Tired of fumbling with wires or wishing your Harley-Davidson’s infotainment system offered true wireless CarPlay without a clunky headset? You’re in luck! Modern technology has made it easier than ever to integrate your iPhone seamlessly with your bike’s display, bringing navigation, music, and communication right to your fingertips – wirelessly. Finding the best wireless CarPlay adapter for Harley-Davidson can transform your riding experience, making it safer, more convenient, and way more fun.
Harley-Davidson motorcycles, especially newer models with the Boom! Box GTS infotainment system, are designed for the open road, and having your smartphone’s essential functions mirrored on your bike’s screen is a game-changer. Imagine crystal-clear GPS directions, your favorite riding playlist, and hands-free calls, all without ever needing to plug in your phone. That’s the power of a good wireless CarPlay adapter.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top contenders for the best wireless CarPlay adapter for Harley-Davidson, highlighting their unique features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive in!
Why Go Wireless CarPlay on Your Harley?
For many Harley riders, the open road is about freedom, and wires can feel restrictive. A wireless CarPlay setup offers several compelling benefits:
- Clutter-Free Cockpit: Say goodbye to tangled cables flapping in the wind or cluttering your glove box.
- Enhanced Safety: Keep your eyes on the road and hands on the handlebars. All your essential apps are mirrored on your bike’s screen.
- Instant Connectivity: Once set up, your iPhone connects automatically when you start your bike, so you’re ready to roll in seconds.
- Convenience: Access maps, stream music, make calls, and listen to messages directly from your motorcycle’s display.
- Weather Protection: Keep your phone safely tucked away, protected from the elements, while still enjoying full connectivity.
How to Choose the Right Adapter
When searching for the best wireless CarPlay adapter for Harley-Davidson, consider these factors:
- Compatibility: Does it work with your specific Harley model and year (e.g., CVO, Street Glide, Road Glide, Boom! Box GTS)? Pay close attention to the model year requirements.
- Installation: Is it a simple plug-and-play, or does it require more complex wiring? Many riders prefer a hidden installation.
- Headset Bypass: Do you want to use your bike’s speakers for audio, or are you fine with a traditional headset? Some adapters specifically bypass the headset requirement for CarPlay audio.
- Functionality: Does it support all CarPlay features you need? Some might not support voice commands via a microphone.
- Durability: Given it’s for a motorcycle, waterproofing and robust build quality are crucial.
Product Reviews: Our Top Picks
Let’s take a closer look at the five adapters that stand out.
MaedHawk Bypass Motorcycle CarPlay Bluetooth Headset
The MaedHawk Bypass is a clever solution for Harley riders who want the full CarPlay experience through their bike’s speakers without the need for a physical Bluetooth headset. It essentially tricks your motorcycle’s infotainment system into thinking a headset is connected, allowing audio and navigation prompts to play through your fairing speakers. This is a fantastic option for those with newer Harley infotainment systems that typically demand a headset for CarPlay functionality.
- Presents as a wireless headset to the infotainment system.
- Ideal for new motorcycle infotainment systems supporting Bluetooth headset connections.
- Allows CarPlay audio to play through bike speakers without a physical headset.
- USB-C to USB-C version with passthrough charging port.
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Compatible with CVO models 23.5 or newer.
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No need for a physical headset for CarPlay audio.
- Allows for speaker-based audio output.
- Simple USB-C plug-and-play.
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Passthrough port enables phone charging.
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Does not convert wired CarPlay to wireless.
- Will not work as a microphone for Siri, Google Assistant, or phone calls.
- Requires the infotainment system to support a Bluetooth headset connection.
- Specific compatibility with newer Harley systems.
User Impressions: Riders appreciate the MaedHawk Bypass for its ability to free them from wearing a headset just for CarPlay audio. It’s seen as a convenient workaround for Harley’s specific infotainment requirements, although the lack of microphone support for voice commands is a noted limitation for some.
COPMERT Motorcycle Wireless CarPlay Adapter
The COPMERT Wireless CarPlay Adapter offers a sleek, lightweight, and incredibly user-friendly approach to bringing wireless CarPlay to your Harley. Its plug-and-play design means you can get up and running quickly, without complicated installations or software updates. It’s particularly designed for newer Harley infotainment systems, emphasizing a seamless WiFi connection for all your CarPlay features like navigation and music, keeping your phone safely tucked away.
- Sleek and lightweight compact design.
- Plug-and-play operation with no extra drives or apps needed.
- CarPlay connects via Wi-Fi (phone must maintain Wi-Fi connection with the bike).
- Allows access to map navigation, music, and more on the screen.
- Supports passthrough USB-C charging.
- Automatic connection after first successful pairing.
- Requires adding device as a “rider character” in pairing settings.
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Compatible with CVO models 23.5 or newer.
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Extremely easy to set up (plug and play).
- Compact and portable design.
- Maintains phone battery with passthrough charging.
- Offers safer riding by keeping your phone stored.
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Automatic reconnection is very convenient.
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Will not work as a microphone for Siri, Google Assistant, or phone calls.
- Specifically designed for new infotainment systems, not older Boom models.
- Requires specific “rider character” pairing setting.
User Impressions: Customers love the COPMERT adapter for its simplicity and the freedom it offers. The automatic connection feature is a big win, making it hassle-free for daily rides. While the lack of microphone support is a common point, the core wireless CarPlay functionality is highly valued.
Trybee Waterproof Wireless CarPlay Bypass Harness Adapter
The Trybee Waterproof Wireless CarPlay Bypass Harness Adapter takes convenience to the next level by offering a hidden, under-seat installation. This means your adapter is out of sight, protected from the elements, and doesn’t occupy the precious USB-C port in your glove box. It’s a dedicated wireless CarPlay solution for specific newer Harley models, designed to provide all CarPlay features—navigation, music—without the need for a headset, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.
- Specifically compatible with 2023.5-up Harley CVO Street Glide (FLHXSE), CVO Road Glide (FLTRXSE), 2024-up Street Glide (FLHX), Road Glide (FLTRX), and CVO Road Glide ST (FLTRXSTSE).
- Requires iPhone iOS 10+.
- Hidden installation under the seat, keeping the glove box USB-C port free.
- Waterproof design.
- Activates wireless CarPlay without headset connections.
- Built-in 5Ghz Wi-Fi module for quick phone identification.
- Supports handlebar controller switch and touch screen.
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Automatic connection after initial setup.
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Hidden, waterproof installation keeps the adapter safe and out of sight.
- Frees up the glove box USB-C port.
- No headset required for CarPlay functions.
- Seamless automatic connection.
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Supports original handlebar controls and touchscreen.
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Limited compatibility with specific newer Harley models (check year/model carefully).
- Not compatible with Road Glide Limited, Ultra Limited, Road Glide 3 Boombox GTS, or bikes with Rockford Fosgate subwoofer system.
- Compatible with Apple CarPlay only, not Android Auto.
User Impressions: Riders appreciate the Trybee adapter’s discreet installation and robust, waterproof design. The fact that it doesn’t tie up the glove box USB port is a significant plus. Its dedicated wireless CarPlay function, without needing a headset, makes it a top choice for compatible models.
COKTNNI Wireless CarPlay Headset Bypass
Much like its counterparts, the COKTNNI Wireless CarPlay Headset Bypass focuses on delivering the full CarPlay experience on compatible Harley models without requiring you to wear a headset. It’s designed for a discreet, under-seat installation and boasts a waterproof build, ensuring durability on the open road. With its plug-and-play simplicity and automatic connection, the COKTNNI aims to make your Harley rides safer and more enjoyable, keeping navigation and music readily accessible.
- Compatible with 2023.5 and later Harley CVO Street Glide (FLHXSE), CVO Road Glide (FLTRXSE), 2024 and later Street Glide (FLHX), Road Glide (FLTRX), and CVO Road Glide ST (FLTRXSTSE).
- Requires iPhone iOS 10 and later.
- Waterproof design for under-seat installation.
- Does not occupy the USB-C charging port in the glove box.
- Enables all CarPlay functions (navigation, music) without headphones.
- Plug-and-play with automatic reconnection.
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Supports key operation (handlebar controls).
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Waterproof and designed for hidden installation.
- Frees up the bike’s USB-C charging port.
- Allows CarPlay audio through bike speakers.
- Easy setup and automatic connection.
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Supports existing handlebar controls.
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Not compatible with Android Auto.
- Limited compatibility with specific Harley models (e.g., not Road Glide Limited, Ultra Limited).
User Impressions: Riders find the COKTNNI adapter highly convenient due to its easy setup and the ability to use CarPlay through speakers. Its waterproof nature and under-seat installation are big selling points, making it a reliable choice for compatible bikes.
Carplay2air Apple Car Play Jumper Plug for 2019-2023 Harley
The Carplay2air Jumper Plug is a unique and cost-effective solution specifically designed for 2019-2023 Harley Davidson Road Glide or Street Glide models equipped with the BOOM GTS infotainment system. Unlike the bypass adapters for newer models, this jumper plug directly activates wired Apple CarPlay by connecting to an auxiliary audio connector under the fairing. It’s a simple, affordable upgrade that saves you from a costly Harley dealer flash, giving you full CarPlay touch and handlebar controls.
- Designed for 2019-2023 Harley Davidson Road Glide or Street Glide with BOOM GTS and Apple CarPlay.
- Connects to the gray auxiliary audio connector under the fairing.
- Activates Apple CarPlay on the Harley screen with touch and handlebar controls.
- Easiest and cheapest upgrade, saving the cost of a dealer flash.
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1-year warranty.
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Extremely cost-effective way to get CarPlay on older compatible models.
- Simple installation by plugging into an existing connector.
- Retains full touch and handlebar controls.
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No dealer flash required.
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Not compatible with WHIM installed or CVO models.
- Activates the rear microphone and disables the intercom system.
- Wired solution, not wireless CarPlay directly. (Note: This product is slightly different from the others which are “wireless” solutions, but it’s essential for getting CarPlay active on specific older models, which is often a prerequisite for a truly wireless experience or simply desired functionality).
- Does not support voice commands.
User Impressions: This jumper plug is highly praised by owners of compatible 2019-2023 Boom GTS Harleys for its simplicity and the significant cost savings over a dealer flash. Riders appreciate getting wired CarPlay functionality without much fuss, though the loss of intercom and voice command functionality is a known trade-off.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How does a wireless CarPlay adapter work for Harley-Davidson?
A1: A wireless CarPlay adapter connects to your Harley’s USB port (or directly into the system via a harness). It creates a local Wi-Fi network that your iPhone connects to. This allows your phone to transmit the CarPlay interface wirelessly to your motorcycle’s infotainment screen, enabling navigation, music, and other apps without needing a physical cable.
Q2: Is my Harley-Davidson compatible with these wireless CarPlay adapters?
A2: Compatibility varies significantly by adapter. Most modern wireless CarPlay solutions are designed for newer Harley models (typically 2023.5 and up CVO, Street Glide, Road Glide, and newer Boom! Box GTS systems). Some older models (like 2019-2023 Boom GTS) might require a specific jumper plug to activate wired CarPlay first, as a prerequisite for wireless solutions or as a standalone function. Always check the product description for exact model and year compatibility.
Q3: Do I still need a headset for voice commands with these adapters?
A3: Many of the “headset bypass” style adapters allow audio to come through your bike’s speakers, but they typically do not support microphone input for Siri, Google Assistant, or phone calls. If voice commands are crucial, you might still need a Bluetooth headset paired with your phone or explore other specific solutions.
Q4: Can I charge my phone while using the adapter?
A4: Yes, many wireless CarPlay adapters, especially those that plug into the USB-C port, offer a “passthrough” charging port. This means you can plug the adapter into your Harley’s USB port, and then plug your phone into the adapter’s passthrough port to keep it charged while using CarPlay.
Q5: What’s the difference between a “bypass adapter” and a regular “wireless CarPlay adapter”?
A5: A “bypass adapter” (like MaedHawk or COPMERT) primarily addresses Harley’s requirement for a Bluetooth headset to enable CarPlay audio. It “bypasses” this by simulating a headset connection, allowing audio through your bike’s speakers. A “wireless CarPlay adapter” generally refers to any device that converts a wired CarPlay connection into a wireless one, often used in cars. For Harley, the terms often overlap as many wireless solutions also incorporate the headset bypass function.
Q6: Are these adapters waterproof?
A6: For adapters designed for under-seat or hidden installation, many are indeed waterproof (e.g., Trybee, COKTNNI). This is a crucial feature for motorcycle accessories given exposure to the elements. Always check the specific product features for waterproof ratings.
Q7: Will these adapters work with Android Auto?
A7: No, the adapters listed here are specifically designed for Apple CarPlay and iPhone integration. If you have an Android phone and want Android Auto, you would need to look for a different product specifically designed for Android Auto wireless connectivity.
Choosing the best wireless CarPlay adapter for Harley-Davidson depends on your specific bike model, year, and your preferences for installation and features. Whether you prioritize a simple plug-and-play solution, a hidden waterproof setup, or a cost-effective jumper, there’s an option out there to elevate your ride. Enjoy seamless connectivity and a more enjoyable journey on your Harley!
