8 of the best Harley-Davidson touring bikes ever made

Harley-Davidson has long been a cornerstone of the touring motorcycle world, offering a range of bikes that deliver on performance, comfort, and style. Whether you’re hitting the open road for a cross-country adventure or enjoying a weekend ride, these touring bikes have set the standard. Let’s dive into some of the best offerings from Harley-Davidson over the years.

Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Standard

Image Credit: Callmeace, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

The Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Standard is a staple in the touring bike category, offering riders a no-frills experience focused purely on the joy of riding. Known for its straightforward design, the Electra Glide Standard skips the bells and whistles to deliver an unadulterated motorcycle experience. Its 107 cubic inch Milwaukee-Eight V-Twin engine provides ample power for long-distance cruising.

Launched as a base model in Harley’s touring lineup, the Electra Glide Standard is ideal for enthusiasts who prefer to customize their ride. With its classic batwing fairing and spacious saddlebags, this bike offers the essentials needed for a comfortable journey without unnecessary complexities.

Harley-Davidson Street Glide

Image Credit: Chris Woodrich, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

The Harley-Davidson Street Glide is a crowd favorite, known for its sleek design and impressive performance. Introduced in 2006, this motorcycle combines a touring frame with a more compact, streamlined look. It features a powerful Milwaukee-Eight 107 or 114 engine, depending on the model year, providing the robust performance that Harley-Davidson is famous for.

One of the standout features of the Street Glide is its infotainment system, offering riders music and navigation options. Its low-profile seat and wide handlebars make for an ergonomic ride, ensuring comfort over long distances. The Street Glide is a perfect blend of style, comfort, and technology, making it a go-to choice for many Harley enthusiasts.

Harley-Davidson Road King

Image Credit: JoachimKohler-HB, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

The Harley-Davidson Road King is celebrated for its classic design and comfortable touring capabilities. With its timeless look, characterized by large headlights and wide handlebars, the Road King offers a nostalgic touch coupled with modern engineering. The Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine powers this bike, ensuring a smooth and powerful ride.

Equipped with hard saddlebags and a detachable windshield, the Road King is versatile enough for both long hauls and more casual rides. It’s a favorite among those who appreciate the traditional aesthetic of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, coupled with the reliability and performance expected in a touring bike.

Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited

Image Credit: Chris Woodrich, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

The Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited is designed for riders seeking luxury on the road. This bike is packed with features, including heated grips, a premium Boom! Box GTS infotainment system, and a Twin-Cooled Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine. With its advanced technology and comfortable seating, the Ultra Limited ensures a plush riding experience.

Riders appreciate the ample storage space provided by its tour pack and saddlebags, making it ideal for extended trips. The Ultra Limited’s advanced suspension system allows for a smooth ride, even on rougher terrains, making it a top choice for those who prioritize comfort and convenience on their journeys.

Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special

Image Credit: Matt Laidlaw/Youtube

The Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special stands out with its distinctive shark-nose fairing, offering improved aerodynamics and wind protection. This model is powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, delivering exhilarating performance for those who love a spirited ride. The Road Glide Special is a favorite among touring enthusiasts who desire both style and substance.

Its aggressive look is complemented by a range of features, including an advanced infotainment system and Reflex Defensive Rider Systems. The Road Glide Special’s sleek design and powerful engine make it a standout choice for those who crave adventure and style on the open road.

Harley-Davidson CVO Limited

Image Credit: Matti Blume, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

The Harley-Davidson CVO Limited is the pinnacle of luxury and performance in the touring category. As part of Harley’s Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) line, this bike is equipped with premium features and finishes. It boasts a Twin-Cooled Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, the most powerful offered by Harley-Davidson, ensuring unmatched performance.

With exclusive paint schemes and an array of advanced technologies, the CVO Limited offers an unparalleled riding experience. From heated seats to the Boom! Box GTS system, every aspect of this bike is designed for comfort and convenience, making it a top-tier choice for serious touring riders.

Harley-Davidson Heritage Classic

Image Credit: Chris Woodrich, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

The Harley-Davidson Heritage Classic brings a touch of nostalgia to modern touring bikes, with its vintage-inspired design and contemporary engineering. Powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 107 or 114 engine, it offers a mix of power and efficiency. The Heritage Classic is known for its softail frame, providing a smooth and comfortable ride.

This model features leather saddlebags and a detachable windshield, making it versatile enough for various types of rides. Its classic look, combined with modern performance, appeals to riders who appreciate the rich history of Harley-Davidson while enjoying the benefits of modern technology.

Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra

Image Credit: Matt Laidlaw/Youtube

The Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra is designed for long-distance touring with its comfortable seating and extensive features. It shares the signature shark-nose fairing with the Road Glide Special, offering excellent wind protection and stability. The Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine powers this bike, providing a reliable and smooth ride.

Loaded with touring amenities, including a premium sound system and ample storage space, the Road Glide Ultra is perfect for those who love to travel in comfort. Its advanced suspension and ergonomic design ensure a pleasant ride, no matter the distance, making it a preferred bike for cross-country adventures.

Like Fast Lane Only’s content? Be sure to follow us.

Here’s more from us:

*Created with AI assistance and editor review.

Bobby Clark Avatar

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *