1989 Harley-Davidson 1340 Tour Glide Ultra Classic

1989 Harley-Davidson 1340 Tour Glide Ultra Classic
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Review of 1989 Harley-Davidson 1340 Tour Glide Ultra Classic

The 1989 Harley-Davidson 1340 Tour Glide Ultra Classic stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to touring comfort and performance. With its powerful 1340cc V-twin engine, this motorcycle delivers a smooth and robust ride that is ideal for long-distance journeys. The Tour Glide's unique frame design ensures stability and control, while its fully enclosed fairing provides excellent wind protection. The model is also equipped with an advanced suspension system, enhancing ride quality and comfort on various terrains. Notably, the Ultra Classic's spacious saddlebags and passenger accommodations make it an excellent choice for riders looking to travel with ease and style. In terms of value, the 1989 Tour Glide Ultra Classic represents a significant piece of motorcycle history, particularly for enthusiasts of the Harley-Davidson brand. Its blend of classic styling and modern touring capabilities appeals to both collectors and riders alike. While the vintage aspect may require careful maintenance, the motorcycle's reputation for durability and reliability ensures that it remains a desirable option in the used market. Overall, the 1340 Tour Glide Ultra Classic offers a unique combination of performance, comfort, and heritage, making it a cherished choice for those who appreciate the open road.
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Advantages

  • Comfortable Touring Design: The Tour Glide Ultra Classic is equipped with a spacious seat and a well-designed riding position, making it ideal for long-distance rides and extended tours.
  • Classic Harley Style: With its iconic design and distinctive styling, this motorcycle has a classic Harley-Davidson aesthetic that appeals to many enthusiasts and collectors.
  • Stable and Smooth Ride: The bike features a comfortable suspension system, providing a smooth and stable ride, even on uneven surfaces, which is essential for touring.
  • Ample Storage: The Tour Glide Ultra Classic comes with generous storage capacity, including saddlebags and a tour trunk, allowing riders to carry their gear easily on long trips.
  • Strong Community and Support: As part of the Harley-Davidson brand, owners benefit from a large community of enthusiasts, numerous aftermarket parts, and a wealth of resources for maintenance and customization.

Disadvantages

  • Weight and Handling: The Tour Glide Ultra Classic is a heavy motorcycle, which can make it challenging to maneuver, especially at low speeds or when parking.
  • Fuel Efficiency: Compared to more modern touring bikes, the 1340 may have less efficient fuel consumption, leading to more frequent stops at the gas station on long rides.
  • Vibration: The 1340 engine can produce noticeable vibrations, which may lead to discomfort on extended rides, especially for passengers.
  • Outdated Technology: As a motorcycle from 1989, it lacks many of the advanced features and conveniences found in newer models, such as modern infotainment systems, ABS, and advanced suspension technology.
  • Parts Availability: Finding replacement parts can be more challenging for older models, which may lead to longer downtimes for repairs or maintenance due to limited availability of specific components.

Alternatives

  • Honda Gold Wing GL1500 (1990-1996) Renowned for its comfort and long-distance touring capabilities, the Gold Wing GL1500 features a powerful six-cylinder engine, a plush seat, and ample storage. Its smooth ride and advanced features for the time, such as air suspension and adjustable windshields, make it a strong contender for long hauls.
  • Yamaha Venture Royale (1983-1993) This touring motorcycle is equipped with a V4 engine and comes with a full fairing, comfortable seating, and a sound system. The Venture Royale is known for its reliability and features like a shaft drive and luxury amenities, catering well to touring enthusiasts looking for comfort on the road.
  • Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic (1996-2008) The Vulcan 1500 Classic offers a blend of cruiser style and touring comfort. With a smooth V-twin engine, comfortable seating, and a classic aesthetic, it's suitable for both short rides and longer journeys. Its low seat height and stable handling make it accessible for a variety of riders.
  • BMW K 1200 LT (1999-2009) The K 1200 LT is a luxury touring motorcycle with a focus on performance and comfort. It features a powerful inline-four engine and advanced technology, such as a fully adjustable windscreen and heated grips. The bike's ergonomics and suspension system provide an exceptionally smooth ride, ideal for long-distance travel.
  • Suzuki Boulevard C90T (2005-2016) The Boulevard C90T combines classic cruiser styling with modern touring features. Powered by a strong V-twin engine, it offers a comfortable riding position, a large windscreen, and saddlebags for storage. Its balanced handling and retro aesthetic appeal to riders seeking a classic look with modern performance. These alternatives each present their own unique characteristics and advantages, catering to different preferences in touring and cruising experiences.

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