Unfamiliar with the world of motorcycles? No worries. But when you spot a Harley Davidson, it's hard to mistake it for anything else, right?
Indeed, Harley Davidson transcends being just a motorcycle manufacturer. It's woven into the very fabric of American culture, standing alongside iconic symbols like Bald Eagles, hot dogs, and Walmart. And as 2023 rolls around, this titan of two-wheelers is marking its 120th anniversary.
Cheers to that milestone! But which Harley model are we talking about here? Enter the 'Road Glide' – a quintessential American touring bike that seems like it could have been the ride of choice for the Founding Fathers as they penned the Constitution. This beast is all about power, with a massive V-twin engine nestled beneath a plush seat and rear panniers ready to haul your essentials. Designed for endless journeys toward the horizon, it's the epitome of the open road. But hold on, this particular Road Glide – the ST – comes with a twist. It's what they call a "performance bagger."
Performance bagger? That's a new one. What does it mean? Think of it as a hot rod Harley, inspired by the adrenaline-pumping King Of The Baggers (KOTB) race series that's been gaining traction. If you haven't seen these races yet, buckle up and dive into the world of KOTB on your favorite video platform – you're in for a wild ride.
But what sets the ST apart? The Road Glide ST takes its cues from Harley-Davidson's Screamin’ Eagle race bikes. Just like a Porsche 911 GT3 channels the spirit of its track sibling, the ST brings that race-ready look and feel to the streets. Compared to its standard Road Glide counterpart, the ST leans more towards performance than long-haul touring. Sounds contradictory for a bike of this stature, but trust us, it's a winning formula – especially if you're after a grin-inducing experience.
Its appearance is quite... imposing, isn't it? Absolutely. This machine exudes a commanding presence, with a menacing black finish that seems to swallow light whole, accentuated by matte bronze touches that draw attention to the powerhouse beneath the hood – or in this case, beneath the rider. Meet the 117ci Milwaukee-Eight engine, a brute capable of unleashing 105bhp and 127lb ft of torque from its 1,923cc displacement. And that 'Heavy Breather' air intake? It's as substantial as a large canine's noggin. Every aspect of the bike's design exudes purpose and authority, from the sleek engine guard to the tank console.
But how does it handle on the road? Admittedly, getting accustomed to its heft takes a moment. At 382kg, the Road Glide is no lightweight contender. Maneuvering this behemoth requires a steady hand and a touch of courage, especially at lower speeds. But once you're rolling, it's a different story altogether. The weight seems to vanish as physics kicks in, transforming the experience into something exhilarating. And when you fire up that engine, it's like unleashing a symphony of power, with a deep rumble that resonates through your soul.
And what about those long journeys? Fear not, this road warrior is built for comfort as much as it is for performance. With its spacious cockpit adorned with analogue gauges and a car-like display, you'll feel right at home. Plus, there's ample storage for all your essentials, including deep cubby holes and a USB charger for your gadgets. And those massive speakers? They'll keep the tunes pumping as you cruise down the highway at 70mph, enveloped in comfort and style.
So, how much will it set you back? Prepare to dig deep, as prices start at £29,895 – a sum that rivals that of some cars. But for enthusiasts seeking a unique and thrilling ride, it's a price worth considering. After all, the Road Glide ST isn't just a motorcycle; it's an embodiment of American ingenuity and the spirit of the open road. Here's to the next 120 years of Harley-Davidson excellence.