Android Auto, meet Harley davidson. The motorcycle manufacturer said Friday that in the future, all Touring, CVO and Trike motorcycles will feature smartphone mirroring technology. For owners of older models, some will even be compatible with a do-it-yourself update.
While H-D isn’t the first motorcycle manufacturer to include support for Android Auto, it’s first integrated into an integrated infotainment system, which the company calls Boom Box GTS. This sort of makes H-D first because there is no problem with non-original parts. Boom Box GTS has already supported Apple CarPlay, although it requires an accessory helmet.
With a wired connection, Android users will be able to access their favorite media, cards and interact with the Google Assistant – just like drivers can do with the system in a car. Pilots use a 6.5-inch infotainment screen for motorcycles equipped with Boom Box GTS, and to ensure durability, Gorilla Glass covers the screen.
For buyers thinking about a new H-D motorcycle, Android Auto will be available on all 2021 Touring, CVO and Trike models equipped with the factory infotainment system. For those who are already riding a pig with Boom Box GTS equipped, H-D plans to push an update this summer to include Android Auto features. A dealer can help, but H-D said owners can even do it themselves with a trusted USB.
Those without the GTS Boom Box can order the system for 2014 and the newer Touring, CVO and Trike models as an accessory. However, eligible models must have the previous Boom Box 6.5GT system already installed.