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2024 Harley-Davidson Glide Models Review | First Ride

If you have only a minute, here’s what you need to know about the 2024 Harley‑Davidson Glide models: The new OE Road/Street Glides are basically last year’s CVOs but with 117ci engines instead of the VVT 121. There, now you can go back to fettling your Shovelhead. 

Related: 2023 Harley-Davidson CVO Street Glide and Road Glide Review | First Ride

But, of course, there’s much more to the story about extensive revisions to America’s bestselling streetbikes. Take a ride with us from Lake Las Vegas into the surrounding remote areas.

Harley-Davidson Glide CVO to OE

This is the first major update to Harley’s Grand American Touring motorcycle portfolio since the Project Rushmore bikes debuted in 2013. Almost all the attributes we enjoyed about the thoroughly updated CVO Road Glide and Street Glide that debuted last summer are seen here in OE form: the same fairings, fuel tanks, and instrument panels. 

The biggest deviation from CVO to OE is found in their Milwaukee‑Eight powerplants. The 117ci engines seen here use the CVO’s liquid‑cooled cylinder heads but don’t have the variable valve timing of the 121 VVT. Other changes include a 50% larger air cleaner than the Heavy Breathers on the 107s and 114s, and the throttle body steps up from 55mm to 58mm (2.3 inches). Horsepower is bumped 3% to 105 hp at 4,600 rpm, while torque is lifted 4% to 130 lb‑ft at 3,250 rpm.

Bodywork Work

Many graybeards turned up their noses when they first saw the fresh styling of the CVO Glides – it’s human nature to reject change. Seven months later, it seems as if the MoCo faithful are softening their harsh opinions, particularly for the elegant yet familiar Street Glide.  

Related: 2024 Harley-Davidson Icons and Enthusiast Collections Review | First Look

These new OE Harley-Davidson Glide models are basically identical to their CVO brethren, including the fuel tanks with chamfered upper edges that are 2 lb lighter than before but still hold 6 gallons. Further weight is trimmed by using a triple‑clamp fabricated by a liquid‑aluminum forging process, shaving off about 7 lb from this critical area. The new RG is purportedly 16 lb lighter than the previous RG Special; the SG has lost 18 lb relative to the old SG Special.

• Helmet: SMK Retro Seven
• Jacket: Alpinestars Hoxton V2
• Pants: Alpinestars GPX V2  
• Boots: Highway 21 Journeyman

The upgrade riders will have their eyes on most is the stunning TFT instrument panel. At 12.3 inches, it’s diagonally 90% larger than the previous screen. It includes three display options: Cruise, which is a traditional layout; Sport, with a central tach/speedo, leaving more space on the sides for customizable widget displays; and Tour, with most of the screen occupied by maps and directions. 

It’s all managed by H‑D’s Skyline OS, and preferences can be set via the glove‑friendly touchscreen or the various handlebar buttons. Audio wattage has been doubled to 200 watts, sending tunes to two 5.25‑inch speakers in the fairings. 

Ride modes are part of the package. Owners tap into different combinations of power delivery, engine braking, cornering ABS, and traction‑control parameters by selecting from Road, Sport, Rain, or Custom. H‑D’s Rider Safety Enhancements electronics suite is standard equipment, monitoring the linked brakes, cornering ABS, Drag Torque Slip Control, and Vehicle Hold Control. 

Rather than the CVO’s inverted fork and radial‑mount Brembo calipers, the OE Glides make do with a retuned 49mm nonadjustable fork with 4.6 inches of travel, as well as the previous 4‑piston axial‑mount calipers. 

The rear suspension receives a welcome upgrade, with travel up 43% from a scant 2.1 inches to a more reasonable 3 inches. Dual Showa shocks replace the old bikes’ dampers, now using emulsion technology in both instead of just one, which is claimed to improve responsiveness.

Harley-Davidson Glide Guide

For the few of you who are unaware, the Street Glide and the Road Glide are essentially the same motorcycle but with different fairings. The SG uses a version of the iconic batwing fairing that was originally introduced in 1969. Ten years later saw the arrival of Harley’s sharknose fairing on the FLT Tour Glide, which was followed in 1998 by the first official Road Glide. 

Like everything in life, there is a compromise to be made in choosing the Harley-Davidson Glide that works best for you. The RG’s frame‑mounted fairing offers more wind protection, while the SG’s handlebar‑mounted batwing is more svelte but contributes to slightly heavier steering and can be affected by gusty crosswinds. 

From behind the bars, the SG feels like a much smaller motorcycle than the RG with its gargantuan fairing. This makes the 838‑lb SG feel more adept during low‑speed maneuvering even though they have similar weights.

Glides Rides

I first hopped aboard a Road Glide in its Sharkskin Blue colorway, a “premium” color that carries an $850 upcharge over the standard Billiard Gray base version. The new instrument panel enhances the bike’s high‑end impression and clearly delivers info to a rider, including tire pressures. The upgraded switchgear also impresses with a higher‑quality tactileness. The RG’s cockpit includes a pair of storage compartments, and the bin on the right side is equipped with a USB‑C connector. 

The new 117ci motor spits out stately levels of grunt at all points of its powerband. It’s only in comparison with the CVOs’ 121ci M‑8s that it comes up a bit short. Almost everyone will think it’s more than adequate. I dialed in the Road ride mode for the smooth throttle response I desired for this mostly casual ride.  

While I enjoyed the full roar emitted from the exhaust system, the output from the audio system gets overwhelmed by wind noise above 65 mph. Although rated at 200 watts, it puts out 50 watts per channel, with only two speakers – the extra 100 watts will only be heard after fitting a pair of saddlebag speakers. 

When I swapped over to a Street Glide, I enjoyed a more suitable riding position for my smaller physique. The SG’s lower handlebar feels more natural for my stature, while the RG’s bar places the grips just a few inches lower than my shoulders. The touchscreen display on the SG is also much closer to the rider than the RG’s, making it much more accessible. 

Both Glides have adjustable vanes on the sides of their fairings to redirect airflow, plus a vent at the center of the windscreens that can be adjusted to smooth the air that hits a rider’s helmet. Another much‑appreciated feature on the SG is its slide‑out storage tray directly below the instrument panel, which is super convenient for stashing any small items. 

The smooth Nevada roads we traveled didn’t challenge the suspension, but the few bumps we hit made me grateful for the additional travel provided by the new shocks. They provide a major upgrade in ride quality compared to the previous shorty shocks. The brakes are plenty capable but not to the high levels of power offered by the hardware on the CVOs.

The Verdict

New OE Harley-Davidson Glide gripes are few. The heavy clutch requires a strong pull, and the 6‑speed transmission swaps cogs with a clunkiness unbecoming of a modern gearbox. But the upgraded motor is very satisfying, and the additional rear suspension travel is a major improvement that allows the Glides to glide over bumps that previously would shock a rider’s spine. 

The only real impediment to pulling the trigger on a new Glide is their pricey MSRPs, starting at $25,999. Both bikes have chrome finishes as standard, while black finishes cost an extra $1,350. Color options beyond Billiard Gray add another $850. 

While that’s a significant chunk of change, it’s far less than the CVOs, which are priced above $40K. If you gotta roll in style on a Harley bagger, these new Glides are a substantial improvement over the older ones. Even the graybeards will have to agree.

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Pricing is ridiculous and no color options without another big bump. After owning 14 HD’s I’m done.

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10 Tips For Riding a Touring Motorcycle

Posted On: Nov 28, 2018

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At first glance, full dresser touring bikes like the Harley-Davidson Electra Glide series are imposing. Fully fueled, they approach 900 pounds before you even add a rider, passenger or luggage. Lifting one off the side stand for the first time can be a bit shocking! Even mid-weight touring bikes like the Harley-Davidson Road King are 760 pounds fueled. The size and bulk of these motorcycles can be intimidating to a rider who’s never sampled one before; yet on long rides, over American roads, bikes like the Harley-Davidson Electra Glide and the Harley-Davidson Road King are the ideal tools for the job. What are the techniques required to master and enjoy these big bikes? We’ve put together a list of 10 Tips For Riding a Touring Motorcycle below.

1. REMEMBER, IT’S JUSTA BIKE, A HEAVY ONE

Sure, they’re big and expensive, and NOBODY wants to drop one - but the truth is, touring motorcycles are still just a bike. All the basic riding skills you use while riding any other street bike will apply here, you’re just dealing with a lot more weight than most bikes. If you’ve never ridden a touring bike before, it will seem huge when you mount up, but after a few hours in the saddle, the bike will seem to shrink and your confidence will solidify. You do need to be mindful about being able to put both your feet down firmly whenever you stop. Avoid parking on a sloped ground where the pavement falls away from one side of the bike. If you’re on a hill leading up to a traffic light or stop sign, make sure you can plant both feet confidently on the ground. This is especially important when riding two-up. You also need to be sure not to set down the side stand on soft ground, or you might find the bike has fallen over when you return to it.

Pro tip : a crushed beverage can set under the side stand will provide a solid footing for the bike even on soft ground by spreading the weight out.

2. WEIGHT TRANSITION & REAR BRAKE USE

Harley Davidson touring bikes have very compliant suspensions that provide a balance of comfort and control but err on the side of comfort. This means that compared to many other brands, HD touring suspension will feel quite soft. If you grab a strong handful of front brake, the weight of the bike will transition forward quickly, and the front end will dive. This transfer then will limit the traction and road holding ability of the front tire, a recipe for dropping the bike if you’re trying to turn at the same time.

So, you need to be aware of weight transfer and minimize it; the best way to do this is by using the rear brake in concert with the front brake. Firmly and progressively applying both the front and rear brake at the same time will “ sit the bike down”, minimizing weight transfer, decreasing stopping distances, and maximizing available traction. For riders who have been told for years never to use the rear brake, this advice may seem counterintuitive, but remember, this is a Harley-Davidson touring bike, the rules are different. Be sure not to stomp on the rear brake, as this could cause a rear wheel lockup. Use the rear brake progressively, feel it begin to drag the rear end of the bike down. Once you get the front/rear brake balance down, it’s a beautiful feeling.

Pro tip : when in parking lots, on gravel and riding at low speed, try using only the rear brake to stop the bike. Most of the time when we see big touring bikes get dropped, its in these situations, because the rider grabbed a bunch of front brake, the weight transferred forward, and the front end tucked. With rear brake use only at these low speeds, you can almost totally avoid this risk.

3. CENTER OF GRAVITY

Harley-Davidson motorcycles typically carry their weight low, which provides confidence inspiring road handling. But once you add a rider, pillion (passenger), fully loaded tour packs and fuel, the center of gravity can change significantly, shifting upwards. It’s up to the rider to “feel” where this center is and to compensate for it when the bike is in motion. The bike will turn in differently and stop differently depending on how much additional weight there is and how high it is on the bike. Experienced riders will adapt to these changes almost without being aware of it, those less experienced might need a day or two.

Pro tip : When you are packing your possessions on the bike, try to keep heavier items in the lower areas of saddle bags.

4. POWER DELIVERY AND ROAD FEEL

The power delivery and road feel of a Harley-Davidson touring bike have been designed with complete balance - there is very little risk of horsepower upsetting the chassis under any circumstance. This has been a cause for ridicule from some corners, from riders who refer to Harleys as “tractors”. The truth is quite different of course, even full-dress Harleys have the power to outpace most road cars.

The performance envelope is limited compared to some other motorcycles, yes, but this is by intent - for what seems a limitation on paper becomes a great advantage on long tours. In top gear at 75 mph, a Harley will be turning less than 3000 rpm, rumbling along all day quite comfortably. The lack of revs keeps things comfortable, the feel lends itself to scenic enjoyment - isn’t that why you’re touring America in the first place? Of course, when you need to move NOW, kick the bike down a gear or two into the meat of the torque curve, and it MOVES. Harleys are lovely things, built for a special purpose - touring enjoyment - and they perform this job remarkably well.

Pro tip : keep the bike in 2nd gear for easier roll-offs from stops, there’s plenty of torque on tap to skip 1st gear.

5. EASE UP ON THE BARS

Touring Harleys have either big detachable windscreens or fairings attached to the front forks (the Road Glide, uniquely, has a frame mounted fairing). This means that as the wind hits the screen, the bars will shimmy back and forth, imperceptibly. This energy is translated through your arms into your back and shoulders, creating fatigue as you fight the wind resistance without even knowing it. If you have too firm a grip on the handlebars when you ride, this is amplified, so try to ride with a relaxed but controlled grip on the bars. You’ll be able to ride longer with less fatigue if you do.

Pro tip : Check that you’re riding with a relaxed grip by making a tiny circle with your forefinger touching your thumb as you ride & grip the bars.

6. CHECK LUGGAGE AT EVERY STOP

With so much luggage capacity (two saddlebags and a top case on the Harley-Davidson Electra Glide ), it’s easy to forget to fasten the luggage clasps securely when you get back underway. Be sure to confirm all clasps are fastened - you don’t want your underwear flying out of an unfastened top case onto the highway at 60mph (don’t ask us how we know this!)

Pro tip : Make your pillion responsible for this task and have them tap you twice on the shoulders to confirm the bags are locked and you’re ready to roll.

7. DON’T BE DISTRACTED BY GADGETS

Full dress touring bikes host a staggering set of features - cruise control, music and communication systems, adjustable suspension, traction and stability control, navigation - conveniences that can heighten the enjoyment of a ride. But they can also be a recipe for distraction, which is the last thing you need on a motorcycle. At just 60 mph, you’re traveling 88 feet per second. So, think of the danger you put yourself and the riders around you in when you start flicking through a menu for a few seconds.

We’ve all done it, all been tempted to tweak the GPS or look at our phones while riding. But please think of the consequences to yourself and others if you allow yourself to be distracted by technology on the bike. If need be, signal that you need to pull over, and make adjustments/take a look while you’re stopped.

Pro tip : learn basic gadget functions with the bike stopped, which buttons to press - then do it with your eyes closed until you have the muscle memory perfect. When you’re on the moving bike you won’t need to avert your gaze from the road if you absolutely must use a gadget, because you know how to do it with your eyes closed.

8. PASSENGER SHOULD BE AT ONE WITH THE RIDER

Pillions need to be good riders too! Passengers should be at one with the rider, and not move unpredictably or they will upset the balance of the motorcycle. They also need to be mindful not to distract the rider unnecessarily while underway. Pillions need to be aware of their surroundings while on a bike to a lesser degree than riders, but they cannot be oblivious.

Pro tip : pillions should gently squeeze their inner legs against the rider and always look where the bike is going when taking corners.

9. PARKING FOR THE EVENING

When you go in for the night, do not leave anything on the bike that you ever want to see again, not even a pair of wet socks. Even in the best of places, things can go missing sometimes, and saddlebags locks aren’t going to keep anyone from getting into your bags (except you, if you lose the key!) Pack for organized repeatability - know which items go in each saddlebag, what goes in the top case, and stick to your method. It will save you lots of stress trying to remember if you’ve packed something or left it behind in the room.

Pro tip : leave your saddlebags unlocked on the bike at night, that way anyone who wants to see inside can do so and quickly move on without breaking your clasps.

10. CONSIDER COMING IN A FEW DAYS EARLY

If you’ve committed the time and money to go on tour, you don’t want to have the trip spoiled because you made the wrong motorcycle choice. The Harley-Davidson touring motorcycles all have small differences... some have windscreens which can be detached or swapped out for different heights, some have floorboard footrests and others pegs. Pillion comfort is supreme on the Harley-Davidson Electra Glide models, but some passengers prefer the more open air feel of the Harley-Davidson Road King or Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail . It’s little things like this that can make all the difference in your enjoyment of a big tour. Visit a local dealership with your pillion and sit on the models you’re considering for your tour, check out the differences in luggage capacity and other features.

Pro tip : Consider coming in a day or two before your EagleRider tour starts and hiring the same model of bike for local riding around your arrival city to see how you get on - this small investment could pay huge dividends in the enjoyment of your tour.

If you’re looking for more resources to help you prepare for the ride, here is the list of recommended reading:

10 Tips for Your First Time Riding in America

Packing Checklist for a Motorcycle Trip

How to Choose the Right Motorcycle for Your Trip

Group Riding - 6 Tips for a Safe Ride

30 Essential Motorcycle Touring Tips

THE EXPERIENCE TOUR

The official Harley-Davidson Experience Tour is coming to a dealership near you! The Tour will give you the opportunity to test ride the latest 2024 models. 

The line-up includes eight different models, from cruiser to touring models and of course our Adventure Touring model is present.

The Tour will be at the dealership for 2 – 3 days but there’s only a limited number of slots available per event.

Register yourself now for The Experience Tour of your choice via the links below.

• 27 – 29 JUNE West Coast Motors, Alkmaar
• 4 – 6 JULY Big-Rivers H-D, Heteren
• 11 – 13 JULY H-D Amsterdam, Amsterdam
• 27 – 29 JUNE Dutch Hills H-D, Kerkrade
• 6 – 8 JUNE H-D West-Flanders, Roeselare / Roulers
• 13 – 15 JUNE RMC Classics, Vilvoorde
• 20 – 22 JUNE H-D Gent, Sint-Martens-Latem
• 8 – 10 AUGUST American Lifestyle, Zwijndrecht
• 22 – 24 AUG H-D Capital Brussels, Dilbeek

29 – 31 AUG H-D Mons, Mons-Cuesmes

12 – 14 SEPTEMBER RMC Classics, Zemst

• 20 – 22 JUNE H-D Copenhagen, Roskilde
• 14 & 15 JUNE H-D Stockholm, Täby
• 25 & 26 JUNE H-D Helsingborg
• 28 & 29 JUNE H-D Linköping

There will be a line-up of 8 bikes, ready for you to ride.

Pan america special, street glide, sport glide*, low rider s*, low rider st*, sportster s*, nightster special*.

*models vary per event

www.harley-davidson.com

©2022 H-D or its affiliates. HARLEY-DAVIDSON, HARLEY, H-D, and the Bar and Shield Logo are among the trademarks of H-D U.S.A., LLC. Third-party trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

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2022 Harley-Davidson Road Glide®

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Transmission, wheels & tires, technical specifications, instrumentation, audio & communication, paint & finish, convenience.

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2023 Honda Gold Wing Vs Harley-Davidson Road Glide: How Each Touring Bike Compares

In the world of touring bikes, the Honda Gold Wing and Harley-Davidson Road Glide stand out as formidable contenders, each with their own distinct characteristics and allure. As riders embark on journeys spanning long distances, the choice between these two iconic motorcycles becomes a crucial consideration.

Despite their shared commitment to long-distance comfort, these touring bikes diverge at key aspect points. The Road Glide, acknowledged for its heftier build, competes with the robust engine and advanced electronics of the Gold Wing — one of the most reliable Honda motorcycles ever built by our metrics. We have picked performance, design, and tech as criteria to compare and contrast these motorcycles while using reviews from reputed publications like Top Speed as professional primary sources for this article.

In comparing the 2023 Honda Gold Wing and Harley-Davidson Road Glide, we aim to uncover the nuances that set them apart, allowing riders to make an informed decision based on their preferences and the demands of their journeys.

What is the Honda Gold Wing?

The history of the Honda Gold Wing dates back to 1972, when Honda, fresh from the success of the CB750, established an R&D department to create a groundbreaking flagship motorcycle. The project was led by Japanese designer Shoichiro Irimajiri, known for his success in both two and four-wheeled racing. The result was the 1975 Honda Gold Wing, a revolutionary touring motorcycle featuring a four-stroke engine with water-cooling and shaft drive — the Honda Goldwing was the first Japanese production motorcycle with this engine .

At its launch, the Gold Wing was different, offering a blend of speed, reliability, and comfort that set it apart. Despite facing stiff competition from established brands like Harley-Davidson, the Gold Wing gained traction, and in 1980, the GL1100 Interstate elevated it to a new level by becoming the first mass-produced Japanese motorcycle in a complete touring kit.

The evolution continued with the GL1200 in 1984, introducing fuel injection, cruise control, auto-leveling rear suspension, and a trip computer. In 1988, the GL1500 emerged with a six-cylinder engine, setting the stage for constant improvements over 13 seasons. Subsequent years saw steady improvements, including a larger engine in 2001, the introduction of an in-dash navigation system in 2006, and the pioneering addition of an airbag in 2012. This brings us to the 2023 version of the bike, whose specs we will see later. Currently, you can get a brand-new Honda Gold Wing for $25,600.

What is the Harley-Davidson Road Glide?

The Harley-Davidson Road Glide also has a rich history that traces its roots back to the Tour Glide, which was introduced in 1979. The Tour Glide marked a departure with its fixed fairing, distinct from its counterpart, the Electra Glide, which featured a fork-mounted fairing. In 1998, the Tour Glide made way for the Harley-Davidson Road Glide, featuring a frame-mounted Tour fairing reminiscent of the original Tour Glide. This move positioned the Road Glide as a strong contender in the touring motorcycle market.

With the introduction of the Milwaukee-Eight engine in 2016, the Road Glide further solidified its position as a powerhouse in the touring category. Subsequent years saw further refinements, such as changes to fairing mounting supports, the introduction of Cruise Control as an option, and engine enhancements.

The Road Glide's popularity is evident in its continued presence and adaptation to evolving rider preferences. Whether as the Road Glide Special, Limited, Ultra, Custom, or other variations, this touring motorcycle has maintained status as a powerful and reliable touring bike. You can find the standard Road Glide at a price of around $22,000.

Performance

In terms of power, the Gold Wing's flat-six, 1,833cc engine delivers an impressive 125 hp and 125 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the Road Glide Limited features a Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine with a more significant displacement of 1,868cc but produces 92 hp and 111 lb-ft of torque. While the Road Glide Limited boasts a larger engine, the Gold Wing clearly takes the lead in horsepower and torque, translating to a more robust acceleration.

The top speeds of these touring motorcycles also reflect their design philosophies. The Gold Wing reaches an impressive 140 mph, emphasizing its ability to cover long distances with speed and ease. On the other hand, the Road Glide Limited has a top speed of 105 mph, showcasing a more conservative approach. However, a review by Top Speed confirms that in real-world scenarios, both bikes offer comparable performance, with the Gold Wing's rev-happy nature contrasting the Road Glide Limited's low-end torque.

Handling dynamics play a crucial role in touring comfort, and here, the Gold Wing's design shines, according to Top Speed. Despite being 28 pounds heavier than the Road Glide Limited, the Gold Wing's low center of gravity, thanks to its flat-six engine layout, contributes to a superior level of handling. The Hossack front suspension system enhances stability, eliminating dive under braking. The Road Glide relies on traditional telescopic forks, providing a more straightforward design that works effectively in containing the bike's weight during cornering. The Harley's simplicity might appeal to riders looking for more straightforward handling.

Design and ergonomics

The Honda Gold Wing's design showcases bodywork that contributes to refined aerodynamics, featuring a vented, spoiler-type front fender and substantial fairing that cuts through the wind. The Gold Wing's stadium-style seat for the passenger and practical hard bags enhance its utility for commuting and touring.

Conversely, the Harley-Davidson Road Glide adheres to its classic touring design, drawing on the historical roots of the "FL" family. The front fender's shape echoes the traditional full fender, and fat front forks, with chrome beercan fork skirts, evoke a classic appeal. The fixed Sharknose fairing, a trademark feature since the Tour Glide, integrates dual Daymaker LED headlights.

When it comes to ergonomics, Top Speed reports that both bikes offer all-day comfort with an upright riding position suitable for long distances. The Gold Wing's design suggests thorough wind tunnel testing, emphasizing aerodynamics. On the other hand, while appearing less complicated, the Road Glide provides a comfortable rider triangle. In terms of comfort, the review goes on to say that Harley's seat is often regarded as more comfortable, while both bikes do offer accommodating ergonomics.

The Honda Gold Wing and Harley-Davidson Road Glide, though sharing a touring focus, diverge in their design approaches. The Gold Wing leans more toward innovation, advanced electronics, and a sleek profile, while the Road Glide maintains a classic touring aesthetic with modern infotainment features.

Electronics and tech

When it comes to tech, the Gold Wing takes center stage with a seven-inch color TFT screen as the central hub for all electronics. This includes analog gauges for speed and tach, complemented by LCDs for comprehensive information display. The Gold Wing also has a sophisticated throttle-by-wire system, which features four distinct riding modes: Tour, Sport, Econ, and Rain. Notably, the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) system deals in rear-wheel slip, and Hill Start Assist simplifies uphill starts. The bike also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Road Glide features analog gauges, a color TFT screen, and Boom! Box 4.3 infotainment system. The rider aid package offers hands-free mobile phone connectivity via Bluetooth and voice recognition for various functions. The Boom! Box GTS audio system with GPS and 6.5-inch touchscreen offers navigation, communication, and entertainment options.

When comparing the two motorcycles, the Gold Wing and Road Glide surprisingly share similarities in electronic features. Both incorporate an internal measurement unit (IMU) for cornering ABS and traction control. Linked brakes, cruise control, and hill-hold control are standard on both, promoting rider comfort and safety. However, the Gold Wing distinguishes itself with reverse gear, offering added maneuverability in parking and low-speed situations. The cockpit design also sets them apart, with the Gold Wing embracing a more integrated analog and digital layout, while the Road Glide adopts traditional round analog gauges and a large touchscreen.

BackyardRider.com

Harley Davidson Tour Packs – Which One is Right for You?

When you’re on a long motorcycle trip, there’s nothing more important than having plenty of storage space. That’s where Harley Davidson Tour Packs come in – they provide a ton of extra room for your gear. Not only that, but they also make your bike look great! In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits of adding a Harley Davidson Tour Pack to your bike.

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What Are Aftermarket Harley-Davidson Tour Packs?

Just as you can equip your Harley-Davidson motorcycle with a factory-issued tour pack , you also have the option of choosing aftermarket packs. These packs often provide more features and benefits than the factory versions, typically made from higher-quality materials.

Some aftermarket Harley-Davidson Tour Packs have built-in speakers , while others have more storage space. If you’re looking for a pack that will make your bike stand out from the rest, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Best Aftermarket Tour Packs for Harley-Davidson

Tcmt 5.5″ razor tour pack – best seller.

Looking to take your touring experience up a notch? Then look no further than the TCMT 5.5″ Razor Tour Pack! This top-quality aftermarket product is 100% brand new and comes with a free tour pack mat to help keep your luggage in good condition. The trunk is made from high-quality ABS plastic and is available in black or vivid red – perfect for matching your bike’s style. It measures 26″ long x 5.5″ deep x 20.4″ wide, making it the ideal size for most luggage items, and features a soft synthetic leather backrest pad as well as PP plastic, foam, and metal construction for unbeatable durability. Plus, the mounting rack is made from high-quality metal.

Fits for Road Glide, Street Glide, Electra Glide Standard, 14-later Road King, and select CVO models.

• Road King FLHR 2014-2020 
• Road King Special FLHRXS 2017-2020 
• Electra Glide Standard FLHT 2019-2020 
• Street Glide FLHX 2014-2020 
• Street Glide Special FLHXS 2014-2020 
• CVO Street Glide FLHXSE 2015-2020 
• Road Glide FLTRX 2015-2020 
• Road Glide Special FLTRXS 2015-2020 
• CVO Road Glide FLTRXSE 2018-2019 
• CVO Road King FLHRSE6 2014

Customer Verdict

Customers are very happy with their TCMT 5.5″ Razor Tour Pack! They find it of excellent quality and very durable, perfect for those longer trips. The trunk is great, and the backrest pad is exceptionally comfortable. The mounting rack is also high quality and very sturdy. Overall, customers would recommend this product to anyone looking for an aftermarket tour pack for their Harley Davidson !

TCMT Black Chopped Tour Pack Trunk

Do you want a beautiful and helpful way to increase storage on your bike? Look no further than the TCMT Black Chopped Tour Pack Trunk! Made from high-quality ABS plastic, this trunk is tough and durable – perfect for taking your gear on the road. The backrest provides added comfort and support, while the zinc alloy latch ensures your belongings are safe and secure. And with its sleek black finish, this trunk will complement any bike style.

Fits for 14-later Road King, Road Glide, Street Glide, Electra Glide Standard, and select CVO models. 

Customers are pleased with their TCMT Black Chopped Tour Pack Trunk! They find it of excellent quality and very durable, perfect for those longer trips. The trunk is a great size, and the mounting hardware makes installation easy. Some customers did note that they needed to adjust the brackets after installation so that the trunk would fit snugly, but after doing so, they had no problems. Overall, customers highly recommend this product!

XFMT 10.7″ Chopped Tour Pack

If you’re looking for a way to add some extra storage space to your Harley Davidson Touring bike , look no further than this XFMT 10.7″ Chopped Tour Pack Trunk Luggage Rack. It’s made from high-quality ABS plastic and is painted black to match your bike’s color scheme. The rack measures 20″ long x 10.7″ deep x 25.7″ wide and can accommodate most common trunk sizes. Installation is a breeze – all you need to do is re-drill the holes on the base of the rack to match those on your bike, then attach the included back pad using the pre-drilled holes. Note that separate purchase of a Detachable Two-Up & Solo mounting rack and applicable hardware is required.

• Harley Davidson Touring 2014-2019
• Harley Road King FLHR 2014-2019
• Harley CVO Road King FLHRSE6 2014
• Harley Street Glide FLHX 2014-2019
• Harley Street Glide Special FLHXS 2014-2019
• Harley CVO Street Glide FLHXSE 2015-2019
• Harley Road Glide FLTRX 2015-2019
• Harley Road Glide Special FLTRXS 2015-2019
• Harley Electra Glide 2014-2019

According to customers, this aftermarket tour pack for Harley-Davidson is straightforward to install on their bike and looks great. They also like that the lid stays open when you want it to.

One customer didn’t like how tight the fit was after installing it on his Harley Davidson Road King Classic bike but managed to bend the mounting brackets a bit to make it snugger.

Overall, this is an excellent tour pack for Harley-Davidson that will add some much-needed storage space to your bike and give it a cool chopped look.

The Benefits of Adding a Harley Davidson Tour Pack to Your Bike

First and foremost, your tour package will provide you with a ton of extra storage space for all of your gear. This is especially important if you’re going on longer rides or camping trips where there’s not as much room in the saddlebags to store things like sleeping bags and tents.

Not only that, but aftermarket Harley-Davidson Tour Packs also look great. These aftermarket packs come in a variety of sizes and styles, so you’re sure to find the perfect one for your bike.

Many aftermarket Harley-Davidson Tour Packs also have built-in speakers , which means that you can listen to music while riding down the highway or back roads. This is incredibly convenient if you’re on a long ride and need to keep your mind occupied while traveling at high speeds.

Aftermarket Harley-Davidson Tour Packs are great for any rider who wants more storage space, better sound quality from their bike’s stereo system , or just a better-looking motorcycle overall! There are many aftermarket packs available on the market today, so it’s easy to find one that will fit your needs perfectly.

Aftermarket Harley-Davidson Tour Packs come in a variety of sizes and styles, allowing you to choose from aftermarket packs with built-in speakers or aftermarket packs without any speaker system at all. The best thing about aftermarket tour packs for Harley-Davidson motorcycles is that they’re made from premium materials like carbon fiber or aluminum alloy, which means aftermarket packs will last longer than factory tour packs.

Installation Tips for Harley Davidson Tour Packs

Aftermarket Harley-Davidson Tour Packs are easy to install, and most aftermarket packs will come with installation instructions that walk you through the entire process.

The only tools you’ll need for aftermarket pack installation is a set of screwdrivers or hex wrenches, depending on what type of screws your aftermarket tour pack uses to attach it to your bike.

If you’re installing an aftermarket Harley-Davidson Tour Pack that doesn’t have built-in speakers, you’ll also need to install a new stereo system into your motorcycle. This is a process that any qualified motorcycle mechanic can do, and most aftermarket stereos come with installation instructions.

Buying Guide for Harley Davidson Tour Packs

There are many aftermarket tour packs available on the market, so you’ll want to make sure that you’re choosing one that fits your needs perfectly. Here’s a quick buying guide with some tips and tricks!

The first thing to consider is what type of aftermarket pack do I need? Aftermarket packs come in various shapes and sizes, so you must know what kind of aftermarket pack is best suited for your bike.

The second thing to consider is how much storage space do I need? If you’re going on longer rides and don’t want to lug around too much gear with you, then aftermarket packs without built-in speakers are a good choice. However, aftermarket packs with built-in speakers will give you more storage space as well as better sound quality from your bike’s stereo system.

The third thing to consider is aftermarket pack installation time? Most aftermarket packs come with easy-to-follow instructions that walk you through the entire process of aftermarket pack installation. However, it’s still important to know how long aftermarket packs take so that you can plan accordingly.

The fourth thing to consider is aftermarket pack weight? After all, aftermarket packs are designed for touring and not racing! Most aftermarket tour packs weigh between 20-30 pounds when empty, which means they won’t add too much weight to your motorcycle.

The fifth and final thing to consider is the aftermarket pack price? Aftermarket Harley-Davidson Tour Packs can range in price from $200-$2000, so you must do your research before purchasing an aftermarket tour pack for your bike.

Frequently Asked Questions about

Are aftermarket harley-davidson tour packs waterproof.

Yes! Aftermarket packs are made from high-quality materials that make them impervious to water, so no matter how much rain falls or snow melts on your aftermarket pack, you can rest assured knowing that everything inside is safe and dry.

How much do aftermarket Harley-Davidson Tour Packs weigh?

Aftermarket packs typically weigh between 20-30 pounds when empty, which means they won’t add too much weight to your motorcycle after installation.

How much do aftermarket Harley-Davidson Tour Packs cost?

Aftermarket packs can range in price from $200-$2000, so you must do your research before purchasing an aftermarket tour pack for your bike.

What size aftermarket Harley-Davidson Tour Pack do I need?

Aftermarket packs come in various shapes and sizes, so you must know what type of aftermarket pack is best suited for your bike. The most common types are small (32x18x16 inches), medium (40x20x22 inches), and large (48x22x24 inches).

Final Words

A good aftermarket Harley Davidson Tour Pack for you depends on your needs and the type of bike. For example, if you’re going on longer rides and don’t want to lug around too much gear with you, then an aftermarket pack without built-in speakers is a good choice.

However, an aftermarket pack with built-in speakers will give you more storage space as well as better sound quality from your bike’s stereo system. It also doesn’t matter what size motorcycle or touring package you have because there are many different types of tour packs available to suit any customer need. You can even purchase one that has waterproof features!

The benefits of installing an aftermarket Harley Davidson Tour Pack include having a little extra room to store some of your belongings and an improved sound system. On the downside, these packs can be a bit expensive; however, if you are in the market for one, it is essential to do your research to get the best deal. Installation is typically a breeze once you have found the perfect aftermarket tour pack for your bike. All you need to do is follow the instructions carefully, and before long, your bike will be ready for its next adventure.

I hope you enjoyed my blog post on Harley Davidson Tour Packs

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By Jacob - The Rider

Hi, my name is Jacob. I'm the founder of Backyard Rider Mag - a blog about motorcycles. I've studied engineering in college but decided to make blogging my career because it really aligned with what I wanted to do creatively - talk about bikes! I've been riding for 16 years now- everything from sportbikes to cruisers, dirtbikes or even dual sports. And after all these years on the road, there are still new bikes that excite me just as much as when I first started riding.

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