Buying Guide for the Best Motorcycle Handlebar Speakers
Choosing the right motorcycle handlebar speakers can completely transform your riding experience, letting you enjoy your favorite tunes or keep up with navigation directions while on the move. To get the perfect speakers for your needs, it's best to think about when, where, and how often you'll use them, as well as the kind of music you like. Focus on the key features that will impact how well they perform in your riding conditions and how easy they are to use while on the road.Sound Quality and Output (Wattage)Sound quality is all about how clear and powerful your music will be, while the output, usually measured in watts, tells you how loud the speakers can get. The higher the wattage, the better a speaker can compete with wind and engine noise. Speakers at the lower end of wattage (10-20W) are suitable for slow city rides, while mid-range options (20-50W) are better for general use, and high-output speakers (50W and above) are ideal for highway speeds or very loud bikes. If you love loud, clear music or do a lot of riding at high speeds, higher output is a better fit, while casual urban riders may not need as much power.
Weather Resistance (Waterproofing)Since motorcycles are exposed to the elements, it's important for handlebar speakers to have weather resistance or waterproofing. Waterproof speakers will stand up to rain, splashes, and even heavy washes, while basic water resistance means they can handle light moisture but might not survive a downpour. If you ride year-round or live in a wet climate, aim for fully waterproof (often marked as IPX5 or higher). For occasional fair-weather use, a water-resistant model should suffice.
Mounting and CompatibilityThis refers to how the speakers attach to your motorcycle and whether they fit your specific handlebars. Most handlebar speakers are designed with clamps that accommodate various diameters, but some work better with certain bar sizes or shapes. Check the measurements of your handlebars and compare them to the mounting hardware's range. If you have a unique bike or like to switch the setup around, look for highly adjustable mounts.
Connectivity (Bluetooth, Aux, etc.)Connectivity determines how you play music from your devices. Bluetooth-enabled speakers let you stream wirelessly from a phone, while some models also offer aux-in ports for wired connections or USB options. Bluetooth is most convenient for hands-free operation, ideal for streaming music or navigation prompts. If you only plan to play from a music player or don't want to fuss with pairing devices, aux-in may be enough. Think about which devices you'll use most often and choose accordingly.
Controls and Ease of UseControls let you adjust volume, change tracks, and sometimes answer calls directly from the speaker. Good controls are easy to use with gloves on and while riding. Basic models may only offer volume knobs, while advanced versions add buttons for more functions. Prioritize easy-to-reach, simple controls if you want to keep your focus on the road, especially during high-speed or long-distance rides.
Power SourceMotorcycle handlebar speakers can be powered by your bike's battery or, less commonly, by their own rechargeable batteries. Hooking up to the bike's electrical system gives you unlimited play time, but requires installation. Battery-powered speakers are easier to set up and move, but you'll need to keep them charged. Choose based on whether you prefer permanent installation and long rides, or quick, flexible setups for occasional use.
Durability and Build QualitySince they are exposed to vibration, sun, and road grime, build quality is crucial for long-lasting handlebar speakers. Look for sturdy, corrosion-resistant housings and well-sealed units. If you ride rough roads or value longevity, prioritize tough, high-quality construction.