Street Glide saddlebag speakers are a popular upgrade for Harley-Davidson touring enthusiasts who want to enjoy powerful sound while cruising. These speakers, mounted in the motorcycle’s saddlebags, provide an immersive audio experience without sacrificing storage space or style. For riders who love long-distance journeys or just enjoy blasting their favorite music on the highway, adding saddlebag speakers can significantly enhance the overall riding experience. With advanced audio systems and clean installation options, they offer both function and aesthetics tailored for the Street Glide’s sleek design.
What Are Street Glide Saddlebag Speakers?
Audio System Integration
Saddlebag speakers are specially designed speakers installed in or on the saddlebags of touring motorcycles like the Harley-Davidson Street Glide. They are typically part of a larger audio system that includes front fairing speakers, amplifiers, and sometimes even subwoofers. These rear-positioned speakers enhance sound quality for both the rider and passenger by creating surround-sound-like audio distribution.
Purpose and Popularity
Street Glide saddlebag speakers are often added to:
- Boost rear audio output for passengers
- Provide fuller and louder sound during rides
- Improve music clarity at highway speeds
- Upgrade the stock audio system
With open-air riding environments, sound tends to dissipate quickly, so having extra rear speakers helps maintain audio quality, even at high speeds.
Types of Saddlebag Speakers for Street Glide
Flush-Mounted Speakers
Flush-mounted speakers are installed directly into the side lids or rear panels of the saddlebags. These offer a clean, factory-finished appearance and are popular among riders who want a sleek setup without external protrusions. They usually require cutting or replacing the existing saddlebag lids with pre-cut versions.
Lid-Mounted Speaker Pods
Lid-mounted speaker pods are complete kits that replace or attach to the top of the saddlebags. They are relatively easy to install and come in configurations like 6.5-inch or 6×9-inch speakers. These systems are often favored for their plug-and-play nature and minimal modification requirements.
Bolt-On Saddlebag Lids with Speakers
Some aftermarket companies offer full replacement saddlebag lids that come pre-installed with speakers and grilles. These kits are engineered for easy installation and are paint-ready to match your Street Glide’s color. This option is excellent for those looking for a premium, factory-style audio upgrade.
Best Brands and Speaker Options
Harley-Davidson Boom! Audio
The official Boom! Audio series from Harley-Davidson offers high-quality saddlebag speakers that integrate seamlessly with the stock infotainment system. These speakers are weather-resistant and deliver solid performance tailored for motorcycle use.
Rockford Fosgate
Rockford Fosgate is one of the top choices for riders wanting loud, clear sound on their Street Glide. The TMS69BL14 and TMS69BL9813 are saddlebag speaker kits designed specifically for Harley-Davidson models. Known for their powerful output and durable build, these speakers handle road noise and wind effortlessly.
Hogtunes
Another brand well-known in the motorcycle audio world is Hogtunes. They offer speaker kits for rear saddlebags that work with factory and aftermarket head units. Hogtunes is popular for affordability and performance balance.
Installation Process
Basic Installation Steps
Installing Street Glide saddlebag speakers typically involves:
- Removing or replacing saddlebag lids
- Mounting the speakers into cutouts or brackets
- Routing wires through waterproof grommets
- Connecting speakers to an amplifier or head unit
- Sealing and securing for vibration resistance
Many kits come with detailed instructions and all necessary hardware. However, those unfamiliar with electrical wiring may benefit from professional installation to ensure optimal performance and avoid issues like water damage or poor audio clarity.
Wiring and Amplification
To get the most out of saddlebag speakers, connecting them to a dedicated amplifier is highly recommended. The amplifier boosts power to the rear speakers, ensuring they don’t get drowned out by wind or engine noise. Some amplifier kits are compact and can be discreetly installed under seats or inside fairings.
Benefits of Upgrading to Saddlebag Speakers
Enhanced Sound Clarity
With speakers positioned behind the rider and passenger, sound becomes more enveloping and clear. Music, podcasts, and even GPS directions can be heard more distinctly at any speed.
Balanced Audio Distribution
Instead of all sound coming from the front fairing, rear saddlebag speakers balance the output across the bike, which is particularly useful on longer journeys and for two-up riding.
Customization and Style
Saddlebag speaker kits not only improve audio performance but also elevate the bike’s appearance. Many speaker grilles and pods come in chrome, matte black, or even color-matching options to blend with your Street Glide’s design.
Considerations Before Purchasing
Compatibility
Before buying saddlebag speakers, it’s important to check compatibility with your model year. Not all kits fit every Street Glide, so matching the speaker kit to your specific bike ensures a smooth installation process.
Water Resistance
Because saddlebag speakers are exposed to the elements, water resistance is critical. High-quality speaker kits use marine-grade materials to withstand rain, dust, and sun exposure.
Power Handling
Match speaker wattage and impedance with your existing audio system or amplifier. Overloading your speakers can cause distortion or even permanent damage.
Maintenance and Care
Protecting from Water and Dirt
Clean your saddlebag speakers regularly using a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals. If the speakers are not waterproof, consider installing rain covers or ensuring tight sealing around mounts and wire entries.
Inspecting Wiring and Connections
Check for frayed wires or loose connections periodically. Vibrations from the road can affect speaker mounts and terminals over time, so secure all fasteners and clips during inspections.
Street Glide saddlebag speakers are more than just an audio upgrade they are an enhancement to the entire riding experience. By delivering clearer and more powerful sound, especially at high speeds, these speakers help keep riders and passengers entertained on long journeys. With various styles, brands, and installation options available, there’s a saddlebag speaker setup to suit every preference and budget. Whether you ride solo or with a companion, the added sound depth from rear-mounted speakers turns every ride into a rolling concert. For Street Glide owners looking to boost audio performance while maintaining the classic touring aesthetic, saddlebag speakers are an excellent investment.