Buying Guide for the Best Motorcycle Speakers
Choosing the right motorcycle speakers is about finding a balance between sound quality, durability, and compatibility with your bike. Since motorcycles are exposed to a variety of weather conditions, and deal with high levels of road and engine noise, you'll want speakers that are robust and capable of cutting through the noise without sacrificing audio clarity. Consider what you listen to, how loud your environment is while riding, and the type of installation your bike allows. Properly understanding your needs will help you pick speakers that make your rides more enjoyable and hassle-free.Power Handling (Wattage)Power handling refers to the amount of power, measured in watts, that a speaker can safely handle from the amplifier. This is important because a speaker that can't handle enough power might sound distorted or even get damaged at high volumes, especially given the noisy environment when riding. Speakers are often classified by 'RMS' (continuous) and 'Peak' (maximum burst) wattage. For quieter cruising or relaxed rides, lower wattage speakers might be sufficient, but if you often ride at high speeds or in noisy traffic, speakers with higher wattage capability will play louder and clearer. Match your pick to how and where you ride the most.
Speaker SizeSpeaker size usually refers to the diameter of the speaker cone, most commonly in inches. Larger speakers can generally produce fuller and deeper sound, while smaller ones might fit better in tight spaces but may lack some bass and volume. When considering size, it's important to look at your motorcycle's available mounting spots and ensure the speakers fit physically. Riders with larger bikes often have more options for bigger speakers, while those with compact bikes may need to compromise by selecting smaller, but still efficient, units.
Weather Resistance (Waterproof/Weatherproof Ratings)Weather resistance ratings indicate how well a speaker can withstand exposure to rain, dust, and sun. This spec is crucial for motorcycle speakers since they are often exposed to the elements. Look for terms like 'waterproof' or 'weatherproof,' and pay attention to any IP ratings (like IPX5 or IP67), which explain how well the product stands up to water and dust. If you ride year-round or store your bike outside, prioritize high weather resistance. Occasional fair-weather riders may get by with less, but some degree of protection is always a smart idea.
Mounting & CompatibilityMounting and compatibility concerns the ease of installation and whether the speakers fit your motorcycle's handlebars or fairings. Some systems are universal, while others are designed for specific bike models or brands. Consider your mechanical skills and whether you prefer plug-and-play options or are comfortable with custom installations. Check your bike’s available space and wiring configuration before you buy, and make sure the speakers can be mounted securely for long-term reliability.
Connectivity (Wired vs. Wireless/Bluetooth)Connectivity options indicate how the speakers connect to your audio source. Wired speakers often connect directly to your bike’s audio system or a smartphone, while wireless (Bluetooth) models let you stream music without cables. Wired options sometimes offer more consistent sound quality, but Bluetooth models provide convenience and fewer installation hassles. If you like keeping your setup simple and want to stream music directly from your phone or a Bluetooth device, wireless options are the way to go. If you already have an audio system on your bike or don’t mind wired connections, then traditional models might be suitable.
Sound Quality (Frequency Response & Sensitivity)Sound quality is measured by factors like frequency response (range of low to high sounds the speaker can produce) and sensitivity (how efficiently the speaker converts power to volume). Frequency response is typically shown as two numbers, such as 60Hz-20kHz; broader ranges can mean richer sound, but the open nature of riding limits what you’ll hear at low frequencies (bass). Sensitivity, rated in decibels (dB), reflects how loud the speaker gets with a given amount of power—higher numbers are better for motorcycles. Choose speakers with high sensitivity and a wide-enough frequency range if you want volume and clarity.