When it comes to upgrading the headlights on your Harley-Davidson, there’s no shortage of options, but choosing the right one for your ride requires understanding the features and the purpose behind each product. Today, we’ll compare two very distinct options: Baja Designs LP Series (LP4, LP6, and LP9) and Custom Dynamics Shark Demon headlights. Both products are well-regarded but differ significantly in terms of application, design, and installation.
Baja Designs vs Custom Dynamics: Company Backgrounds
Baja Designs
Baja Designs was founded in 1992 with a focus on off-road lighting for motorcycles, ATVs, and trucks. Over the years, they earned a reputation for producing rugged, high-performance lights that excel in extreme conditions. While their products were initially designed for off-road use, the company's commitment to innovation has led to the development of some of the most powerful LED lighting systems on the market today. The LP series is one of their flagship products, known for extreme durability and adaptability.
Custom Dynamics
Founded in 2002, Custom Dynamics specializes in motorcycle lighting, focusing on high-quality, DOT-approved products for Harley-Davidson and other cruiser motorcycles. Custom Dynamics' mission is to provide Harley riders with safe, stylish, and easy-to-install lighting solutions. Their focus on plug-and-play installation, along with their compliance with legal road-use standards, makes their products very popular in the Harley-Davidson community. The Shark Demon headlights reflect their expertise in creating lighting that combines functionality with a bold aesthetic.
Baja Designs LP Series Headlights (LP4, LP6, LP9)
While Baja Designs headlights were not specifically made for Harley-Davidsons, their rugged build and powerful lighting output have made them a popular choice among motorcycle customizers. Let’s break down the LP series:
1. LP4
Size: Smallest in the series (5.3” diameter)
Lumens: 8,750 lumens
Power: 50W
Features: The LP4 offers a wide beam pattern with incredible light output for its size. It’s compact, which makes it more adaptable for use on motorcycles with limited space for larger lights.
Custom Options: Various lens colours (amber, clear) are available, allowing for more customization in terms of looks and function.
2. LP6
Size: Mid-sized (6.5” diameter)
Lumens: 10,300 lumens
Power: 105W
Features: The LP6 is a powerful option for riders looking to illuminate large areas. It features 6 forward-facing LEDs and 2 side-facing LEDs, creating an impressive beam pattern.
Adaptability: Popular in custom builds for motorcycles, especially those looking for superior off-road lighting performance and an aggressive aesthetic.
3. LP9
Size: Largest (8.5” diameter)
Lumens: 11,025 lumens
Power: 105W
Features: The LP9 provides the most intense light output in the series, with an expansive beam pattern that combines long-distance lighting with peripheral illumination, thanks to its 9 total LEDs.
Customizability: The LP9’s larger size and power make it perfect for more extreme custom builds. However, it can require more specialized brackets and wiring solutions.
Why Baja Designs for Harley-Davidson?
Baja Designs headlights are not road-legal straight out of the box, but their raw power, combined with the ability to customize lens colours and mounts, has made them a favourite among Harley-Davidson owners looking for a bold, off-road aesthetic. With aftermarket wire harnesses and mounting brackets, these headlights can be adapted for use on Harleys, offering a unique look that’s hard to match. Note: Their focus on off-road performance means they are not DOT-approved for legal road use, so it's important to check local laws before using them on public roads.
Custom Dynamics Shark Demon Headlights
1. Size & Design
The Custom Dynamics Shark Demon headlights were made specifically for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Unlike the Baja Designs LP series, which require aftermarket modifications, the Shark Demon headlights are plug-and-play, making installation a breeze. This ease of installation is due to the built-in relays inside the light, eliminating the need for additional wiring work.
2. DOT Approval
One of the most important distinctions between Custom Dynamics and Baja Designs is that the Shark Demon is fully DOT-approved for legal road use. This makes it an ideal option for riders who want to enhance their bike’s lighting without compromising on legal requirements. Baja Designs headlights, by contrast, are geared more towards off-road use and aren't street-legal without modifications.
3. Technical Specifications
Size: 7" round LED headlight (fits most Harley-Davidson touring models)
Lumens: Around 4,000 lumens (less powerful than Baja Designs but designed for optimal road use)
Power: 30-45W, designed for road use without overpowering the electrical system
Beam Pattern: Features a high and low beam function, optimized for maximum road visibility without blinding oncoming traffic
Installation: The plug-and-play design with built-in relays makes it easy for anyone to install the headlights without needing professional help.
Durability: Built with a tough, sealed housing and high-quality lens material, the Shark Demon is designed to last and handle the rigours of the road.
Why Custom Dynamics for Harley-Davidson?
If you’re looking for an easy upgrade that will provide excellent performance while keeping you road-legal, the Custom Dynamics Shark Demon is hard to beat. It’s a perfect fit for Harley-Davidson motorcycles and is built with safety in mind. No need for additional wiring harnesses or complex mounts, and the DOT approval means you won’t have to worry about legal compliance.
Key Differences
Target Audience: Baja Designs caters to off-road enthusiasts looking for powerful, customizable lighting options, while Custom Dynamics is specifically designed for Harley-Davidson riders who want a seamless, legal, and reliable lighting upgrade.
Installation: Custom Dynamics headlights offer a true plug-and-play installation, while Baja Designs lights require custom mounting brackets and wiring harnesses for Harley-Davidsons.
Road Legality: Custom Dynamics headlights are DOT-approved and ready for road use, while Baja Designs lights are designed primarily for off-road use and need to be modified for legal road operation.
Customizability: Baja Designs offers more customization with various lens colours and sizes, appealing to riders who want to tailor their bike’s look and lighting performance. Custom Dynamics focuses more on functional upgrades with a road-legal focus.
Conclusion: Which One is Right for You?
If you’re a Harley rider looking for an easy, plug-and-play headlight upgrade that meets legal requirements for road use, the Custom Dynamics Shark Demon is the way to go. Its DOT approval and simple installation process make it an excellent choice for daily riders who want both style and function.
On the other hand, if you’re into custom builds or frequently venture off-road, the Baja Designs LP series provides unmatched power and customization options, though at the expense of requiring more effort in installation and legal compliance.
Both headlight options are available at Torque Monsters, ensuring you can find the perfect fit for your Harley-Davidson, whether you’re aiming for aggressive off-road styling or road-legal brilliance.
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