A client from Richmond recently visited Extreme Audio with his 2012 Victory Cross Country, seeking a stereo system upgrade. Since we’ve worked on several Victory bikes before, we knew how to make them sound incredible. After reviewing his goals and inspecting the bike, we devised a plan to deliver a system that looks and sounds stunning.
Custom Victory Cross Country Speaker Solutions
The stock stereo on the 2012 Cross Country includes two sets of 5.25-inch speakers: one in the front fairing and another facing forward from the trunk compartment. While this setup may satisfy casual listeners, it lacks solid bass output.
We began by upgrading the front fairing speakers with Cicada Audio CXX525.4 5.25-inch speakers.
Next, we focused on the trunk. After removing the stock speakers, Brian, our 3D modeling expert, scanned the trunk’s interior. Using this scan, he designed adapters to fit a pair of Cicada Audio CHX65.2 6.5-inch Pro Coaxial horn drivers. These adapters bolt into place using the stock fasteners, ensuring a straightforward installation. Learn more about these adapters here. The larger speaker cones boost efficiency and improve midbass output, creating a richer listening experience.
Custom Lower Speaker Mounts
Continuing with custom solutions, Brian turned his attention to the storage compartments in the lowers. After taking precise measurements, he crafted a new speaker mounting solution. Using 3D scanning and Fusion 360, he created custom glove compartment speaker panels. See the panels here.
Once printed, we coated the panels with a durable, UV-resistant pebble-finish coating. We installed Cicada Audio CHX65.4 coaxial speakers, adding mesh grilles for a clean look. These speakers fit perfectly and look like they belong there.
Motorcycle Bass Upgrade
Next, we tackled the challenge of adding bass. Producing good bass on a motorcycle is tricky, as the environment differs from cars and trucks. Still, we wanted this system to deliver some serious punch. Brian scanned the saddlebags and discovered they weren’t identical mirrors of each other. Using Fusion 360, he designed custom mounting rings for a pair of Cicada Audio CMB8.s4 8-inch woofers. The rings fit perfectly against the bags’ corrugated sides. Check out our Motorrad adapters here. We also provide a drilling template if you order the adapters from our sister company, Motorrad Audio.
High-Power Motorcycle Amplifiers
We installed three Cicada Audio amplifiers in the trunk. These included a BDA600.4 and two BDA1000.4D amps. The BDA600.4 was bridged to power the front fairing speakers. One of the BDA1000.4D amps powered the lower and rear speakers, while the other was bridged to drive the woofers in the saddlebags.
We mounted the amplifiers and passive crossovers on a vinyl-wrapped panel secured to the trunk floor. This layout keeps everything neat and accessible.
Custom Bluetooth Integration and Motorcycle DSP
The client wanted to stream music from his smartphone to the factory radio. Since the stock radio lacks Bluetooth or an auxiliary input, we had to get creative. We integrated an AudioControl AC-BT24 Bluetooth receiver with the 30-pin Apple Dock connector on the bike.
An ARC Audio PSM PRO digital signal processor (DSP) ensures seamless audio delivery. It processes the signal from the radio and adjusts it for the new speakers. Using crossovers and time alignment, we fine-tuned each speaker’s output. With our calibrated microphone in the rider’s seat, we achieved smooth and natural sound quality.
Richmond’s Custom Motorcycle Audio Experts
While the bike was apart for audio upgrades, we also installed XK GLOW RGB LED lighting. The client can now use a smartphone app to control the lighting’s color and effects. When the client returned for pickup, he took a quick listen and was thrilled with the system’s clarity and punch. He loved the powerful bass and how the audio stayed clean at high volume levels.
If you’re looking to upgrade the stereo system on your Honda, Yamaha, Victory, or Harley-Davidson, visit Extreme Audio in Mechanicsville or Midlothian. You can also contact us by phone or through our online contact form.
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