Metra 44-RM02 Aluminum Replacement Antenna
#1
Metra 44-RM02 Aluminum Replacement Antenna
I wanted a lower profile for my 2019 Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited versus the 33" stock AM/FM antenna (reminder: the 2019's do not have CB - only one antenna). As an Amazon Add-On item, I scored the Metra 44-RM02 for less than $5 so I figured it was worth the gamble (the antenna is $15 at a local auto parts store - not sure if I can mention their name here but anyone interested can Google it).
This antenna has given me 5-star "expectations", not necessarily 5-star "performance". Allow me to explain ...
I acknowledge, the AM/FM reception is decent but not as good as the stock antenna. However, I can still pull-in my favorite two local stations that are over 40-miles (probably closer to 50-miles) away from me (that kind of reception is better than I had expected). And with my Ultra Limited having: (1) Apple Carplay, (2) Music on my phone, and (3) Music via a USB Flash Drive port, the AM/FM radio is my 3rd if not 4th entertainment option.
But all is not utopia - this is far from a perfect antenna. This antenna DOES suffer VERY BADLY on Weather Band! I estimate the WB reception is *NO better than* 50% of what I have with the stock antenna installed. Keep that in mind if you reply on WB.
So keeping *my* expectations realistic:
(1) I like the appearance of the aluminum;
(2) The 3.75" profile does not get in the way of putting on a motorcycle cover (especially an aftermarket cover that doesn't have an antenna slot), nor will it get in the way when I load it into the toy hauler if I take the bike with me when I camp;
(3) AM/FM reception is actually better than I expected (see above); and
(4) I'm not cheap, but heck - for under $5 it gives me what I'm looking for. With the cost equivalent to a 20 oz. bottle of soda including tax at a convenience store stop, my $5 gamble paid-off as it's the best dollar-for-dollar I've ever spent accessorizing ANY Harley-Davidson!
In summary, I caution that prospective buyers need to be realistic. IF you don't live near radio stations (rural area) ... and IF you don't have the other entertainment/music options that I have (you 100% reply on the AM/FM radio - and especially rely on the WB), you should go bigger in regards to the antenna. The key: if realistic in your expectations when weighing your unique circumstances & needs (incl. where you'll be riding, where you mount your antenna on the bike, etc.), you'll be satisfied. Regardless, I will not be throwing away the stock antenna as I can see situations where I will want to maximize radio reception.
Now that's a low profile - and it doesn't look bad either.
Now you can really see the LOW profile ... too low if you need OEM-comparable reception.
This antenna has given me 5-star "expectations", not necessarily 5-star "performance". Allow me to explain ...
I acknowledge, the AM/FM reception is decent but not as good as the stock antenna. However, I can still pull-in my favorite two local stations that are over 40-miles (probably closer to 50-miles) away from me (that kind of reception is better than I had expected). And with my Ultra Limited having: (1) Apple Carplay, (2) Music on my phone, and (3) Music via a USB Flash Drive port, the AM/FM radio is my 3rd if not 4th entertainment option.
But all is not utopia - this is far from a perfect antenna. This antenna DOES suffer VERY BADLY on Weather Band! I estimate the WB reception is *NO better than* 50% of what I have with the stock antenna installed. Keep that in mind if you reply on WB.
So keeping *my* expectations realistic:
(1) I like the appearance of the aluminum;
(2) The 3.75" profile does not get in the way of putting on a motorcycle cover (especially an aftermarket cover that doesn't have an antenna slot), nor will it get in the way when I load it into the toy hauler if I take the bike with me when I camp;
(3) AM/FM reception is actually better than I expected (see above); and
(4) I'm not cheap, but heck - for under $5 it gives me what I'm looking for. With the cost equivalent to a 20 oz. bottle of soda including tax at a convenience store stop, my $5 gamble paid-off as it's the best dollar-for-dollar I've ever spent accessorizing ANY Harley-Davidson!
In summary, I caution that prospective buyers need to be realistic. IF you don't live near radio stations (rural area) ... and IF you don't have the other entertainment/music options that I have (you 100% reply on the AM/FM radio - and especially rely on the WB), you should go bigger in regards to the antenna. The key: if realistic in your expectations when weighing your unique circumstances & needs (incl. where you'll be riding, where you mount your antenna on the bike, etc.), you'll be satisfied. Regardless, I will not be throwing away the stock antenna as I can see situations where I will want to maximize radio reception.
Now that's a low profile - and it doesn't look bad either.
Now you can really see the LOW profile ... too low if you need OEM-comparable reception.
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gdt3 (12-21-2018)
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