Revamping a 2013 Harley Davidson Road Glide: A North Mankato Client’s Audio Upgrade
A local client from North Mankato recently brought in his 2013 Harley Davidson Road Glide for a sonic overhaul. This beautiful bike had undergone previous modifications, but the results were unsatisfactory for the client. After a short, free consultation, we identified the needs for the new system and selected several components that would perfectly suit the bike.
Given the presence of a previously installed system, our initial plan was to recycle any valuable parts. However, we ultimately opted for a fresh installation for the most part. Here is the list of parts we used:
Parts List:
- Precision Power PPI HDHU.9813RG head unit
- Rockford Fosgate M5-800X4 amplifier
- Rockford Fosgate RFK-HD9813 amp wiring kit
- Focal HDK165-98/2103 front speakers
- Focal speaker adapters
- Precision Power PPI MAS.694 bag lid speakers
- Rockford PMX-USBP USB port
- Wirez RCA interconnect signal cable
The HDHU.9813RG radios are specially crafted for this bike, ensuring a perfect fit and finish. With a bright screen and user-friendly display and controls, it’s an excellent upgrade for the daily interface of the audio system. It’s also integrated with the handlebar controls for ease of use. In addition to the radio, we installed a water-resistant USB connector for additional hookups and smartphone charging. The signal from the radio is transmitted through a set of Wirez interconnects to the core of the audio system, the Rockford M5 amplifier.
The M5-800X4 amp, part of the Rockford M5 motorsports series, paired with their amp wiring kit, ensures a neat and tidy installation under the fairing. This amp features four channels of amplification, allowing our technicians to tune each set of speakers for optimal performance and maximum reliability. Built-in crossovers and Rockford’s patented Punch EQ help achieve sonic nirvana.
The fairing speakers are the most crucial part of the audio upgrade, as they produce most of what the rider will hear and are aimed directly at the rider’s ears. We have found the Focal Kevlar Harley speakers to be the best-sounding ‘loud’ speakers on the market. Achieving loudness is easy; however, maintaining amazing clarity while being loud is not. The Focal speakers sound perfect even at interstate speeds.
To complete the audio system, we installed PPI 6×9 speakers in the bag lids, replacing the existing ones. Since the holes were already cut and grills installed, the PPI speakers were an obvious choice, allowing us to retain the existing grill and mounting structure while maintaining water-resistant integrity.
After the installation and tuning, we gave the bike a quick listening session to ensure everything met our standards. The results were phenomenal, and our client rode away with a significantly enhanced audio experience on his Harley Davidson Road Glide.
Check out the entire video for more in depth information and a quick sound demonstration.
When you’re looking to upgrade your motorcycle audio system, take a ride and get a free audio consultation with the experts here at Sweet Sounds in Mankato, MN. We’ll get your bike sounding sweet! If you can’t drop by, send us an e-mail using our contact page.
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