It’s hard to find someone that doesn’t enjoy music, and for those music enthusiasts that also enjoy riding Harley-Davidsons, upgrading the stereo system on their motorcycle is an incredibly popular customization – if not a complete no-brainer. While Harley-Davidson was able to modernize their offerings and begin featuring radios with Infotainment packages starting in 2014, this modernization left a gap with their touring motorcycles manufactured before 2014, with the previous generation of motorcycles having an inferior stock radio by comparison. This shift resulted in a sales boom of aftermarket radio options which included modern features, such as Bluetooth and satellite radio capability, in order to meet the needs of riders. In addition to Bluetooth and satellite radio, popular replacement radios for Harley-Davidson motorcycles featured multiple audio input options such as auxiliary and USB. They also had built-in equalizers, expanded their compatibility with modern music streaming services, and typically had higher available watts to boost the audio levels and output to the speakers.
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Our Top 3 Radio Replacements for Harley-Davidson
It wasn’t just about getting the loudest and most modern system, though – the radios on pre-2014 touring bikes didn’t have the best audio quality and were also known to fail. Both of these issues necessitated the replacement of the head unit, and finding a replacement that was both versatile and durable was a challenge at first. Thankfully, Harley-Davidson designed the radios on their touring bikes to be single DIN, which meant finding a replacement became remarkably easy – most aftermarket vehicle and marine radios are a standard, single DIN size, and this was done to fit the construction of both cars and boats. (There were a few sizing exceptions seen during this era in the automotive industry, such as the larger double DIN displays found in older Chevrolets, but this sizing convention was uncommon and sales of double DIN stereos were lackluster.)
What are some of the signs that you need to replace the radio on your Harley-Davidson?
When the stock radio of your Harley-Davidson is about to bite the dust, you’ll begin observing some telltale signs of the imminent failure. Some common symptoms that are observed when the stock radio is failing include the radio not consistently staying powered on, or having trouble when powering on. The audio coming from the speakers may be distorted, crackling, or sound unusually low or soft despite the volume being turned up. The radio display may be dimmer than usual, or the receiver may not be able to pick up any AM or FM frequencies consistently. There may be a rattling noise that comes from the dash or speakers, which is a specific clue that the radio itself might be physically broken. When the radio is truly and fully KO’d, it will power off, and then refuse to turn back on.
What features should be considered when choosing a replacement radio for a Harley-Davidson?
Finding and choosing an aftermarket replacement radio for your Harley-Davidson doesn’t have to be difficult. There are some things to take into consideration when making a choice, like what types of audio inputs would be needed to connect your phone or music player, and whether you’d like to have handlebar controls with the new receiver. If it’s easier for you to pre-load an external SD card with your favorite songs, then you’ll need to make sure the replacement radio is built to accept SD cards. If you’re on a budget and only trying to fix a broken radio, and you don’t think you’ll be seeking any additional modifications down the road such as an amplifier, there are options out there to fit this need.
Best Harley-Davidson Replacement Radio Reviews
So, what is the best Harley-Davidson replacement radio option? We’ve covered some high-level details on several replacement radio options below, including their prices and some unique features that are available with each one. All of the radios are capable of wiring up to four speakers unless indicated otherwise, and are sold with the basic items needed for installation such as bezels and wiring harnesses; depending on your setup, additional items may need to be purchased separately to facilitate the installation on your motorcycle. It is also recommended to verify on the manufacturer’s site ahead of purchase to make sure there are no potential incompatibilities with your particular model of motorcycle.
#1 Rockford Fosgate PMX-HD9813 – BEST harley davidson plug and play radio
This replacement stereo is marketed as a direct replacement for certain model Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and from a reputation and community standpoint, exists as a gold star standard for aftermarket radio options for Harley-Davidson motorcycles with its popularity and ease of installation. The stereo features a 3-inch color TFT display with both day and night modes, making it easy to view in both bright and dim lighting situations. The Rockford Fosgate radio also comes with an AM/FM tuner, Bluetooth connectivity, Pandora and SiriusXM streaming service compatibility, USB input which supports charging capabilities, preamp outputs, built-in equalizer, and independent subwoofer controls – should you ever decide to hook up a subwoofer in the future.
Tech Specs
The Rockford Fosgate receiver was designed as a direct replacement for Harley-Davidson motorcycles and features a similar plug-and-play option as seen with the Aquatic AV. However, the Rockford Fosgate is rated at IPX6 water-resistant, which gives confidence in the receivers’ ability to stand up to unfortunate and stormy elements. This receiver is also compatible with remote controls (remote is sold separately), and also features a low voltage warning system like the Aquatic AV.
Keep in Mind
A couple of considerations to keep in mind with considering the Rockford Fosgate as a replacement radio: it will require a separate tuner to be purchased if you wish to employ the SiriusXM streaming functionality, as the receiver is ready for SiriusXM, but is not sold with the appropriate tuner. It is also compatible with a Rockford Fosgate remote control, but the unit is not sold with the remote – you will need to buy that separately, as well. You will also need to navigate the compatibility section of Rockford Fosgate’s page, as there are some incompatibilities with various stock radio configurations and options.
#2 Pyle Marine Bluetooth Single DIN Stereo Receiver – Best Functionality for the Price
The Pyle Marine Bluetooth Single DIN Stereo will only set you back a little over $40 USD, which may seem alarming at first, considering that most modern stereos generally cost at least $100 USD or more. There is more to this radio than meets the eye once you look closer, and it currently has over 2,000 ratings and a 4-1/2 star review on Amazon to back up its credibility as a budget-friendly aftermarket stereo option.
Tech Specs
This stereo is 12-volt and will push out a maximum of 300 watts (75w x 4 way). It is marine grade, meaning it is resistant to some weather and humidity, but not completely waterproof. It features a variety of inputs including Bluetooth, auxiliary, USB, and an SD card slot that can accept pre-loaded SD cards up to 32GB. The digital front panel has both button and dial controls, as well as a built-in microphone that allows for hands-free calling, and the receiver is compatible with both Apple and Android devices. The front screen will display the title information on the song being played if coming from a Bluetooth or SD card resource. There is also a built-in equalizer configuration option to fully dial in the sound to your liking.
Keep in Mind
While the Pyle radio does come with a separate remote to control the receiver from a modest distance, one thing to note is that it does not have handlebar functionality. If the goal is just to get the music playing again and handlebar controls are not a significant deal-breaker when choosing a replacement stereo, the Pyle receiver is a solid contender. However, keep in mind that pushing the appropriate buttons on the faceplate may prove challenging with gloves on. Also, this radio is not a plug-and-play replacement for the OEM radio and will require some wiring and fitment when installing.
#3 Sony DSXM55BT Single Din Bluetooth Stereo Receiver – Sirius XM Ready
This stereo is the least expensive option that also features SiriusXM satellite radio functionality built into the unit, and as a whole, this Sony receiver is a significant step up in features from the Pyle stereo we just covered. The Sony features a built-in mic and hands-free control like the Pyle and supports connections via Bluetooth, USB, and auxiliary inputs. In a shift from the budget options seen with the Pyle, the Sony receiver works with the streaming music service Pandora on both iOS and Android, and will also interface with Siri for hands-free control of Apple devices.
Tech Specs
In addition to the extra-musical features, the Sony stereo is water-resistant and comes with a built-in equalizer with a Mega Bass option, and also supports multiple audio file formats including WAV, AAC, WMA, MP3, and FLAC files. If the goal of upgrading the stereo is to build out a booming sound system, the Sony stereo has 2-volt RCA pre-amp outputs to support the addition of an amplifier. This is also a marine-grade receiver, with additional moisture and UV protection to ensure durability. Lastly, there is the option for using built-in Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to help pair devices and begin streaming music.
Keep in Mind
Unfortunately, like what was observed with the Pyle radio, the Sony does not feature handlebar control options. Thankfully, the front display is clear and the buttons are easily identifiable, which helps prevent accidental button-mashing which may occur as a result of wearing thick riding gloves. Lastly, this receiver is not a plug-and-play replacement option and will require some effort to install.
#4 JVC KDR490 Stereo Bundle – Cost-Efficient Receiver with Handlebar Control Compatibility
This stereo comes as a bundle, and as you probably guessed with the title, we’re finally treading into Harley-Davidson stereo replacement options that feature handlebar control capabilities. (Ironically enough, this is also the least expensive radio that also offers a CD player option; the Pyle and Sony radios did not have CD drives and were receivers only.) The JVC Stereo Bundle comes with a single DIN receiver, which offers AM/FM radio, USB, and auxiliary inputs along with a wireless remote. There is an additional dash kit that functions both to seal the radio from moisture and vibration and a cover that seats into place to protect the stereo and help keep dust and water out of the electronics.
Tech Specs
The handlebar control functionality is made possible via the Metra ASWC-1 module, which is included with purchase and of the JVC bundle and installed into existing wiring without making any radical modifications. The JVC stereo also has a built-in equalizer and is manufactured with preamp outputs to allow for additional customization and expansion of the stereo setup, if you choose to do so. However, this is not a plug-and-play replacement, so if you’re not completely comfortable at wiring aftermarket electronics, the additional wires involved with both the stereo and handlebar module may mean that the installation of this particular stereo is best left for the pros.
Keep in Mind
One final observation on the JVC stereo bundle is that this stereo does not come with Bluetooth compatibility, and instead leans on the USB connection to be able to interface with smartphones and other devices that may normally be connected via Bluetooth.
#5 Jensen JHD1635BTB Bluetooth Stereo – Ready for the Elements
Visually, this radio is noticeably more dressed down than its Sony and JVC counterparts discussed above and lacks the same glossy presentation, but what it lacks in looks it more than makes up for in other ways. The Jensen stereo is marketed as a more rugged, weather-resistant, and durable stereo option, and features SiriusXM capability in addition to having Bluetooth connectivity, and both USB and auxiliary connections in both front and rear. Like other stereo options discussed above, it features hands-free calling, and a pre-amp option to accommodate expansion and customization.
Tech Specs
There are a couple of features that make this stereo unique from the others. The first unique feature is the built-in seven-channel NOAA weather band with Specific Area Message Encoding (S.A.M.E.) technology, meaning that it can receive critical weather alerts tailored to a specific, programmed region. Another unique characteristic about the Jensen stereo is the low-battery alert, which will trigger an alert if the onboard voltage is detected as dropping below 10.8.
Keep in Mind
A couple of things to note about the Jensen stereo is its lack of confirmed handlebar control options, and while it offers functionality with both wired and infrared remotes, the unit is not sold with either remote option included. It’s not quite a plug-and-play option for Harley motorcycles and will require some level of skill to install correctly.
#6 Aquatic AV MP5 Replacement Radio for Harley-Davidson (1998-2013 Touring Models)
This radio provides both the most simplistic display and visual aesthetic, as well as the most plug-and-go replacement option of all radios covered in this article. It is marketed and tailored specifically as a waterproof, non-OEM replacement radio specific to Harley-Davidson motorcycles, with ease of installation in mind.
Tech Specs
The Aquatic AV radio features Bluetooth connectivity with handlebar control functionality, and there is a pocket behind the faceplate where a smartphone can be plugged into auxiliary input and tucked away. From an installation standpoint, the Aquatic AV uses the connections that are already present on the motorcycle, as well as the mounting bracket, which makes fitment less of a nightmare than what might be experienced with fitting other non-OEM brands radios into the single DIN slot.
Keep in Mind
The minimal interface and limited buttons may make this stereo seem like it would be slightly more complex to operate with gloves on, should the handlebar controls ever quit working for some reason. Also, while the visual appearance of the Aquatic AV fits the design of most Harley-Davidson cockpits, the display type that is used may not display information quite as well in bright daylight situations as other radio displays would. There do not seem to be any incompatibilities with installation across various models, as we observe in the next radio that we cover.
In conclusion…
Replacing the stereo in your Harley-Davidson can be a worthwhile and valuable upgrade, even if the need to replace occurs involuntarily as a result of your factory radio becoming worn down and failing from use and exposure. If you are looking for a brand-name replacement with ample functionality, there are contenders such as the Rockford Fosgate stereo, which set the bar in terms of non-OEM radio replacement options. There are also less expensive options for the cost-conscious Harley owner, such as the Pyle and Sony receivers that were covered. If owning and playing CDs is your preferred medium, the JVC bundle fits the bill, with the added bonus of being the most economical replacement radio with handlebar button compatibility. If you think you’ll be taking a cross-country or extended journey, the Jensen stereo with NOAA functionality could potentially save your life, should any severe weather hit your region. Hopefully one day, there will be a viable Infotainment option available as a replacement radio in a single DIN setup.
As you shop around for replacement radio options, consider whether you will benefit from having handlebar control compatibility with your receiver and whether you will be connecting your music via Bluetooth, USB, auxiliary input, or using a USB flash drive or SD card option. This will help narrow down the selection for what will work best in your application, as each replacement radio offers a different selection for connecting devices. With enough research and patience, you will be able to find the right replacement radio for your Harley-Davidson motorcycle, and before you know it you’ll be enjoying your music on the road again.
Hello Andrew,
Does Harley-Davidson offer an inner fairing with a double din opening that would seamlessly house the factory infotainment system?
I would even go as far as painting the new inner fairing to color match it to original factory color.
Personally I don’t care for the blackout look on the newer Harleys.
My 2012 CVO Electra Glide Ultra Classic has lots of chrome and plenty of bells and whistles. I upgraded the 110″ motor to Stage-4 117″ Screamin Eagle motor which has made me fall in love all over again.
With the exception of the non-Bluetooth factory radio. Eventhough the factory radio sounds amazing with its factory high-power amplified Harmon Kardon sound system, it cannot connect to my smartphone wirelessly. The silly Aux cable disables handlebar controls and looks messy.
Perhaps you can write another blog on my idea of new inner faring and HD Infotainment system.