2017 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special
Review of 2017 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special
The 2017 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special stands out as a remarkable touring motorcycle that combines comfort, performance, and iconic styling. With its distinctive shark-nose fairing, the Road Glide Special not only exudes a bold presence on the road but also enhances aerodynamics and reduces wind fatigue for long-distance riders. Powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine, it delivers impressive torque and smooth acceleration, making it a joy to ride whether cruising down the highway or navigating city streets. The bike's advanced infotainment system, complete with a touchscreen display and Bluetooth connectivity, ensures riders stay connected and entertained while on the move. In terms of value, the Road Glide Special offers an exceptional blend of features that cater to both seasoned riders and newcomers alike. Its ample storage capacity, comfortable seating, and customizable options make it a practical choice for long journeys and daily commutes. The combination of Harley-Davidson's heritage and modern engineering gives it a lasting appeal, ensuring that it retains its value well over time. Overall, the 2017 Road Glide Special is more than just a motorcycle; it embodies the spirit of adventure, making it a worthy investment for anyone looking to experience the open road in style and comfort.
Advantages
- Comfortable Touring Experience: The Road Glide Special features a comfortable seating position and advanced ergonomics, making it ideal for long-distance rides. The spacious seat and relaxed riding posture help reduce fatigue on extended journeys.
- Advanced Infotainment System: Equipped with the Boom! Box
- 5GT infotainment system, the Road Glide Special offers Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, and a premium sound system, enhancing the overall riding experience.
- Aerodynamic Design: The distinctive sharknose fairing not only gives the bike a unique aesthetic but also improves aerodynamics, reducing wind resistance and enhancing stability at highway speeds.
- Powerful Milwaukee-Eight Engine: Featuring the Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine, the Road Glide Special delivers strong performance with ample torque and power, making it capable of handling both city streets and open highways effortlessly.
- Robust Customization Options: Harley-Davidson motorcycles are known for their extensive customization possibilities, and the Road Glide Special is no exception. Riders can personalize their bikes with a wide range of accessories, from performance upgrades to aesthetic modifications.
Disadvantages
- Weight: The Road Glide Special is quite heavy, which can make it challenging to maneuver at low speeds and in tight spaces, especially for less experienced riders.
- Fuel Economy: While it offers a powerful engine, the fuel economy is not the best in its class, which can lead to more frequent stops at the gas station during long rides.
- Price: As a premium motorcycle, the Road Glide Special comes with a higher price tag compared to some competitors, which may not fit every rider's budget.
- Limited Cornering Clearance: The design of the bike can limit how far you can lean into corners before scraping the floorboards or exhaust, which may be a concern for more aggressive riders.
- Vibration: Some riders report that the engine's vibrations can be noticeable at higher speeds, which might lead to discomfort on longer journeys, especially for the passenger. These factors are worth considering if you're thinking about purchasing this model.
Alternatives
- Indian Chieftain Dark Horse: The Indian Chieftain Dark Horse offers a sleek, blacked-out aesthetic paired with a powerful Thunder Stroke 111 engine. Known for its comfortable touring capabilities, it features a fairing with a well-integrated infotainment system, making long rides enjoyable for both the rider and passenger.
- Honda Gold Wing: Renowned for its comfort and performance, the Honda Gold Wing is a staple in the touring segment. With a powerful flat-six engine, advanced technology, and a plush seating arrangement, it excels in long-distance travel. The Gold Wing also boasts a spacious cargo capacity and cutting-edge features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
- Yamaha Star Eluder: The Yamaha Star Eluder combines classic bagger styling with modern technology. Powered by the 113-cubic-inch V-twin engine, it offers a smooth ride with plenty of torque. The Eluder is equipped with a fairing and features a high-quality sound system, making it a great companion for long journeys.
- Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero: The Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero is a stylish bagger that combines a powerful 1700cc V-twin engine with a comfortable riding position. It features a full fairing, saddlebags, and a variety of modern amenities, making it a well-rounded choice for both city riding and long-distance touring.
- BMW K1600 B: The BMW K1600 B (Bagger) is a premium touring motorcycle known for its impressive inline-six engine, delivering both power and smoothness. It features a low-slung design, excellent handling, and advanced technology, including a high-tech infotainment system and adaptive suspension, making it ideal for riders seeking luxury and performance on their journeys. Each of these motorcycles offers unique features and capabilities that can cater to different riding preferences, making them great alternatives to the Road Glide Special.
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