Motorcycles with Apple CarPlay: Which Bikes Have It & What Are Your Options

Motorcycles with Apple CarPlay are no longer a futuristic concept. A small but growing number of bikes now offer it straight from the factory, and the aftermarket has exploded to fill the gap for everyone else. Whether you're shopping for a new touring bike or trying to modernize the one you already own, this post covers everything you need to know.

Key Takeaways

• Honda was the first motorcycle manufacturer to offer factory Apple CarPlay, starting with the Gold Wing
• Harley-Davidson now supports CarPlay through its Skyline OS on select touring models
• Indian Motorcycle added CarPlay to its RIDE COMMAND system starting with 2022 models
• BMW Motorrad does not offer Apple CarPlay on any motorcycle, despite BMW cars having it
• The global motorcycle infotainment market was valued at $288 million in 2024 and is projected to reach $625 million by 2032
• If your bike doesn't have factory CarPlay, aftermarket displays and Bluetooth headsets can get you there
• Android Auto is also available on most of the same bikes that support CarPlay

Which Motorcycles Come with Apple CarPlay from the Factory

Very few bikes actually come with CarPlay built in. It's still mostly a premium feature on flagship touring models. Here's a breakdown of what's currently available.

Honda Gold Wing

Honda changed the game when it introduced Apple CarPlay on the Gold Wing — making it the first major motorcycle manufacturer to do so. The integration lets riders access Apple Maps, Apple Music, calls, messages, and Siri right through the bike's display.

Every Gold Wing from 2018 onwards supports Apple CarPlay. A July 2020 software update also added Android Auto, making the system compatible with both iPhone and Android users. Android Auto on the Gold Wing does require a Bluetooth headset to route audio — a small but important detail if you're planning to use it.

The Gold Wing is still the gold standard for factory motorcycle connectivity. If you want the most polished, factory-integrated CarPlay experience on two wheels, this is the bike.

Honda Africa Twin

The Africa Twin also supports Apple CarPlay, which is impressive for an adventure bike. It's one of the few middleweight options on the market with factory smartphone integration.

The setup process is a bit quirky, though. Honda's system requires you to pair a Bluetooth audio device first before the phone's CarPlay request gets recognized. It sounds backwards, but that's just how the system works. Many Africa Twin owners have discovered this the hard way through trial and error.

Once it's configured, both wired USB and wireless Bluetooth connections work. Just know that the initial setup step is mandatory.

Harley-Davidson with Skyline OS

Harley-Davidson brought Apple CarPlay to select touring models through its new Skyline operating system. It's a meaningful upgrade for a brand that was slow to embrace smartphone integration.

Setting it up requires pairing both your Bluetooth headset and your iPhone to the infotainment system before CarPlay activates. The CarPlay interface takes up about 65% of the display, with the bike's gauges repositioned to the left side. It's a smart layout that keeps both your phone interface and riding data visible at the same time.

One practical upside: for Harley riders who haven't purchased the embedded navigation system (which costs an extra $350 on non-CVO models), CarPlay gives you full Apple Maps access without that added expense.

Indian Motorcycle RIDE COMMAND

Indian Motorcycle added Apple CarPlay to its RIDE COMMAND infotainment platform starting with 2022 models. It's available on models with the larger 7-inch display, but not on the slimmer 4-inch screen variants.

Like the other factory systems, it requires a Bluetooth headset connection to work properly. RIDE COMMAND gives riders access to maps, music, calls, and messages through the bike's display — putting Indian on equal footing with Harley-Davidson in the connectivity department.

Can-Am Spyder

Can-Am, which makes three-wheeled vehicles rather than traditional motorcycles, also supports Apple CarPlay on the 2024 Spyder F3 and RT series. It requires a wired connection using an Apple-compatible USB cable and a communication headset for full functionality.

The system also displays vehicle info like engine temperature and gear selection alongside the CarPlay interface — a nice touch for riders who want everything in one place.

The Elephant in the Room: BMW Motorrad Has No CarPlay

This one surprises a lot of people. BMW cars have had Apple CarPlay for years — you can browse our full range of BMW Apple CarPlay & Android Auto modules to see just how many car models are covered. BMW motorcycles? None of them have it.

Riders who own premium BMW models like the R 1250 GS or the S 1000 XR have been frustrated by this gap for years. BMW Motorrad's infotainment systems are capable and well-regarded, but Apple CarPlay just hasn't made it to the motorcycle division. Whether it's a licensing issue, an internal decision, or something else entirely, BMW hasn't offered any clear answers.

This gap has actually created a solid market for BMW-specific aftermarket solutions. Products like the CHIGEE AIO-5 are designed specifically for BMW motorcycles and let riders get CarPlay functionality through a display that fits right into the bike's existing GPS mount.

What About Android Auto on Motorcycles

Android Auto is available on most of the same bikes that support CarPlay. The Honda Gold Wing covers both platforms, and Harley's Skyline OS and Indian's RIDE COMMAND also support Android Auto.

Android Auto gives riders access to Google Maps, Waze, Google Assistant, Spotify, and messaging apps. Many riders actually prefer Google Maps over Apple Maps for motorcycle trips — especially Waze, for its community-based hazard reporting and real-time traffic updates.

Setup on most factory bikes requires a Bluetooth headset for Android Auto, similar to CarPlay. Once connected, the experience is largely the same as what iPhone users get.

Aftermarket Options: CarPlay for Every Motorcycle

This is where things get interesting for riders whose bikes don't have factory CarPlay. The aftermarket has grown a lot, and there are now real options no matter what you ride.

Dedicated Motorcycle CarPlay Displays

Brands like Carpuride and CHIGEE make weatherproof displays built specifically for motorcycle use. Here's what to look for when shopping for one:

• Display brightness of at least 1,000 to 2,300 nits for visibility in direct sunlight
• IP67 or IP69K waterproofing for rain and weather resistance
• Operating temperature range from at least -10°C to 60°C
• Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto support for cable-free operation
• Universal mounting compatibility with your bike's handlebar or GPS rack

The CHIGEE AIO-5, for example, is a popular pick for BMW riders because it integrates with BMW's existing GPS mounting point and handlebar controller — including BMW's "wonder wheel." It also pulls engine temperature and gear selection data from the bike's ECU.

If you're looking for a broader range of aftermarket CarPlay solutions beyond motorcycles, our Apple CarPlay & Android Auto modules collection covers a wide variety of vehicle types and head unit options.

Bluetooth Headsets as a Simpler Alternative

If you don't want to add a screen to your bike, a good Bluetooth headset is another path to CarPlay-style functionality. Sena is the most popular brand in this space. The Sena 50S, for example, features Bluetooth 5.0, mesh intercom for group rides, Harman Kardon audio, and full voice control for Siri and Google Assistant.

This approach gives you navigation, music, and calling through your helmet — with nothing mounted on your bars. It's a cleaner, more minimal setup that a lot of experienced riders prefer. The trade-off is that you won't see a map on screen, so you rely entirely on audio turn-by-turn directions.

Wireless vs. Wired Connectivity

Most modern aftermarket systems support both, but wireless is the clear winner for everyday convenience. You power on the display, it connects automatically. No cables to deal with.

Wired connections are more reliable for first-time setup and troubleshooting, which is why some systems use a wired connection the first time and then work wirelessly after that. For long trips where you need solid reliability, wired is the safer bet. For everyday riding, wireless is just easier.

How to Set Up Apple CarPlay on a Motorcycle

Setup varies by bike, but here's a general process that covers most factory systems:

1. Make sure your bike's software is updated to the latest firmware version
2. Go to the infotainment system's Bluetooth settings
3. If your system requires it (Honda Africa Twin, Harley Skyline OS), pair your Bluetooth headset first
4. Enable device discovery and pair your iPhone
5. Approve the CarPlay connection from your iPhone's Bluetooth settings
6. Activate CarPlay through the main infotainment menu

The most common setup issues come from skipping the headset pairing step or not following the exact menu sequence. If your bike requires a Bluetooth headset for activation, there's no way around it — even if you plan to use the bike's speakers for audio.

For aftermarket displays, the process is simpler:

1. Mount the unit and power it on
2. Enable wireless CarPlay in your iPhone settings
3. Select the display from the available devices
4. Most units also provide a QR code in the app to simplify first-time pairing

Riding with Gloves and Touchscreens

One practical challenge is using a touchscreen while wearing riding gloves. Thick leather gloves often don't register on standard capacitive displays.

A few things that work:

• Look for aftermarket displays with adjustable touch sensitivity settings
• Use touchscreen-compatible gloves with conductive fingertips
• Rely on Siri voice commands for most interactions while riding

This is actually one area where CarPlay's voice-first design makes a lot of sense for motorcycling. Most of what you need can be handled with just your voice.

Is Apple CarPlay on a Motorcycle Actually Safe

This is the most debated topic in motorcycle forums whenever CarPlay comes up. The short answer: it depends on how you use it.

The case for CarPlay being safer than the alternatives is reasonable. Having navigation, music, and calls in one place beats fumbling with your phone or glancing at a separate GPS unit. Voice commands mean you rarely need to touch the screen.

The case against it is also fair. Motorcycle riding demands more attention than driving a car. Any distraction — even a quick glance at the screen — carries higher risk when you're on two wheels.

The motorcycle community is genuinely split on this. Many experienced riders say they use CarPlay purely for audio navigation through their helmet and never touch the screen while moving. Others avoid it entirely and pre-load routes before they leave.

The smart approach:

• Set everything up before you ride
• Use voice commands as your main way of interacting
• Treat the screen as a reference point, not a control panel
• If you're new to riding, get comfortable on the bike first before adding any infotainment layer

Market Growth and What's Coming Next

The motorcycle infotainment market is growing fast. It was valued at $288 million in 2024 and is projected to reach $625 million by 2032, growing at 12% per year. That growth rate is well above the motorcycle market overall.

The connected motorcycle segment is growing even faster in some categories. The tethered hardware segment — which includes aftermarket connectivity devices — is projected to grow at 51.7% per year from 2020 to 2027. That tells you how strong the demand is from riders whose bikes don't have factory integration.

In April 2026, Kawasaki finalized a licensing agreement with Apple to enable CarPlay on 2025 JetSki models with full-color TFT dashboards. It's the first time CarPlay has entered the powersports category beyond traditional motorcycles — a clear sign that Apple is actively pushing into new vehicle types.

As wireless tech improves and hardware costs drop, expect CarPlay to show up on more mid-range bikes over the next few years. What's currently a premium feature on a handful of touring models will likely become standard across a much wider range of motorcycles.

Choosing the Right CarPlay Setup for Your Riding Style

Not every rider needs the same solution. Here's a quick breakdown based on how you ride.

Long-Distance Touring Riders

A factory-integrated system or a large aftermarket display makes the most sense. You'll benefit from real-time navigation, music, and easy access to calls across long days in the saddle. A Bluetooth headset paired with your CarPlay display is the complete setup.

Adventure and Off-Road Riders

Waterproofing and durability matter most here. Look for aftermarket displays with IP69K ratings and wide temperature ranges. A Bluetooth headset is also a good add — you'll want audio navigation without looking at a screen when the terrain gets technical.

Daily Commuters

A Bluetooth headset with Siri or Google Assistant may be all you need. It's a simpler setup with fewer things to manage and nothing to remove when you park.

Riders Who Already Own a BMW

The CHIGEE AIO-5 and similar BMW-specific aftermarket solutions are your best options. They integrate cleanly with BMW's existing mounting systems and handlebar controls, making the install look and feel close to factory. For car owners in the same situation, our BMW Apple CarPlay & Android Auto upgrades page shows what's possible when the right hardware meets the right vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which motorcycles have Apple CarPlay built in?

As of 2026, the main factory options are the Honda Gold Wing (2018 and newer), Honda Africa Twin, Harley-Davidson models with Skyline OS, and Indian Motorcycle with RIDE COMMAND (2022 and newer). Can-Am Spyder also supports CarPlay on its 2024 F3 and RT models, and Kawasaki recently added it to 2025 JetSki models with large TFT displays.

Does BMW make a motorcycle with Apple CarPlay?

No. As of May 2026, BMW Motorrad has not released Apple CarPlay on any motorcycle model. This is a common frustration among BMW riders, especially given that BMW cars have had CarPlay for years. Aftermarket solutions like the CHIGEE AIO-5 are the best current option for BMW motorcycle owners.

Can I add Apple CarPlay to a motorcycle that doesn't have it?

Yes. Aftermarket motorcycle CarPlay displays from brands like Carpuride and CHIGEE mount to your handlebars or GPS rack and connect wirelessly to your iPhone. Bluetooth headsets like the Sena 50S also give you voice-controlled access to Siri for navigation and calls without adding a screen. If you drive a car as well and are looking to add CarPlay there, our premium wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto head units are worth exploring.

Do I need a Bluetooth headset to use CarPlay on a motorcycle?

It depends on your bike. Most factory motorcycle CarPlay systems — including those on the Honda Africa Twin and Harley-Davidson Skyline OS — require a Bluetooth headset to be paired before CarPlay can be activated. Aftermarket displays typically don't have this requirement and can route audio through the display's built-in speaker or a connected headset.

Is Apple CarPlay safe to use on a motorcycle?

It can be, when used responsibly. CarPlay is designed around voice control and minimal screen interaction, which reduces the need to touch a display while riding. The safest approach is to set up your route before you leave, use Siri for any adjustments, and rely on audio navigation through your helmet. Avoid interacting with the screen while in motion.

What should I look for in an aftermarket motorcycle CarPlay display?

Look for a screen brightness of at least 1,000 to 2,000 nits for daylight visibility, IP67 or better waterproofing, wireless CarPlay and Android Auto support, and mounting compatibility with your bike. A wide operating temperature range matters if you ride in extreme heat or cold.

Does Android Auto work on motorcycles too?

Yes. All of the motorcycles that support Apple CarPlay also support Android Auto. The Honda Gold Wing added Android Auto support in a July 2020 update, and it now comes standard on all current models. Harley-Davidson Skyline OS and Indian RIDE COMMAND also support both platforms. Most aftermarket displays support Android Auto as well.

How big is the motorcycle CarPlay market?

The global motorcycle infotainment system market was valued at $288 million in 2024 and is projected to reach $625 million by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 12%. North America accounts for nearly 44% of global demand, followed by Europe at around 29%.