The Harley-Davidson Street Glide tops out at around 107 MPH, making it an ideal companion for open road adventures. With its Milwaukee-Eight® 117 engine, you'll enjoy 105 horsepower and 130 lb.-ft. of torque for a powerful ride. The six-speed Cruise Drive® transmission ensures smooth acceleration, while its aerodynamic design reduces wind resistance. Comfort is key, thanks to a high-performance suspension and ergonomic seating. Plus, advanced tech features like a high-resolution infotainment system keep you connected. Want to know more about this iconic bagger's features and community connections? There's plenty more to explore about your next ride.
Key Takeaways
- The Harley-Davidson Street Glide features a top speed limited to around 107 MPH, providing smooth and powerful acceleration on the open road.
- Equipped with a Milwaukee-Eight® 117 engine, it delivers 105 horsepower and 130 lb.-ft. of torque for impressive performance.
- The advanced aerodynamic design minimizes wind resistance, enhancing comfort and maintaining high speeds during long rides.
- Its six-speed Cruise Drive® transmission optimizes power transfer, allowing for efficient cruising at various speeds.
- Designed for long-haul riding, it combines performance features with comfort, making it a top choice in the bagger segment.
Advanced Infotainment System Features
The advanced infotainment system in the Harley-Davidson Street Glide elevates your riding experience with its impressive features. You'll appreciate the larger, high-resolution touchscreen display that's highly responsive and easy to see, even in direct sunlight.
The customizable interface offers three viewing options—Cruise, Sport, and Tour—allowing you to tailor the experience to your preference. With the high-contrast mode and customizable widgets, you can keep an eye on crucial information like your speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, and engine temperature without distraction.
Navigating the open road is seamless thanks to the integrated navigation system, which includes address entry capabilities. If you prefer, you can connect your smartphone using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for effortless navigation and music access. Additionally, the system's enhanced interface and functionality compared to earlier models ensures a smoother user experience.
The advanced voice recognition system makes searching for destinations a breeze, ensuring you stay focused on the ride.
With Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, you can easily connect devices and enjoy an immersive audio experience, complete with premium options like Harley-Davidson Audio powered by Rockford Fosgate.
Whether you're listening to music or accessing your favorite apps, this infotainment system keeps your ride enjoyable and connected.
Maximizing Engine Efficiency
To maximize your Street Glide's engine efficiency, consider the impact of throttle response and aerodynamics on performance. Achieving that crucial 30 mph benchmark is easier when you understand how design influences speed. The new Milwaukee-Eight® 117 engine in the 2024 model provides enhanced power and improved torque, further supporting optimal performance on the open road.
30 Mph Performance Benchmark
Maximizing engine efficiency on the Harley-Davidson Street Glide involves understanding the interplay of its powerful Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin engine and optimized transmission system.
With a displacement of 1,917 cubic centimeters, this engine delivers 105 horsepower and an impressive 130 lb.-ft. of torque, ensuring robust performance for your long rides. The six-speed Cruise Drive® transmission enhances this power, providing smooth acceleration and efficient power transfer, making every mile enjoyable.
The optimized gear ratio is designed specifically for long-haul riding, allowing you to maintain high speeds while keeping engine strain low. A belt drive system ensures a quieter ride, further contributing to your comfort. Additionally, the Street Glide Special features advanced safety systems that enhance rider confidence on the road.
With a top speed of approximately 110 mph, you can confidently hit the open road, knowing that the Street Glide's performance capabilities are engineered for stability and efficiency.
The bike's aerodynamic design, featuring a fork-mounted batwing fairing, minimizes wind resistance, allowing for a smoother ride at high speeds. Plus, the liquid-cooled cylinder heads enhance thermal comfort, making your journey even more enjoyable.
Throttle Response Characteristics
Throttle response in the Harley-Davidson Street Glide is a critical aspect of enhancing engine efficiency and overall rideability. Thanks to its fly-by-wire system, the throttle response is finely tuned through a combination of throttle position sensors and twist grip sensors that communicate with the Engine Control Module (ECM). This precise correlation ensures that any significant difference between the throttle and twist grip positions triggers protective measures, like entering limp mode. Additionally, the integration of energy-efficient technologies can optimize engine performance and reduce emissions.
However, several factors can impact this responsiveness. Corrosion on terminal connectors or tight bends in wires can lead to throttle response issues. Using gold-plated terminals and ensuring clean, unobstructed wiring can mitigate these concerns. Additionally, issues within the fly-by-wire systems can cause unexpected limitations in power delivery, further affecting the overall experience.
Additionally, the gears inside the throttle body are prone to wear, which can result in throttle lag over time. Temperature fluctuations also affect performance, as the expansion and contraction of components can introduce delays.
The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine in the 2024 model enhances throttle response with its robust power and torque delivery. With peak torque available at 3250 RPM, you'll enjoy smooth acceleration, making your ride efficient and enjoyable across various conditions.
Embracing sport mode can further amplify throttle response, especially during spirited rides.
Aerodynamic Design Influences Speed
The Harley-Davidson Street Glide's performance is significantly enhanced by its aerodynamic design, which works hand-in-hand with its impressive throttle response. The 2024 model features a reshaped front fairing and windscreen, meticulously crafted using computational fluid dynamics and wind tunnel analysis to optimize efficiency.
This sculpted batwing fairing, complete with a split-stream vent, minimizes wind buffeting and improves airflow around you, which is crucial for a comfortable ride, especially over long distances. These aerodynamic enhancements enable the Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin engine to use its power more efficiently, allowing you to achieve higher speeds without battling excessive air resistance. Reduced drag means better acceleration, letting you feel the thrill of the open road.
As you ride, you'll notice improved stability at high velocities, making the bike more manageable and safer in windy conditions. Additionally, this design contributes to better fuel efficiency. By cutting down on airflow resistance, you'll find you can cruise longer distances with less energy expenditure. The new Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin engine further amplifies this performance, providing an impressive torque of 130 ft-lb at 3250 rpm, optimized for various riding conditions.
Rider Comfort on Long Journeys
Rider comfort during long journeys on the Harley-Davidson Street Glide is a top priority, and it shows in its thoughtful design. You'll appreciate the low-mounted handlebars that promote an upright riding position, reducing strain on your back.
With a seat height ranging from 26.1 to 26.7 inches, both shorter and taller riders can find their ideal fit. The forward-mounted floorboards let you rest your feet comfortably, enhancing your overall comfort during extended rides.
The high-performance suspension absorbs bumps and potholes, making your journey smoother. Plus, the rear shocks are easily adjustable, allowing you to tailor the ride quality to your preferences. The Street Glide family, known for its heavy tourers, ensures excellent control, even at 800+ pounds.
The seat strikes a balance—not too hard or too soft—ensuring you remain comfortable on long stretches of highway. The fairing-mounted windscreen significantly reduces wind buffeting, helping to minimize fatigue.
While the passenger seat might require additional accessories for optimal comfort, the Street Glide excels in rider ergonomics.
With these features, you can focus on enjoying the open road, knowing that comfort is always within reach. Whether you're cruising through scenic routes or tackling highways, the Street Glide makes long journeys a pleasure.
Owner Insights: Real Experiences
Many owners of the Harley-Davidson Street Glide rave about their experiences, often highlighting the bike's impressive performance and comfort. Riders appreciate the top speed, which is limited to around 107 MPH, providing a smooth ride without abrupt power cuts when reaching that limit. This feature ensures you can enjoy the thrill of speed while maintaining control.
The handling and stability of the 2024 model impress many, especially on twisty roads, thanks to its improved suspension. You'll find it nimble and responsive, requiring minimal effort to turn once you're in motion. However, be cautious at speeds over 100 MPH, as stability can waver. Additionally, the bike's increased rear suspension travel enhances comfort over rough terrain, making it suitable for long-distance cruising.
Owners also love the versatility offered by the multiple ride modes. Switching to Sport mode gives you an aggressive throttle response, perfect for those moments when you need to pass quickly. The cruise control system is user-friendly, adding to the overall riding experience.
While low-speed handling may challenge some due to the bike's weight, practice makes it easier. Many riders suggest focusing on low-speed maneuvers to become comfortable with the bike's balance, especially for solo trips.
Market Position Against Rivals
With the Harley-Davidson Street Glide's strong performance and owner satisfaction, it's clear why it holds a competitive edge in the market. In North America, the Street Glide contributed to a 6% retail growth in the first quarter of 2024, showcasing its popularity among touring motorcycle enthusiasts. This growth comes in a challenging market where global motorcycle shipments decreased by 7% in Q1 2024.
While global sales remained flat, the consistent demand for the Street Glide, particularly in the pre-owned market, highlights its desirability. Many riders appreciate the integration of performance upgrades that enhance their touring experience.
When compared to rivals like the Indian Chieftain Dark Horse, the Street Glide presents a unique blend of heritage and comfort. Though it features a slightly less powerful engine, its Milwaukee-Eight 107 V-Twin engine still offers robust performance.
The Street Glide's comfort-focused design, including forward-mounted floorboards and an ergonomic riding position, makes it a top choice for long-distance rides.
Brand loyalty plays a significant role in its market position. With Harley-Davidson's storied history and the allure of Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) models, the Street Glide remains an iconic choice.
While it may lack some modern features of competitors, its strong brand presence ensures that it stays a favorite among riders looking for a classic touring experience.
Performance Exhaust System Enhancements
Upgrading your Harley-Davidson Street Glide's exhaust system can significantly boost its performance, delivering noticeable enhancements in both power and sound. A well-chosen exhaust system enhances power output, particularly in the top end of the powerband, while improving low-end torque without compromising high RPM performance.
Custom options like the Burns Stainless NHB make your engine feel more powerful, giving a 135ci engine the roar of a beast.
Opt for 2 into 1 systems, such as Thunderheader or D and D, for the absolute best performance. These high-quality materials and excellent welding lead to increased performance and durability.
You'll also enjoy a throaty, deep V-Twin sound that many riders crave. Systems like Tab Performance 50 caliber pipes produce a distinctive and loud tone, while V&H Monster Ovals strike a balance without being overly loud. You can even adjust the sound quality with interchangeable baffles.
Installation is often straightforward, requiring just a few bolts. High-quality systems fit well with your bike's features, ensuring smooth alignment. High precision fitment ensures that installing these systems is hassle-free, allowing you to get back on the road quickly.
Brands like Burns Stainless and Screamin' Eagle are known for their exceptional workmanship, ensuring your exhaust system performs as advertised.
Cost and Dealer Locations
When considering the cost of a 2024 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide®, you'll find the base price starts at $25,999.
If you're looking to upgrade your ride, premium options like the Premium Plus package cost an additional $850, while a sleek black finish adds $1,350. For a fully loaded model, you could be looking at a total price of around $28,199. Additionally, the Street Glide® features a fuel economy rated at 44 mpg combined city/highway, making it a practical choice for long rides.
If you prefer the classic Vivid Black, expect a price of $27,949. Keep in mind, additional fees for taxes, title, licensing, and other charges apply at the time of sale.
When you're ready to buy, check out Chesapeake Harley-Davidson in Darlington, Maryland, or Emerald City Harley-Davidson, which has locations in Lynnwood and Bellevue, Washington.
Both dealerships offer the latest models and a range of services. Across the U.S., various dealers stock new and used Harley-Davidson® motorcycles.
They also provide essential services like parts, repairs, and financing options, making it easier for you to find your ideal Street Glide® and hit the open road in style.
Adventure-Seeking Motorcycle Enthusiasts
Adventure-seeking motorcycle enthusiasts thrive on the thrill of exploration and the freedom of the open road. You crave the excitement of discovering new routes and trails, escaping the daily grind for a taste of liberation.
Whether you're navigating dirt paths or cruising through rugged terrains, your passion for off-road and long-distance riding knows no bounds. You often set out on journeys that span countries and continents, relishing the independence of traveling alone or with a small group. Online forums and communities serve as valuable resources for sharing tips and routes, enhancing your riding adventures.
Safety and preparedness are always at the forefront of your mind. You invest in quality protective gear and essential accessories like panniers and crash bars, ensuring your bike is equipped to handle diverse riding conditions.
You also focus on building problem-solving skills, ready to tackle any challenges that may arise during your adventures.
Connecting with fellow enthusiasts adds to the joy of your riding experience. You engage with the motorcycle community online and in person, sharing stories, participating in group rides, and forming strong bonds.
This camaraderie not only enhances your passion but also serves as a powerful expression of your adventurous spirit. Every mile traveled brings you closer to new horizons and unforgettable memories.
Frequent Electrical System Failures
Frequent electrical system failures can be a significant concern for riders of the 2024 Harley-Davidson models, including the FLHX and FLTRX. One of the main causes is that the voltage regulator output wire can rub against the crankcase, leading to insulation wear and potential short circuits. This exposure can happen without any warning, making it a serious issue for riders.
When a short circuit occurs, it can blow the 60-amp main fuse, causing a sudden loss of propulsion and electrical power. This loss can strike at any speed, heightening the risk of a crash. Although there haven't been any reported crashes or injuries linked to this problem, nine related field reports indicate the potential dangers. Additionally, this recall affects approximately 41,600 motorcycles, highlighting the widespread nature of the issue.
Identifying this issue involves inspecting the voltage regulator output wire harness for signs of wear due to friction. If you suspect damage, it's crucial to visit an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer for a thorough inspection.
To prevent future failures, dealers will install a secondary retention strap and replace damaged wire harnesses at no cost. Stay informed and address this recall promptly to ensure your safety on the road.
Robust Braking System Design
While riding a Harley-Davidson, you can appreciate the robust braking system design that ensures safety and control. The linked braking system kicks in at speeds above 20-25 mph, allowing you to apply the front, rear, or both brakes while distributing braking force to both wheels. This optimization gives you confidence in your stopping power, even as your speed drops below the threshold. Reflex brakes activate both brakes simultaneously, enhancing stability during braking.
Equipped with an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), your motorcycle prevents the wheels from locking and skidding. It pulses the calipers to bring you to a safe stop, especially in less-than-ideal conditions. This feature works seamlessly with the linked braking system, enhancing your control on the road.
The dual front rotors and Brembo® brakes on models like the Street Glide ST ensure you have excellent stopping power, with the front brakes accounting for about 70% of that force.
Additional safety features, such as Vehicle Hold Control and the Cornering Enhanced Anti-Lock Brake System (C-ABS), further enhance your riding experience. With real-time tire pressure monitoring and drag-torque slip control, you can ride with peace of mind, knowing your braking system is designed for safety and performance.
Exceptional Highway Cruising Capability
Highway cruising on the Harley-Davidson Street Glide is an exhilarating experience that combines power and comfort. With the Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin engine, you'll feel the 105 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque propelling you forward effortlessly. The performance enhancements available, including the Screamin Eagle 135ci engine, can elevate your riding experience even further.
Whether you're cruising at a steady pace or pushing toward the top speed of approximately 110 miles per hour, the Street Glide delivers a ride that's both thrilling and stable. Thanks to its advanced aerodynamic design and the fork-mounted batwing fairing, you can cut through the wind with minimal resistance, enhancing your overall ride experience.
The high-performance suspension and adjustable rear shocks ensure that you maintain control, even on those long stretches of highway. Plus, with a 6-gallon fuel tank and an impressive 44 MPG, you won't have to worry about frequent stops.
The selectable ride modes allow you to tailor your experience, whether you prefer a relaxed cruise or a more spirited ride. With a seat height of just 26.1 inches, you'll find comfort on those extended journeys. The Harley-Davidson Street Glide is truly designed for those who crave exceptional highway cruising capability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Top Speed of the Harley-Davidson Street Glide?
The top speed of the Harley-Davidson Street Glide is approximately 177 km/h, which translates to around 110 mph.
This performance is powered by its Milwaukee-Eight™ 114 engine, delivering 93.8 PS and impressive torque.
When you're cruising on this bike, you'll appreciate its smooth handling, thanks to the premium suspension and dual disc brakes.
Whether you're hitting the highway or enjoying a scenic ride, this machine offers an exhilarating experience.
How Does the Street Glide Compare to Other Baggers in Speed?
When you compare the Street Glide to other baggers, it holds its own with a top speed of 110 mph.
Both the Street Glide and Road Glide Special reach this speed, while Indian models like the Chieftain Elite and Challenger lag behind at 75 and 78 mph, respectively.
If you're seeking performance, the Street Glide's Milwaukee-Eight engine gives it a solid edge over many competitors in the bagger category.
What Engine Type Powers the Harley-Davidson Street Glide?
The Harley-Davidson Street Glide's powered by the Milwaukee-Eight™ 114 engine.
This beast boasts a displacement of 1868 cc and delivers a max power of 93.8 PS at 5250 rpm.
With its air-cooled, two-cylinder design, you'll experience a smooth ride and impressive torque at 158 Nm.
The electronic sequential port fuel injection ensures optimal performance, making your cruising experience unforgettable.
Whether you're hitting the highway or winding roads, this engine won't let you down.
Is the Street Glide Suitable for Beginner Riders?
The Street Glide isn't the best choice for beginner riders. With its heavy weight and powerful Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, managing it at low speeds can be challenging.
You might find lighter bikes like the Honda Rebel 300 or Kawasaki Z400 easier to handle. While the Street Glide offers comfort and advanced safety features, its cost and weight could overwhelm new riders looking to build confidence on the road.
What Modifications Can Increase the Street Glide's Top Speed?
To increase your Street Glide's top speed, focus on aerodynamic enhancements like a well-designed windshield and fairing.
Upgrade your engine with high-performance camshafts and ensure proper fuel management tuning.
Adjust your gearing for better speed characteristics, and consider lighter wheels and tires to reduce drag.
Additionally, shedding excess weight with lighter parts can boost acceleration.
These modifications can help you enjoy a faster, smoother ride on the open road.
