For motorcycle enthusiasts around the world, Harley-Davidson has long been a symbol of the open road and a carefree lifestyle. With over a century of innovation, starting with their first bike in the early 1900s, Harley-Davidson has crafted machines for those dreaming of hitting the highway on a Harley.
Not all Harley-Davidson creations adhere to the traditional two-wheel design. In 1913, Harley-Davidson introduced a motorcycle with two front wheels and one rear wheel to provide extra storage. The iconic Servi-Car trike debuted in 1931 and was produced until 1973. It wasn’t until 2009 that Harley-Davidson reintroduced three-wheelers with the Tri Glide Ultra Classic model.
Today, Harley-Davidson's Freewheeler and Tri Glide models lead the three-wheeled pack, representing some of the finest motorcycles the company has ever made. Though they share a similar three-wheel configuration and dimensions, and both feature the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, they cater to different riding needs. Here’s a closer look at the distinctions between the Tri Glide and Freewheeler.
What is the Harley-Davidson Freewheeler?
The Freewheeler is the more affordable of the two trikes, priced about $6,000 less than the base Tri Glide. It’s designed with a classic Harley look, including pseudo-ape hangar handlebars and distinctive Bobtail fenders. The Freewheeler lacks some of the luxury features of the Tri Glide, such as a passenger seat backrest and the Infotainment package, and offers fewer paint options.
Its sleek, blacked-out underbelly and sizable trunk make it a practical choice for carrying gear on longer rides or weekend getaways. While the absence of a passenger seat backrest might be less comfortable for some, the Freewheeler remains a stylish and powerful touring trike for those seeking vintage Harley muscle with modern control.
What is the Harley-Davidson Tri Glide?
The Tri Glide, which debuted before the Freewheeler, was even featured prominently in the 2009 inauguration motorcade for President Barack Obama. Its front-end design takes inspiration from the Electra Glide Ultra Classic, including the aerodynamic fork-mounted batwing fairing. The Tri Glide is tailored for luxury touring, equipped with a backrest for the passenger seat, a six-speed cruise drive transmission, and a comprehensive Infotainment package to keep you connected on the road.
Featuring a chrome package and more storage space, the Tri Glide is built for longer trips. It uses the Twin-Cooled version of the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, providing a slight horsepower advantage over the Freewheeler. This extra power is ideal for those seeking an adventurous ride with enhanced comfort and luxury.