Soundstream Reserve V2 vs WHD14+: Which Harley Touring Head Unit Is Right for You?

Which Head Unit Is Right for Your Harley-Davidson Touring Bike?

Replacing the factory radio in your Harley-Davidson Touring model isn't just about better sound — it's about modern connectivity, clearer displays, reliable integration with your bike's systems, and audio that actually works at highway speeds in Australian conditions.

At Motorcycle Audio Australia, we specialise in motorcycle-specific audio systems. These aren't car stereos adapted for bikes — they're purpose-built for constant vibration, electrical noise, extreme temperatures, and weather exposure that would kill consumer electronics in weeks.

We carry two Soundstream head units engineered specifically for 2014–2023 Harley-Davidson Touring motorcycles:

• Soundstream Reserve V2 — the flagship system for serious touring riders
• Soundstream WHD14+ — a clean, modern upgrade for riders who value simplicity

Both are true plug-and-play replacements that work with factory wiring and mounting points. But they serve different riders and different priorities.

Here's everything you need to know to choose the right one.

Quick Comparison: Reserve V2 vs WHD14+

Why Motorcycle-Specific Matters

Before diving into which unit fits your needs, here's why we don't sell car audio for motorcycles:

Vibration resistance: Motorcycles vibrate constantly. These units use reinforced circuit boards, vibration-damped assemblies, and solid-state components designed for this environment.

Electrical noise filtering: Harley alternators and ignition systems generate massive electrical interference. Motorcycle head units include filtered power supplies and shielded circuitry to reduce noise in your audio.

Temperature extremes: Australian fairings can hit 60°C+ in summer. These units use automotive-grade components rated for -20°C to +85°C operation — not consumer electronics that fail above 40°C.

Weather protection: IPX5 rating means sealed housings and weather-resistant construction. Rain, road spray, dust — these units are designed to handle it.

Integration with your bike: This is critical. With the correct iDatalink Maestro interface, these units can communicate with your Harley's CANBUS system to retain controls, support factory amplifier setups (where applicable), and display motorcycle data and warnings.

Display & Visibility: What You See While Riding

Soundstream Reserve V2

The Reserve V2 features an 8.3-inch HD widescreen with 1000 NIT ultra-bright backlight — a huge advantage for Australian riders dealing with harsh midday glare.

• 1000 NIT brightness stays readable in direct sun
• Anti-glare coating helps minimise reflections
• Wide viewing angles stay readable as your position shifts
• Fast touchscreen response works reliably with gloves

Soundstream WHD14+

The WHD14+ uses a 7-inch optically bonded QLCD display — the same size as the factory HD GTS unit, but the bonding makes it look noticeably sharper and clearer.

Optical bonding reduces internal reflections and improves clarity, impact resistance, and colour accuracy.

Connectivity: Modern Tech on Two Wheels

One important note about microphones (both units)

If your Harley has a factory microphone, it typically will not plug straight into these head units. You’ll use the included Soundstream microphone (or an appropriate adapter, if available for a specific install).

Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto — plus a smart “long ride” tip

Both head units support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For long days in the saddle, you can still plug into the factory USB in the jukebox/cubby for charging and, in some cases, a more stable connection (especially on 10+ hour rides).

Soundstream Reserve V2

Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Your phone connects wirelessly when you start the bike. Maps, music, messages, calls — all through the head unit’s interface without cables.

Navigation Options

• Phone-based navigation (Apple Maps, Google Maps, Waze) — download offline regions for areas with poor coverage
• iGo Primo navigation support — AU mapping can be added separately (ideal as an offline touring backup)

Map updates (iGo): when configured, iGo map updates are typically managed via the Naviextras portal, so expectations are clear on the update process.

Wireless Headset Integration
The Reserve V2 can connect directly to Cardo, Sena, and other Bluetooth headsets, routing music, navigation prompts, and calls through your helmet system.

Rally Mode (Music Sharing)
Connect multiple Reserve V2-equipped bikes wirelessly to share music. Perfect for bike nights and slow cruising into events with your mates — everyone hears the same playlist synchronised. (Not intended for highway riding.)

Soundstream WHD14+

Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Same wireless smartphone integration as the Reserve V2. Your phone handles navigation and music streaming.

Phone-Based Navigation
Apple Maps and Google Maps support offline downloads. Download regions before you leave and you’re set when coverage drops.

Bluetooth 5.0
High-quality wireless audio streaming and hands-free calling.

The difference: No built-in GPS option, no headset integration, no Rally Mode. If you don't need those features, you’re not paying for them.

Audio Performance: What Matters at Highway Speeds

Soundstream Reserve V2

200W total built-in 4-channel amplifier (2Ω stable)
A stronger built-in amp helps keep music clear at speed — where wind noise is the enemy.

15-Band EQ + Active Crossovers
More tuning control for fairing acoustics and real-world riding conditions.

4V Pre-Amp Outputs
Front, rear, and subwoofer RCA outputs for clean integration with external amplifiers and multi-amp builds.

Soundstream WHD14+

Built-in Class D 4-channel amplifier (2Ω stable)
Efficient, clean amplification for a straightforward speaker upgrade — and a great platform if you plan to add amps later.

13-Band EQ + Active Crossovers
Solid tuning control, including crossover management.

5V Pre-Amp Outputs
A slightly hotter signal for external amps — a great detail for system builders.

Motorcycle Integration: The Critical Component

Harley Touring bikes use CANBUS. For full functionality, you need proper integration between the head unit and your bike’s electronics.

Soundstream Reserve V2

Requires iDatalink Maestro integration (RR/RR2) for full bar control + GTS-style integration

• Handlebar controls (including advanced navigation control on compatible bikes)
• Factory amplifier integration (bike/audio package dependent)
• GTS-style motorcycle data & gauges (setup dependent)
• On-screen warnings (where supported)

Soundstream WHD14+

Basic bar controls built-in — full GTS-style integration via WHD.UNLOC (Maestro RR2)

The WHD14+ supports basic resistor-based handlebar inputs out of the box (volume/track/source/mute). For the full “GTS experience” (data, gauges, warnings, factory amp integration and advanced controls), you step up to the WHD.UNLOC kit which adds the Maestro RR2 and the required hardware/software pieces.

Installation: True Plug-and-Play

Both units are designed as plug-and-play replacements using factory mounting points and Harley-specific harnessing.

• No cutting
• No splicing
• No permanent modifications

Final Recommendation: Which One Is Right for You?

Both the Soundstream Reserve V2 and WHD14+ are excellent head units. The question isn't "which one is better" — it's "which one is better for you?"

Choose Soundstream Reserve V2 if you:

• Tour long distances regularly
• Want premium visibility (1000 NIT) and flagship features
• Want headset integration and Rally Mode
• Are building a bigger audio system and want more tuning depth
• Want optional offline navigation solutions beyond your phone
• Prefer the longest warranty (5 years)

Choose Soundstream WHD14+ if you:

• Want a clean, modern replacement for an ageing factory radio
• Prefer phone-based navigation and daily simplicity
• Want basic handlebar control functionality without spending flagship money
• Want strong pre-out voltage (5V) for future amp builds
• Plan to add full GTS-style integration later via WHD.UNLOC (if/when you need it)

Ready to Upgrade?

Need help deciding? Contact us — we’ll talk through your bike, your current audio package, and what you actually want from the system, then recommend the right path.

Motorcycle Audio Australia
Motorcycle audio systems from people who actually ride motorcycles.

We don't sell car stereos. We sell motorcycle audio systems purpose-built for the conditions you ride in. There's a difference — and you hear it every time you start the bike.