2018 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special
Review of 2018 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special
The 2018 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special stands out as a quintessential touring motorcycle, seamlessly blending style, comfort, and performance. With its iconic batwing fairing, the Street Glide Special not only exudes classic Harley aesthetics but also provides exceptional wind protection, making long rides more enjoyable. Powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine, it delivers robust torque and a smooth ride, ensuring that both city cruising and highway journeys are met with impressive power and responsiveness. The addition of the Boom! Box infotainment system enhances the riding experience, offering features like navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium sound system, all designed to keep riders connected and entertained on the road. In terms of value, the 2018 Street Glide Special excels for those seeking a premium touring experience without compromising on style or comfort. Its combination of advanced technology, rider-friendly features, and iconic design makes it a compelling choice for both seasoned riders and newcomers alike. With ample storage space, comfortable seating for both rider and passenger, and a range of customization options, it caters to individual preferences while maintaining the rugged, rebellious spirit that Harley-Davidson is known for. Overall, the Street Glide Special represents a well-rounded package that delivers on performance, comfort, and timeless style, making it a worthy investment for motorcycle enthusiasts.
Advantages
- Powerful Engine: The Street Glide Special is equipped with a Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine, providing impressive torque and power for both urban and highway riding.
- Comfortable Touring Features: It comes with a comfortable seat and an ergonomic riding position, making it ideal for long-distance rides. The bike also features a spacious touring frame for added comfort.
- Advanced Infotainment System: The motorcycle is fitted with the Boom! Box
- 5 GT infotainment system, which includes a touch screen, Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation, enhancing the riding experience.
- Stylish Design: With its sleek lines and iconic Harley styling, the Street Glide Special stands out on the road. The blacked-out aesthetic and custom finishes add to its appeal.
- Excellent Suspension: The bike features a responsive front and rear suspension system, contributing to a smooth ride over various terrains and improving overall handling and stability.
Disadvantages
- Weight: The Street Glide Special is relatively heavy, weighing around 800 pounds. This can make it less maneuverable, especially for newer riders or in tight situations.
- Fuel Economy: While it offers a powerful engine, the fuel efficiency is not as competitive as some other touring bikes, which may lead to more frequent stops at the pump on long rides.
- High Price Point: The Street Glide Special comes with a premium price tag, which may be a barrier for some potential buyers, especially when considering additional costs for accessories and maintenance.
- Limited Cornering Clearance: The design of the bike, particularly its low seat height and wide footboards, can limit cornering clearance, which may restrict aggressive riding in twisty roads.
- Inconsistent Finish Quality: Some riders have reported issues with the quality of certain finishes and components not meeting the high expectations typically associated with the Harley-Davidson brand, leading to concerns about long-term durability.
Alternatives
- Indian Chieftain Dark Horse: The Indian Chieftain Dark Horse combines classic styling with modern technology. It features a powerful Thunder Stroke 116 engine, a sleek blacked-out aesthetic, and a comfortable riding position. With ample storage and advanced infotainment options, it's a solid contender for touring enthusiasts.
- Yamaha Star Eluder: The Star Eluder is a stylish bagger that offers a comfortable ride with its low seat height and relaxed ergonomics. Equipped with a powerful 113-cubic-inch V-twin engine, it boasts features like integrated saddlebags, a fairing with a full windshield, and advanced infotainment with navigation, making it a great choice for long rides.
- Honda Gold Wing: Renowned for its long-distance touring capabilities, the Honda Gold Wing is equipped with a smooth and powerful flat-six engine. It offers exceptional comfort, advanced technology, and a wealth of features including a premium audio system, navigation, and optional airbag. It's designed for those who prioritize comfort and performance on long journeys.
- Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero: The Vulcan 1700 Vaquero is a touring cruiser that combines aggressive styling with a strong V-twin engine. It features a full fairing, comfortable seating, and a robust audio system. With its excellent handling and sporty performance, it appeals to riders looking for a blend of touring comfort and cruiser flair.
- BMW K1600B: The BMW K1600B is a luxury bagger that stands out with its impressive inline-six engine, delivering smooth power and torque. It features a low-slung silhouette, advanced electronics, and high-quality materials. With its comfortable seating and innovative technology, including adaptive headlights and audio systems, it provides a premium touring experience. These alternatives offer a range of features and styles while catering to the needs of touring and cruising enthusiasts.
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