Harley Trike Audio (2009–2013)
Harley-Davidson Trike Audio Upgrades — 2009 to 2013
The 2009–2013 models represent the first generation of Harley-Davidson's modern Touring trikes, and their audio systems are different from the Boom! Box platform that arrived for 2014. The 2009–2013 Tri Glide® Ultra Classic (FLHTCUTG) uses Harley's Advanced Audio system with four 5.25-inch speakers — a pair in the fairing and a pair at the rear. The 2010–2011 Street Glide® Trike (FLHXXX) uses a simpler two-speaker fairing system. Both have useful speaker, amplifier and head-unit upgrade paths, but the parts need to be matched to this earlier platform rather than assumed from a later Touring bike.
These bikes can respond very well to an audio upgrade, but the system needs to be matched to the correct factory layout. Speakers, amplifiers, wiring and mounting hardware from later Boom! Box bikes do not automatically transfer across. Some systems can be upgraded with complete platform-specific kits, while others are better built from matched components around the bike, the existing radio and the level of performance you want.
What Matters on These Trikes
- Advanced Audio, not Boom! Box: 2009–2013 trikes use Harley's earlier Advanced Audio architecture, so integration parts intended for 2014 and newer Boom! Box bikes do not automatically apply.
- Two different factory layouts: the Tri Glide Ultra Classic uses four 5.25-inch speakers, while the Street Glide Trike uses a two-speaker fairing system.
- Proper amplification makes a major difference: adding clean amplifier power allows upgraded speakers to deliver more usable output, clarity and control at riding speed.
- No saddlebag-based system planning: these trikes use their own factory speaker locations, so saddlebag speaker kits and lid conversions from two-wheel Touring builds are not part of the system.
- Sensible power for an older platform: amplifier choice should take the bike's electrical system and overall system load into account rather than simply chasing the largest amplifier available.
FAQ
Is a 2009–2013 trike the same as a 2014 one for audio?
No. The 2014 model year introduced the Boom! Box platform and a different audio integration path. The 2009–2013 trikes use Harley's earlier Advanced Audio system, so many harnesses, interfaces and mounting solutions designed for later bikes do not apply. If you have a later model, see our 2014–2025 Harley-Davidson Trike Audio Upgrades.
What size speakers are in a 2009–2013 Tri Glide Ultra Classic?
The 2009–2013 Tri Glide Ultra Classic has four factory 5.25-inch speakers — two in the fairing and two at the rear. The 2010–2011 Street Glide Trike has two 5.25-inch fairing speakers and no factory rear speaker position.
Do I need an amplifier when upgrading the speakers?
Not necessarily, but amplification is one of the most effective upgrades on these bikes. Replacement speakers can improve clarity and durability on their own, while a properly matched amplifier gives them the clean power needed to produce substantially more usable volume and control at riding speed.
Can I replace the factory radio?
Yes, but the correct head unit and integration parts depend on the year, model and system you are building. Replacing the factory radio can also change how the amplifier, handlebar controls and other factory functions are integrated, so it is worth planning the complete signal path before ordering components.
Can you build a complete audio system for one of these trikes?
Yes. Some 2009–2013 trikes can use complete platform-specific kits, while others are better assembled from matched speakers, amplification, wiring and source components. Send us your year, model, current audio setup and what you want the system to achieve and we can help plan the right combination.
Planning an audio upgrade on a 2009–2013 Harley-Davidson trike? Contact Motorcycle Audio Australia with your year, model and current audio setup and we'll tell you honestly what is worth doing, what fits and what it takes to build the system properly.
