The Road Glide and Street Glide differ mainly in their front fairing design and ride experience. Road Glide features a fixed fairing, while Street Glide has a fork-mounted fairing.
The Road Glide and Street Glide are two popular touring motorcycles from Harley-Davidson. Each model caters to different riding preferences. The Road Glide’s fixed fairing offers better wind protection and stability. The Street Glide’s fork-mounted fairing delivers a more traditional look and agile handling.
Both bikes come equipped with powerful engines, advanced infotainment systems, and comfortable seating. Riders often choose based on aesthetic preference and specific riding needs. Whether for long-distance touring or city cruising, both models provide a premium Harley-Davidson experience. Each motorcycle offers unique advantages, making them favorites among enthusiasts.
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Table of Contents
Introduction To The Glides
The Harley-Davidson brand is iconic in the motorcycle world. Two of its most popular models are the Road Glide and the Street Glide. Both bikes offer unique features and experiences for riders.
The Allure Of Harley-davidson
Harley-Davidson bikes are known for their powerful engines and classic design. They bring a sense of freedom and adventure on the open road. Riders love the brand’s history and the community it fosters.
Two Titans: Road Glide And Street Glide
The Road Glide and Street Glide are top choices for touring. They have distinct features that cater to different riding styles.
- Road Glide: Known for its fixed fairing and stable ride.
- Street Glide: Famous for its sleek look and batwing fairing.
Below is a comparison table of their key features:
| Feature | Road Glide | Street Glide |
|---|---|---|
| Fairing | Fixed | Batwing |
| Stability | High | Moderate |
| Design | Modern | Classic |
Both bikes provide a great experience but suit different needs. Choose the one that matches your riding style.
Aesthetic Appeal: Design And Style
When choosing between the Road Glide and Street Glide, design and style are key. Both bikes boast unique looks and appeal to different riders. Let’s delve into their visual distinctions and styling options.
Visual Distinctions
The Road Glide features a distinctive shark-nose fairing. This fairing is fixed to the frame, not the handlebars. The dual LED headlights add a modern touch. The aerodynamic design reduces wind resistance.
The Street Glide sports a batwing fairing. This classic fairing is mounted on the handlebars. It gives the bike a traditional look. The single headlight is a hallmark of its design.
| Feature | Road Glide | Street Glide |
|---|---|---|
| Fairing | Shark-nose | Batwing |
| Headlights | Dual LED | Single |
| Mounting | Frame-mounted | Handlebar-mounted |
Styling For Every Rider
The Road Glide suits riders seeking modern aesthetics. The bike’s sleek lines and aggressive stance attract attention. Color options range from vivid hues to classic shades.
The Street Glide appeals to those who love classic designs. Its traditional look pairs well with chrome accents. Riders can choose from a variety of timeless colors.
Customization is easy with both models. Accessories and upgrades allow for personal touches. Riders can make each bike truly their own.
Performance Face-off
The battle between the Road Glide and Street Glide often boils down to performance. Both motorcycles are powerhouses, but how do they stack up against each other? Let’s dive into the details.
Engine Specifications
The heart of any motorcycle is its engine. Engine performance determines speed, acceleration, and overall riding experience. Here’s a detailed look at the engines of both models:
| Feature | Road Glide | Street Glide |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | Milwaukee-Eight® 107 | Milwaukee-Eight® 107 |
| Displacement | 1,746 cc | 1,746 cc |
| Torque | 111 ft-lb | 111 ft-lb |
| Fuel System | Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) | Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
Both bikes feature the Milwaukee-Eight® 107 engine. This engine delivers a strong performance, ensuring a thrilling ride.
Handling And Comfort
Handling and comfort are crucial for long rides. Both Road Glide and Street Glide offer unique features that enhance the ride quality.
- Road Glide: Features a frame-mounted fairing. This reduces wind buffeting, providing a smoother ride.
- Street Glide: Comes with a batwing fairing. It’s fork-mounted, offering a different handling experience.
The Road Glide’s frame-mounted fairing reduces strain on the rider, making it ideal for long trips. The Street Glide’s fork-mounted fairing provides a more connected feel to the road, which some riders prefer.
For comfort, both motorcycles feature advanced suspension systems. This ensures a smooth ride over various terrains. The seats are well-cushioned, providing ample support during long journeys.
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On The Road: Riding Experience
Choosing between the Road Glide and the Street Glide can be tough. Both bikes offer unique riding experiences. This section explores what makes each bike special on the road.
City Streets And Open Highways
City streets require agility and easy maneuverability. The Street Glide shines here. Its frame-mounted fairing makes it easier to handle in tight spaces.
On open highways, the Road Glide excels. Its shark-nose fairing cuts through wind effortlessly. This provides a smoother ride at high speeds.
Both bikes have a 107 cubic inch Milwaukee-Eight engine. This ensures powerful performance in all settings.
| Feature | Street Glide | Road Glide |
|---|---|---|
| Fairing Type | Batwing | Shark-nose |
| Best For | City Streets | Open Highways |
| Engine | Milwaukee-Eight 107 | Milwaukee-Eight 107 |
Long Distance Comfort
Comfort matters on long rides. The Road Glide has a larger seat. This makes it more comfortable for extended trips.
The Street Glide offers a lower seat height. It provides a different comfort level, especially for shorter riders.
Both bikes come with advanced suspension systems. This ensures a smooth ride no matter the distance.
- Road Glide: Larger seat, better for long trips.
- Street Glide: Lower seat height, ideal for shorter riders.
- Both: Advanced suspension systems for smooth rides.
Tech And Innovations
When comparing the Road Glide and Street Glide, tech and innovations play a big role. Both models showcase cutting-edge features, but subtle differences exist. Let’s explore these advancements under the subheadings below.
Infotainment Systems
Both the Road Glide and Street Glide come equipped with advanced infotainment systems. The Road Glide features the Boom!™ Box GTS system. The Street Glide also uses the Boom!™ Box GTS system. This system includes:
- 6.5-inch touchscreen display
- Apple CarPlay™ integration
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Voice recognition
- GPS navigation
The touchscreen is glove-friendly. Riders can easily control music, navigation, and calls. The sound systems on both bikes are top-notch, ensuring great audio quality even at high speeds.
Safety Features
Safety is a primary concern for any rider. Both the Road Glide and Street Glide include state-of-the-art safety features. Here’s a breakdown of the key safety features:
| Feature | Road Glide | Street Glide |
|---|---|---|
| Reflex™ Defensive Rider Systems | Standard | Standard |
| Traction Control System | Yes | Yes |
| Cornering ABS | Yes | Yes |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | Optional | Optional |
The Reflex™ Defensive Rider Systems enhance rider control. Traction control and cornering ABS help maintain stability. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System ensures optimal tire performance.
Customization And Accessories
When comparing the Road Glide and Street Glide, customization and accessories play a crucial role. Both motorcycles offer a wide array of options to make your ride unique. From simple upgrades to more complex modifications, the possibilities are endless.
Making It Your Own
With the Road Glide and Street Glide, you can truly personalize your bike. Customize the paint, seats, and handlebars to reflect your style. Add your favorite accessories to enhance comfort and performance.
- Paint Options: Choose from a variety of colors and designs.
- Seats: Opt for a solo seat or a two-up seat.
- Handlebars: Select different styles and heights.
Popular Upgrades
Many riders enjoy upgrading their Road Glide or Street Glide. Popular upgrades include exhaust systems, lighting, and audio enhancements.
- Exhaust Systems: Improve sound and performance.
- Lighting: Add LED lights for better visibility.
- Audio Enhancements: Upgrade speakers and add a subwoofer.
| Upgrade | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Exhaust Systems | Better sound and performance |
| Lighting | Improved visibility and safety |
| Audio Enhancements | Superior sound quality |
Price Comparison
Choosing between the Road Glide and Street Glide often comes down to price. Understanding the costs involved can help make a better decision.
Initial Investment
The initial price is a crucial factor. Here’s a comparison:
| Model | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Road Glide | $22,000 |
| Street Glide | $21,000 |
Both models come with various upgrades. These can add to the initial cost. Customizations and accessories can also impact the total price.
Value Over Time
Depreciation affects how much value your bike retains. Here’s a brief look:
- Road Glide: Holds value better over the first 5 years.
- Street Glide: Slightly higher depreciation rate initially.
Maintenance costs also influence long-term value. Regular upkeep helps maintain the bike’s worth. Both models require similar maintenance schedules.
Insurance is another ongoing cost. Street Glide often has lower premiums. Road Glide’s higher initial price can mean higher insurance costs.
Considering resale value is important too. Road Glide tends to fetch a higher resale price. Street Glide’s lower initial cost can make it more accessible in the resale market.
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Final Verdict: Which Glide Wins?
Deciding between the Road Glide and the Street Glide can be tough. Both bikes have unique features. The choice depends on personal preferences and riding style. Let’s break down the final verdict.
Personal Preferences
Your personal preferences play a big role. The Road Glide features a fixed fairing. This design helps reduce wind fatigue. It offers a smoother ride at high speeds. The Street Glide has a batwing fairing. The fairing moves with the handlebars. This provides a more connected feel to the road.
If you enjoy long highway rides, the Road Glide might be your best choice. For city cruising, many riders prefer the Street Glide. Its design offers better control in traffic.
Recommendations For Different Riders
| Rider Type | Recommended Glide | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Long-Distance Rider | Road Glide | Reduces wind fatigue, offers smoother ride |
| City Cruiser | Street Glide | Better control in traffic, connected feel |
| Style Enthusiast | Street Glide | Iconic design, sleek look |
| Comfort Seeker | Road Glide | Better wind protection, smoother ride |
Each bike has unique strengths. Choose based on what matters most to you. If you value comfort and long rides, the Road Glide is ideal. For city riding and style, go for the Street Glide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Main Difference Between Road Glide And Street Glide?
The main difference is the fairing design. Road Glide has a fixed fairing, while Street Glide has a fork-mounted fairing.
Which Is Better For Long Rides, Road Glide Or Street Glide?
Road Glide is better for long rides due to its stable fixed fairing, which reduces wind buffeting.
How Do Road Glide And Street Glide Compare In Weight?
Road Glide is slightly heavier than Street Glide. The weight difference is usually around 20-30 pounds.
Does Road Glide Or Street Glide Offer Better Handling?
Street Glide offers better handling at lower speeds due to its fork-mounted fairing, making it more agile in traffic.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Road Glide and Street Glide depends on your riding style and preferences. Both bikes offer unique features and exceptional performance. Consider your priorities, whether it’s comfort or handling. Test ride both to make an informed decision. Ultimately, either choice will provide a thrilling and enjoyable riding experience.
