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Upgrading the Headlight on a 2019 Harley-Davidson Street Glide

The 2019 Harley-Davidson Street Glide is known for its powerful performance and unmistakable look, but the stock headlight often falls short in terms of brightness and clarity. Upgrading the headlight is a great way to improve visibility, boost safety, and give your Street Glide a fresh, modern appearance. This guide will walk you through the benefits of a headlight upgrade, popular aftermarket options, and essential installation tips to get the most out of your new light.


Why Upgrade the Headlight on Your Street Glide?

Upgrading to a high-quality LED or projector headlight can significantly improve both the functionality and aesthetics of your Street Glide. Here’s how:

  1. Enhanced Nighttime Visibility: Aftermarket headlights, especially LEDs and projectors, produce a much brighter, clearer light than stock halogen bulbs. This makes it easier to see and react to obstacles on dark roads.
  2. Improved Safety: A brighter headlight helps ensure that other drivers can see you coming, reducing the risk of accidents.
  3. Modern Styling: Upgrading to a stylish LED headlight or projector gives your Street Glide a more contemporary look that complements its iconic design.
  4. Energy Efficiency: LED headlights consume less power than halogens, reducing strain on your bike’s battery.
  5. Longer Lifespan: LED and projector headlights generally last far longer than traditional bulbs, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Popular Headlight Upgrade Options for the 2019 Street Glide

There are numerous headlight upgrade options for the 2019 Street Glide, each with its unique features. Here are some of the top choices that have received excellent reviews from Harley-Davidson enthusiasts:

  1. Morsun Harley-Davidson LED Headlight: This OEM option provides intense brightness with a clean, focused beam. The Morsun is known for its easy fit and high performance, making it a favorite for Harley owners.
  2. JW Speaker Adaptive 2 Series LED Headlight: This high-end adaptive LED headlight adjusts the beam pattern based on the motorcycle’s lean angle, ensuring optimal lighting while cornering. It’s an ideal choice for riders who prioritize safety and technology.
  3. Eagle Lights LED Headlight: Known for its bright white light and easy plug-and-play installation, the Eagle Lights LED is budget-friendly and highly durable. It also comes with an IP67 waterproof rating, ideal for all-weather riding.
  4. TRUCKMALL 7” LED Headlight: This LED headlight is designed for compatibility with Street Glides and offers excellent brightness, durability, and waterproofing. It’s a cost-effective solution for those looking to boost visibility and style.
  5. Sunpie 7” LED Headlight: Offering powerful LED lighting with a projector lens, this headlight creates a well-focused beam pattern. It also has a sleek black housing, enhancing the bike’s style and providing weather resistance.

Key Features to Look for in a Headlight Upgrade

When choosing a headlight upgrade for your Street Glide, consider these essential features to ensure the best fit and performance:

  1. Brightness and Beam Pattern: LED lights generally provide higher brightness than halogens. A well-defined beam pattern is crucial to avoid blinding oncoming traffic while giving you a clear view of the road.
  2. Color Temperature: Look for lights with a color temperature of 5000K to 6000K (daylight white), which provides a natural, bright light that’s easy on the eyes.
  3. Waterproofing and Durability: An IP67 or IP68 waterproof rating ensures the headlight can withstand rain and other harsh conditions, perfect for all-weather riders.
  4. DOT Compliance: If you plan on using the light on public roads, ensure it’s DOT-compliant to meet safety and legal standards.
  5. Plug-and-Play Installation: Most high-quality headlights are designed to be plug-and-play, fitting directly into the Street Glide’s existing headlight housing with minimal installation work.

Installing Your New Headlight: Step-by-Step Guide

Many LED and projector headlights are designed for easy plug-and-play installation, making it possible to upgrade without complex tools or expertise. Here’s a basic installation guide for most aftermarket 7” headlights:

  1. Prepare Your Tools: Basic tools like a screwdriver or Torx driver should suffice. If your headlight kit requires specific tools, be sure to have them on hand.
  2. Disconnect the Battery: Always disconnect the battery before working on the electrical system to avoid any accidental short circuits.
  3. Remove the Stock Headlight: Loosen and remove the screws securing the headlight trim ring. Carefully pull out the existing headlight assembly and disconnect the wiring harness.
  4. Attach the New Headlight: Connect the wiring harness to the new LED or projector headlight. Plug-and-play models should fit directly into the existing wiring, but some may require an adapter or slight modifications.
  5. Align the New Headlight: Place the new headlight in the headlight bucket, ensuring proper alignment. Check for a secure fit, and then replace and tighten the trim ring.
  6. Test the Headlight: Reconnect the battery and test the new headlight to ensure it works correctly and is properly aligned. Make any necessary adjustments to achieve the optimal beam pattern for nighttime riding.

Maintenance Tips for Your New LED Headlight

After installing an upgraded LED or projector headlight, regular maintenance will help keep it performing at its best:

  • Clean the Lens Regularly: Dust, dirt, and road grime can accumulate on the lens, reducing brightness. Use a microfiber cloth and a gentle cleaner to keep the lens clear.
  • Check for Condensation: Moisture buildup can occasionally occur in the headlight housing. If you notice condensation, check the seals for leaks or consider adding a vent to allow moisture to escape.
  • Inspect for Damage: Road debris and weather can affect the headlight over time, so inspect the housing and lens for cracks or other damage periodically.
  • Adjust Alignment as Needed: Rough roads and regular vibrations can sometimes cause the headlight to shift out of alignment. Regularly check and adjust the headlight angle to ensure optimal visibility.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading to a high-quality LED or projector headlight on your 2019 Harley-Davidson Street Glide is a simple yet impactful way to improve both safety and style. With the brighter, clearer light of an aftermarket headlight, you’ll enjoy enhanced nighttime visibility, reduced battery strain, and a sleek new look for your ride. With a range of options available, from the Harley OEM Daymaker to advanced adaptive headlights, you can find a solution that perfectly meets your needs and elevates your Street Glide experience.