When it comes to Grand Touring motorcycles, few rival the iconic Harley-Davidson Street Glide and Road Glide. Both bikes are built for the open road, offering unbeatable comfort, cutting-edge performance, and unmistakable style. But which one is right for your next adventure?
Whether you’re cruising through San Diego’s vibrant streets or heading out for a weekend escape along California’s scenic highways, choosing between the Street Glide and Road Glide can be a tough decision. That’s where we come in!
At National City Harley-Davidson, we’re here to help you find the bike that fits your lifestyle. Stop by our dealership to explore these legendary models in person or contact our team for expert advice. Let’s dive into what makes each of these iconic machines unique and help you discover your perfect ride!
What Sets the Street Glide and Road Glide Apart?
The Harley-Davidson Street Glide and Road Glide are both standout touring bikes. But their differences make each unique.
One of the most noticeable differences lies in the fairing design. The Street Glide features a "Batwing" fairing, attached to the handlebars. This design moves with the front wheel and gives the bike a sleek, classic look.
The Road Glide, on the other hand, sports a "Sharknose" fairing. This fairing is fixed to the frame and stays steady even when you turn the handlebars. It offers better wind protection and stability at highway speeds.
Another key distinction is the handling. The Street Glide is known for its nimble, responsive feel. Riders often choose it for its quick maneuverability, especially in tight spots. Many fans of the Street Glide ST appreciate its balance between touring comfort and sharp performance.
The Road Glide leans into stability and smooth rides. Thanks to its fixed fairing, it minimizes vibrations, making long trips more comfortable. This is especially noticeable on open highways or windy days.
Both bikes are powered by the impressive Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine. It delivers excellent performance, ensuring both power and reliability on the road.
Ultimately, the choice depends on what matters most to you: the responsive control of the Street Glide or the steady ride of the Road Glide. Both offer unmatched touring comfort, making either a top choice for San Diego riders ready to hit the road.
Power and Performance: The Milwaukee-Eight 117 Engine
When it comes to power, the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine delivers big. Both the Street Glide and Road Glide feature this strong, reliable V-twin.
This engine produces up to 105 horsepower, giving riders a thrilling experience on every ride. Its torque is equally impressive, providing smooth acceleration whether you're cruising city streets or tackling long highways.
The Milwaukee-Eight 117 also includes liquid-cooled cylinder heads. These help keep the engine running cooler, especially in hot weather or during slow-speed rides. For San Diego riders, this is a big plus during summer months.
The 2024 Road Glide for sale at National City Harley-Davidson comes equipped with this engine. Riders appreciate its performance on open roads and its reliability in any condition.
With the Milwaukee-Eight 117, the Road Glide shines in stability. The fixed Sharknose fairing pairs perfectly with the engine’s smooth power delivery. It’s built for riders who love long, steady trips.
The Street Glide offers the same engine, but with a focus on handling. Its nimble feel makes it ideal for navigating tighter areas, while still offering excellent performance on the highway.
For riders who want power with versatility, both bikes deliver. The choice depends on your style: stability and long-distance comfort with the Road Glide, or agile handling with the Street Glide.
Fairing Design: Sharknose vs. Batwing
The most obvious difference between the Street Glide and Road Glide is their fairing design. Both have unique styles and functions.
The Street Glide ST features the iconic Batwing fairing. This fairing is mounted to the handlebars, moving as you steer the bike. It offers a sleek and traditional Harley look that many riders love.
On the other hand, the Road Glide comes with the Sharknose fairing. Unlike the Batwing, this fairing is fixed to the frame. It stays in place even when you turn the handlebars, providing better stability at high speeds.
The Batwing fairing on the Street Glide ST provides adjustable vents. These vents help control airflow, letting riders stay cool on sunny San Diego rides.
The Sharknose fairing also has its advantages. Its fixed position reduces handlebar vibration, especially when riding in strong winds or near large trucks. This design is ideal for long-distance riders who value comfort over traditional aesthetics.
Choosing between the two fairings depends on your priorities. The Street Glide ST is perfect for those who love its timeless style and agile handling. The Road Glide’s Sharknose is for riders focused on stability and long rides.
Both designs are excellent, but the choice comes down to how you want your bike to perform and feel.
A Closer Look at Comfort and Riding Position
Comfort can make or break a long ride. Both the Street Glide ST and the Road Glide excel in this area, but in different ways.
The Street Glide ST offers a classic cruiser feel. Its low-slung seat and ergonomic handlebar placement make it ideal for urban rides or quick getaways. Riders often describe the position as relaxed yet sporty, perfect for San Diego’s scenic streets.
The Road Glide, however, is built for long-distance comfort. Its frame-mounted fairing helps reduce wind buffeting on the handlebars, giving riders less fatigue on extended journeys. The seat on the Road Glide is slightly more spacious, which can make a big difference on cross-country trips.
For taller riders, the Road Glide might offer a slight edge. Its wider handlebars and roomier seating position provide extra leg and arm space. Meanwhile, the Street Glide ST is more compact, making it a better fit for shorter riders or those who prefer a closer reach.
Both bikes have adjustable suspensions, allowing riders to fine-tune their setups. Whether you’re cruising downtown or heading up the coast, you’ll find a setting that feels just right.
Choosing between the Street Glide ST and the Road Glide depends on your comfort needs. Test both to find the ride that fits your style.
Handling and Stability: What to Expect on the Road
When it comes to handling, both the 2024 Road Glide for sale and the Street Glide offer impressive performance. However, they approach stability and maneuverability in distinct ways.
The Road Glide stands out with its frame-mounted Sharknose fairing. This design reduces handlebar weight, giving you better control at high speeds or in windy conditions. Riders often notice the improved stability when passing large trucks or riding through gusty weather.
On the other hand, the Street Glide features a fork-mounted Batwing fairing. This setup moves with the handlebars, providing a more direct and agile feel when steering. For riders who love weaving through city traffic or tight curves, the Street Glide shines.
The Road Glide feels steady and grounded on highways, making it an excellent choice for long road trips. Its wider stance and balanced weight distribution give riders confidence during extended rides.
Meanwhile, the Street Glide offers a slightly lighter feel, which can make quick stops and turns feel more intuitive. It's a great option for riders who enjoy responsive handling.
Both models have top-notch suspension systems that smooth out bumps and dips in the road. No matter where you ride, comfort is guaranteed.
For San Diego riders deciding between these bikes, it’s all about preference. Do you want the steady ride of a Road Glide or the nimble control of a Street Glide?
Storage and Practical Features
Both the Street Glide ST and the Road Glide excel when it comes to storage and practical features. These bikes are designed for riders who need space without sacrificing style.
Each bike comes equipped with hard side saddlebags. These bags are spacious, secure, and weather-resistant, making them perfect for long trips or daily errands. Whether you’re storing gear, snacks, or personal items, these saddlebags have you covered.
The Road Glide has a slight edge for riders who prioritize stability when carrying a full load. Its frame-mounted fairing keeps the bike balanced even when the saddlebags are packed.
The Street Glide ST offers quick-release saddlebags, allowing you to easily remove them when they’re not needed. This feature adds convenience for riders who alternate between touring and city riding.
Both models include practical touches like USB ports and ample space for accessories. These features make it easy to charge devices or customize your ride.
For San Diego’s scenic routes and urban streets, both bikes offer the storage and versatility you need. Whether you choose the Road Glide for its balance or the Street Glide ST for its convenience, you’ll be well-prepared for any ride.
Customization Options: Make It Your Own
One of the best parts about owning a Harley is making it truly yours. Both the 2024 Road Glide for sale and the Street Glide offer endless customization possibilities.
From handlebars to paint jobs, you can choose the look and feel that suits your personality. The Road Glide is a favorite for riders who love adding advanced tech and comfort upgrades. Heated grips, upgraded suspension, or a custom seat—your options are wide open.
The Street Glide caters to those who want a sleek, classic design. Add custom wheels, LED lighting, or upgraded speakers to match your style.
Harley-Davidson also offers a range of performance upgrades. Enhance the engine, exhaust, or brakes to match your riding needs. Whether you want more power or better handling, these bikes can be tailored to perform.
For riders in San Diego, customizing is part of the Harley lifestyle. Show off your unique ride while cruising through the city or along the coast.
The 2024 Road Glide for sale and the Street Glide give you the tools to create a bike as unique as you are.
Advanced Technology for Modern Riders
Today's riders expect more than just power—they want technology that enhances the experience. Both the Street Glide ST and the Road Glide deliver.
Each bike comes equipped with Harley-Davidson's premium infotainment system. The touchscreen display is easy to use, even with gloves on. It features navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and customizable settings. You can stream music or take calls without losing focus on the road.
The Street Glide ST is perfect for riders who value simplicity paired with high-tech features. Its user-friendly interface makes every ride seamless.
The Road Glide stands out with its advanced rider aids. Its frame-mounted fairing reduces fatigue, making long rides more comfortable. Combine this with optional safety features like cornering-enhanced ABS, and you're ready for anything.
Both bikes also offer integrated USB ports to keep devices charged. LED lighting improves visibility, whether you're riding through the city or the open road.
Modern tech doesn't just add convenience—it enhances safety and enjoyment. With the Street Glide ST and Road Glide, you're riding into the future.
Street Glide or Road Glide: Which Bike is Right for You?
Both the Street Glide ST and the Road Glide are exceptional motorcycles. The choice depends on what matters most to you.
If you prefer a bike with more agility, the Street Glide is a great fit. Its Batwing fairing is attached to the handlebars, so it moves with you. This gives it a more connected feel on the road. The Street Glide is perfect for riders who like a smooth, easy ride on winding roads.
However, if stability and long-distance comfort are your priorities, the Road Glide could be the better option. Its Sharknose fairing is fixed to the frame. This keeps it steady in crosswinds and offers a more stable ride, especially at higher speeds. The Road Glide is a great choice for those who plan to ride longer distances with less fatigue.
For those who want extra power, the Street Glide ST offers a more performance-focused engine. With the Milwaukee-Eight 117, it provides the thrill of a faster, more responsive ride.
Ultimately, both bikes are part of the Grand Touring category. So, no matter which one you choose, you’re in for an incredible experience. Visit National City Harley-Davidson to see which bike feels right for you. The perfect match is waiting for you!
Frequently Asked Questions: Street Glide vs. Road Glide
If you're considering either the Street Glide or Road Glide, it's important to know key details about their performance, features, and what makes each bike unique. Here are answers to frequently asked questions that will help guide your decision:
1. What MPG does each bike get?
- Street Glide: The Street Glide averages around 42-45 miles per gallon, depending on riding conditions and habits.
- Road Glide: The Road Glide also averages around 42-45 miles per gallon, making its fuel efficiency similar to the Street Glide.
2. Which bike is more powerful?
- Street Glide: The Street Glide ST comes with the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, offering more power and responsiveness.
- Road Glide: The Road Glide is also equipped with the Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine, which offers plenty of power but less than the Street Glide ST by about 10-15 horsepower, especially if the Stage II upgrade is added to the Road Glide.
3. What are the warranty options for each bike?
- Both bikes come with Harley-Davidson's standard 2-year or Unlimited Miles warranty for factory defects and workmanship. Extended warranties are available through Harley-Davidson for additional coverage.
4. Which bike is more reliable?
- Both the Street Glide and Road Glide are known for their excellent reliability. They both come with Harley-Davidson’s legendary craftsmanship, so reliability often comes down to regular maintenance. Based on personal experience and user reviews, both bikes perform well in terms of reliability.
Ready to Choose? Explore Your Harley-Davidson Options Today!
When you're ready to choose your next Harley-Davidson, National City Harley-Davidson is here to help. Whether you're leaning toward the Street Glide or Road Glide, our expert team can answer all your questions. We offer a wide selection of Harley bikes, including both models, so you can find the one that suits you best.
For those considering a new bike, don’t forget to check out our guide on 5 Tips for Safe Motorcycle Riding in Coronado Beach to ensure your ride is as safe as it is thrilling. You may also want to explore What is the Harley-Davidson Visa & How Does it Work? to learn how you can make the most of your purchases and riding experience. Additionally, if you’re wondering about the rules for lane splitting in California, we’ve got you covered with all the legal details. Visit National City Harley-Davidson today, and let’s find the perfect bike for you! Call us now!
