Ever cruise down the road on your motorcycle, only to feel like your music is just a whisper? You crank up the volume, but the bass still sounds weak, or maybe it’s just gone entirely. It’s a bummer when your favorite tunes don’t hit you with the power they deserve. Finding the perfect subwoofer for your motorcycle can feel like navigating a maze, with so many choices and technical jargon that makes your head spin.
But what if you could transform your rides into a concert on wheels? What if you could feel the rumble of the bass as you lean into a curve, making every journey more exciting? This post is here to help you do just that. We’ll break down what makes a great motorcycle subwoofer and guide you through the process of picking the best one for your ride.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly what to look for, from size and power to how it fits your bike. Get ready to ditch the weak sound and start enjoying your music like never before. Let’s dive into the world of motorcycle subwoofers and find the one that will make your rides truly sing!
Our Top 5 Subwoofer For Motorcycle Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Subwoofer For Motorcycle Detailed Reviews
1. BOSS Audio Systems BASS10 10 Inch Powered Under Seat Car Subwoofer – 1000 Watts Max
Rating: 9.1/10
Want to add some serious bass to your car without taking up a ton of space? The BOSS Audio Systems BASS10 10 Inch Powered Under Seat Car Subwoofer is your answer. This compact powerhouse packs a punch with 1000 watts of max power, all in a slim design that fits neatly under your seat. It’s the perfect solution for cars where space is tight.
What We Like:
- Space Saver: Its slim, all-in-one design with a built-in amplifier makes it ideal for cars with limited space.
- Easy to Tune: You can adjust the bass to your liking with the variable bass boost and control unwanted high notes using the variable low-pass filter.
- Flexible Connectivity: It has both high-level (speaker) and low-level (RCA) inputs, so it connects easily to almost any car stereo, factory or aftermarket.
- Reliable Power: The Pulse Width Modulated power supply ensures efficient and stable power delivery.
- Built Tough: Features a high-performance voice coil, rubber surround, and aluminum cone for durability.
- Protection Built-In: It includes thermal, short, and overload protection to keep it safe.
- Peace of Mind: Comes with a 3-Year Platinum Online Dealer Warranty when purchased through Amazon.com.
What Could Be Improved:
- Professional Installation Recommended: For the best and safest performance, professional installation is strongly encouraged.
This BOSS Audio subwoofer delivers impressive sound in a compact package. It’s a fantastic way to upgrade your car’s audio system without sacrificing valuable space.
2. Polk Audio DB842 SVC – DB+ Series 8″ Shallow Subwoofer for Marine/Car Sound System
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready to feel the bass with the Polk Audio DB842 SVC – DB+ Series 8″ Shallow Subwoofer! This powerful little speaker packs a punch for both your car and boat sound systems. Its compact design makes it a great fit for tight spaces, but don’t let its size fool you – it’s built to deliver deep, hard-hitting bass.
What We Like:
- Powerful Bass: This subwoofer brings serious low-end sound to your audio system, making your music sound more exciting.
- Built Tough: It’s marine-certified, meaning it can handle splashes and tough weather. It’s also made with strong materials like a polypropylene woofer cone and a durable Santoprene surround that can handle lots of power.
- Clear Sound: Polk’s special Dynamic Balance Technology helps reduce distortion, so you get clean, clear bass.
- Versatile Use: It’s great for cars, but also perfect for boats, motorcycles, and ATVs.
- Wallet-Friendly: You get great sound and quality without breaking the bank.
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific Power Handling: While it has a peak power of 750W, knowing the RMS (continuous) power would be helpful for some users.
- Shallow Mount Details: More specific mounting depth and enclosure volume recommendations would be beneficial for custom installations.
If you want to upgrade your car or marine audio with impressive bass, the Polk Audio DB842 SVC is a fantastic and affordable option.
3. Rockford Fosgate HD14-SBSUB Dual 10″ Saddlebag Subwoofer & Amplifier Kit for Select 2014+ Harley Davidson Motorcycles
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to feel the rumble! The Rockford Fosgate HD14-SBSUB Dual 10″ Saddlebag Subwoofer & Amplifier Kit is here to bring serious bass to your ride. This kit is designed specifically for select 2014 and newer Harley-Davidson motorcycles, letting you add powerful 800-watt sound without sacrificing storage space. It’s built for an awesome on-bike bass experience that you can even enjoy at highway speeds.
What We Like:
- Full-throttle bass: Experience powerful sound that makes your music come alive.
- Easy installation: The kit includes everything needed for a simple plug-and-play setup.
- Smart design: You can easily remove the woofers without tools when you need more space.
- Built for Harley: Perfectly fits factory 2014+ Harley-Davidson hardshell bags.
- Reliable quality: Backed by Rockford Fosgate’s famous build quality and a 2-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- Compatibility: Only works with specific Harley-Davidson models (check the compatibility chart).
- Requires existing system: Designed to work with your current Rockford Fosgate audio setup.
This kit delivers the bass you’ve been missing for your Harley. Upgrade your ride and feel the difference with this impressive audio solution.
4. SPL Bagger Audio Harley Saddlebag 10″ Mid-mount Inside Speaker Adapter Mounting Rings & Install Kit 2014-2022
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your Harley’s sound system with the SPL Bagger Audio Harley Saddlebag 10″ Mid-mount Inside Speaker Adapter Mounting Rings & Install Kit. This kit lets you add powerful 10-inch speakers inside your saddlebags for an awesome audio experience on the road. SPL Bagger Audio makes top-quality speakers designed specifically for Harley Davidson saddlebags. They fit perfectly and deliver great sound. These mounts work with many Harley touring bikes from 2014 to 2022. They are made from tough metal and soft leather, so they look good and last a long time. Everything you need for an easy install is included.
What We Like:
- High-quality SPL Bagger Audio speakers designed for a perfect fit.
- Works with many Harley Davidson touring bikes (2014-2022).
- Durable construction with premium leather and metal.
- Easy installation with all parts and instructions provided.
- Enhances your motorcycle’s audio system significantly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The kit is specific to 10-inch speakers, limiting speaker choice.
- While installation is easy, some riders might prefer more detailed visual guides.
This kit is a fantastic way to boost your bike’s sound. It provides a clean look and impressive audio quality for your rides.
5. RECOIL SL1708 8″ Under Seat Slim Amplified Car Subwoofer with 99.99% Oxygen Free Copper Installation Wiring Kits
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready to feel the bass! The RECOIL SL1708 is an 8-inch under-seat amplified car subwoofer that’s designed to fit almost anywhere in your car. Its super slim profile means you can slide it under your seat or tuck it away in your trunk. This subwoofer comes with everything you need for installation, including high-quality wiring kits. It’s a great way to upgrade your car’s sound system and add some serious boom to your music.
What We Like:
- Super Slim Design: At only 3.1 inches tall, it fits easily under most car seats or in tight trunk spaces.
- Easy Installation: It works with both aftermarket and factory car stereos, thanks to its RCA and high-level inputs with auto turn-on.
- Powerful Sound: Delivers 240 watts of peak power and 120 watts RMS for a noticeable bass boost.
- Customizable Bass: Adjust the low-pass filter and bass boost to get the sound you want.
- Included Remote: Control the subwoofer’s level right from your driver’s seat with the included remote.
- Built-in Protection: Features circuits to protect against overheating and short circuits.
- One-Year Warranty: If you have quality issues within the first year, you get a direct replacement.
What Could Be Improved:
- 8-inch Size: While compact, serious bass heads might prefer a larger subwoofer for deeper, more impactful low-end.
The RECOIL SL1708 is a fantastic option for anyone looking to add satisfying bass to their car without sacrificing space. It’s a user-friendly and effective upgrade for your audio experience.
Choosing the Right Subwoofer for Your Motorcycle
Riding your motorcycle with great music is an awesome experience. A good subwoofer makes the sound even better. It adds deep bass that you can feel. This guide will help you pick the perfect subwoofer for your ride.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a motorcycle subwoofer, check these things:
- Size: Subwoofers come in different sizes. Smaller ones fit easily in saddlebags or under seats. Bigger ones might need more space. Make sure it fits where you want to put it.
- Power (RMS): This tells you how much power the subwoofer can handle. More power usually means louder and clearer sound.
- Sensitivity: This shows how loud the subwoofer plays with a certain amount of power. Higher sensitivity means it plays louder with less power.
- Impedance: This is how much the subwoofer resists electricity. It needs to match your amplifier. Most motorcycle systems use 4 ohms.
- Durability: Motorcycles are outside. Your subwoofer needs to be tough. Look for water-resistant or waterproof features.
Important Materials
The materials used in a subwoofer affect its sound and how long it lasts.
- Cone Material: The cone moves air to make sound. Common materials are paper, polypropylene, or a mix. Polypropylene is strong and good for water resistance.
- Surround Material: The surround connects the cone to the basket. Rubber or foam are common. Rubber is more durable and better for outdoor use.
- Basket Material: The basket holds everything together. Steel is strong.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a subwoofer sound better, while others can make it sound worse.
- Enclosure: The box the subwoofer sits in is important. A good enclosure helps the subwoofer make the best sound. Some subwoofers come with their own small enclosure.
- Weatherproofing: If your subwoofer can handle rain and dust, it will last longer and sound good in any weather. This is very important for motorcycles.
- Amplifier Match: Your subwoofer needs an amplifier. Make sure the amplifier has enough power and the right impedance for your subwoofer. If they don’t match, the sound won’t be as good, and you could damage the equipment.
- Installation: A poor installation can make even the best subwoofer sound bad. Make sure it’s mounted securely and wired correctly.
User Experience and Use Cases
People use motorcycle subwoofers for different reasons.
- Cruising: Many riders like to have music on long trips. A subwoofer adds depth to the music, making the ride more enjoyable.
- Commuting: Even for shorter rides, a subwoofer can make your commute more fun.
- Custom Builds: Some riders build custom sound systems for their bikes. A subwoofer is a key part of a powerful system.
When choosing, think about how you ride and what kind of music you like. A good subwoofer can really change your riding experience!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Motorcycle Subwoofers
Q: What is the main purpose of a subwoofer on a motorcycle?
A: The main purpose is to add deep bass and make music sound fuller and more powerful. It makes listening to music while riding much more enjoyable.
Q: How big should a motorcycle subwoofer be?
A: Sizes vary, but common ones are 6.5 inches or 8 inches. The size you choose depends on the space you have on your motorcycle and how much bass you want.
Q: Do I need a special amplifier for a motorcycle subwoofer?
A: Yes, you usually need an amplifier. The amplifier powers the subwoofer. Make sure the amplifier’s power output and impedance match your subwoofer’s needs.
Q: Are motorcycle subwoofers waterproof?
A: Many are designed to be water-resistant or waterproof to handle rain and splashes. Always check the product details for weatherproofing information.
Q: Can I install a subwoofer myself?
A: Yes, many people install them themselves. However, it requires some knowledge of wiring and mounting. If you’re not comfortable, it’s best to have a professional do it.
Q: Will a subwoofer drain my motorcycle’s battery?
A: A subwoofer uses extra power. If your motorcycle’s electrical system is weak or you add many accessories, it could drain the battery. It’s good to check your bike’s charging system.
Q: What is RMS power, and why is it important?
A: RMS power stands for Root Mean Square. It tells you the continuous power a subwoofer can handle. Higher RMS power generally means a louder and more reliable subwoofer.
Q: How does impedance affect my subwoofer?
A: Impedance is resistance to electrical current. It’s measured in ohms. Your subwoofer’s impedance must match your amplifier’s output to avoid damage and get the best sound.
Q: Can I use a car subwoofer on my motorcycle?
A: While possible, car subwoofers are usually larger and need more power than a motorcycle system can easily provide. Motorcycle-specific subwoofers are designed for these limitations.
Q: What kind of enclosure is best for a motorcycle subwoofer?
A: Sealed or ported enclosures are common. Sealed enclosures offer tight, accurate bass. Ported enclosures can produce louder, deeper bass. Some subwoofers come in compact, ready-to-install enclosures.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.