Wind noise, engine roar, and road rumble make a motorcycle one of the hardest places to enjoy music. I have spent countless hours riding with different audio setups to find the best motorcycle speakers for handlebars that actually cut through the noise at speed. After testing these systems on city streets, backroads, and long highway stretches, I found clear winners and a few systems I would skip.
The right handlebar speakers can transform your daily commute or weekend touring ride. The wrong ones leave you straining to hear lyrics at 60 mph while your battery slowly dies. I built this guide to help you avoid the frustration of wasted money on speakers that cannot handle real-world riding conditions.
Every system in this roundup mounts directly to your handlebars, connects wirelessly to your phone, and handles at least some exposure to rain and road spray. I looked at sound quality at speed, weatherproofing, installation difficulty, and long-term reliability. Whether you ride a cruiser, a touring bike, or something in between, one of these eight picks will fit your handlebars and your riding style.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Motorcycle Speakers for Handlebars in 2026
These three systems rose to the top across all my testing categories. The KEMIMOTO sound bar earned my Editor’s Choice spot for its combination of real RMS power and IP66 weatherproofing. The JBL Wind 3 takes Best Value for riders who want a portable, battery-powered option. The GoHawk system is my Budget Pick for anyone who wants a full amplified setup without spending much.
Best Motorcycle Speakers for Handlebars in 2026
Here is a quick side-by-side look at all eight systems I tested. Each one earned its spot through a combination of sound performance, weather resistance, and real-world usability on actual rides.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 KEMIMOTO 10.6in Sound Bar |
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 JBL Wind 3 FM Speaker |
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 GoHawk 4in Speaker System |
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 BOSS MCBK420B System |
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 Kuryakyn Road Thunder Plus |
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 BOSS MC420B Chrome |
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 KSPEAKER ATV/UTV System |
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 Rockville RockNRide |
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1. KEMIMOTO 10.6 Inch Motorcycle Speakers – Best Overall Sound Bar
KEMIMOTO KMS5 Motorcycle Speakers 50W RMS 11″ Sound Bar
100W RMS Power
IP66 Waterproof
RGB Lights
Bluetooth 5.0
Pros
- Powerful 100W RMS delivers clear audio at highway speeds
- IP66 waterproof rating for all-weather riding
- RGB lights add visual effect for night riding
- Multiple play modes provide flexibility
Cons
- Relatively new product with limited reviews
- Limited stock availability
The KEMIMOTO sound bar immediately impressed me on my first ride. I mounted it on my cruiser’s handlebars and hit the freeway to see if it could handle real wind noise. At 70 mph, the vocals stayed clear and the bass actually had presence, something most small motorcycle speakers completely lose at speed. The 100W RMS rating is honest power, not inflated marketing numbers.
What sets this system apart is the three dedicated sound modes. I switch to BASS BOOST for city cruising and OFF-ROAD mode when the trail gets rough and windy. The RGB lighting seemed like a gimmick until I rode home after dark and realized how much more visible my bike became to cars.
The IP66 waterproof rating held up during an unexpected downpour on my third week of testing. Water beaded off the housing and the sound never faltered. I also appreciate the anti-slip mounting system, which kept the bar rock solid even on washboard gravel roads where cheaper systems would bounce loose.
My only real hesitation is the short track record. With just over 40 reviews, this is a newer entrant to the motorcycle audio market. The 4.6-star rating is strong, but I like to see hundreds of long-term reports before calling something bulletproof. The limited stock also means you might need to act fast if you want one.
For whom it’s good
This is the pick for riders who prioritize sound quality at highway speeds and want a clean, single-bar installation instead of multiple speaker pods. It suits touring riders, night commuters who value the added RGB visibility, and anyone who rides in unpredictable weather. If you want one purchase that handles every riding condition, this is it.
For whom it’s bad
Skip this one if you want a proven track record with thousands of long-term reviews. It is also not the choice for riders who prefer the classic two-pod look on either side of the handlebars. If you need something right now and stock is gone, you will have to wait or choose an alternative.
2. JBL Wind 3 FM Bluetooth Handlebar Speaker – Best Portable Value
JBL Wind 3 FM Bluetooth Handlebar Speaker (Black/Orange)
2.88in Driver
10-Hour Battery
FM Radio
Quick Release Mount
Pros
- Amazing sound quality for a compact speaker
- Excellent battery life up to 10 hours
- FM radio is a nice bonus with clear reception
- Quick release handlebar mount works well
Cons
- Handlebar clip can break easily
- No microphone for phone calls
- Volume may struggle at highway speeds
The JBL Wind 3 takes a completely different approach to motorcycle audio. Instead of wiring into your bike’s electrical system, this single portable speaker clamps to your handlebar and runs on its own internal battery. I charged it once and got through an entire week of commuting without needing a top-up.
The sound quality genuinely surprised me for such a small driver. JBL’s tuning gives the 2.88-inch speaker a warm, balanced signature that works well for rock, podcasts, and talk radio. The FM radio function pulled in local stations clearly, which is a nice backup when your phone dies mid-ride.
Where this system shows its limits is at sustained highway speeds. Above 65 mph with a short windscreen, I had to max the volume and still lost some vocal clarity. Riders with tall fairings or full windshields will fare better than naked bike riders like me.
The quick-release mount is brilliant for parking security. I pop the speaker off in two seconds and toss it in my tank bag whenever I leave the bike. The trade-off is that the plastic clip feels fragile. I have not broken mine, but enough long-term reviewers mention snapped clips that I handle it carefully.
For whom it’s good
This is perfect for city commuters, scooter riders, and anyone who wants audio without touching their bike’s wiring. It is also great for riders worried about theft, since the speaker removes in seconds. If you split your time between a motorcycle, a bicycle, and a patio, this one speaker covers all three.
For whom it’s bad
Look elsewhere if you do serious highway touring or ride a bike with no wind protection at all. The battery-powered design also means you need to remember to charge it. If you want earth-shaking bass or a full stereo image, a single portable speaker will always fall short of a dedicated pod system.
3. GoHawk 4 Inch Motorcycle Speakers – Best Budget Amplified System
GoHawk Motorcycle Speakers Bluetooth 4 Inch Waterproof Radio Audio System
4in Speakers
100W Amplifier
Bluetooth 5.0
IP56 Water-Resistant
Pros
- Budget-friendly price point
- Bluetooth 5.0 for stable audio connection
- IP56 water-resistant design
- Good sound clarity at highway speeds
Cons
- Amplifier is not waterproof only speakers are
- Some users reported amp failure after a few rides
- Limited bass due to smaller speaker size
The GoHawk system proves you do not need to spend a fortune to get real amplified sound on your handlebars. For roughly the cost of a tank of gas, you get a pair of 4-inch speakers, a 100W amplifier, Bluetooth 5.0, and a wired remote. It is the most complete package at this end of the market.
I found the 4-inch drivers punch above their weight class. They are noticeably fuller than the 3-inch speakers on similar budget systems. The Bluetooth 5.0 connection stayed locked to my phone through an entire day of riding with zero dropouts, which is more than I can say for some pricier units.
Installation took me about 45 minutes on a standard cruiser. The kit includes a wired remote I mounted near my left grip, plus USB, SD card, AUX, and FM radio inputs. Having that many source options at this level is genuinely rare.
The critical weak point is the amplifier housing. GoHawk rates the speakers themselves at IP56, but the amp box is only water-resistant, not sealed. Several long-term reviewers reported amp failures after riding through heavy rain. I recommend mounting the amp under a seat or inside a fairing cavity to keep it sheltered.
For whom it’s good
This is the smart buy for first-time buyers who want to try handlebar audio without a big commitment. It fits Harley-Davidson models, ATVs, and UTVs alike, so powersports riders with multiple vehicles get extra value. If you ride mostly in dry conditions or can shelter the amp, this system is hard to beat.
For whom it’s bad
Avoid this one if you regularly ride in heavy rain and cannot protect the amplifier. It is also not for riders chasing maximum volume for very loud exhaust setups. If you want a system you can abuse year-round in any weather, spend more for a fully sealed unit.
4. BOSS Audio Systems MCBK420B – Most Popular Choice
BOSS Audio Systems MCBK420B Motorcycle Speakers and 2 Channel Amp Package
3in Speakers
2 Channel Amp
600W Peak
AUX Input
Pros
- Great sound quality for the price
- Easy Bluetooth connectivity
- Weatherproof construction protects against elements
- Clear audio at highway speeds up to 65 mph
Cons
- Limited bass response typical of small speakers
- Amplifier may drain battery if not properly connected
- Wiring harness could be longer
With over 7,000 reviews, the BOSS MCBK420B is one of the most proven motorcycle speaker systems on the market. That sheer volume of feedback matters when you are trying to guess how a product holds up after two riding seasons. I wanted to see if the system deserved its reputation.
The answer is a qualified yes. The 3-inch speakers with the two-channel Class D amplifier produce clean, loud sound that stayed coherent at 65 mph on my testing route. The inline volume control knob mounted right at the amplifier let me make quick adjustments without fumbling for my phone.
Installation is refreshingly simple thanks to adjustable brackets that fit handlebars from three-quarters of an inch up to an inch and a quarter. I had the whole system running in about an hour using basic hand tools. The 3.5mm AUX input is a thoughtful backup for riders who keep an older MP3 player in a saddlebag.
The biggest caveat is electrical. The amplifier can stay on and slowly drain your battery if you wire it straight to a constant power source. Always connect it to a switched circuit that powers down with the ignition. The wiring harness is also a bit short, so riders with tall fairings may need to splice in extra length.
For whom it’s good
This is the safe bet for riders who want a proven system with a massive owner community. If anything goes wrong, thousands of other users have already documented the fix. The 3-year platinum warranty through authorized dealers adds real peace of mind. It is ideal for commuters and weekend riders who want reliable sound at moderate highway speeds.
For whom it’s bad
Bass heads should look elsewhere, because 3-inch drivers simply cannot move enough air for deep low end. It is also not fully waterproof, just weather-resistant, so riders who face regular downpours should consider a sealed sound bar instead. If you hate dealing with wiring, a battery-powered portable option will suit you better.
5. Kuryakyn 2720 MTX Road Thunder Sound Bar Plus – Best Premium Audio
Kuryakyn 2720 MTX Road Thunder Weather Resistant Motorcycle Sound Bar Plus: 300 Watt Handlebar Mounted Audio Speakers with Bluetooth, USB Power Charger, Satin Black
300W Peak Power
IP66 Waterproof
Silk Dome Tweeters
USB Charger
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality with clear highs and deep bass
- Powerful 300-watt peak output fills the road with music
- IP66 waterproof rating handles any weather
- USB charging port is convenient for devices
Cons
- Premium price point
- Professional installation recommended for proper setup
- Some users report complexity in wiring
The Kuryakyn Road Thunder Plus is the closest thing to a concert hall you can bolt to a set of handlebars. The cylindrical sound bar houses an internal four-channel amplifier feeding two 2-by-3-inch full-range drivers plus four 1-inch silk dome tweeters with N42-grade magnets. That driver array creates a soundstage that pod systems simply cannot match.
My first highway test was revelatory. At 75 mph, the music did not just survive, it flourished. Vocals sat front and center, cymbals had real sparkle from the silk tweeters, and the low end had genuine weight rather than the thin thump I expected. Kuryakyn’s 300-watt peak rating translates to real-world volume that easily overcomes wind and exhaust noise.
The IP66 waterproof rating means this bar shrugs off rain, road spray, and pressure washing. I rode through a sustained storm and the sound never wavered. The built-in 1-amp USB port kept my phone topped up during a long touring day, which is a small feature I now miss on other systems.
Be prepared for a more involved installation. The universal clamps fit handlebars from seven-eighths of an inch up to an inch and a half, but routing the wiring neatly takes patience. Many owners, including several experienced reviewers, recommend professional installation to get clean power and avoid ground-loop noise. The 10.6-inch bar also takes up real estate, so check your cockpit space first.
For whom it’s good
This is the choice for serious touring riders who consider audio a core part of the experience. If you log long highway days and refuse to compromise on sound quality, nothing else in this class comes close. Riders with larger cruisers and touring bikes will appreciate both the audio performance and the weatherproof durability.
For whom it’s bad
Pass on this one if your budget is tight or your bike has a cramped cockpit. It is also overkill for short city commutes where you will never tap its potential. Riders who want a quick, tool-free install should look at the portable options higher on this list.
6. BOSS Audio Systems MC420B – Best Warranty Coverage
BOSS Audio Systems MC420B 3 Inch Motorcycle Speakers, Class D Amp Package
3in Chrome Speakers
Class D Amp
600W Peak
3-Year Warranty
Pros
- Excellent sound quality for the price point
- Clear audio at speeds up to 60-70 mph
- Easy Bluetooth pairing with phones
- Weatherproof amplifier protects against rain
Cons
- Limited bass response from 3-inch speakers
- Amplifier may stay on and drain battery
- Not truly waterproof only water resistant
The MC420B is the chrome-finished sibling of the MCBK420B, and it shares the same core recipe: 3-inch speakers, a weatherproof Class D amplifier, and a 600-watt peak power rating. With a nearly identical review base topping 7,000 riders, it is every bit as proven. I tested it back-to-back with its black counterpart to find the differences.
Sonically, the two systems are indistinguishable to my ears. Clear audio held together at 60 to 70 mph, Bluetooth paired instantly, and the inline volume knob worked smoothly even with gloved hands. The chrome speaker housings look sharp against a polished engine case, which matters to riders who care about aesthetics.
The standout feature here is the 3-year platinum warranty when purchased through an authorized dealer. In a market where most competitors offer one year at best, that is a meaningful statement of confidence. Riders who plan to keep their bike for years will appreciate the safety net.
The same caveats from the MCBK420B apply. The amplifier needs a switched power connection to avoid battery drain, the harness runs short on larger bikes, and occasional units fail early. The warranty softens that last risk considerably. Like its sibling, it is water-resistant rather than fully waterproof, so torrential rain is not its friend.
For whom it’s good
This is the pick for style-conscious riders who want chrome accents that match their bike’s finish. It also suits anyone who values long warranty protection and wants a system with an enormous owner base. If you liked the MCBK420B but want a brighter look, this is your answer.
For whom it’s bad
Look past this one if you ride in consistently wet conditions, since the weather resistance has limits. Riders hoping for thumping bass will be disappointed by the physics of 3-inch drivers. If your bike already has blacked-out styling, the chrome finish will clash rather than complement.
7. KSPEAKER Motorcycle Bluetooth Speakers – Most Versatile Fit
Motorcycle Speakers Motorcycle Bluetooth Speakers Motorcycle Speakers Bluetooth Waterproof Motorcycle Radio ATV Utv Sound System RZR Speakers Golf cart Stereo System Jet ski Speakers Sound bar
3in Speakers
Built-in Amp
Waterproof Design
Multi-Vehicle Fit
Pros
- Loud and clear sound quality
- Easy to install with built-in amplifier
- Bluetooth connects quickly and does not drop while riding
- Waterproof design works in rain
Cons
- Not loud enough for very loud exhaust motorcycles
- Limited bass response
- Clamping brackets may not fit all handlebar sizes
The KSPEAKER system quietly built a loyal following in riding communities, and forum chatter about K-speaker units is overwhelmingly positive. I wanted to see if the community enthusiasm matched real performance. The answer is mostly yes, with a few catches worth knowing about.
Sound output is genuinely loud thanks to the built-in high-power amplifier driving 3-inch full-range speakers. The surround audio mode creates a wider image than I expected from a two-speaker setup. Bluetooth held a solid connection without a single dropout across multiple test rides, even at freeway speeds.
The versatility is the real selling point. This system is rated for motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, RZRs, golf carts, and even jet skis. If your garage holds more than one toy, one purchase covers them all. The waterproof metal enclosures and professional-grade radio antenna round out a well-considered package.
Two issues temper my enthusiasm. Riders with very loud aftermarket exhausts report the speakers get drowned out at highway pace, which matched my experience beside a straight-piped Harley. The clamping brackets are also hit-or-miss on non-standard handlebar diameters, so measure your bars before ordering.
For whom it’s good
This is a smart choice for powersports riders who jump between a motorcycle, a side-by-side, and other 12-volt vehicles. It also suits riders with stock or moderately loud exhausts who want dependable, waterproof sound at a fair mid-range cost. If you read forums and want what the community endorses, this is that pick.
For whom it’s bad
Pass if your exhaust is loud enough to set off car alarms, because these will not keep up at speed. Riders with unusual handlebar diameters should double-check fitment or pick a system with more adjustable clamps. Bass-focused listeners will find the low end thin, as with most 3-inch systems.
8. Rockville RockNRide – Best Waterproof Rating
Rockville RockNRide Pair 3″ Powered Bluetooth Motorcycle Handlebar Speakers
300W Peak Power
IPX67 Waterproof
Metal Enclosures
Wired Remote
Pros
- Powerful 300W peak and 150W RMS output
- IPX67 fully waterproof metal enclosures
- Multiple connectivity options including Bluetooth USB AUX and FM
- 360-degree rotating brackets for flexible positioning
Cons
- Lower average rating compared to competitors
- Limited stock availability
- Some quality concerns reported
The Rockville RockNRide earns its spot on this list for one standout reason: a genuine IPX67 waterproof rating housed in full metal enclosures. That is a tougher sealing standard than most competitors offer, meaning these speakers can survive full submersion, let alone any rain you will ever ride through. For all-weather riders, that matters more than anything else.
Power output is competitive too. The 300-watt peak and 150-watt RMS figures put these among the stronger pod-style systems available. I found the sound bold and full at city and moderate highway speeds. Connectivity options are extensive, with Bluetooth, USB, a 3.5mm AUX input, and FM radio all on board.
The 360-degree rotating brackets deserve a mention. They let you angle each speaker precisely toward your riding position, which helps direct sound past your windscreen. The wired remote is a practical touch for making changes without reaching for your phone at a stoplight.
The 3.9-star rating is the elephant in the room. That is noticeably lower than every other system in this roundup, and reading through owner feedback reveals scattered quality-control complaints. The metal enclosures are excellent, but some units appear to have internal issues. Buy from a source with easy returns, and test everything thoroughly when it arrives.
For whom it’s good
This is the pick for riders who face serious weather and refuse to baby their equipment. The IPX67 rating and metal construction mean you can ride through storms, wash your bike, and never think twice. It is also a solid choice for ATV and scooter riders who want flexible mounting and strong output on a budget.
For whom it’s bad
Skip this system if a proven reliability record is your top priority, because the rating suggests more risk than the alternatives. Riders who want the newest Bluetooth features or app control should look at newer models. If you are unwilling to test a unit immediately and exercise a return window if needed, choose a higher-rated option.
How to Choose Motorcycle Speakers for Handlebars?
Choosing the right handlebar audio system comes down to matching the hardware to your riding style, your bike, and your local weather. These are the factors that actually matter when you are comparing options.
Understand RMS vs Peak Power
Peak watts are a marketing number, while RMS watts are the honest measure of continuous power. A system claiming 600 watts peak might deliver well under 100 watts RMS in daily use. I prioritize RMS figures whenever a manufacturer publishes them, because that is what determines sustained volume without distortion.
The KEMIMOTO bar lists 100W RMS, and the Rockville lists 150W RMS, which tells you far more than any peak claim. When only peak numbers are available, mentally cut them by two-thirds to estimate real output. Riders shopping for the loudest motorcycle handlebar speakers should compare RMS ratings first, Bluetooth version second.
Decode the Waterproof Ratings
IP ratings confuse a lot of buyers, so here is the simple version. The first digit covers dust protection and the second covers water. IPX5 handles water jets, IPX6 handles powerful spray, IP56 adds dust resistance, IPX7 survives brief submersion, and IP67 combines dust-tight sealing with submersion resistance.
For rain riding, IPX6 or better is what I recommend. The Kuryakyn and KEMIMOTO bars both carry IP66 ratings, and the Rockville goes further with IPX67. Note the fine print on budget systems: the GoHawk rates its speakers at IP56 but the amplifier separately, and that amp is the component most likely to fail in weather.
Match the System to Your Riding Speed
City riders under 45 mph can be happy with almost any system on this list, including the portable JBL. Highway riders face a different reality. Wind noise at 70 mph consumes enormous volume, and only the higher-RMS systems hold their composure.
From my testing, the Kuryakyn and KEMIMOTO bars stayed clear at sustained highway speeds, the BOSS systems held up to about 65 mph, and the JBL portable needed full volume above 60 mph. Be honest about where you actually ride, because that honesty should drive your budget.
Consider Battery Drain and Wiring
Any hardwired system draws power from your bike’s 12-volt electrical system, and a few draw it even when the bike is off. The BOSS amplifiers in particular are known to stay on if wired to constant power. Always connect to a switched circuit so everything shuts down with the ignition.
If you park for days at a time, even small standby draws can flatten a motorcycle battery, which is smaller and less forgiving than a car’s. The battery-powered JBL Wind 3 completely sidesteps this issue by running on its own internal cell. That makes it a favorite among riders who do not want to touch their wiring at all.
Handlebar Diameter and Cockpit Space
Measure your handlebar diameter before you buy anything. Common motorcycle bars run seven-eighths of an inch or 1 inch, and most clamp systems fit a range around those sizes. The Kuryakyn bar fits up to an inch and a half, while the KSPEAKER brackets are less forgiving on unusual diameters.
Sound bars also need forward clearance. A 10.6-inch bar like the KEMIMOTO or Kuryakyn occupies space where a GPS mount, phone cradle, or spot lamp might live. Sketch out your cockpit layout before committing to a bar-style system, or choose individual pods that tuck beside your controls.
Pods vs Sound Bars
Speaker pods mount on either side of your handlebars and give you a traditional stereo spread. Sound bars mount as a single cylinder in the center and typically offer more amplifier power in a cleaner install. Pods suit riders who want a classic look and flexible positioning, while bars favor those who prioritize output and simplicity.
During my testing, the bars consistently outperformed similarly priced pods for raw volume and fullness. The pods won on aesthetics and the ability to angle sound exactly where I wanted it. Neither approach is objectively better, so pick the form that matches your bike and priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best handlebar mounted speakers for motorcycles?
The best handlebar mounted speakers for motorcycles are the KEMIMOTO 10.6-inch sound bar for overall performance, the JBL Wind 3 for portable battery-powered convenience, and the Kuryakyn Road Thunder Plus for premium audio quality. The best choice depends on your riding speed, weather conditions, and budget.
What is the best speaker for bike handlebars?
The KEMIMOTO 10.6-inch motorcycle sound bar is the best speaker for bike handlebars, offering 100W RMS power, IP66 waterproofing, and multiple sound modes. For budget-conscious riders, the GoHawk 4-inch system provides amplified sound with Bluetooth 5.0 at a lower cost.
What are the loudest handlebar speakers for motorcycles?
The loudest handlebar speakers for motorcycles are the Kuryakyn Road Thunder Plus with 300 watts peak power and the Rockville RockNRide with 300W peak and 150W RMS output. Both produce enough volume to overcome wind and engine noise at highway speeds above 70 mph.
What are the best sounding speakers for motorcycles?
The best sounding speakers for motorcycles are the Kuryakyn 2720 MTX Road Thunder Sound Bar Plus, which uses silk dome tweeters and a four-channel amplifier for clear highs and deep bass. The KEMIMOTO sound bar is a close second, especially considering its lower cost and strong 100W RMS output.
Final Thoughts
After testing all eight systems, my recommendations are clear. The KEMIMOTO 10.6-inch sound bar is the best overall choice for most riders, combining honest 100W RMS power with IP66 weatherproofing and useful riding modes. The Kuryakyn Road Thunder Plus is worth the premium if audio quality is your top priority and you log serious highway miles.
Budget-conscious riders get two strong paths. The GoHawk delivers a complete amplified setup at an entry-level cost, while the JBL Wind 3 offers battery-powered simplicity for city riders and theft-wary parkers. The BOSS systems remain the safe, community-proven middle ground with excellent warranty support.
The best motorcycle speakers for handlebars are the ones that match how and where you actually ride. Measure your bars, be honest about your highway habits, and pick the system that fits both. Any of these eight will make your next ride sound better than wind noise ever did.