Choosing between the Road Glide Special and the Road Glide can feel like a daunting decision for any motorcycle enthusiast. Both bikes offer an exhilarating ride and boast impressive features, but understanding the nuances can make all the difference in finding the perfect fit. As someone who’s spent countless hours exploring the open road, I know the importance of selecting a bike that aligns with your riding style and preferences.
In this article, I’ll delve into the key differences and similarities between these two iconic models. Whether you’re drawn to the sleek design of the Road Glide Special or the classic appeal of the Road Glide, making an informed choice is crucial. So, let’s embark on this journey together and discover which bike might just be your ideal companion for the adventures ahead.
Overview of the Road Glide Models
Exploring the Road Glide models is essential for motorcycle enthusiasts. Each model offers unique features catering to various riding styles.
Key Features of the Road Glide
The Road Glide’s streamlined design and frame-mounted fairing provide superior aerodynamics, reducing wind buffering at high speeds. A major highlight is the dual Daymaker Reflector LED headlamps, enhancing visibility on the road. This model’s Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine combines performance with a smooth ride, making long journeys more enjoyable. An infotainment system, featuring a touchscreen display, keeps riders connected and entertained, while its spacious saddlebags offer ample storage for extended trips.
Key Features of the Road Glide Special
Building on the Road Glide’s strengths, the Road Glide Special includes several upgrades. The Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine offers more power, making it ideal for those seeking added performance. A blacked-out aesthetic gives this model a custom look, appealing to riders wishing to stand out. The Boom! Box GTS infotainment system improves user experience with a more advanced interface. Additional features like Reflex Defensive Rider Systems enhance ride safety and control, especially in challenging conditions.
Comparisons: Design and Style
Exploring the design and style of the Road Glide and Road Glide Special reveals distinct differences catering to different rider preferences.
Aesthetic Differences
The Road Glide showcases a classic look with its polished finishes and chrome accents. Its front-end design with a wide fairing offers a traditional Harley-Davidson appeal. The Special model, however, leans towards a modern aesthetic with its blacked-out treatment, creating a sleek and aggressive look that stands out. Riders who prefer bold and contemporary designs often gravitate toward the Special for its eye-catching presence.
Color Options
In terms of color choices, the Road Glide comes in timeless colors like Vivid Black and Billiard Red. These options maintain a familiar, understated appeal. Meanwhile, the Road Glide Special expands the palette with unique finishes like Snake Venom and Gauntlet Gray Metallic, providing more daring choices for those who want their motorcycle to reflect a personal style. The variety in coloration allows for further personalization, attracting riders who wish for a statement-making ride.
Performance and Engine Specifications
When comparing the Road Glide Special and the Road Glide, performance and engine specifications play a crucial role in deciding which model fits your needs better. Both offer unique elements that cater to different riding experiences.
Engine Power and Efficiency
The Road Glide features the Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine, known for providing a balanced combination of power and smoothness. With its 1,746cc displacement, this engine delivers a reliable performance that’s ideal for long-distance cruising and daily commutes. Riders enjoy consistent power without compromising fuel economy, making it an efficient choice for those mindful of consumption.
In contrast, the Road Glide Special establishes itself with the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, boasting a more commanding presence on the road due to its 1,868cc capacity. This upgrade results in a noticeable boost in horsepower and torque, enabling quicker acceleration and a more exhilarating ride. It’s perfect for those who desire enhanced power without sacrificing too much on efficiency, as it still maintains a competitive fuel consumption rate.
Ride Comfort and Handling
Both models offer distinct capabilities in terms of ride comfort and handling. The Road Glide’s frame-mounted fairing significantly reduces wind buffeting, providing a steady and smooth ride. This design enhances aerodynamics and stability, especially at higher speeds, making it ideal for long highway stretches.
The Road Glide Special differentiates itself with additional features like the Reflex Defensive Rider Systems, which improve handling and control in various road conditions. An advanced suspension system complements this enhanced control, ensuring a comfortable ride over rough terrains and city streets. Whether navigating winding roads or urban landscapes, the Road Glide Special offers a more refined and precise riding experience.
Ultimately, the choice between these models depends on your priorities: efficiency and classic comfort with the Road Glide or amplified power and advanced handling with the Road Glide Special.
Technology and Connectivity
Technology plays a pivotal role in distinguishing the Road Glide Special from the Road Glide. Both models offer advanced connectivity features designed to enhance the riding experience.
Infotainment Systems
Both motorcycles feature cutting-edge infotainment systems, yet subtle differences set them apart. The Road Glide comes equipped with Harley-Davidson’s Boom! Box 4.3 infotainment system, which offers a responsive touchscreen and integrated navigation. Riders can connect devices through Bluetooth, enabling phone calls and music streaming during rides. Meanwhile, the Road Glide Special boasts the upgraded Boom! Box GTS infotainment system. This version offers an even more intuitive interface, faster processing power, and Apple CarPlay integration. These features provide a seamless user experience, catering to tech-savvy riders seeking enhanced connectivity.
Safety Features
When comparing safety features, the Road Glide and Road Glide Special differ in their offerings. While both provide ABS (Anti-Lock Braking Systems) for enhanced braking control, the Road Glide Special takes safety a step further with the Reflex Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS). This advanced package includes traction control, electronically linked braking, and tire pressure monitoring. Such features are crucial for riders who prioritize safety and want additional support for various road conditions. This makes the Road Glide Special an appealing choice for those who value cutting-edge rider assistance technologies.
Pricing and Value
Considering the pricing and value between the Road Glide Special and Road Glide informs a well-rounded decision. Both models offer impressive features, but their pricing structures and long-term value can significantly impact your choice.
MSRP and Optional Packages
The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starts around $21,699 for the Road Glide and approximately $27,299 for the Road Glide Special. The difference reflects the added performance and features in the Special model. Both models offer optional packages to enhance rider experience. For example, the Road Glide Special includes options for premium paint finishes and upgraded audio systems, which elevate the overall ride experience but increase the overall cost. Choosing the right configurations can tailor each bike to personal preferences, balancing cost with desired features.
Resale Value Considerations
Examine resale value when weighing long-term ownership costs. The Road Glide Special typically retains higher market value due to its advanced features and performance enhancements. This model appeals to a niche of buyers who seek modern technology and superior engine power. Conversely, the Road Glide with its classic aesthetic enjoys stable demand among traditional enthusiasts. Historical data support that Harley-Davidson bikes generally maintain strong resale value, with newer models proving more lucrative in fast-changing markets. It’s crucial to assess how often you’ll upgrade your ride to predict its future worth accurately.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Road Glide and the Road Glide Special ultimately comes down to personal preference and riding priorities. Both models offer unique features that cater to different styles and needs. If you’re drawn to classic aesthetics and balanced performance, the Road Glide might be your perfect match. On the other hand, if you crave enhanced power, modern styling, and advanced technology, the Road Glide Special stands out as a compelling choice.
Consider what matters most to you—whether it’s the thrill of acceleration, the allure of cutting-edge tech, or the timeless appeal of a classic design. By weighing these factors, you’ll be well-equipped to make a decision that aligns with your riding aspirations and ensures countless memorable journeys ahead.