The Road King and Road Glide are two iconic touring motorcycles from Harley-Davidson, known for their comfort, performance, and classic looks. These bikes have captured the hearts of riders with their powerful engines, smooth handling, and striking aesthetics. In this detailed comparison, we will explore the key features and differences between these two impressive machines, helping you make an informed decision when choosing your next touring bike.
Key Takeaways:
- The Road King is a more restrained, old-school touring bike, while the Road Glide stands out with its blacked-out aesthetic.
- The Road King Special comes equipped with Harley’s advanced Reflex Defensive Rider System (RDRS), offering riding aids like linked braking and ABS for enhanced safety and control.
- The Road King Special boasts a powerful engine, impressive comfort features, and agile handling, making it an excellent choice for long rides.
- The Road Glide Special’s dark and brooding appearance turns heads wherever it goes, while still delivering the same level of performance and comfort as the Road King Special.
- In addition to the Road King and Road Glide, the Indian Challenger Limited is mentioned as a competitor in the touring bike segment.
Design and Aesthetics
The Road King and Road Glide have distinct design elements that make them stand out on the road, from the iconic shark nose fairing to the rear wheel size and wind protection they offer. The Road King features a classic, old-school design with a minimalist fairing that showcases its timeless appeal. On the other hand, the Road Glide takes a bold approach with its shark nose fairing, which not only adds to its aggressive look but also enhances aerodynamics and wind protection.
Both bikes come with chrome accents that further elevate their aesthetics and give them a stylish appeal. The Road King features chrome details on the front forks, handlebars, and exhaust, while the Road Glide goes for a blacked-out look, with dark finishes on the engine, exhaust, and various other components. Whether you prefer the gleaming allure of chrome or the dark and brooding appearance of blacked-out accents, both bikes offer plenty of visual appeal.
When it comes to rear wheel size, the Road King sports a larger 18-inch wheel, adding to its commanding presence on the road. In contrast, the Road Glide comes with a slightly smaller 17-inch wheel, which contributes to its nimble handling and maneuverability. Both bikes offer excellent wind protection, thanks to their fairings and windshield designs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride even at higher speeds.
Design and Aesthetics Summary:
- Road King and Road Glide have distinct design elements
- Road King: Classic, old-school design with minimalist fairing
- Road Glide: Bold shark nose fairing for aggressive look and improved aerodynamics
- Road King: Chrome accents for a timeless appeal
- Road Glide: Dark, blacked-out finishes for a bold and brooding appearance
- Road King: Larger 18-inch rear wheel for commanding presence
- Road Glide: Smaller 17-inch rear wheel for nimble handling
- Both models offer excellent wind protection
| Model | Design | Chrome Accents | Rear Wheel Size | Wind Protection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Road King | Classic, old-school | Yes | 18 inches | Excellent |
| Road Glide | Bold, shark nose fairing | No, blacked-out finishes | 17 inches | Excellent |
Performance and Handling
When it comes to performance and handling, the Road King and Road Glide deliver exceptional power, thanks to their Milwaukee Eight 107 engines, while offering excellent control and agility on the road. These touring motorcycles are designed to provide an exhilarating riding experience, whether cruising on the highway or maneuvering through traffic.
With their powerful engines, both the Road King and Road Glide offer impressive torque, allowing riders to effortlessly accelerate and maintain high speeds. The Milwaukee Eight 107 engines provide the necessary power to conquer any road, ensuring a thrilling ride every time.
Furthermore, these bikes are equipped with top-notch braking systems, ensuring effective and reliable stopping power. Whether riding at high speeds or navigating through tight corners, the brakes on the Road King and Road Glide provide confidence and control, enhancing the overall safety of the rider.
| Features | Road King | Road Glide |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Milwaukee Eight 107 | Milwaukee Eight 107 |
| Torque | Impressive | Impressive |
| Brakes | High-performance | High-performance |
| Handling | Agile and responsive | Agile and responsive |
| Weight | Varies by model | Varies by model |
In terms of handling, both the Road King and Road Glide shine. They are built with precision and finesse, allowing riders to confidently navigate through various road conditions. The bikes feature responsive handling, offering stability and control even at high speeds.
While the Road King and Road Glide share impressive performance and handling characteristics, it is important to note that their individual models may have slight variations in weight, contributing to the overall riding experience. Riders have the flexibility to choose the model that aligns with their specific preferences and riding style.
Comfort and Convenience
The Road King and Road Glide prioritize rider and passenger comfort, with features like adjustable seat height, hard saddlebags for ample storage, advanced infotainment systems for music and navigation, and accommodations that enhance the touring experience.
The seat height of both models can be adjusted to suit the rider’s preference, ensuring a comfortable riding position for long hours on the road. With hard saddlebags, there is plenty of space to store essential items, making the bikes ideal for extended trips or touring adventures. These saddlebags are not only practical but also enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the bikes.
When it comes to entertainment and connectivity, the Road King and Road Glide offer advanced infotainment systems that cater to the modern rider’s needs. These systems allow riders to access music, navigation, and other features conveniently, enhancing the overall riding experience. Whether cruising on the highway or taking on winding roads, riders can enjoy their favorite tunes while staying connected.
Key Features
- Adjustable seat height for customizable comfort
- Hard saddlebags for ample storage space
- Advanced infotainment systems for music and navigation
Moreover, both models feature accommodations that prioritize the well-being of both the rider and the passenger. With wind protection designed to minimize the impact of air resistance, riders can enjoy a smoother and more comfortable experience, even at higher speeds. The Road King and Road Glide also boast various touring features, such as adjustable windshields for additional protection against wind and weather conditions.
In summary, the Road King and Road Glide offer a range of comfort and convenience features that enhance the touring experience. With adjustable seat height, ample storage space, advanced infotainment systems, and accommodations designed to prioritize rider and passenger well-being, these bikes are well-suited for long rides and adventures on the open road.
Safety and Technology
The Road King and Road Glide come equipped with advanced safety and technology features, including the Reflex Defensive Rider System (RDRS), which offers riding aids like linked braking, ABS, cornering-enhanced traction control, and the Drag-Torque Slip Control System (DTSCS), providing enhanced safety and control on the road.
With the Reflex Defensive Rider System (RDRS), riders can experience improved braking performance through the linked braking system, which distributes braking force between the front and rear wheels. This feature ensures stability and reduces the risk of wheel lock-up during sudden stops or emergency situations. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) further enhances safety by preventing wheel lock-up, especially on slippery surfaces.
Cornering-Enhanced Traction Control
One of the standout features of the RDRS is the cornering-enhanced traction control, which optimizes traction by modulating torque delivery based on lean angle. This technology allows riders to maintain control and stability while cornering, even on unpredictable road conditions.
The Drag-Torque Slip Control System (DTSCS) is another notable safety feature that prevents rear-wheel lock-up during aggressive downshifting. It works by electronically controlling the throttle and reducing engine torque, ensuring smooth and controlled deceleration.
| Riding Aids | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Linked Braking | Improved braking performance and stability |
| ABS | Prevents wheel lock-up and enhances safety |
| Cornering-Enhanced Traction Control | Optimizes traction during cornering |
| Drag-Torque Slip Control System (DTSCS) | Prevents rear-wheel lock-up during downshifting |
With these advanced electronics, the Road King and Road Glide offer riders a safer and more controlled riding experience, instilling confidence on both urban roads and long highway journeys. Whether navigating through heavy traffic or enjoying a leisurely ride in scenic landscapes, these safety and technology features ensure riders can focus on the journey ahead with peace of mind.
Road King Special vs Road Glide Special
The Road King Special and Road Glide Special are variants of their respective models, each offering its own set of features and aesthetics that cater to different preferences. The Road King Special is known for its classic appeal and elegant design, while the Road Glide Special takes on a more aggressive and dark persona with its blacked-out appearance.
One of the standout features of the Road King Special is its advanced electronics suite, known as the Reflex Defensive Rider System (RDRS). This suite includes riding aids like lean-sensitive linked braking and ABS, enhancing safety and control on the road. Additionally, the Road King Special boasts cornering-enhanced traction control and a Drag-Torque Slip Control System (DTSCS), further improving the overall riding experience.
On the other hand, the Road Glide Special captivates riders with its dark and brooding appearance. With its distinctive shark-nose fairing and aggressive front end, this model exudes a unique aura on the road. The Road Glide Special also offers powerful performance, thanks to its Milwaukee-Eight engine, ensuring an exhilarating ride every time.
While both the Road King Special and Road Glide Special are exceptional touring bikes, it’s important to consider your personal preferences and needs. Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of the Road King Special or the bold and menacing vibe of the Road Glide Special, both models offer an unforgettable riding experience. It’s worth noting that the Indian Challenger Limited is also a formidable competitor in this segment, providing riders with an alternative choice in the touring motorcycle market.
| Model | Key Features | Aesthetics |
|---|---|---|
| Road King Special | – Reflex Defensive Rider System (RDRS) – Lean-sensitive linked braking and ABS – Cornering-enhanced traction control – Drag-Torque Slip Control System (DTSCS) |
Classic appeal |
| Road Glide Special | – Distinctive shark-nose fairing – Aggressive front end design – Milwaukee-Eight engine |
Dark and brooding appearance |
| Indian Challenger Limited | – Competitive alternative in the touring segment | Varies |
Fuel Economy and Range
The Road King and Road Glide provide a good balance between fuel economy and range, allowing riders to enjoy long rides and tour without worrying about frequent refueling stops. With their efficient engines and generous fuel capacities, these touring cruisers are designed to go the distance.
The Road King boasts a fuel capacity of [insert data] gallons, while the Road Glide offers [insert data] gallons. This means that riders can cover more miles between fuel stops, enhancing their overall riding experience. Whether cruising along the open highway or exploring winding country roads, these Harley-Davidson models offer the convenience and freedom to go further.
On average, riders can expect a fuel economy of [insert data] miles per gallon with the Road King, while the Road Glide delivers an impressive [insert data] miles per gallon. This efficient fuel consumption allows riders to plan longer trips and spend more time enjoying the open road.
| Model | Fuel Capacity (gallons) | Fuel Economy (miles per gallon) |
|---|---|---|
| Road King | [insert data] | [insert data] |
| Road Glide | [insert data] | [insert data] |
For riders who love to embark on long tours and explore the country, the Road King and Road Glide offer the fuel efficiency and range necessary to make those dreams a reality.
Comparison with other Harley-Davidson Models
In the Harley-Davidson touring lineup, the Road King and Road Glide offer unique features and benefits that distinguish them from other popular models like the Street Glide, Electra Glide, and Ultra Limited. Let’s take a closer look at how they stack up against each other and their fellow touring companions.
The Street Glide, known for its sleek and stylish design, is a favorite among riders who crave a combination of performance and street appeal. With its iconic batwing fairing and powerful Milwaukee-Eight engine, the Street Glide offers a thrilling riding experience along with advanced features like the Boom! Box infotainment system.
Meanwhile, the Electra Glide is revered for its classic touring capabilities. It boasts a comfortable seat, ample storage space, and a host of rider-friendly features such as heated handgrips and cruise control. The Electra Glide’s timeless design and smooth performance make it a top choice for those seeking a refined and luxurious touring experience.
For riders looking for the ultimate in comfort and convenience, the Ultra Limited delivers. This touring masterpiece combines cutting-edge technology with premium amenities, including a spacious Tour-Pak luggage carrier and a comprehensive infotainment system. With its powerful engine and advanced suspension, the Ultra Limited is designed for long-distance adventures in ultimate style.
Now, let’s not forget the Road King and Road Glide. The Road King stands out with its timeless, stripped-down design, putting the focus on the essentials of the open road. It offers a comfortable seat and excellent handling, making it a versatile choice for riders who value simplicity and a classic look.
On the other hand, the Road Glide takes a bold departure from tradition with its distinctive shark nose fairing and aggressive styling. It offers superior wind protection and a commanding presence on the road. The Road Glide’s performance is matched by its dark and brooding appearance, making it a true standout among touring motorcycles.
In summary, the Road King and Road Glide bring their own unique flavors to the Harley-Davidson touring lineup. Whether you prefer the classic simplicity of the Road King, the boldness of the Road Glide, or the refined luxury of the Street Glide, Electra Glide, or Ultra Limited, there’s a Harley-Davidson touring model to suit every rider’s preference and style. So, take your pick, hit the road, and let the adventure begin.
| Model | Features |
|---|---|
| Street Glide | Sleek design, powerful engine, Boom! Box infotainment system |
| Electra Glide | Classic touring capabilities, comfortable seat, heated handgrips, cruise control |
| Ultra Limited | Advanced technology, luxurious amenities, spacious Tour-Pak luggage carrier |
| Road King | Timeless design, stripped-down look, comfortable seat, excellent handling |
| Road Glide | Distinctive shark nose fairing, aggressive styling, superior wind protection |
Riding Experience and Handling
The Road King and Road Glide provide a comfortable and controlled riding experience, with features like ergonomic handlebars, well-tuned front forks, and reliable wheels that enhance stability and maneuverability in various riding conditions. The handlebars of both models are designed to offer a natural grip and optimal leverage, allowing riders to maintain control and easily navigate through traffic or on the open highway. The well-tuned front forks provide a smooth and responsive suspension, absorbing bumps and ensuring a comfortable ride, even on uneven surfaces.
One of the standout features of the Road King and Road Glide is their reliable wheels. These bikes are equipped with high-quality wheels that offer excellent traction and stability, giving riders confidence in various riding situations. Whether cruising at high speeds on the highway or maneuvering through tight corners, the wheels of these bikes provide a solid grip on the road, enhancing both safety and performance.
In addition to handlebars and wheels, the Road King and Road Glide excel in terms of overall stability and maneuverability. These bikes are built with precision and attention to detail, allowing riders to easily navigate through traffic or comfortably cruise on the open road. Whether you’re riding in the city or taking on long highway stretches, the Road King and Road Glide offer a smooth and controlled experience that can be appreciated by both seasoned riders and those new to touring bikes.
Table: Comparison of Riding Experience and Handling
| Feature | Road King | Road Glide |
|---|---|---|
| Handlebars | Ergonomic design for optimal grip and leverage | Ergonomic design for optimal grip and leverage |
| Front Forks | Well-tuned suspension for a smooth and responsive ride | Well-tuned suspension for a smooth and responsive ride |
| Wheels | Reliable wheels for excellent traction and stability | Reliable wheels for excellent traction and stability |
| Stability | Offers stable and controlled handling in various riding conditions | Offers stable and controlled handling in various riding conditions |
| Maneuverability | Easy to maneuver through traffic and tight corners | Easy to maneuver through traffic and tight corners |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Road King and Road Glide offer distinct features and benefits that cater to different riding preferences, making them ideal choices for riders seeking comfort, performance, and a stylish ride whether in town, on the highway, or exploring the open country.
The Road King, with its old-school charm and restrained design, appeals to riders looking for a classic touring bike. Its powerful engine, comfortable ergonomics, and excellent handling make it a reliable companion for long rides. Whether cruising through the city streets or embarking on a cross-country journey, the Road King provides a smooth and enjoyable riding experience.
On the other hand, the Road Glide stands out with its blacked-out aesthetic and dark and brooding appearance. It is the rebellious sibling in the Harley-Davidson lineup, catching the attention of riders who want to make a bold statement. Equipped with Harley’s Reflex Defensive Rider System (RDRS), it offers advanced riding aids like linked braking and ABS, enhancing safety and control on the road.
It’s worth mentioning that the Indian Challenger Limited also competes in this segment. With its powerful engine and impressive features, it provides a compelling alternative to the Harley-Davidson models.
Ultimately, the choice between the Road King and Road Glide comes down to personal preference. Whether you prefer the classic elegance of the Road King or the edgy appeal of the Road Glide, both models deliver a combination of comfort, performance, and style. So, whether you’re a rider who loves cruising through town, hitting the open highway, or exploring the beautiful countryside, you can’t go wrong with either the Road King or Road Glide.
FAQ
Q: What are the main differences between the Road King and Road Glide?
A: The Road King is described as a more restrained, old-school touring cruiser, while the Road Glide is known for its blacked-out aesthetic, giving it a unique and brooding appearance.
Q: What safety features does the Road King Special have?
A: The Road King Special comes with Harley’s Reflex Defensive Rider System (RDRS), which includes riding aids like lean-sensitive linked braking and ABS. It also features cornering-enhanced traction control and a Drag-Torque Slip Control System (DTSCS).
Q: What are the standout features of the Road Glide Special?
A: The Road Glide Special is commended for its dark and brooding appearance, which sets it apart from other touring cruisers. Its aggressive styling and distinctive fairing make it a head-turner on the road.
Q: How does the Indian Challenger Limited compare to the Harley-Davidson models?
A: The Indian Challenger Limited is mentioned as a competitor to the Harley-Davidson models. While the focus of this comparison is on the Road King and Road Glide, the Indian Challenger Limited is recognized as another strong contender in the touring bike segment.
Source Links
- https://www.motorcycle.com/shoot-outs/showdown-2022-harley-davidson-road-glide-limited-vs-indian-pursuit-limited-premium
- https://www.rideapart.com/reviews/535189/harley-road-king-special-review/
- https://ridermagazine.com/2020/03/13/2020-harley-davidson-road-glide-special-vs-indian-challenger-limited-comparison-test-review/
