Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special

Introduction

The Road Glide Special is one of the tourer bikes launched among the long list of models available from the Harley-Davidson stable. Some of the other models in the line-up include Ultra Limited, Low Rider, Ultra Limited Low, Road Glide Ultra, Tri Glide Ultra and so on. In this model, it has featured 1690cc powerful engine, adjustable height seat, suspension, headlight, sporty design handlebar, aerodynamic shape of headlight cowl assembly, traction control, ABS, smart security system and so on.

Design

  This is a special design touring bike with a great combination of the styling of a classic bike, performance of a sports bike and utility at its best. The adjustable height seat and the superior design of handlebar offer great posture to the rider and the integrated lower back support is handy for resting during long time seating during touring. The dimensional features include 2450mm Length, 1631mm wheelbase and the comparatively shorter ground clearance of 120mm make it designed to excel in smooth road conditions such as a highway. The overall weight of the bike at 356Kg make it a bit heavy vehicle to handle but the intelligent design feature and superior dynamics of the bike enable easy handling of the same.

Engine, Economy & Performance

  This is a reliable and amazing bike for touring with a 1690cc engine delivering the torque of 138Nm at 3500rpm. The quick development of the engine rpm with fuel injection system and twin spark plug used for each cylinder ensure maximum fuel efficiency and power development. The quick development of rpm and the torque output yields faster build-up of speed and the vehicle can reach a top speed of the order of 175kmph in a short interval of time. The fuel tank of capacity 19L with best of fuel efficiency boost the morale of the rider for the long stretch ride of over 350km in full tank filling.

Handling

The Road Glide special is a touring bike designed to excel in performing pleasant ride experience over long rides. The superfast development of power and variation of torque with the easy operation of the manual transmission provides ease in riding over hilly terrains and the stability controls features handle cruising at high speed. Also, the traction control is handy in negotiating with steep gradients. The tough quality of the tyres with rating 130/60B 19 fitted onto the front wheel and 180/65B16 fitted onto the rear wheel gets good road grip and the broader profile enables for easier handling on sharp cornering.

Safety, Braking and Miscellaneous

  Road Glide Special has a strong frame designed with the latest technology and high quality of materials which can take varying loads on the vehicle. The disc brakes at front and rear fitted onto the strong and stylish alloy wheels provided with anti-lock brake system prevent locking of the wheels while applying braking over slippery surfaces and traction control system gets a better grip while riding on slippery, wet and gradient roads. The suspension system involves upside down strong telescopic shock absorber at the front and twin-sided swingarm at the rear can be adjusted as per the convenience of the rider and pillion passenger.

Verdict

  The Road Glide special is a stylish touring bike with best of body dynamics and build quality for long lasting performance and ride quality. A good blend of classic styling and utility of latest technology features makes Road Glide Special a great option for touring.