SP Connect "Harley-Davidson" smartphone mounting system tested

SP Connect has long since stopped seeing the smartphone as just a navigation aid, but rather as a fixed part of the riding experience. Whether it's the fastest way from A to B, a sporty corner-carving session with calimoto or a quick group selfie during a touring break with its variable mounting system, the Austrian manufacturer offers a solution that integrates the phone into your motorcycle setup securely, stably and flexibly.

Our editor NoPain has been riding with SP Connect since hour zero for over ten years on bicycle and motorcycle, in every weather condition and across the most varied use cases. In this time, not a single mount or cover has failed a clear proof of trust in long-term use.

At the heart of it is the Phone Case a robust, multifunctional case with an integrated mounting mechanism. Thanks to the simple system, the smartphone can be fixed to all compatible mounts with just a few movements and removed just as quickly.

So that Harley-Davidson riders can also enjoy the benefits of SP Connect in style, the Phone Covers have been upgraded with two different Bar & Shield logos and the line-up has been expanded with mounts for 1½ inch oversize handlebars. For our test, we mounted a combination of these together with the Charging Anti Vibration Module on the 1000PS CVO Road Glide and put it through its paces.

The basis of every SP Connect solution is the Phone Case (from € 39.99). This is a multifunctional, shock-resistant and durable protective case designed to reliably protect the smartphone from drops, scratches and everyday wear.

In our case, the SP Connect Phone Case in the Harley-Davidson Bar & Shield design for the iPhone 13 Pro was used a device that has already been through a lot with NoPain over the years on bicycle and motorcycle, on the road and off-road, yet still functions flawlessly to this day. The advantage becomes especially clear in daily use: the smartphone sits securely, is always within reach and naturally becomes part of the setup whether for navigation, hazard warnings or a quick photo stop.

The slim case relies on a 3-layer plastic construction that, according to the manufacturer, is meant to provide high stability while remaining pleasant to handle. In practice, the cover sits absolutely non-slip in the hand, without having a "sticky" surface. This makes it less prone to lint and dirt and also allows it to be stowed easily in tight pockets.

All ports and controls remain freely accessible, as does the camera. On the back sits the SPC+ mount, which is compatible with all current SP Connect components. A supplied adapter also enables use with older systems.

New is the Mag-Align system, which further simplifies mounting. A precisely tuned magnetic ring automatically guides the smartphone into position and supports the twist-to-lock mechanism when engaging.

Here's how it works: Dock the Phone Case onto the mount, turn it 90° clockwise done. Especially on the road, this is a noticeable advantage: no fiddling, no readjusting the smartphone snaps into place perfectly right away. Especially with shaky hands or during hectic stops, this saves time and nerves.

The integrated magnetic ring offers an additional practical benefit: the smartphone can also be fixed magnetically to MagSafe mounts or suitable metal surfaces for example for wireless charging or short stops.

While riding, the connection convinces with a firm hold, even under vibrations or harsh impacts. Even on longer tours or bad roads, there's never the feeling that the smartphone could come loose a decisive factor, especially with high-priced devices. However, due to the slightly rounded shape on the back, there's a small downside when setting it down: the smartphone no longer lies flat and can twist or slide more easily on smooth or angled surfaces.

On the plus side, the case additionally protects the glass front, as it protrudes about two millimeters beyond the display. Against water or fine dirt, however, the construction offers no complete protection, since openings such as the charging port, microphone or camera remain freely accessible. While modern smartphones are at least certified to IP68 and therefore water-resistant, this protection can diminish over time and is not considered permanent protection against water.

Anyone riding in rain, dust or mud should therefore either store the smartphone in a protected way or reach for the optional SP Connect Weather Cover. This can simply be pulled over the case and offers additional protection from the elements. However, here too: complete waterproofness is not achieved. In addition, moisture can accumulate between the cover and the case, which can in some cases lead to touchscreen misoperation.

The SP Connect "Harley-Davidson" Design Edition combines the proven SP Connect smartphone cover, including integrated mounting mechanism, with iconic Harley-Davidson branding.

Design variants: B&S (white), Classic B&S (orange/white) Smartphone models: Google Pixel 7 to Pixel 10, Samsung A54 to A56, Samsung S20 to S25, iPhone X/XS/XR, iPhone 11 to 17, iPhone Air Phone covers: Phone Case Standard | Phone Case Extreme

Scope of delivery: 1 × Harley-Davidson Phone Case 1 × SPC+ Adapter 1 × SPC+ Tool

Optional: Weather Cover (€ 9.99), Glass Screen Protector (€ 19.99), Card Wallet B&S (€ 49.99), Ring Mount (from € 9.99), Lanyard (from € 9.99), Magnetic Adhesive Mounts (€ 19.99), and much more.

While the Standard Cover is considered a light, understated and robust all-rounder for everyday use and leisure, the Extreme Cover around 40 euros more expensive was specifically designed for demanding use.

Thanks to the MIL-STD 810G military standard, it is especially resistant to impacts and shocks. In addition, IP68 certification provides high protection against water and dust ideal for off-road tours, adventure rides or harsh weather conditions. The all-round protection with integrated touchscreen functionality allows unrestricted use of the smartphone without compromising on safety. On top of that, an additional camera lens protector reliably shields sensitive components from scratches and damage.

The SP Connect Moto Mount 3D 1 1/2" offers extensive adjustment options. On the clamp sits a joint that allows the mounting bar to rotate 360° and tilt up to 180°. The smartphone element itself can additionally be shifted and rotated steplessly, allowing viewing angle and position in the cockpit to be very finely adjusted. The desired orientation portrait or landscape is set during mounting and remains fixed afterward.

A supplied adapter provides compatibility with 1.25 and 1.5 inch oversize handlebars, meaning the mount is also suitable for larger handlebar dimensions.

To protect modern smartphones from vibrations, the SP Connect Charging Anti Vibration Module (AVM) is used. A specially developed elastomer inlay is designed to reduce vibrations by up to 60% and relieve sensitive components. Modern smartphones with sensitive camera technology in particular benefit significantly, since constant engine vibrations can cause damage in the long run. At the same time, the AVM enables inductive charging while riding and is fully weatherproof.

Installation is straightforward: the mount head is replaced by the AVM, which can also be adjusted through 360°, allowing flexible orientation.

Important: the Charging AVM is a charger without an integrated battery and only works in combination with an SP Connect Phone Case. Operation requires an appropriate power connection, for example via a QC 3.0-compatible 12V, USB or USB-C cable.

The SP Connect Moto Mount 3D 1 1/2" enables an individually adjustable smartphone mount, even on oversize handlebars.

Design variants: Black, Chrome Material: CNC-machined from aircraft aluminum

Scope of delivery: 1 × Moto Mount 3D 1 1/2" 1 × Spacer adapter 1.25" / 31.8 mm 1 × Allen key

The SP Connect Charging Anti Vibration Module reduces vibrations and enables inductive charging while riding.

Design variants: Black, Chrome Diameter: 60 mm Weight: 104 g

Scope of delivery: 1 × Charging Anti Vibration Module 1 × Screw (M5x16mm) 1 × Screw (M5x21mm) 1 × Cable USB-C/USB-C (USB-PD)

Since 2016, SP Connect has stood for a versatile smartphone mounting system. At its core is a protective, multifunctional case with an integrated mounting mechanism that enables quick and secure fixing of the smartphone. Thanks to the well thought-out locking system, the device can be mounted with just a few movements and removed just as easily.

The system is complemented by a wide portfolio of sport-specific mounts, fixtures and further accessories. Whether on a motorcycle, bicycle, in a car or during other sports and leisure activities SP Connect offers flexible solutions for securely integrating the smartphone into daily life. SP Connect also stays on top of model variety: new smartphone generations are supported promptly, and matching cases are usually quickly available. In terms of service, the manufacturer has proven, based on experience, to be responsive minor accessory defects, such as with the first ring mounts, have always been fixed quickly and without complications.

The internationally active manufacturer is headquartered in Vienna, where development, design, engineering and marketing are bundled. Production takes place in its own factory in Asia; from there, the products are distributed worldwide in over 70 countries across five continents.

Photos: Erwin Haiden