Kuryakyn MTX Road Thunder Plus Review: Clear Audio Verdict
It’s rare for a handlebar-mounted motorcycle sound system to earn praise for clarity at highway speeds, yet the Kuryakyn MTX Road Thunder Sound Bar Plus has riders from multiple platforms saying it delivers — with measurements showing up to 300W peak power but a real-world audio profile skewed towards crisp mids and highs rather than deep bass. Overall verdict: 8/10 for riders prioritizing durability, clarity, and ease of installation over bass-heavy sound.
Quick Verdict: Conditional — ideal for touring and commuter riders who value clear music and rugged construction. Bass enthusiasts or riders with non-standard handlebars should consider alternatives.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Clear, powerful audio even at high speeds | Bass lacks depth for a 300W system |
| IP66-rated weather resistance | Occasional Bluetooth dropouts |
| USB charging port for devices | Mounting clamps can feel flimsy on some bikes |
| Easy installation with universal clamps | Price is high vs. similar-feature systems |
| Durable build and heat protection | Audio balance leans towards mids/highs |
| Works well with smartphones and navigation apps | Not as loud without a windshield at >60 mph |
Claims vs Reality
Marketing promises a distortion-free sound at any volume level. While many riders affirm this in city cruising, feedback from multiple Amazon reviewers shows highway performance varies. One rider noted: “Sound quality is crisp, even at 70 mph behind a windscreen...there’s not a lot of bass, but play with your phone EQ for a fuller mix.” Without fairings or windshields, several reports confirm that wind noise can overpower the audio past 60 mph.
Another claim is universal fit for handlebars ⅞" to 1½", intended to make mounting hassle-free. Reddit riders agreed installation is “straightforward” and a “breeze in under 30 minutes," but cases exist where “the 1-inch clamps are a bit loose…non-standard bars need adjustment," as stated by an Amazon buyer.
Finally, Kuryakyn promotes weather-resistant IP66 housings as proof of rugged reliability. Most owners found it “held up excellently” in rain and dust over months. Yet, some riders in salty coastal environments reported “slight corrosion over time,” showing that extreme weather still poses risks.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Audio clarity is the standout feature. Riders regularly emphasize how the four silk dome tweeters and dual voice coil speakers slice through wind and engine noise. A verified buyer from Trustpilot wrote: “At 45-50, it’s clear as day with a full face helmet on.” For commuters using GPS or apps like Waze, the clarity enhances utility beyond music — navigation prompts remain audible over ambient noise.
Installation convenience earns praise across Amazon, Reddit, and Trustpilot. Even first-time installers reported success: “It just connects to your battery and splices into an accessory wire…everything included,” shared an Amazon customer. Indian Scout owners highlighted the pre-existing ignition wire compatibility as a huge plus, avoiding any manual splicing.
The USB charging port proves critical for long-haul riders. Many users note charging phones or GPS units while streaming music: “Keeps my phone charged during long rides, reducing the need to carry extra power banks,” according to one Reddit user. For touring bikers, this blends entertainment and utility.
Weather resistance is another area of consensus. Riders using it daily in varied conditions appreciate its resilience: “Withstands rain and dust without performance loss,” one Redditor confirmed after seasonal use.
Common Complaints
Bass performance generates the most repeated criticism. Despite a 300W peak power claim, the low end feels underwhelming for bass-centric music. Reddit user feedback: “Lower frequencies not as pronounced…bass-heavy music often sounds flat." This tuning is intentional to cut through wind but leaves some listeners unsatisfied.
Bluetooth stability, while generally reliable, is another issue. About a quarter of users on multiple platforms experienced signal dropouts — sometimes every few seconds when obstacles were present. One Amazon reviewer said: “It kept cutting in and out every 2 seconds while riding,” though direct phone connections resolved the problem.
Mounting hardware has mixed reviews. The clamps work well for most, but a few report they feel flimsy or scratch bars. The size and weight (4.3 lbs) also drew comments from riders of smaller motorcycles, where bulk becomes noticeable.
Divisive Features
Volume at highway speeds splits opinion. Riders with windshields frequently report excellent results — “Loud enough to hear at 80 mph with a windshield” — while those without windshields at 50-60 mph often say wind drowns out the sound.
Price perception also varies. Some see it as worth every penny for the build quality, while others argue “you could mount a Bluetooth speaker and get better bass for less money.” The premium brand positioning appears valued most by riders committed to durability and integration rather than raw sound output.
Trust & Reliability
While Trustpilot and Amazon data show strong customer satisfaction scores (mostly 4/5 or higher), there are isolated cases of “defective straight out of the box” units, often requiring returns or repairs. Positive reports highlight responsive warranty service and quick resolutions, though during busy seasons response times lag.
Durability is widely agreed upon in typical riding climates. Multiple Reddit and Amazon reviewers have used the system for months with no performance dips. However, riders in highly humid or coastal areas caution about corrosion developing gradually despite the IP66 rating — a reminder that weather resistance isn’t invincibility.
Alternatives
Some riders compare the Kuryakyn MTX Road Thunder Plus to the “Plex” system — noting the Plex as slightly fuller in sound but much more expensive. Amazon reviewers who tested both side-by-side concluded the Road Thunder “was only marginally worse” while costing substantially less, making it attractive for budget-conscious buyers still wanting quality motorcycle audio.
Price & Value
Current listings range from $325 (used like-new) on eBay to $579 new via major retailers, with occasional discounts. Market trends suggest strong resale value for well-kept units, especially given brand recognition among V-twin cruiser owners.
Community buying tips include looking for seasonal promotions and bundling with other Kuryakyn accessories for possible discounts. Riders emphasize that the purchase is justified if the priority is reliability, clarity, and auxiliary features, rather than booming bass.
FAQ
Q: Can I hear music clearly at highway speeds?
A: Yes, especially with a windshield or fairing. Without one, clarity diminishes after 60 mph, but mids/highs remain more audible than bass.
Q: Does it fit all handlebars?
A: Fits ⅞" to 1½" bars. Non-standard sizes may require adjustment or additional mounting solutions.
Q: Is it truly weatherproof?
A: Rated IP66, resistant to rain and dust. Long-term exposure to salty, humid conditions may still cause wear.
Q: How is the bass performance?
A: Tuned for strong mids/highs; bass is limited to prevent wind noise overpowering. Bass-heavy music enthusiasts may find it lacking.
Q: How easy is installation?
A: Most riders complete installation in under an hour with basic tools. Avoid overtightening clamps to prevent scratches.
Final Verdict:
Buy if you’re a touring or commuter motorcyclist seeking clear audio, rugged build, and convenient device charging. Avoid if deep bass or ultra-light weight is a top priority, or if you ride consistently at high speeds without wind protection.
Pro tip from the community: For optimal performance, pair the sound bar with a fairing or windshield and adjust EQ settings for richer sound.
