The Road King offers a classic touring experience, while the Street Glide provides a more modern look and advanced features. Both are excellent choices for long rides.
Harley-Davidson’s Road King and Street Glide are two popular touring motorcycles. Each has distinct features catering to different rider preferences. The Road King boasts a timeless design with a nostalgic appeal. It’s perfect for riders who appreciate a traditional look with modern performance.
The Street Glide, on the other hand, stands out with its sleek, contemporary design and advanced technology. It includes a sophisticated infotainment system and a more aggressive stance. Both bikes deliver comfort and reliability for long-distance journeys. Choosing between them depends on whether you favor classic styling or modern amenities.
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Introduction To The Touring Titans
Are you in love with long rides? Harley-Davidson’s Road King and Street Glide are perfect choices. These bikes promise an exceptional touring experience. Each model offers unique features for motorcycle enthusiasts.
Harley-davidson’s Legacy
Harley-Davidson has a rich history. Founded in 1903, it became a symbol of freedom. The brand offers top-quality motorcycles. Their models blend classic design with modern technology.
Harley-Davidson bikes are known for their durability. The company aims to provide a smooth and powerful ride. Road King and Street Glide are part of this legacy.
The Face-off: Road King Vs Street Glide
| Feature | Road King | Street Glide |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Milwaukee-Eight 107 | Milwaukee-Eight 107 |
| Weight | 828 lbs | 796 lbs |
| Seat Height | 28.2 inches | 27.4 inches |
| Fuel Capacity | 6 gallons | 6 gallons |
| Infotainment | None | 4.3-inch touchscreen |
The Road King is a classic. It has a traditional look. The bike offers a comfortable ride. It’s perfect for long journeys.
The Street Glide is sleek. It comes with modern features. The bike includes an infotainment system. It is a great choice for tech-savvy riders.
- Road King: Classic, comfortable, no infotainment
- Street Glide: Modern, tech-friendly, touchscreen included
The Aesthetics Of The Ride
The visual appeal of a motorcycle often influences the rider’s choice. In this section, we will explore the aesthetics of two iconic bikes: the Road King and the Street Glide. Each motorcycle offers a unique look that attracts different types of riders. Let’s delve into the classic charm of the Road King and the modern muscle of the Street Glide.
Classic Charm Of The Road King
The Road King is a symbol of timeless style. It features a vintage design that captivates many riders. The bike showcases large, chrome-covered fenders and a wide front fork. These design elements add a touch of elegance to its appearance.
One cannot miss the Road King’s iconic headlamp. The headlamp is encased in a chrome nacelle, making it stand out. The bike also sports classic leather saddlebags, which enhance its retro look. These saddlebags are not only stylish but also functional.
| Feature | Road King |
|---|---|
| Fenders | Large, Chrome-covered |
| Headlamp | Chrome Nacelle |
| Saddlebags | Leather |
Modern Muscle Of The Street Glide
The Street Glide is a modern marvel. It boasts a sleek design that appeals to contemporary riders. The bike features a batwing fairing, which gives it a bold look. The fairing also provides wind protection, enhancing the riding experience.
The Street Glide comes with hard saddlebags. These saddlebags offer a streamlined appearance and are very durable. The bike’s dashboard is another highlight. It includes a modern infotainment system with touchscreen controls, adding a tech-savvy touch.
- Batwing Fairing
- Hard Saddlebags
- Modern Infotainment System
Both the Road King and Street Glide offer distinct aesthetics. The choice depends on whether you prefer classic charm or modern muscle.
Under The Hood: Performance Face-off
When choosing between the Road King and Street Glide, performance is crucial. Both bikes offer unique features under the hood. Let’s dive into their specs and see which one stands out.
Engine Specifications
Both the Road King and Street Glide feature powerful engines. Here’s a detailed look:
| Motorcycle | Engine Type | Displacement |
|---|---|---|
| Road King | Milwaukee-Eight 107 | 1746 cc |
| Street Glide | Milwaukee-Eight 107 | 1746 cc |
Power And Torque
Power and torque are key to a motorcycle’s performance. Let’s compare:
- Road King: The Road King offers robust power with smooth delivery.
- Street Glide: The Street Glide provides strong, responsive torque.
Here’s a breakdown of their power and torque:
| Motorcycle | Power (HP) | Torque (lb-ft) |
|---|---|---|
| Road King | 86 HP | 111 lb-ft |
| Street Glide | 86 HP | 111 lb-ft |
Both bikes use the same engine, so power and torque are identical. This makes the choice even harder.
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Rider Comfort And Ergonomics
Choosing between the Road King and the Street Glide can be challenging. Both motorcycles offer unique features, especially concerning rider comfort and ergonomics. This section will delve into two critical aspects: seating and posture, and long-distance suitability.
Seating And Posture
Road King provides a more upright seating position. This design helps reduce fatigue on long rides. The seats are plush and wide, offering ample support. The handlebars are positioned to keep the rider’s arms relaxed.
Street Glide, on the other hand, features a slightly more aggressive seating posture. The seat is comfortable but narrower than the Road King’s. The handlebars are closer, giving a snug feel.
| Feature | Road King | Street Glide |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Position | Upright | Aggressive |
| Seat Width | Wide | Narrow |
| Handlebar Position | Relaxed | Closer |
Long-distance Suitability
Road King excels in long-distance comfort. The bike has a suspension system designed for smooth rides. The windscreen helps in reducing wind fatigue.
Street Glide is also suitable for long distances but with a twist. The fairing provides better wind protection. The suspension is stiffer, which might be less comfortable on rough roads.
- Road King: Superior suspension, excellent windscreen, great for long rides.
- Street Glide: Better wind protection, stiffer suspension, sporty feel.
Both bikes have their strengths. Your choice depends on your personal comfort needs.
Tech Features And Accessories
Choosing between the Road King and the Street Glide depends on your tech preferences. Both models offer unique features and accessories that enhance the riding experience. Let’s explore their tech features and accessories in detail.
Infotainment Systems
The Street Glide comes equipped with the BOOM!™ Box GTS Infotainment System. This system includes a touch screen, navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Touch screen display
- GPS navigation
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Voice recognition
The Road King does not come with a built-in infotainment system. Riders can add aftermarket systems to enhance their ride.
| Feature | Street Glide | Road King |
|---|---|---|
| Touch Screen | Yes | No |
| GPS Navigation | Yes | No |
| Bluetooth | Yes | No |
| Voice Recognition | Yes | No |
Customization Options
Both the Road King and the Street Glide offer extensive customization options.
- Handlebars: Choose from different styles and heights.
- Seats: Options for solo or two-up seats.
- Exhaust: Various styles and finishes available.
- Wheels: Select from multiple designs and sizes.
The Street Glide also offers fairing-mounted accessories, such as phone holders and extra speakers. The Road King allows for the addition of windshields and saddlebags for a custom look.
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Handling And Maneuverability
When choosing between the Road King and Street Glide, understanding their handling and maneuverability is crucial. Each bike offers unique ride dynamics and steering stability. This comparison will help you decide which motorcycle suits your riding style best.
Road King’s Ride Dynamics
The Road King is known for its smooth ride. This bike features a classic design with modern technology. Its ride dynamics ensure comfort on long journeys. The suspension system absorbs road bumps efficiently.
Here’s a quick look at the Road King’s ride dynamics:
- Suspension: High-quality suspension for a smooth ride.
- Weight: Heavier build provides stability.
- Frame: Sturdy frame for enhanced durability.
The Road King’s weight distribution is even, which aids in balance. This makes it easier to handle on highways. Riders often appreciate the comfort and stability it offers.
Street Glide’s Steering And Stability
The Street Glide offers exceptional steering control. It’s designed for urban and highway rides. Its lighter frame makes it nimble. Riders can easily navigate through city traffic.
Key features of the Street Glide’s steering and stability include:
- Steering: Precise steering for better control.
- Frame: Lightweight frame for agility.
- Stability: Maintains stability at high speeds.
The Street Glide’s steering system is highly responsive. This ensures quick maneuvering in tight spots. The bike’s stability at high speeds adds to rider confidence. Its design focuses on ease of handling and quick response.
| Feature | Road King | Street Glide |
|---|---|---|
| Suspension | Smooth ride, absorbs bumps | Firm ride, responsive |
| Weight | Heavier, stable | Lighter, agile |
| Frame | Sturdy, durable | Lightweight, nimble |
| Steering | Balanced, easy handling | Precise, quick maneuvering |
Price Point And Value For Money
Purchasing a motorcycle is a significant investment. It’s crucial to understand the price point and the value for money offered by different models. Here, we compare the Road King and the Street Glide. Both are popular choices among bike enthusiasts.
Initial Investment
The initial cost plays a vital role in decision-making.
| Model | Base Price |
|---|---|
| Road King | $19,499 |
| Street Glide | $21,999 |
The Road King generally has a lower base price compared to the Street Glide. This can make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The Street Glide offers more features, justifying its higher price point.
Maintenance And Upkeep Costs
Maintenance costs are an ongoing expense that can’t be ignored.
- Road King: Routine maintenance is straightforward and less expensive.
- Street Glide: Higher maintenance costs due to advanced features.
Both models require regular servicing. However, the Street Glide might incur higher costs due to its advanced electronics and features. The Road King is simpler, which means lower upkeep expenses.
Consider both the initial investment and ongoing costs to determine the best value for your money. Each model has its strengths, depending on your budget and needs.
The Verdict: Which Bike Wins The Touring Crown?
The debate between the Road King and the Street Glide has been ongoing. Both bikes have their unique strengths. Riders love them for different reasons. Let’s dive into the details. Which one is the true touring champion?
Pros And Cons Comparison
| Feature | Road King | Street Glide |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Very comfortable for long rides. | Equally comfortable with extra tech features. |
| Storage | Ample storage space. | Less storage, but sufficient for short trips. |
| Price | More affordable. | Pricier due to advanced features. |
| Technology | Basic tech features. | Advanced infotainment system. |
| Design | Classic look. | Sleek, modern design. |
Rider Testimonials And Reviews
- John D. – “The Road King is my go-to for long trips. Its comfort is unmatched.”
- Sarah L. – “I love the Street Glide. The tech features make the ride enjoyable.”
- Mike H. – “Road King offers a classic feel. It’s perfect for traditional riders.”
- Emily K. – “Street Glide has a sleek design. It stands out wherever I go.”
Both bikes have their fan base. The choice depends on your needs. Do you prefer classic design or modern tech? Both offer amazing experiences on the road.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Road King and Street Glide depends on personal preference and riding style. Both offer unique features and exceptional performance. Evaluate your needs and test ride both models. This will help you make an informed decision. Enjoy the ride, whether you prefer the classic Road King or the sleek Street Glide.