2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special
Review of 2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special
The 2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special stands out as a premier touring motorcycle, embodying the essence of long-distance riding while delivering a unique combination of comfort, style, and performance. Powered by the formidable Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, this bike offers robust torque and smooth acceleration, making it an ideal companion for both open highways and winding roads. The Road Glide Special features an aerodynamic frame with its signature shark-nose fairing, which not only enhances its aggressive aesthetic but also reduces wind resistance, ensuring a more stable ride at high speeds. In addition to its performance capabilities, the Road Glide Special is equipped with advanced technology that enhances the overall riding experience. The 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and premium audio allows riders to stay connected and entertained, while the comfortable seating and spacious saddlebags provide practicality for long journeys. With its striking design and powerful features, the 2020 Road Glide Special offers exceptional value for motorcycle enthusiasts looking for a reliable and stylish touring bike that excels in both performance and comfort. Whether embarking on a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, this motorcycle is designed to deliver an unforgettable ride.
Advantages
- Comfortable Touring Experience: The Road Glide Special features a relaxed riding position with a spacious seat and ergonomically designed handlebars, making it ideal for long-distance rides.
- Advanced Infotainment System: Equipped with the Boom! Box GTS infotainment system, it offers features like navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and high-quality audio, enhancing the overall riding experience.
- Powerful Milwaukee-Eight Engine: The bike is powered by a robust Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, delivering strong torque and acceleration, providing a thrilling performance on highways and open roads.
- Distinctive Design: With its iconic shark-nose fairing and bold styling, the Road Glide Special stands out on the road, making a statement with its aggressive yet classic Harley-Davidson aesthetics.
- Excellent Stability and Handling: The frame-mounted fairing and low center of gravity contribute to excellent stability and handling, making it easier to maneuver during both city riding and highway cruising.
Disadvantages
- Weight: The Road Glide Special is relatively heavy, which can make it cumbersome for new riders or in tight maneuvering situations.
- Price: It has a higher price point compared to some competing touring bikes, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.
- Fuel Economy: The large engine and weight can result in lower fuel efficiency, making it less economical for long-distance rides.
- Wind Protection vs. Heat Management: While the fairing provides good wind protection, it can also trap heat from the engine, which may be uncomfortable in warmer weather.
- Limited Cornering Clearance: The bike's design and weight can lead to limited cornering clearance, which may restrict aggressive riding in twisty roads. These factors are important to consider when evaluating the Road Glide Special for your riding needs.
Alternatives
- Indian Challenger The Indian Challenger is a powerful touring motorcycle that offers a 108-cubic inch PowerPlus V-twin engine, delivering impressive torque and smooth performance. It features a modern styling with a full fairing, advanced technology like a touchscreen display, and a robust audio system, making it a strong competitor in the touring segment.
- Yamaha Star Eluder The Yamaha Star Eluder combines classic cruiser aesthetics with modern touring capabilities. Powered by a 113-cubic inch V-twin engine, it delivers a comfortable ride with plenty of low-end torque. The bike comes equipped with a fairing, saddlebags, and a host of electronic features, including cruise control and a premium audio system.
- Honda Gold Wing The Honda Gold Wing is an iconic touring motorcycle known for its exceptional comfort and advanced technology. With a horizontally opposed 1,833cc six-cylinder engine, it offers smooth power delivery and great handling. The Gold Wing is packed with features like a large infotainment system, navigation, and plenty of storage, making it ideal for long-distance rides.
- Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero The Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero is a stylish bagger equipped with a 1,700cc V-twin engine that provides a good balance of power and comfort. It features a sleek design with a full fairing and hard saddlebags, along with a spacious riding position. The bike is equipped with an audio system and a comfortable seat, making it suitable for extended journeys.
- BMW K1600B The BMW K1600B is a luxurious bagger that stands out with its inline-six engine, offering an exceptional level of smoothness and power. The K1600B features a distinctive design with a low-slung silhouette, advanced electronics, and a high-quality infotainment system. Its comfort and performance make it a great option for long-distance touring enthusiasts. These alternatives provide a range of different styles and features while maintaining the touring capabilities that riders appreciate in the Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special.
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