The Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special: A Performance Tourer

The Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special is the perfect blend of long-distance touring capability and modern performance. This bagger, known for its distinctive frame-mounted shark-nose fairing, is a top choice for riders who want power, comfort, and head-turning style on extended journeys. Here’s what makes the Road Glide Special a standout in Harley-Davidson’s touring lineup.

1. Iconic Shark-Nose Fairing: Stability at Speed

The Road Glide Special’s signature frame-mounted fairing is more than just an aesthetic feature. Unlike a fork-mounted fairing, this design reduces wind buffeting, offering more stability at high speeds. It provides a smoother ride, especially on long highway stretches, giving it an edge over other touring bikes.

2. Milwaukee-Eight Engine: Power You Can Feel

At the heart of the Road Glide Special is the Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-twin engine, delivering smooth and responsive power.

• Displacement: 114 cubic inches (1868cc)

• Torque: 122 lb-ft, providing exceptional passing power

• Precision Cooling: Keeps the engine running efficiently, even on long rides in hot weather

Whether cruising through city streets or taking on open highways, the Milwaukee-Eight engine offers both thrilling performance and reliability.

3. Touring Comfort for the Long Haul

The Road Glide Special is designed to ensure comfort on every ride, no matter how far you travel.

• Two-Up Seat: Offers a comfortable riding position for both the rider and passenger.

• Adjustable Suspension: Rear shocks allow you to fine-tune the suspension for different loads or road conditions.

• Floorboards and Handlebars: Ergonomically positioned to reduce fatigue over extended rides.

4. Advanced Technology: Modern Convenience

Harley-Davidson has outfitted the Road Glide Special with the latest technology to enhance both safety and convenience.

• Boom! Box GTS Infotainment System: Includes a high-resolution 6.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth connectivity.

• Reflex Defensive Rider System (RDRS): Available as an option, this system provides advanced safety features such as cornering ABS and traction control.

• Keyless Ignition and Cruise Control: Standard features that simplify every ride.

5. Storage and Practicality: Built for Touring

Touring bikes need storage space, and the Road Glide Special delivers with style.

• Hard Saddlebags: Spacious, lockable, and streamlined, with enough room for travel essentials.

• One-Touch Opening: Saddlebags are easy to access, even with gloves on.

• Fuel Tank Capacity: A 6-gallon tank ensures fewer stops, letting you enjoy uninterrupted miles.

6. Custom Style: A Bagger with Attitude

The Road Glide Special stands out not just for its performance but also for its bold looks.

• Blacked-Out or Chrome Finishes: Riders can choose between stealthy blacked-out styling or classic chrome accents.

• Custom Paint Options: Harley-Davidson offers a variety of paint schemes to suit different styles, from subtle to vibrant.

• Prodigy Wheels: Lightweight wheels add a touch of elegance and performance to the bike’s profile.

7. Riding Experience: Smooth, Stable, and Thrilling

The Road Glide Special offers a smooth ride, thanks to its improved suspension and stable frame design. Its low center of gravity enhances cornering ability, making it easy to handle on twisty backroads or crowded city streets. The combination of the Milwaukee-Eight engine’s torque and the bike’s aerodynamic fairing ensures you feel in control, even when facing crosswinds.

8. Who is the Road Glide Special For?

The Road Glide Special appeals to riders who want a premium touring experience with performance at the forefront. It's ideal for those who love long-distance travel but also value agility and modern technology. Whether it’s a solo road trip or a weekend getaway with a passenger, this performance tourer is built to deliver on all fronts.

Conclusion: A Premium Touring Machine with Muscle

The Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special embodies the spirit of adventure and freedom. With its combination of power, comfort, and technology, it redefines what it means to tour in style. Whether you're riding across town or across the country, the Road Glide Special ensures every mile is memorable, making it a top choice for riders seeking a performance-driven touring bike.