Recently, I had the pleasure of getting back behind the bars of the 2025 Road Glide, thanks to RPM Harley-Davidson. I say “getting back” because last year, I compared it to the Street Glide model, which I also tested at the same time.
I wanted to ride the Road Glide only so as not to tint my analysis with another bike and to discover its strengths and weaknesses without too many second thoughts.
Grand touring category
Harley-Davidson’s Road Glide belongs to the grand touring category. It is designed for the road and long rides, solo or with a passenger. You can equip it with a wide range of accessories designed for travel and comfort.
Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine: power and sound
Its Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine delivers 105 HP. It features new liquid-cooled cylinder heads, which improves rider comfort in terms of heat, especially when riding at low speeds in hot weather.
As last year, Harley-Davidson installed a Stage 1 or 2 (I don’t remember which). It’s increasingly common for Harley-Davidson owners to add performance parts. This not only provides more power but also gives some extra sound from the mufflers—and we like that.
3 riding modes on the Road Glide
Different riding modes can be selected at the press of a button located on the right side of the handlebar.
- SPORT mode provides better acceleration and feels more dynamic;
- ROAD mode (road or touring) is more standard and better suited for long trips;
- RAIN mode significantly reduces power and adjusts the bike’s settings to help maintain control on wet pavement.
In short, each of these modes alters acceleration as well as stability controls and ABS braking.
Note that, on the more equipped CVO models, additional rider-programmable modes may be available.
Fixed Sharknose fairing: the Road Glide’s DNA
What sets the Road Glide apart from all other Harleys is at the front of the motorcycle.
The fairing on this model, called Sharknose, is mounted directly to the frame. It does not move when you turn the bars. I have to say it feels a little strange when you’re used to a handlebar-mounted fairing. Supposedly, you get used to it… but I’m not sure that will be the case for me.
The LED headlight is well integrated into the Road Glide and provides excellent visibility. The vent, which can be opened under the windshield, allows for better airflow on hot days. Conversely, when it is closed, you are very well protected from the wind.
GPS Navigation and Harley-Davidson Infotainment System
As for the navigation and infotainment system, it is complete and easy to use. The touchscreen lets you configure what you want to display. Its Bluetooth connectivity allows you to connect your devices to play music. It also features GPS and a tire-pressure monitoring system. The audio quality is excellent and loud enough to hear while riding.
Adjustable rear suspension: touring comfort
We often hear that suspensions on Harley-Davidson motorcycles aren’t adequate. Yet this one exceeded my expectations. The Road Glide’s suspension works well with the right adjustments, of course. The rear shocks are very easy to adjust to your preferences. As always, it takes a bit of “trial and error” to get the result that suits you. Normally, I manage to get it right after only a few tries.
Handling and Riding Posture on the Road Glide
The fixed fairing of the Road Glide provides excellent stability. In fact, it prevents handlebar shake caused by crosswinds and the air displaced by large trucks you pass.
As for handling, as I mentioned, I still struggle with the fact that the bars don’t turn with the fairing, and I still can’t explain why. What reassures me is that I’m not the only one who feels this effect.
That said, this motorcycle remains very agile if you set aside this aspect that I don’t understand.
As for the riding posture, I was comfortable and at ease on my Road Glide. Having additional footpegs installed on the crash bars makes all the difference, as you can vary your posture.
Hard saddlebags: practical touring storage
This motorcycle comes with two large hard side cases. A must on a bike of this type. They detach easily without tools and seal well so everything stays dry. You can keep everything you need at hand during your trip.
Why choose the Harley-Davidson Road Glide?
The Road Glide is an extraordinary motorcycle that includes several must-haves, such as saddlebags and integrated GPS. The power it offers is also noteworthy and is truly enhanced with a few modifications. Wind turbulence is almost non-existent thanks to the fixed fairing.
Its look is unique and very well designed, especially the LED lighting at the front. The riding posture is good, and this motorcycle is, all in all, very agile. The adjustable rear suspension stands out and is very impressive.
In short, if you’re looking for a comfortable touring motorcycle that you can equip to your taste and that has a unique look, the 2025 Harley-Davidson Road Glide is the one for you.
