A Harley-Davidson isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a statement. But if you’re still running stock headlights, you’re missing out on better visibility, style, and safety. Whether you’re cruising city streets or hitting dark backroads, upgrading to aftermarket headlights can transform your ride.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ Why upgrade your Harley’s headlights?
✔ Types of aftermarket headlights (LED, HID, halogen)
✔ Top 5 best Harley Davidson aftermarket headlights
✔ Installation tips & legal considerations
Let’s shine a light on the best options for your bike.
Why Upgrade Your Harley’s Headlights?
Stock Harley headlights get the job done, but they have limitations:
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Dim halogens – Older models use weak, yellowish bulbs that strain your eyes at night.
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Poor beam spread – Stock reflectors often leave dark spots on the road.
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Outdated style – Modern LEDs give your bike a sleeker, more aggressive look.
Upgrading improves:
✅ Visibility – See farther and clearer at night.
✅ Safety – Other drivers spot you more easily.
✅ Aesthetics – Customize your bike’s front end.
Types of Aftermarket Headlights for Harley Davidson
1. LED Headlights
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Brightest option (3x brighter than halogens)
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Energy-efficient (less strain on the battery)
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Long lifespan (50,000+ hours)
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Modern, crisp white light
Best for: Riders who want maximum brightness & style.
2. HID (Xenon) Headlights
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Extremely bright (similar to LEDs)
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Longer range than halogens
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Requires a ballast (more complex install)
Best for: Riders who prefer HID’s unique glow.
3. Halogen Upgrades
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Cheaper than LED/HID
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Plug-and-play (no wiring changes)
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Still not as bright as LEDs
Best for: Budget-conscious riders sticking with halogen housings.
Top 5 Aftermarket Headlights for Harley Davidson
**1. Daymaker LED Headlight (OEM-style)
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Brightness: 4,000+ lumens
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Fitment: Direct replacement for most Harleys
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Why Buy? Looks stock but performs like a premium LED.
**2. Moons MC Fly Eye LED Headlight
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Brightness: 5,000 lumens
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Style: Aggressive black housing with halo rings
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Why Buy? Adds a custom, modern look to your bike.
**3. Eagle Lights LED Projector Headlight
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Brightness: 6,000 lumens
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Feature: Built-in projector lens for laser-focused beam
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Why Buy? Best for long-distance night riding.
**4. Kuryakyn Phase 7 LED Headlight
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Brightness: 3,200 lumens
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Style: Retro-modern with chrome accents
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Why Buy? Perfect for classic Harley styling with LED performance.
**5. JW Speaker Adaptive LED Headlight
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Brightness: 4,500 lumens
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Feature: Auto-adjusting beam for curves
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Why Buy? The smartest, safest LED upgrade.
Installation Tips & Legal Considerations
Installation Difficulty
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LED/Halogen upgrades: Usually plug-and-play (10-30 mins).
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HID kits: Require ballast wiring (1-2 hours).
Legal Compliance
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DOT/SAE-approved lights are street-legal.
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Check local laws—some states restrict super-bright or colored lights.
Final Verdict: Which Headlight Should You Choose?
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Best OEM-style upgrade: Daymaker LED
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Best custom look: Moons MC Fly Eye
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Best for long rides: Eagle Lights Projector
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Best retro-modern style: Kuryakyn Phase 7
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Best high-tech option: JW Speaker Adaptive
Light Up Your Harley’s Potential
Upgrading your Harley’s headlights is one of the easiest and most impactful mods you can make. Whether you want brighter nights, a meaner look, or better safety, there’s a perfect aftermarket headlight for your ride.
