Are Lower Fairing Speakers Worth It? A Comprehensive Guide

Riding a motorcycle can be a thrilling experience, but for many riders, music is an essential part of the journey. Traditional motorcycle speakers, however, often fall short when it comes to sound quality, volume, and bass response. This is where lower fairing speakers come in.

In this article, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of lower fairing speakers, and help you decide if they’re worth the investment.

What are Lower Fairing Speakers?

Lower fairing speakers are a type of motorcycle speakers that are installed in the lower portion of the motorcycle’s fairing. They are typically larger than traditional motorcycle speakers, which are installed in the handlebars or on the saddlebags.

The placement of lower fairing speakers allows for better sound quality and bass response, and can also provide higher volume levels.

Benefits of Lower Fairing Speakers

1.     Increased Sound Quality

One of the primary advantages of lower fairing speakers is that they provide better sound quality than traditional motorcycle speakers.

This is due to a variety of factors, including the size of the speakers, the placement of the speakers, and the materials used to construct the speakers.

2.     Improved Bass Response

Another advantage of lower fairing speakers is that they provide an improved bass response. This is because the placement of the speakers in the lower fairing allows for a larger air space, which is necessary for producing deep, resonant bass.

Traditional motorcycle speakers are often too small to produce deep bass, which can result in a flat, tinny sound.

3.     Increased Volume

Lower fairing speakers can also provide higher volume levels without distortion. This is because they are typically larger and more powerful than traditional motorcycle speakers, and can handle higher wattage levels.

This means that riders can listen to their music at higher volumes without experiencing distortion or clipping.

4.     Enhanced Music Listening Experience

Having a high-quality audio system while riding a motorcycle can enhance the overall experience of the ride. Listening to music can help riders stay alert and focused, and can also reduce stress and anxiety.

In addition, music can enhance the emotional experience of riding, making it a more enjoyable and fulfilling activity.

5.     Better Directionality

Another advantage of lower fairing speakers is that they provide better directionality. Since the speakers are mounted lower on the bike, they are closer to the rider’s ears and can project the sound directly toward them.

This allows the rider to hear the music or audio more clearly, without the need to turn up the volume to compensate for wind noise.

6.     Reduced Wind Noise

Lower fairing speakers can also help reduce wind noise while riding. Since the speakers are mounted on the lower part of the fairing, they are shielded from the wind and can project sound more effectively.

This means that riders can enjoy their music or audio without having to crank up the volume to overcome the wind noise.

7.     Protection from Elements

Finally, lower fairing speakers can protect themselves from the elements. Since they are mounted on the lower part of the fairing, they are less likely to get wet or damaged by rain, snow, or debris on the road.

This can help prolong the life of the speakers and prevent costly repairs or replacements.

Disadvantages of Lower Fairing Speakers

While lower fairing speakers offer many advantages, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. These include:

1.     Cost

Lower fairing speakers are typically more expensive than traditional motorcycle speakers. This cost can be a significant investment for some riders, and may not be worth it for those on a tight budget.

2.     Installation Difficulty

Installing lower fairing speakers can be a challenging process, particularly for riders who are not experienced with electronics and wiring. Professional installation is recommended to ensure that the speakers are installed correctly and safely.

3.     Additional Weight

Adding lower fairing speakers to a motorcycle can add extra weight, which can affect the handling and performance of the bike. Riders should consider the impact on their bike’s balance and stability before adding additional weight.

Maintenance and Care for Lower Fairing Speakers

Proper maintenance and care for your lower fairing speakers can help extend their lifespan and ensure optimal performance. Here are some tips for maintaining and caring for your speakers:

1. Cleaning and Polishing: Regular cleaning of your speakers can help keep them in good condition and improve their appearance. Use a soft cloth or microfiber towel to gently wipe away any dust or debris that has accumulated on the surface of the speakers. You can also use a mild cleaning solution to remove any stubborn dirt or stains.Additionally, you may want to apply a high-quality metal or plastic polish to the surface of the speakers to help protect them and give them a shiny finish.

• Protection from Water and Dust: Lower fairing speakers are exposed to the elements while riding, so it’s important to take steps to protect them from water and dust. You can purchase speaker covers or enclosures designed specifically for your make and model motorcycle, which can help protect your speakers from rain, snow, and dust.Additionally, you can use silicone or rubber sealant around the edges of the speakers to help prevent water from seeping into the speaker housing.

• Troubleshooting and Repair: If you notice any issues with your speakers, such as distortion or a lack of sound, there may be an issue with the wiring or the speaker itself. It’s important to troubleshoot and diagnose the problem before attempting any repairs. If you are unsure how to troubleshoot your speakers, it’s best to seek professional help. Attempting to repair the speakers yourself without proper knowledge or tools can result in further damage.
• Replacement and Upgrades: Over time, your lower fairing speakers may begin to wear out or become outdated. If you notice a decline in sound quality or if your speakers are no longer functioning, it may be time to replace them.
• You can purchase replacement speakers from the same brand or model as your existing speakers or consider upgrading to higher-quality speakers for improved sound quality. Be sure to research your options and consult with a professional installer if needed to ensure that the new speakers are compatible with your motorcycle and wiring system.

Factors to Consider Before Purchasing Lower Fairing Speakers

When deciding on whether to purchase lower fairing speakers, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you make an informed decision. Some of these factors include:

1.     Budget

One of the most important factors to consider is your budget. Lower fairing speakers tend to be more expensive than traditional motorcycle speakers, so it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. You can find lower fairing speakers at various price points, but keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always be the best value.

2.     Type of Music and Listening Preferences

Your type of music and listening preferences should also be taken into consideration when purchasing lower fairing speakers. If you primarily listen to music with heavy bass, then you may want to consider a speaker with a subwoofer. On the other hand, if you prefer classical music or podcasts, then a speaker with a wider frequency range may be more suitable.

3.     Frequency and Duration of Rides

The frequency and duration of your rides will also impact your decision. If you frequently take long rides, then having high-quality audio may be a priority. If you only ride occasionally, then lower fairing speakers may not be necessary.

4.     Riding Environment and Noise Level

Consider the riding environment and noise level when deciding on whether to purchase lower fairing speakers. If you often ride in busy urban areas with a lot of traffic noise, then you may want to invest in higher quality speakers that can produce a louder, clearer sound. If you mainly ride in quieter areas, then traditional speakers may suffice.

5.     Type of Motorcycle

Finally, consider the type of motorcycle you have. Not all motorcycles are compatible with lower fairing speakers, so it’s important to check if your motorcycle is compatible with the speakers you are considering. Additionally, if you have a smaller motorcycle, then the additional weight of the speakers may negatively impact the handling and performance of your bike.

Final Thoughts

Lower fairing speakers can greatly enhance your audio experience while riding a motorcycle. They provide better sound quality, improved bass response, increased volume, and an overall enhanced music listening experience.

However, there are also some downsides to consider, such as the cost, installation difficulty, and additional weight.

Conclusion

When deciding on whether to purchase lower fairing speakers, consider your budget, type of music and listening preferences, frequency and duration of rides, riding environment, noise level, and the type of motorcycle you have. By taking all of these factors into account, you can make an informed decision on whether lower fairing speakers are worth it for you.

Overall, lower fairing speakers can provide a high-quality audio experience that can greatly enhance your riding experience. With so many options available on the market, it’s important to research and compares different brands and models to find the best option for you.

FAQs

What size speakers are in a Harley Street Glide fairing?

The Harley Street Glide fairing houses J&M’s ROKKER XRP series 6.58″ speakers that are specifically designed as direct replacements for the original 6.5″ speakers. These are installed on various Harley models, including the 2014-2022 StreetGlide, Ultra, Ultra Ltd, CVO Ultra, and Tri-Glide. It’s important to note that these speakers come with an impedance of 2 ohms and can handle a peak input of 200 watts (130w RMS), offering a pretty impressive sensitivity of 91db.

Over my years as a motorcycle enthusiast, I've had the chance to experience the output of these speakers, and I must say they offer a fantastic sound output. The one time I recall vividly was during a local rally where my pal had them installed on his 2015 Harley Ultra. You could hear the clear and powerful sound from these speakers over the roaring engines which in itself is a testament to their performance.

Going by the quality that J&M imbues in its products, and considering my personal experience, these speakers are in line with the high standards set by Harley-davidson. So whether you're a audio perfectionist looking to upgrade your ride's audio or simply replacing a malfunctioned speaker, these are definitely worth a shot.