GoHawk RE8 Motorcycle Speakers User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the GoHawk RE8 Motorcycle Speakers. This system is designed to provide high-quality audio for your motorcycle, ATV, UTV, or 4-wheeler, featuring Bluetooth connectivity, FM radio, AUX input, USB playback, and integrated LED lights. This manual provides essential information for proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your speaker system.

2. Safety Information

• Always ensure the speaker system is securely mounted to prevent detachment during operation.
• Connect the system to a standard 12V power source only. Incorrect voltage can damage the unit.
• Avoid disassembling the unit. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.
• Do not operate the system at excessively high volumes that could impair your ability to hear traffic or emergency signals.
• Ensure all wiring connections are properly insulated and protected from water and heat.

3. Product Features and Components

The GoHawk RE8 system includes the following key features and components:

• Main Unit: Dual waterproof stereo speakers with an aluminum main unit and built-in high-performance power amplifier.
• Mounting System: Innovative ball stub design with mounting clamps supporting 7/8" to 1 1/4" handlebars. Features 360-degree swivel for custom installation.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth wireless connection (up to 15 meters), USB port for MP3 files, 3.5mm AUX input, and FM Radio.
• LED Lights: Optional 24 white LED strip, controllable with a single click.
• Display: Digital display with clock function.
• Power: Standard 12V application, includes a 59" battery cable harness with ring terminal connector.
• Durability: Advanced waterproof design (IP56 rating) and satin-finished aluminum housing.

Image: Close-up view of the GoHawk RE8 speaker system's control panel, showing the MOD button, volume controls (VOL- and VOL+), CLK button, USB port, AUX IN port, and indicators for Waterproof (IP56), White LEDs (Optional), BT Wireless, and FM Radio.

Image: Detailed view of the GoHawk RE8 speaker system's integrated LED strip, highlighting its optional nature and one-click activation.

4. Setup and Installation

Proper installation is crucial for the performance and longevity of your GoHawk RE8 speaker system.

4.1 Handlebar Clearance Measurement

Before installation, measure the handlebar center clearance on your vehicle. The GoHawk RE8 has an overall width of 16-3/4 inches. Ensure sufficient space for proper fitment.

Image: A comparison chart showing the dimensions of GoHawk RE8 (16-3/4" total width) and RE9-X (18-1/4" total width) models, along with a wiring diagram for connecting the speaker system to a 12V battery.

4.2 Mounting the Speakers

1. Identify a suitable location on your handlebar that allows for clear sound projection and easy access to controls.
2. The mounting clamps are designed for handlebars ranging from 7/8" to 1 1/4" in diameter. Select the appropriate rubber inserts if necessary to ensure a snug fit.
3. Attach the mounting clamps to the handlebar. The ball stub design allows for 360-degree swivel, enabling you to adjust the speaker angle for optimal sound direction and visibility.
4. Securely fasten the speaker unit to the mounting clamps using the provided hardware. Ensure all bolts are tightened to prevent movement during operation.

Image: A detailed view of the GoHawk RE8 speaker's mounting clamp, illustrating its compatibility with 7/8" to 1 1/4" handlebars and the 360-degree swivel ball stub design for flexible positioning.

4.3 Wiring Connections

The system comes with a 59" battery cable harness with a ring terminal connector for easy installation.

• Connect the red wire to the positive (+) terminal of your 12V battery.
• Connect the black wire to the negative (-) terminal of your 12V battery.
• Ensure all connections are secure and properly insulated to prevent short circuits and water damage.
• The system is designed for plug-and-play installation with standard 12V power.

5. Operating Instructions

Familiarize yourself with the controls for optimal use of your GoHawk RE8 speaker system.

5.1 Power On/Off

The system typically powers on when the vehicle's ignition is turned on, assuming it's wired directly to a switched 12V source. Some models may have a dedicated power button (often integrated with the MOD button for a long press).

5.2 Mode Selection (MOD Button)

Press the MOD button to cycle through available audio sources: Bluetooth (BT), FM Radio, AUX Input, and USB Playback.

5.3 Volume Control

• Press VOL+ to increase the volume.
• Press VOL- to decrease the volume.

5.4 Bluetooth Operation

1. Switch the system to Bluetooth (BT) mode using the MOD button. The display will show 'BT'.
2. On your smartphone or Bluetooth device, search for available devices and select "GoHawk RE8" (or similar name).
3. Once paired, you can stream audio wirelessly from your device.
4. Use the << and >> buttons to skip tracks.

5.5 FM Radio Operation

1. Switch the system to FM Radio mode using the MOD button. The display will show the current frequency.
2. Press and hold the << or >> buttons to automatically scan for the next available station.
3. Short press the << or >> buttons to fine-tune the frequency manually.

5.6 USB Playback

1. Insert a USB drive containing MP3 audio files into the USB port.
2. Switch the system to USB mode using the MOD button. Playback should begin automatically.
3. Use the << and >> buttons to navigate between tracks.

5.7 AUX Input

1. Connect an external audio device (e.g., MP3 player) to the 3.5mm AUX IN port using a standard audio cable (not included).
2. Switch the system to AUX mode using the MOD button.
3. Control playback from your connected external device.

5.8 LED Lights Control

The optional 24 white LED strip can be turned on or off with a single click. Refer to the specific button on your unit, often labeled or indicated by an icon, for this function.

5.9 Clock Display (CLK Button)

Press the CLK button to display the current time. Long press the CLK button to enter time setting mode, then use VOL+ and VOL- to adjust hours and minutes, and CLK again to confirm.

6. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your GoHawk RE8 speaker system, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, damp cloth to clean the exterior of the speakers and main unit. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Water Resistance: The system features an IP56 waterproof rating, meaning it is protected against dust and high-pressure water jets. While designed for outdoor use, avoid submerging the unit in water. Ensure all ports (USB, AUX) are covered when not in use to maintain water resistance.
• Connections: Periodically check all wiring connections for tightness and signs of corrosion. Ensure insulation remains intact.
• Mounting: Regularly inspect the mounting clamps and hardware to ensure they remain secure and tight. Vibrations from riding can loosen fasteners over time.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your GoHawk RE8 speaker system, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

• No Power:
  • Check the 12V power connection to the battery. Ensure the red wire is connected to positive and the black wire to negative.
  • Verify that the vehicle's ignition is on if the system is wired to a switched power source.
  • Inspect the fuse (if applicable) in the power line.
• No Sound:
  • Ensure the volume is turned up on both the speaker system and your connected device (if using Bluetooth or AUX).
  • Check the selected audio mode (Bluetooth, FM, AUX, USB) matches your input source.
  • For Bluetooth, ensure the device is properly paired. For AUX, check the cable connection. For USB, ensure the drive contains compatible MP3 files.
• Bluetooth Connection Issues:
  • Make sure the speaker system is in Bluetooth mode.
  • Ensure your Bluetooth device is within the 15-meter range.
  • Try unpairing and re-pairing the device.
  • Restart both the speaker system and your Bluetooth device.
• Poor FM Reception:
  • Ensure the FM antenna is properly connected and positioned for best reception.
  • Move to an area with better signal strength.

If these steps do not resolve the issue, contact GoHawk customer support for further assistance.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or contact the seller directly. GoHawk provides support for their products, and details can typically be found on their official website or through the retailer where the product was purchased.