Instruments & Gauges
About Instruments & Gauges
Instruments tell you how fast you are going, how hard the engine is working and whether something is wrong. Riders shop this group to replace a dead or inaccurate speedometer, to add a gauge the bike never had, such as oil pressure, voltage or temperature, or to fit a new cluster after a custom build or a handlebar change.
The sub-categories divide the job by part. Individual Gauges covers single instruments such as speedometers, tachometers and oil pressure gauges. Instrument Clusters combine several instruments in one unit. Instrument & Gauge Parts is for the mounts, brackets and adapters around a gauge, Wiring Harnesses, Cables & Connectors for the wiring that connects it, and Instrument Drive Cables for the speedometer and tachometer cables on bikes that use them.
Decide first whether you are matching the original or customizing. Direct-replacement gauges are listed by model and year, many of them for Harley-Davidson, while universal gauges have a standard dial size, such as 1-7/8 inch, and need their own mount, wiring and sometimes a sensor. Check whether the unit is mechanical and cable-driven or electronic, since electronic ones take a signal from a sensor and some are set up for the bike. Pick your bike in the Ride Finder at the top of the page.
Brands here include GET, COLONY, HardDrive, Drag Specialties and Dakota Digital. For help with getting the fit right, see why a part did not fit and how to avoid it.
FAQs on motorcycle instruments and gauges
What is the difference between a mechanical and an electronic speedometer?
A mechanical speedometer is turned by a cable driven from the wheel or transmission. An electronic one reads a speed sensor and shows the speed on a dial or display, and many have to be calibrated or set up for the bike. Choose the type your bike was built for, or a kit made for the change.
Do I need a sensor for an oil pressure or temperature gauge?
Yes. These gauges read a sender or sensor on the engine, and a mechanical oil pressure gauge connects by a line to a pressure port. Check the listing for the port thread size and whether a sender is included, and choose a gauge with a range that suits your engine.
Will a speedometer read correctly after I change tire size or gearing?
Not automatically. A speedometer is calibrated to the original tire and final drive, so changing either can make it read wrong. Electronic units can usually be recalibrated, while mechanical ones may need a different drive ratio. Compare the reading with GPS speed.
How do I move a gauge to a different spot on the bike?
Use a mount or relocation kit made for the bar, riser or fork tube size you have, and check whether an extension harness is needed to reach the new position. Route the wiring away from heat and moving parts, and leave enough slack for the steering to turn fully.
Can I use a gauge from another motorcycle?
Only if its drive, sensor and connector match. A gauge built for one model may use a different drive ratio, plug or signal. Match by model and year using the Ride Finder, and read the listing for the connection details.
