Sharper Edge, Uncompromising Touring Prowess
The Harley-Davidson Road Glide® has long been a symbol of long-distance luxury on two wheels. Renowned for its iconic shark-nose fairing and ample storage capacity, it’s a touring machine built to conquer miles in comfort and style. For 2024, Harley-Davidson takes the Road Glide® to a new level, offering a comprehensive redesign that enhances its touring capabilities without sacrificing its legendary character.
A Sharpened Silhouette for Improved Aerodynamics
The defining characteristic of the 2024 Road Glide® is its completely redesigned fairing. While retaining the instantly recognizable shark-nose profile, Harley-Davidson has significantly reshaped it for improved aerodynamics. This new design deflects wind more efficiently, reducing buffeting for both rider and passenger at highway speeds, translating to a quieter and more comfortable ride.
The redesigned fairing also integrates a new, larger Daytime Running Lamp (DRL) for enhanced visibility on the road, a crucial safety feature for low-light conditions. The chrome headlamp housing remains a focal point, exuding a timeless elegance. The saddlebags, a hallmark of the Road Glide®, have been redesigned to seamlessly blend with the fairing, creating a more streamlined silhouette without compromising their impressive cargo capacity.
Powerhouse Performance: The Milwaukee-Eight® 117 Engine
Propelling the 2024 Road Glide® is the mighty Milwaukee-Eight® 117 engine, the largest displacement powerplant ever offered by Harley-Davidson from the factory. This air-cooled V-twin powerhouse delivers an impressive 105 horsepower at 4,600 rpm and 130 lb-ft of torque at 3,250 rpm, providing ample muscle for loaded touring and effortless highway cruising.
A high-flow air intake system optimizes engine performance, while the high-flow exhaust system ensures a throaty rumble that retains the unmistakable Harley-Davidson spirit. Despite its impressive power, the Milwaukee-Eight® 117 engine prioritizes fuel efficiency, allowing riders to conquer long distances without frequent gas station stops.
Comfort Reigns Supreme: A Chassis Built for Endurance
The 2024 Road Glide® isn’t just about power and aesthetics; it’s designed for long-distance comfort. The chassis boasts a new, lighter frame that enhances handling and agility without sacrificing stability on the open road. The suspension system, featuring a Dual Bending Valve (DBV) front fork and a single rear shock absorber with adjustable preload, delivers a smooth and controlled ride on any road surface.
The ergonomically designed seat and handlebars provide optimal support for both rider and passenger, even on extended journeys. Ample legroom and a comfortable seating position ensure fatigue-free miles. Cruise control allows riders to relax and enjoy the scenery, while heated grips and seats (available as an option) offer additional comfort in cooler weather. The 2024 Road Glide® is a motorcycle that prioritizes comfort without compromising performance.
Tech-Savvy Touring: A Modern Command Center
The 2024 Road Glide® embraces the digital age with a comprehensive suite of technological features. A large, 6.5-inch TFT touchscreen display, conveniently located within the redesigned fairing, serves as the information hub. Riders can easily access vital information such as speed, fuel level, engine diagnostics, and turn-by-turn navigation (when paired with a compatible smartphone). The display is designed for optimal readability in all lighting conditions, ensuring riders have access to critical information at a glance.
Harley-Davidson’s intuitive infotainment system allows riders to control audio functions, phone calls, and other features directly through the touchscreen or via handlebar controls. This integration of technology ensures a safe and enjoyable riding experience, allowing riders to focus on the road ahead.
Safety First: Advanced Rider Aids for Confidence
The 2024 Road Glide® prioritizes rider safety with a suite of advanced rider aids powered by a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU). Cornering Anti-lock Braking System (C-ABS), Cornering Traction Control System (C-TCS), and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) work seamlessly in the background to provide an extra layer of safety, particularly in challenging weather conditions or unexpected situations.
These features can help prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, maintain traction when accelerating on slippery surfaces, and alert the rider of potential tire pressure issues. By incorporating these advanced safety features, Harley-Davidson demonstrates its commitment to rider safety and confidence on the road.
Personalize Your Adventure: A Canvas for Customization
The 2024 Road Glide® isn’t a one-size-fits-all machine. Harley-Davidson offers a wide range of factory-installed and dealer-installed accessories that allow riders to personalize their touring experience. From performance upgrades like a stage kit to comfort enhancements like a backrest and heated seats, the options are plentiful. Riders can also choose from a variety of luggage options, windshields of different heights, and custom paint jobs to create a Road Glide® that reflects their unique touring style.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider seeking a luxurious and technologically advanced touring companion, or a new rider drawn to the Road Glide®’s iconic shark-nose fairing and long-distance comfort, the extensive customization options allow you to tailor the machine to your specific needs and preferences. The 2024 Road Glide® is a motorcycle that can adapt and evolve alongside your riding journey.
The Legacy Continues: A Shark Ready to Devour the Miles
The 2024 Road Glide® represents a significant evolution for Harley-Davidson’s flagship touring machine. It retains the core elements that have made the Road Glide® a legend – comfort, power, and long-distance prowess – while embracing modern technology, improved aerodynamics, and advanced safety features. This motorcycle is more than just a machine; it’s an invitation to explore the world in luxurious comfort and conquer the open road with unwavering confidence.
With its sharper design, cutting-edge technology, and legendary touring capabilities, the 2024 Road Glide® remains a force to be reckoned with. It’s a testament to Harley-Davidson’s ability to blend tradition with innovation, ensuring the Road Glide® continues to be the undisputed king of long-distance touring for generations to come. It’s a motorcycle that devours miles, not fuel, and one that promises to create unforgettable memories on every journey.
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