The Road Glide ST captured attention and admiration. More than just a motorbike manufacturer, Harley-Davidson stood as a cornerstone of American culture, synonymous with iconic symbols like bald eagles, hot dogs, and Walmart.
The Road Glide ST was no ordinary ride. It was an American grand touring bike with a legendary status, often imagined as the bike the Founding Fathers might have ridden. This hefty machine featured a powerful V-twin engine, designed for long stretches of open road, complete with panniers for your gear.
The Road Glide ST stood out as a “performance bagger,” drawing inspiration from the King of the Baggers (KOTB) race series. This series featured race-prepped American V-twin cruisers competing on famous tracks like Laguna Seca. If you hadn’t watched KOTB, it was worth diving in—it resembled V8 MPV racing with F1 flair.
So, what made the Road Glide ST special? It was designed to echo the performance-oriented Screamin’ Eagle race bikes, blending race-inspired aesthetics with consumer-ready features. While it might have seemed contradictory for a touring bike, the ST’s performance enhancements added a thrilling edge to its otherwise classic design.
The Road Glide ST commanded attention with its menacing black finish and matte bronze accents, highlighting the 117ci Milwaukee-Eight engine. This V-Twin powerhouse delivered 105bhp and 127lb-ft of torque from its 1,923cc displacement. The bike’s intimidating ‘Heavy Breather’ air intake only added to its imposing presence.
Despite its size, the Road Glide ST was a single-seater by standard, shedding unnecessary weight and focusing on performance. The increased ride height enhanced its lean angle, encouraging riders to push the bike to its limits.
Maneuverability was initially challenging due to the bike’s weight of 382kg, which was notably heavier than the BMW GS. However, once moving, the Road Glide ST transformed, with its low center of gravity and beefy suspension system enhancing its handling.
The ride itself was a theatrical experience, from the dramatic start-up to the solid, mechanical feel of the gear shifts. The 64-inch wheelbase and updated suspension offered a surprisingly composed ride, and the option of Screamin’ Eagle Öhlins rear shocks could have further elevated its performance.
For long-distance touring, the Road Glide ST excelled with its car-like dashboard, full-color TFT screen, and robust sound system. The bike’s extensive features, including storage compartments and USB chargers, ensured comfort and convenience on long journeys.
Priced at £29,895, the Road Glide ST was a significant investment but offered a distinctive blend of power, style, and modern upgrades. It was a unique choice for those seeking a high-performance touring bike that was as entertaining in the twisties as it was comfortable over long distances. Harley-Davidson continued to evolve while staying true to its iconic roots. Here’s to another 120 years of American motorcycling excellence.