2011 Vaquero

[Lawrenceville_Bagger]

Can someone tell me what size speakers come with the Vaquero ?

Secondly has anyone changed out the factory radio and if so are there any "gotchas" ?

[cactusjack]

If you change out the factory stereo, you will lose the functions of your handlebar controls. So you won't be able to scroll through the stations and change the volume from your handlebars.

[Monkeyman]

I don't have one but I think they're 5 1/4".

[jestephens]

I'm sure fitment would be another "gotcha".
If the radio is capable of wired remote operation, then I bet some (or a LOT of) diligent work would allow an adaptation of the stock handlebar buttons for functionality. - Having an aftermarket radio may help with other adaptations.

-Bluetooth built in for mp3, GPS, or internet radio playback
-iphone/ipod integration adapters
-Navigation screens, sub woofer, USB mp3 player, XM adapter, etc.

and if it looks good, the XM adapter alone for the stock radio is $500. Spend less than that and you come out ahead. :D

Sounds cool. I'm all for custom too. Have fun and Good luck!

http://image.motorcyclistonline.com/f/firstrides/122_1105_2011_kawasaki_vulcan_vaquero/30269525%20%20w760%20ar1/122_1105_04_o%202011_kawasaki_vulcan_1700_vaquero% 20.jpg

[redjay]

Whats wrong with the stock radio ? Personally I hardly ever use the radio, just the Ipod connection kit and a Ipod loaded with over a 1000 songs.

[soflovaq]

5 1/4" speakers, I replaced the stock ones with polk audio. Crisper sound, next move will be to add amplifier.

[jestephens]

Whats wrong with the stock radio ? Personally I hardly ever use the radio, just the Ipod connection kit and a Ipod loaded with over a 1000 songs.

What's wrong with a stock motorcycle? :D nuthin' :D but they're sure fun to mess with and customize

[redjay]

Upgraded speakers and an amplifier ?

The clarity might be better when you are stopped but when on the move ?

[ponch]

What's wrong with a stock motorcycle? :D nuthin' :D but they're sure fun to mess with and customize

In the case of the radio, I wonder if it is worth the effort with the electronics involved. Today's vehicles rely on computers and when you start coloring outside the lines, there could be unexpected results. Doubly so with vehicles that aren't OBDII. I am not saying don't try, but it'll be more work than someone might imagine.

[soflovaq]

Going down the interstate, radio tends to get drowned out. More power will help as long as you have the speakers to handle it, which is why I went with polk audio speakers.

[1oldtimer]

5 1/4" speakers, I replaced the stock ones with polk audio. Crisper sound, next move will be to add amplifier.

Can you specify the model of the Polk speakers you used.
Or just give the specs.
Thanks,
Frank

[jestephens]

In the case of the radio, I wonder if it is worth the effort with the electronics involved. Today's vehicles rely on computers and when you start coloring outside the lines, there could be unexpected results. Doubly so with vehicles that aren't OBDII. I am not saying don't try, but it'll be more work than someone might imagine.

I'm with you. I don't listen to it enough to bother. I just try not to be a Dream Killer - I leave that job to my wife. :lmao:
http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w117/jestephens/Vaquero%201700/dreamkiller2.jpg

[Old Bear]

I want to upgrade the stereo as well, but can't afford the Tri-Ovals yet!

[ponch]

I'm with you. I don't listen to it enough to bother. I just try not to be a Dream Killer - I leave that job to my wife. :lmao:
http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w117/jestephens/Vaquero%201700/dreamkiller2.jpg

Well, if the woman controls the purse strings, a guy is done.

Thing is, with some of the high end and even not so high end ear buds and helmet speakers make having external speakers redundant and the quality will be better and private. I don't normally listen to music when I ride. I think the last time I did was when I went to the PDC NC regional rally. Although I do like listening to music, especially when I am doing things, I find it distracting when riding the bike. May be it's because I can't really tap when riding. :D

[Lawrenceville_Bagger]

I'm sure fitment would be another "gotcha".
If the radio is capable of wired remote operation, then I bet some (or a LOT of) diligent work would allow an adaptation of the stock handlebar buttons for functionality. - Having an aftermarket radio may help with other adaptations.

-Bluetooth built in for mp3, GPS, or internet radio playback
-iphone/ipod integration adapters
-Navigation screens, sub woofer, USB mp3 player, XM adapter, etc.

and if it looks good, the XM adapter alone for the stock radio is $500. Spend less than that and you come out ahead. :D

Sounds cool. I'm all for custom too. Have fun and Good luck!

http://image.motorcyclistonline.com/f/firstrides/122_1105_2011_kawasaki_vulcan_vaquero/30269525%20%20w760%20ar1/122_1105_04_o%202011_kawasaki_vulcan_1700_vaquero% 20.jpg

Yes I'm looking to replace the radio for this very reason.