2018 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra. Photos by Kevin Wing.
Editor’s Note: This Quick Read is part of our Luxury Touring Bike Comparison, which you can read here.
As we?ve reported in previous road tests and comparisons, Harley-Davidson?s Touring family has been steadily improved and refined over the past several years. The evolution began with the 2014 model year, when Project Rushmore brought performance upgrades, infotainment systems, ergonomic improvements and more to Harley?s long-haul lineup. And hell didn?t freeze over when The Motor Company snuck in precision liquid cooling on several models, with twin radiators tucked into the fairing lowers and the plumbing well hidden to maintain a traditional look.
Rider and passenger seats are plush but lack electric heating. Trunk and saddlebags are easy to open with one hand, but they must be manually locked. Another leap forward came with the 2017 model year, when Harley introduced the Milwaukee-Eight engine platform?the ninth generation of the Big Twin, named after its birthplace and number of valves?which offers faster throttle response, more torque, better sound, improved fuel economy and a smoother ride than the Twin Cam engine. Touring models also got new Showa suspension?a dual bending valve fork and emulsion rear shocks with a remote preload adjuster?that enhance ride control and quality. Together, these improvements earned the entire Touring family Rider?s Motorcycle of the Year award for 2017.
The Harley?s V-...