With all of our experience with Installing amplifiers, speakers and subwoofers into motorcycles our magic Wattage rating is anything from about 200 Watts RMS (nominal) on up.
Keep in mind this answer depends on a lot of different factors like speaker size, specifications, SN ratio, Frequency coverage and a heck-ton more!
| Listener Type | Loudness of Bike | Recommended Wattage |
|---|---|---|
| Loud Renegade Rider | 5 – The highest possible | 300 Watts RMS on Up |
| Moderate Rider | 3 – The ability to turn up the volume and Jam if needed! | 150 watts RMS |
| Show Bike | 4 – This bike is turned up really loud for shows | 200 watts RMS on up |
| Daily Commuter | 2 – This system could stay stock or close to stock | 50 watts RMS |
| Rated 1-5 | Rated in RMS Per Channel |
First, let’s start with the basics. Wattage is a measure of power, and it’s used to describe how much energy a speaker can handle. The higher the wattage, the louder the sound your speaker can produce. However, wattage isn’t the only factor that affects the volume and quality of the sound produced by a speaker.
Your Speakers
When it comes to choosing the right wattage for your motorcycle speakers, there are a few things to consider. The first is the size and type of speakers you’re using. Larger speakers typically require more power to produce the same volume as smaller ones. Additionally, some speaker types, such as subwoofers, require more power to produce their characteristic deep bass sounds.
How Loud Is Your Bikes Exhaust System?
Another factor to consider is the overall volume of your motorcycle. If you ride a quiet bike, you won’t need as much power to produce a noticeable sound. However, if you have a loud exhaust or ride at high speeds, you’ll need more power to overcome the ambient noise and produce a clear sound.
What Type Of Driver Are You?
Finally, it’s important to consider your own personal preferences. If you’re a fan of loud, booming music, you’ll need more wattage than someone who prefers softer, more subtle sounds.
- Head unit – Your head unit/stereo is the beginning of your audio system and should be given a high-quality audio file such as WAV. Your stereo should Have the necessary high voltage Pre-outs and EQ settings needed to tune an audio system.
- Wiring – The wiring you use to connect from your audio source (stereo) should be OFC grade and able to withstand outside elements.
- Amplifier – Your amplifier should be purchased with your speakers in mind. It should be class D if at all possible and be marine grade allowing for it to be used in the harsh elements while riding. You’ll need a rating of at least 200 watts RMS. Check out our guide on How to Pick An amplifier.
- Speakers – Your speakers should match the rating per channel of your amplifier pretty closely and have the frequency response you need. 6×9 speakers are generally better than 6.5 inch speakers for a couple of reasons. 6×9 have to potential to be louder given their size but they also can reproduce a wider range of lower frequencies like bass.
So, how many watts do you need for motorcycle speakers? Well, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. In general, you’ll want to aim for at least 50 watts per channel to produce a decent everyday listening volume on your motorcycle.
However, if you’re looking for a really powerful system you can hear while riding a Hog, you might want to consider going from to 200 watts per channel or more.
Of course, the wattage you choose will also depend on the speakers you’re using. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the maximum power handling of your speakers before selecting an amplifier or head unit.
In conclusion, the number of watts you need for your motorcycle speakers will depend on a variety of factors, including the size and type of speakers you’re using, the overall volume of your motorcycle, and your personal preferences.
By taking all of these factors into consideration, you’ll be able to choose the right wattage for your setup and enjoy clear, powerful sound while you ride.
