As we learned from data shown to us at the Star Stratoliner Deluxe unveiling, the “casual full-dress” segment of touring cruisers is enjoying ever-increasing popularity, and this is largely due to Harley Street Glide and Road Glide.

Both retain the ubiquitous rubber-mounted 96-inch Twin-Cam motor and 6-speed Cruise Drive tranny, the latter revised for quieter running in fifth gear.

Straddling the Road Glide, a rider is greeted by a fairing that is visually massive from the cockpit. The Street Glide’s bat-wing is attached to the fork, while the Road Glide’s more substantial fairing is frame-mounted. “Streamliner” foot controls are placed further forward than the Electra Glide, and the passenger floorboards are height-adjustable. Controls are typical Harley, augmented by a handy (optional) cruise control integrated into the right-side hand controls.

The rear suspension is air-adjustable to suit loads of various weights, and the resulting ride quality isn’t much compromised despite 1 inch less travel (to 3.0 inches).

While riding the Road Glide, I couldn’t help but draw comparisons to a big American car. Like everything from The Motor Company, the Glides offer impeccable finishes and artful details. Although starting at $19K in Vivid Black, the Road Glide Custom’s price bumps up to $19,479 for the Scarlet Red and Black Denim color options Harley.

Labels: Harley