Taking Music for an Outdoor Ride -Best Bike Bluetooth Speaker
There is something inherently awesome and gratifying about bikes.
Seriously, try to imagine any other means of transport that is as affordable, agile, and beneficial. When you are in the seat, you are the force that pushes the bike forward, and every mile you pass only makes you stronger and more enduring.
Speeding down some mountain track while your adrenaline is turned to eleven is one of the best feelings in the world and leaves very few things to be desired.
Well, except for some great music to keep you pumped while you are there.
That brings us to the topic of bike Bluetooth speakers - a growing niche of audio equipment that tries to give you all the audio enjoyment even when you are on the go.
Of course, not all of these speakers are made the same, and the market is stacked with products that are neither worth attention nor your hard-earned money.
So, what is the best bike Bluetooth speaker that deserves to be mounted on your ride? Let's find out.
In a hurry? The test winner after 32 hours of research:
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Last Updated: February 2023
By Barry Allen: This article has been updated to reflect the most accurate information regarding best bike speakers available for those who are interested in enjoying the classic the best possible way. The best 6 available have changed, and information has been added to assist individuals in finding the best bicycle bluetooth speakers currently available on the market. The FAQ has also been updated.
Top 6 Best Bicycle Bluetooth Speakers - The Comparison Table
Product | Range | SIze of the Speaker | Battery | Water-Resistance | Our Rating | Current Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Celtic Blu Bluetooth 5.0 Speaker 
| 100 ft | 7.1 x 2.7 x 2.7 inches | 6000 mAh (30 hours) | IPX4 | 90/100 | |
Clearon Portable Bluetooth 4.0
| 100 ft | 4.6 x 2.8 x 2.8 inches | 2500 mAh (15 hours) | IPX4 | 94/100 | |
| 30 ft | 6.14 x 2.01 x 2.01 inches | 4000 mAh(up to 24 hours) | N/A | 90/100 | |
Tribit StormBox Micro Bluetooth Speaker
| 100 ft | 3.87 x 3.87 x 1.37 inches | 2,600mAh (20 hours) | IP67 | 80/100 | |
| 32 ft | 4.37 x 4.37 x 4.02 inches | 1200 mAh (up to 10 hours) | IP65 | 85/100 | |
Zares Bluetooth Speaker for Bike
| 30 ft | 4.13 x 4 x 1.57 inches | 1200 mAh | IPX7 | 83/100 |
How to Find the Best Bicycle Bluetooth Speaker Sound - Buyers Guide
Now that we've seen what is the Bluetooth speaker I consider the best, let's see what criteria I used to rank all of the contenders you will find below.
As I mentioned earlier, Bluetooth bike speakers are an emerging market. There are dozens of different products that try to corner their audience with a bunch of interesting features and different specs.
Bottom line, what works for me may not necessarily work for you. It's always good to see what options are available and what makes a good Bluetooth speaker.
So, without further ado, here are a couple of features that will help you find your very own best Bluetooth speaker to take on your traditional bike or electric bike.
Sound quality
This is, by far, the most important thing you should keep in mind whence you are buying a speaker.
No matter whether you are driving your bike on a mountain track or in some less serene environment, you are outside and don't have the benefit of walls to resonate the sound. You need the device with the best sound quality if you want your tunes to be audible.
Here are a couple of things you should check before spending money:
- Frequency response range - This spec is measured in Hertz and describes the frequency spectrum the speakers are able to reproduce accurately. Obviously, the wider this range is, the better. But, Bluetooth bike speakers that are able to blast the sound between 20Hz and 250Hz should do the job.
- Loudness - The loudness of any sound in existence is measured in decibels (dB). The things are pretty much the same in the world of speakers - the more decibels you get, the better.
Aside from these important numbers, a portable Bluetooth speaker should also be able to blast a clear, crisp, and precise sound with deep bass. But you can't know these things for sure until you turn on the speakers.
Also, do your best to find the unit that is able to reproduce 360-degree surround sound since this is the best option for the naturalistic environment.
Connectivity options
When it comes to bike speakers, the minimum expectation should be Bluetooth connectivity. However, those on the market today don't just stop there; they also offer support for auxiliary cables and USB ports as well as SD card slots providing direct music playback from within the device itself.
Range is another key element: some top-of-the-line models can stay connected up to 100 feet away but you'll still have a good experience if you find one that supports 30-foot ranges or more - this way, your investment in portable audio won't go to waste!
Battery life
This is the Achilles heel of all Bluetooth devices, and Bluetooth bike speakers are really no different. So, your goal is to have good autonomy and be able to stay on track for a couple of hours without having to recharge the bike speakers.
How much juice do you need for that?
Well, some of the units I have tested with the battery of 6000 mAh were able to pump out the battery life of the whole 20 hours, which is very good for outdoor bike rides. So, let's use this as some market standard.
Of course, you can always mount an additional power bank to your bike and solve the battery life problem forever, but then you have to take care of two devices.
Design and build quality
Even though I haven't put this at the top of my priorities, design and build quality are some of the most important things you should look for in a bicycle speaker. After all, you are going to take the Bluetooth speaker for long outdoor bike rides. The unit should be able to survive all the bumps and other misfortunes along the way.
So, try to see how does the Bluetooth bike speaker feels in hand, what materials it's made from, does it make some cracking and squealing noises, etc.
Also, you should make sure that all Bluetooth bike speakers you are going to use have a good IPX rating. This number describes the ability of some devices to deal with splashes and other exposure to water.
Any kind of decent waterproof Bluetooth speaker has an IPX rating of four and above.
Shockproof and stain proof features are also more than welcome.
And then, there is the matter of aesthetic. A great number of people out there don't want their speakers only for audio enjoyment - they want their devices to complement the look of the bike as well. Fortunately, the market is stacked with good-looking and trendy Bluetooth speakers that do a great job at elevating the look of your ride.
Mounting options
Some bike speakers are designed to be used in a water bottle holder. Others come with their own mounting mechanisms. There are a few which even integrate with electric biking. What you should do is try to get the Bluetooth speaker that allows for multiple mounting options and be able to use the device regardless of the bike design.
A good Bluetooth speaker will come with a bike mount, straps, case, and other mounting options.
Additional features
All of them can be best described as the things that are not essential for the performance but make your riding experience far easier and more enjoyable. The ones that come at the top of my mind are a built-in FM radio that is always nice to have and hands free features that allow you to switch the tunes without taking a break.
Best Wireless Surround Sound on the Market - Individual reviews (350)
Celtic Blu Bluetooth speaker definitely sits at the upper part of the bike speaker price ladder. But, in this case, the price is more than warranted. This multipurpose unit is stacked with exciting options and features incredibly strong build quality.
Design
In terms of design, the Celtic Blu bike speaker brings very few new things to the table. But why would you fix the things that ain't broken. The device looks mean, robust and functional, while streamlined lines packed with classy color complement the look of any bike you can find in the stores.
What's even more important, the bike speaker is incredibly robust, stain proof, and can take a lot of beating before finally falling into submersion. Of course, you also have IPX4 certification, so you get a reliable waterproof Bluetooth speaker for all weather occasions.
In terms of mounting options, the device features standardized 1.3 pounds bottle-sized dimensions, so you will be able to slide it into any standard-size cup holder. Since this is not exclusively a bike speaker, you also get attachments for backpacks and so on.
The Performance
Although it doesn't support voice controls, Celtic Blu does offer remote controls you mount on the handlebar so you will be able to switch the tunes without breaking. The bike speaker also packs a built-in power bank and allows you to charge other devices while you are riding, which is simply great.
So, you do get a lot of bang for the buck.
In terms of sound quality, Celtic Blu performs great, but the default settings are pretty poor. After some tweaking in the equalizer app, however, I managed to get the output I wanted. The bass is deep, but it won't blow your mind. Still, more than enough for good outdoor performance.
This situation is largely helped by the fact that the unit features 360 degree surround audio output, a durable battery that enables up to 30 hours of playtime, and seamless connection on distances up to 100 feet.
Overall, as good as it gets in the bike speaker market.
Pros
Cons
2. Clearon Portable Bluetooth 4.0 Speaker - Affordable Second Runner
Clearon Portable Bluetooth 4.0 Speaker can be best described as the scaled-down version of Celtic Blu 5.0. Not only in terms of design or size but also in terms of specs. Everything you have in Celtic Blu 5.0 is here is well, only adjusted to the pocket of an average buyer.
The Design
So, this small bike speaker is, once again, shaped like a bottle and is meant to fit a regular-sized water bottle holder. Of course, you also get a couple of hooks and straps that will allow you or mount the bicycle speaker on your backpack, outdoor chair, and so on.
The build quality is good (although not exceptional), and you will be able to tackle most of the challenges you will face on your outdoor rides. And yes, this is an IPX4-certified waterproof Bluetooth speaker, which means you will be able to play music even in spite of light rain.
The overall visual impression is pretty good. The speaker is painted black and built in modern subdued lines. In this case, a small size works to the advantage since it increases the speaker's portability.
The Performance
Now, let us move to the topic that is admittedly more important - performance.
Here, the things are pretty solid. Everything works fine but can be improved by a notch. For instance, the sound is loud and clear, but both tweeters are placed on the same side - the one that is not pointed in your direction.
Also, the aux cable is plugged into the USB port, so you can't charge and listen to OCH simultaneously. The bike speaker supports 4.0 connectivity, but that's not as good as 5.0.
But, don't let me sound overly negative - these are only the small quirks, and keeping in mind the modest price of this package, I am more than willing to deal with them.
This is a neat little device that is loud, sounds great, packs a solid battery life (up to 15 hours of playtime), creates 8W powered (4x2) 360 degree surround sound, a bunch of connectivity options, and you get neat remote controls on the handlebar.
No big complaints here.
Pros
Cons
3. Beyerdynamic DT 880 - Best Semi Open-Back Headphones For Classical Music
Zealot is a name well-known in the circles of avid bike lovers. The fact that one of their most popular products going under the name Zealot S1, made only to the third place of this roundup, doesn't speak against the reputation of this company - it just indicates the competition in the bike speakers sector has become very fierce.
Standing on its own, this is still one excellent portable Bluetooth speaker.
Design
Zealot S1 is yet another tube-shaped Bluetooth bike speaker, so you might assume you should slide it in into a water bottle holder. But, this is not the case.
Instead, the portable Bluetooth speaker comes with a bike mount that allows you to place it right on the bike handlebar. This way, when you listen to music, the speakers are much closer to your ears, and you lose less sound in the process.
The Bluetooth speaker utilizes this position in another very interesting way. Namely, the unit features a very bright LED light which means it doubles down both as a bike speaker as well as an awesome way to illuminate dark roads.
And that's not all.
Otherwise, the unit looks unobtrusive and functional, and it's very well built. I am slightly disappointed by the lack of IPX certification, but this neat bicycle speaker is so stacked with goodies I will look past the issue.
The Performance
In terms of performance, Zealot S1 leaves very few things to be desired. Taking into consideration its size and power, the sound quality is excellent and accurately hits all the notes from deep bass to highest highs.
Then battery life is also rock solid. If you are listening to music from the TF card, you will get up to 24 hours of playback time which is simply great. Of course, moving to a Bluetooth connection will bring these numbers down for a bit.
The thing that somewhat brings the impression down is the very Bluetooth connection. Sure, you get around 30 feet of Bluetooth range, but I have noticed some occasional sound drops even when standing next to the bike speaker.
Still, I would recommend this one to all people who love the versatility.
Pros
Cons
4. Tribit StormBox Micro Bluetooth Speaker - Best Price to Value Ratio
Tribit StormBox Micro is a Bluetooth bicycle speaker that sets itself very modest goals. But on the other hand, these modest expectations are met with ease and grace, so I really can't complain too much.
If you want a simple unit to keep your rides fun and engaging, this is probably the best one you can find.
The Design
As I already mentioned in the introduction, Tribit StormBox is as simple as Bluetooth bicycle speakers go. If you put aside the bike mount, you wouldn't notice any difference between this device and any other Bluetooth speaker on the market.
But, this doesn't have to be a drawback.
The design is simple, functional and keeps the Bluetooth speaker well within reach of an average buyer. The design language is subdued, and the unit won't stick out no matter what kind of bicycle you mount it on.
Still, what it lacks in features and gimmicks, this bike speaker compensates with the things that truly matter.
For instance, the device packs IP67 certification, which means you are getting some of the best dust and water protection available on the market. The rubberized plastic surface also looks quite capable of absorbing shocks and bumps.
So, we have a real little workhorse on display here.
The Performance
Of course, all these things would mean very little if your ability to play music was compromised in any sensible way. Fortunately, that is not the case here.
The sound is not exactly crystal clear, but that is not something you should even expect from such tiny audio drivers. Still, the reproduction isn't bad either, and you will be able to hear most of the notes blasting from your cell phone.
Bass, on the other hand, is surprisingly meaty and throws quite a heavy punch when turned to eleven.
As for the other specs, the bike speaker supports 100 feet of Bluetooth range which is excellent, and a battery life of 20 hours allows great outdoors autonomy. You will rarely come into position to ride the bicycle for more than 8 hours without stopping to recharge.
So, you don't get an FM radio, hands-free, the ability to charge other devices, and other exciting features. But, you do get one punchy and quality Bluetooth experience.
Pros
Cons
5. Olafus Bluetooth Bike Speaker - Best Bicycle Wireless Speaker for Beginners
Olafus Bluetooth Bike Speaker sets out to do pretty much the same thing as Tribit StormBox Micro Bluetooth Speaker. That would be an affordable and portable Bluetooth experience that cuts down the exciting features but focuses on sheer performance.
This goal in itself is not that bad. The thing is that this time, the goals are met with varying success.
The Design
Olafus Bluetooth Bike Speaker is a simple round-shaped device mounted on the bicycle handlebar with a couple of top-quality silicone straps that do a great job of keeping the whole thing in place.
If you like it, you also have an option to hang it with a steel hook, but I would save this option to play music while I'm backpacking. Especially taking into consideration that the plastic this wireless speaker is made from feels a bit brittle.
On the other hand, IP65 certification makes listening to music waterproof so that you can use your portable speaker outside even in the case of light rain.
All the important connectivity options are there, and you can even use a 5.0 Bluetooth connection which is pretty novel in this range.
But that's pretty much it. You don't get an FM radio, hands free controls, built-in power bank, or the ability to listen to music from an external SD card.
The Performance
How are things when it comes to performance?
Well, I'm happy to say that in some areas, this wireless speaker improves upon its direct competitor. For instance, a 1200 mAh battery allows you to listen to music for 10 hours before having to hook the device on the charger.
The output coming from the audio drivers is very loud. No matter whether you are stuck in the traffic or speeding with your bicycle down some mountain track and getting tons of headwinds, you will be able to hear the music coming from the wireless bicycle speaker. Take rich bass as a cherry on top of the cake.
The things I'm not so pleased with fall in the yard of the sound quality. Now, don't get me wrong - the wireless speakers are capable of blasting quality music across a reasonably loud frequency range. But, once you pass a certain threshold, the quality will start dropping the louder you get.
Pros
Cons
6. Zares Bluetooth Speaker for Bike - Best Wireless Bicycle Speaker for Younger Audience
Zares Bluetooth Speaker for Bicycle is hardly a top-quality bicycle wireless speaker. But I would lie if I told you I didn't have a good time with this portable Bluetooth unit.
Putting it in the last place of this roundup probably serves it the best justice. It's way better than most competitors you can find on the market but still lagging behind the previous five bicycle speakers I have covered.
The Design
So, what we got here is a neat little wireless speaker that can be attached to a bicycle via mount you get in the package or hanged with the hook on the handlebar like a keychain. Of course, the first option is far more preferable. The build quality is solid. Rubberized plastic looks like it can take quite a beating before breaking, and IPX7 keeps the whole affair water resistant and dust proof. The manufacturer obviously made these wireless speakers for outgoing people.
Also, the wireless speaker comes with a very trendy and energetic design that will definitely attract a younger audience but may put off serious bicycle riders who like to keep things classy.
And that's all, folks. The wireless speaker comes with all necessary connectivity options but lacks even the basic features like FM radio.
These small deficiencies are excusable because if you are a true audiophile, you won't bring great music to the loud traffic.
A bigger problem here is the battery life. On paper, the 1200 mAh battery packs enough power to keep the wireless speaker alive for 10 hours. Well, at least until you lee the audio output under 60%. Once you pass this point, the number of hours and battery performance will start dropping like a rock, and who knows where they'll land.
So, keep your power bank close.
Fortunately, the Bluetooth range is quite decent and catches your standard 30 feet of distance.
Pros
Cons
Best Bicycle Bluetooth Speaker - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Bluetooth bike speaker on the market?
In my opinion, that would be Celtic Blu Bluetooth 5.0 Speaker. This portable speaker has it all - great design, excellent connectivity, an insane amount of battery power, loud audio output, a bunch of exciting features, TF card support, killer sound quality... Everything you need to bring your music outdoor without losing any of the quality.
Sure, the speaker asks you to invest a bit more money than the rest of the bunch, but in this case, the price is warranted.
What are the best Bluetooth bike speakers for casual users?
If you are looking for a speaker you can easily mount on the bicycle and enjoy the music you like outdoors, you will hardly find a better unit than Tribit StormBox Micro Bluetooth Speaker. Speakers like this are usually designed without some exciting features, but this one offers good battery power, loud and clear audio output, durable build, and low price.
What else do you need to blast your tunes outside?
What should I look for when buying the best bicycle speakers?
Just scroll above, and you will find an entire buying guide dedicated to this topic. But in short, your ideal outdoor bike speakers should have:
- Loud and precise audio output
- A strong battery (at least 10 hours of music)
- Range of at least 30 feet
- Durable build and preferable water resistance
Of course, these are only the basics, and you should also get a system that offers a bit of versatility.
By this, I mean numerous connectivity options, hands free controls, support for external SD cards, 360 degrees output, and, let's say, a built-in power bank to charge other devices.
What are the mount options for bike Bluetooth speakers?
In this regard, most bike Bluetooth speakers can be divided into three groups:
- Key-chain speakers
- Bottle-holder speakers
- Front-mounted speakers
Out of them, key-chain speakers are the worst option. You can't truly enjoy your outdoor music while the speaker is hanging loose on the handlebar.
Front-facing speakers are theoretically the best since you are keeping the speaker firmly in place, close to your ears. But this neat position is usually reserved for smaller portable speakers with little battery power.
The speakers able to throw the biggest punch, offer the most features, stay alive for 24 hours and play the loudest music are usually bigger, so you need to keep them in the bottle holder.
Best Bike Bluetooth Speakers - In Conclusion
So, when all is said and done, I can say the bike Bluetooth speakers market was a very pleasant surprise for me. Sure, Celtic Blu Bluetooth 5.0 Speaker took the win. With its strong battery, awesome specs, and exciting features, the device is simply too good not to. But, the other entries like Zealot S1 Outdoor Bluetooth Speakers and Tribit StormBox Micro Bluetooth Speaker also had something to say and fought to the bitter end.
I'm sure all these portable units have a place in the speaker market. You only need to see which one of them meets your requirements the best.