When it comes to cruising the open road on a Harley-Davidson, the Street Glide and Street Glide Special are two iconic choices that often leave riders pondering their differences. As a motorcycle enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by how these two models, while sharing a name, offer distinct experiences. Each bike boasts its own unique blend of style, performance, and features that cater to different riding preferences.
The Street Glide is known for its classic appeal and straightforward functionality, making it a favorite for those who appreciate a traditional touring experience. On the other hand, the Street Glide Special steps up the game with enhanced features and a more aggressive look, appealing to riders who crave a bit more flair and sophistication. Understanding the nuances between these two models can help you make an informed decision when choosing your next ride. Let’s dive into what sets the Street Glide and Street Glide Special apart.
Overview Of Street Glide And Street Glide Special
Harley-Davidson’s Street Glide and Street Glide Special are two distinguished motorcycles that stand out for their unique features and rider experience. Both models cater to varying preferences in design and functionality, making them popular choices among motorcycle enthusiasts.
Street Glide
The Street Glide emphasizes classic touring appeal with its stripped-down styling and essential features. It includes a Batwing fairing with a low-profile windshield, providing adequate wind protection. The relaxed riding stance and standard Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine offer the power needed for comfortable long-distance rides. Its infotainment system ensures connectivity while on the road, making it ideal for traditionalists who appreciate simplicity and comfort.
Street Glide Special
In contrast, the Street Glide Special ups the ante with more aggressive styling and additional features. It boasts a Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, giving it added power and performance. The model features a custom look with slammed suspension, blacked-out finishes, and larger wheels. Advanced technology, such as a responsive Boom! Box GTS infotainment system, offers enhanced connectivity and convenience. This bike appeals to those who seek modern flair and a bold presence on the road.
Design And Aesthetics
The Street Glide and Street Glide Special both showcase Harley-Davidson’s iconic styling, yet they differ significantly in design elements and visual appeal.
Exterior Features
Street Glide offers a quintessential touring bike look with its classic Batwing fairing, a functional design choice that enhances wind protection while riding. Its clean lines and minimalist approach cater to riders who appreciate a straightforward aesthetic. The saddlebags are standard, providing ample storage without any extra flair.
Street Glide Special, on the other hand, elevates its exterior with a more aggressive stance. It features a blacked-out engine, mirrors, and exhaust for a contemporary, bold look. The stretched saddlebags enhance its streamlined profile, adding a touch of custom style that appeals to those who appreciate detail-oriented design.
Color Options
Street Glide provides a range of subtle, traditional color options like Vivid Black and Billiard Red. These colors emphasize its timeless design and appeal to those who prefer a more classic palette.
Street Glide Special, contrastingly, offers eye-catching colors such as Snake Venom and Gauntlet Gray Metallic. These vibrant and unique shades highlight its modern, sophisticated character, attracting riders inclined towards a more personalized and distinctive appearance.
Performance And Engine Specifications
The Street Glide and Street Glide Special showcase different performance levels that cater to distinct riding preferences. Both models exemplify Harley-Davidson’s engineering excellence with their powerful engines.
Engine Power And Torque
The Street Glide features a Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine, delivering a smooth ride with 92.5 horsepower and 111 pound-feet of torque. This power combination provides a balanced blend of performance and efficiency, suitable for traditional touring enthusiasts. In contrast, the Street Glide Special boasts a more potent Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, offering 100 horsepower and 119 pound-feet of torque for those craving additional power and a dynamic ride experience. This increase in power gives the Special an edge in acceleration and long-haul capability.
Ride And Handling
The Street Glide ensures a comfortable and stable ride thanks to its standard front and rear suspension systems designed to absorb road imperfections. It’s ideal for those prioritizing comfort over aggressive handling. However, the Street Glide Special adds a unique touch with its slammed suspension, enhancing its low-profile appearance and providing a firmer ride. This setup caters to riders who seek a sportier feel while navigating through city streets or open highways, offering enhanced agility without compromising the classic Harley touring essence.
Technology And Features
The Street Glide and Street Glide Special differ significantly in technology and features, highlighting their distinct target audiences. Each model brings unique elements, offering riders varied experiences.
Infotainment System
Both models include the Boom! Box GTS infotainment system, but the Street Glide Special enhances this with a superior audio experience. It features a larger touchscreen display and advanced navigation options, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This ensures seamless connectivity for a modern riding experience, appealing to tech-savvy riders looking for entertainment and convenience.
Safety Features
Safety features set the two models apart, with the Street Glide offering standard ABS and cruise control. The Street Glide Special goes further by incorporating the Reflex Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS), which includes vehicle hold control and a cornering-enhanced braking system. This advanced suite enhances rider confidence by providing additional traction and stability, making the Street Glide Special ideal for those prioritizing safety and control during their rides.
Price And Value
When comparing the Street Glide and Street Glide Special, understanding their price and value differences gives insight into which model fits your needs.
Cost Comparison
In terms of cost, the Street Glide is positioned as the more accessible option. Its price typically ranges around $21,999, while the Street Glide Special, with its additional features and engine upgrades, usually starts at $27,999. The higher price of the Street Glide Special reflects its enhanced capability and performance elements, appealing to those willing to invest more for advanced attributes.
Value Proposition
Both models offer distinct value propositions. The Street Glide provides excellent value for riders seeking classic touring features without extra flair. It balances performance with cost-effectiveness, ideal for those prioritizing essential touring comforts. Conversely, the Street Glide Special offers added value through its upgraded engine, technology, and unique styling. This model shines for those desiring advanced tech integrations and a commanding presence on the road.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Street Glide and the Street Glide Special ultimately depends on what you’re looking for in a motorcycle. If you value classic design and straightforward functionality, the Street Glide offers a timeless appeal with reliable performance. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the essence of traditional touring without the need for extra bells and whistles. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to a more aggressive look and advanced technology, the Street Glide Special stands out with its powerful engine and modern features. It’s ideal for riders who want a bit more flair and sophistication on the road. Both models embody Harley-Davidson’s commitment to quality and style, so whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed a remarkable ride experience.