2023 Harley-Davidson Street Glide ST

2023 Harley-Davidson Street Glide ST

Review of 2023 Harley-Davidson Street Glide ST

The 2023 Harley-Davidson Street Glide ST stands as a formidable contender in the touring motorcycle segment, seamlessly blending performance, comfort, and style. With its powerful Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, the Street Glide ST delivers robust acceleration and a thrilling ride, making it equally suitable for long-distance cruising and urban exploration. The bike's sleek, aggressive design is complemented by premium features such as the Boom! Box GTS infotainment system, which offers enhanced navigation and connectivity options, ensuring that riders can enjoy both the journey and the destination. Additionally, the Street Glide ST prioritizes rider comfort with its plush seating and adjustable suspension, allowing for a smooth ride even over long distances. Its distinctive styling, characterized by a blacked-out aesthetic and unique graphics, appeals to those seeking a modern yet classic Harley-Davidson look. Overall, the 2023 Street Glide ST not only embodies the brand's rich heritage but also incorporates contemporary technology and performance enhancements, providing exceptional value for riders who demand both style and substance in their motorcycle experience. Whether for daily commutes or epic cross-country tours, this model proves to be a versatile and satisfying choice for enthusiasts.

Advantages

  • Powerful Performance: The Street Glide ST is equipped with the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, delivering impressive torque and horsepower for an exhilarating ride, making it ideal for both city cruising and long-distance touring.
  • Sleek Design: With its aggressive styling, blacked-out components, and custom touches, the Street Glide ST offers a modern aesthetic that stands out on the road while maintaining the classic Harley-Davidson appeal.
  • Advanced Technology: The bike comes with the latest infotainment system, including a touchscreen display, smartphone connectivity, and navigation features, enhancing the riding experience with convenience and entertainment.
  • Comfortable Ergonomics: Featuring a relaxed riding position and well-padded seat, the Street Glide ST is designed for comfort during long rides, making it suitable for touring enthusiasts.
  • Enhanced Suspension: The suspension system is tuned for improved handling and ride quality, providing stability and comfort over various road conditions, which is essential for both short trips and extended journeys.

Disadvantages

  • Weight: The Street Glide ST is a heavy motorcycle, which can make it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces or during low-speed turns, especially for less experienced riders.
  • Limited Cornering Clearance: The design prioritizes a comfortable ride, which can result in reduced cornering clearance. This means that aggressive riders may encounter scraping pegs or floorboards during spirited riding.
  • Price Point: The Street Glide ST is positioned as a premium touring bike, and its price may be a barrier for some potential buyers, especially when compared to other touring models in the market.
  • Fuel Economy: While it offers strong performance, the larger engine can lead to lower fuel efficiency compared to smaller touring bikes or more fuel-efficient options, which may be a consideration for long-distance riders.
  • Vibration at High Speeds: Some riders may find that the V-twin engine produces noticeable vibrations at highway speeds, which can be uncomfortable over extended periods and may detract from the overall touring experience. These cons should be weighed against the many strengths of the Street Glide ST, depending on your riding preferences and needs.

Alternatives

  • Indian Challenger: The Indian Challenger is a powerful bagger that combines a robust 1,768cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine with modern technology and comfort features. It offers a sleek design, impressive performance, and advanced infotainment options, making it a strong contender in the touring segment.
  • Honda Gold Wing: The Honda Gold Wing is renowned for its long-distance touring capabilities. With a 1,833cc flat-six engine, it provides smooth power delivery and exceptional comfort. The Gold Wing features advanced electronics, including a comprehensive infotainment system, multiple riding modes, and ample storage space.
  • Yamaha Star Eluder: The Yamaha Star Eluder is a stylish bagger that combines a powerful 1,854cc V-twin engine with a sporty ride. It features a comfortable seat, modern technology, and a sleek design, making it perfect for both long rides and city cruising. Its advanced infotainment system adds to the riding experience.
  • Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero: The Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero offers a blend of classic cruiser style and modern performance. Powered by a 1,700cc V-twin engine, it delivers strong torque and a comfortable ride. The Vaquero is equipped with a spacious fairing, saddlebags, and a host of comfort features, ideal for touring enthusiasts.
  • BMW R1250RT: The BMW R1250RT is a sport-touring motorcycle that emphasizes performance and comfort. It features a 1,254cc boxer engine with variable valve timing for enhanced power and efficiency. With its advanced suspension, ergonomic design, and high-tech features such as adaptive cruise control, the R1250RT excels on both highways and winding roads. These alternatives provide a range of options for riders looking for something different while still offering the comfort and features associated with touring motorcycles.

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