible, but they tend to be more expensive. If you get a sticker shock, remember that well-known companies offer the best value for your money. Their products are much better than OEM-compatible or obscure brands. It is all about striking a balance between frugality and quality.
Installation
Avoid products that require additional hardware or modification of your bike. Some even require you to drill holes or use clips that damage the body. Go for a stealth antenna that can be attached to your Harley quickly and easily. The latest radio antennas use velcro mountings and double-sided tape. Others have zip ties and wire holders.
Visual Design
Your antenna must be compact and inconspicuous. Otherwise, it defeats the purpose of having a hidden accessory. Watch out for dangling wires, unsightly parts, and protruding mounts. Also, compare the wiring with the color of your Harley. Most motorcycles are dark, but the rare light-colored bike would need an antenna with pale wiring.
Reviews and Ratings
For the longest time, word-of-mouth has been a reliable way to choose products. Now that we’ve gone high-tech, you can get the same information from customer reviews and ratings. You need to know that the product you’re considering is as reliable as it looks online. Is it your first time buying an antenna? Simplify your life by choosing one that others have bought and liked. The key is to read reviews on reliable websites. Look at the numerical ratings and the comments. Keep in mind that some reviews may not be genuine, as marketers use them as part of their promotional strategies.
Price
A fixed budget will help you avoid option paralysis — that moment when you can’t decide because of too much input. However, “cheap” and “affordable” are not always the same. Brands that offer the lowest prices often stint on materials. They sell flimsy products that fail to meet expectations.
Do not settle for a mediocre product. You may end up spending more as you replace low-cost but defective products several times.
How to Install a Stealth Antenna on Your Harley
First off, read the instruction manual. The position of your antenna would depend on the brand. Each brand has a unique way of attaching parts to a motorbike. Here’s how to install a hidden antenna on a Street Glide.
- Remove the fairing from the front of the bike. Do this by taking out the screws, pulling off the windshield, and unfasten the headlight harness.
- Loop the wires in the interior of your bike. Then, place the main part in the correct space. It’s usually near your bike’s headlights.
- Replace the fairing, windshield, and other components you removed in the previous step.
- Detaching a rear-mounted tall antenna is easy. Just hold it and turn counterclockwise until it completely separates from the bike. You don’t need fancy tools for this step.
- After removing the long antenna, remove the original grommet. Put in a solid grommet to seal the hole left by your old antenna.
How Can I Listen to Music While Riding a Harley?
Listening to music on long drives makes the journey much more enjoyable. When out on our motorbikes, this process gets a little tricky. You’ll have to deal with fluctuating reception, an unwieldy helmet, and loud ambient noise.
Good thing there are plenty of products that make this possible. That’s a boon when you’re on a bike. After all, your music has to compete with the rushing wind and blare of traffic around you. Along with the hidden antenna, you can choose any of the following options:
Motorcycle Earbuds
It is easy to multitask when wearing earbuds as they are not distracting. Most people prefer earbuds because they produce fewer decibels and are less likely to damage your ears. Also, they do not completely shut off the surrounding noises. This way, you can still pay attention to the road.
Wireless Headsets
Headsets are often cheaper than earbuds. Some people also find it irritating to insert buds in their ears, so they opt for over-the-ear phones. Make sure you get a wireless set. It can be annoying when headset wires get tangled up in the middle of a ride.
Bluetooth Helmet Speakers
It makes sense to have a built-in listening device in your helmet. Since you need to wear a helmet, this is the least distracting option. Helmet speakers also allow you to make calls and communicate with your fellow riders hands-free. However, be ready to spend more on this device.
Frequently Asked Questions
No matter what other people tell you, there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to hidden antennas for your Harley. You need to find the ideal fit for your bike. Set your priorities and see which features you value more. Ignore the features you can live without.
Yes, they do. These are optimized for FM technology. Despite their diminutive size, they get the job done. Short antennas often have better features than tall antennas. They have optimal transmitting and can receive the required frequencies. But make sure you choose from top manufacturers.
When they were first introduced, stealth antennas commanded steep price tags. Now that they are more common, the prices have become quite reasonable. It depends on the brand you choose.
It can be stressful when your Harley’s antenna malfunctions. The key is to remain calm. An antenna is made up of made parts. Start by identifying which part is broken or missing. Some parts of the antenna are individually replaceable so you do not need to buy a completely new set.
If you want to get the clearest reception, you need to have a suitable antenna set. Keep in mind that your radio antenna’s performance depends on your location. Motorbike radios are built to catch signals even if towers are far away. However, you may lose reception when you reach remote areas. No towers mean no reception.
Listening to music while driving might cause accidents if you’re not careful. Let’s be honest, we tend to get carried away when listening to songs. There’s no denying that when you’re driving, your attention should focus on the road.
To avoid getting distracted, lower the volume of your radio. However, some people need music to stay awake on long journeys. It’s all a matter of preference.
It depends on the brand you’re using. Most motorcycle antennas have a ground wire that needs to be attached near the headlights. A few brands claim to have no need for grounding. Check the product manual for more details.
Conclusion
A speeding Harley is a sight to behold. It’s a shame though if those beautiful lines are marred by an unsightly radio antenna. It’s even worse if the antenna pokes you in the eye by accident.
That’s where hidden antennas come in. Now, you don’t have to drill a hole or use harsh adhesives on your precious bike. Say goodbye to that unsightly antenna and say hello to a more enjoyable ride.