2018 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra
Review of 2018 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra
The 2018 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra stands out as a quintessential touring motorcycle, offering a blend of comfort, performance, and advanced technology that appeals to long-distance riders. With its iconic batwing fairing and aggressive styling, the Road Glide Ultra not only captures attention but also enhances aerodynamics, reducing wind fatigue during extended rides. Powered by the robust Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine, this touring bike delivers ample torque and smooth acceleration, ensuring that riders can conquer both highways and winding roads with ease. Its premium suspension system and comfortable seating further elevate the riding experience, making it ideal for long journeys. In addition to its impressive performance features, the Road Glide Ultra is equipped with an array of modern conveniences that enhance its overall value. The infotainment system, complete with a touchscreen interface, Bluetooth connectivity, and GPS navigation, ensures riders stay connected and informed during their travels. Ample storage space with hard saddlebags and a top case allows for the secure transport of gear and personal items, making it a practical choice for those who prioritize touring adventures. Ultimately, the 2018 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra combines classic American motorcycle heritage with contemporary features, solidifying its position as a top contender in the touring segment for riders seeking comfort, style, and reliability on the open road.
Advantages
- Comfortable Touring Experience: The Road Glide Ultra is designed for long-distance rides, featuring a spacious and comfortable seating position, along with a well-padded passenger seat, making it ideal for extended journeys.
- Advanced Infotainment System: Equipped with the Boom! Box
- 5GT audio system, it offers Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, and high-quality sound, enhancing the overall riding experience.
- Aerodynamic Fairing: The distinctive frame-mounted fairing reduces wind turbulence, providing better stability at highway speeds and contributing to a more relaxed ride.
- Ample Storage: With saddlebags and a top case, the Road Glide Ultra offers generous storage capacity, allowing riders to carry all their essentials for long trips without compromising on style.
- Strong Performance: Powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine, it delivers robust torque and power, ensuring a smooth ride whether you're cruising on the highway or navigating through city streets.
Disadvantages
- Weight: The Road Glide Ultra is a heavy motorcycle, which can make it less maneuverable at low speeds or in tight spaces. This can be challenging for less experienced riders.
- Fuel Economy: While it offers impressive power and performance, the Road Glide Ultra's fuel economy can be on the lower side compared to lighter touring bikes, which may result in more frequent fuel stops during long rides.
- High Price Point: As a premium touring motorcycle, the Road Glide Ultra comes with a hefty price tag, which might be a barrier for some potential buyers looking for a budget-friendly option.
- Vibration: Some riders may find the vibrations from the large V-twin engine to be excessive, especially on longer rides, which can lead to discomfort over time.
- Limited Cornering Clearance: The design of the Road Glide Ultra may limit its cornering capabilities. Riders looking for aggressive handling might find this model less satisfying in twisty roads compared to sportier alternatives.
Alternatives
- Indian Chieftain Limited The Indian Chieftain Limited offers a blend of classic styling and modern technology. With its powerful Thunder Stroke 111 engine, it delivers a smooth and robust ride. The bike features a fairing with integrated audio, a comfortable seat, and ample storage, making it an excellent option for long-distance touring.
- BMW K1600GTL The BMW K1600GTL is a luxury touring motorcycle known for its impressive performance and cutting-edge features. It boasts a powerful inline-six engine, advanced suspension, and a full suite of technology, including navigation and audio systems. The comfortable ergonomics and spacious storage make it ideal for long journeys.
- Honda Gold Wing The Honda Gold Wing is an iconic touring motorcycle that has set the standard for long-distance travel. It features a powerful horizontally opposed engine, advanced suspension, and a range of modern amenities like a premium audio system and Bluetooth connectivity. The Gold Wing is designed for comfort and stability, making it perfect for extended rides.
- Yamaha Star Eluder The Yamaha Star Eluder combines performance with classic cruiser styling. It features a powerful V-twin engine and a sleek design with a comfortable riding position. The Eluder offers a spacious saddle, integrated saddlebags, and modern technology, making it a solid choice for riders looking for both style and functionality.
- Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager The Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager is a touring bike that offers a great balance of power and comfort. It comes equipped with a 1700cc V-twin engine that provides strong performance on the highway. The Voyager features a full fairing, hard saddlebags, and a comfortable seat, along with modern conveniences like a sound system and cruise control, making it a practical choice for long rides. These alternatives offer a variety of features and styles that may appeal to riders looking for something beyond the Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra.
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