Maybe he meant you could turn on the rear channels whe adding rear speakers? Not sure. Either way, the Harley radio has some very good qualities, wouldn't waste my money on their speakers or amps. Also wouldn't spend 1500 bucks to upgrade to the newer radio. Now if I can find a take off for 500 bucks, that's a different story.....

 

No it can have a whim setting changed and carplay will work with out a whim. Why anyone wants it I don't know.

 

mine is 2019 so I already have the new style radio head unit, but im looking at the Rockford Fosgate hdtk14 kit. Ive heard a friends and it sounds killer. Plug and play too which is a plus

 

There's WAY better to be had for WAY cheaper. Plug and play is a gimmick lol Nothing is really fully plug and play. You should head to the audio forum for audio upgrade specific questions.

 

FYI, in addition to enabling CarPlay by deactivating the BOOM microphone, you can also use CarPlay WITHOUT WHIM installed AND the microphone activated IF you have a hardwired headset connected to the bike.

 

All depends on your definition of "WAY Better". If all you want is good audio for a solo barhopper on a SG or RG than the Sony unit can save you some money (although you'll need a new amp since its not compatible with the HD amp). If you have a long hauler for 2 up riding and want the full integration of your hand controls, GPS, EITMS, Tire Pressure, Air Temperature, Intercom, PTT for bike to bike communication, a touchscreen that works with gloves, then I'm afraid that the HD BOOM GTS is your only option.

 

I was specifically referring to the above poster's comment about the RF kits. I think there are advantages to the HD radio that Im not ready to lose yet. Like the handlebar controls integration. Sony or not, I wouldn't use an HD amp at all, nor the HD speakers.

 

I certainly understand that sentiment. Harley sure makes it difficult to integrate other higher quality components with their HD BOOM system.

 

Looks like this is the way to go for me. Just have to wait for the "take off" prices to come down.

 

Good they have done this. But no way I would remove the radio from my 2017 to install one as long as it is working. If it ever goes bad Then this would be on the table. My 2017 radio does everything I need and works fine.