The Harley-Davidson Street Glide stands as an emblem of American motorcycling heritage, blending iconic design with modern technology to deliver an unparalleled touring experience. Renowned for its commanding presence, this cruiser is a favorite among riders who crave long-distance comfort, bold styling, and cutting-edge features. In India, the Street Glide has carved a niche in the premium motorcycle segment, appealing to enthusiasts who value the brand’s legacy and seek a machine that embodies both power and sophistication. With its signature batwing fairing, powerful engine, and advanced infotainment system, the Street Glide is designed for those who want to conquer highways while enjoying a luxurious ride. This article delves into the intricate details of the Harley-Davidson Street Glide, covering its technical specifications, variants, pricing, features, and competitors, providing a comprehensive overview for prospective buyers in India.
Technical Specifications
The Harley-Davidson Street Glide is engineered to deliver robust performance and comfort. Below is a detailed breakdown of its technical specifications in a tabular format, sourced from reputable platforms like BikeDekho and BikeWale, with cross-verification for accuracy.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Milwaukee-Eight® 117 V-Twin, Liquid-Cooled |
| Displacement | 1923 cc |
| Max Power | 107.2 bhp @ 5250 rpm |
| Max Torque | 175 Nm @ 3500 rpm |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 16 kmpl |
| Fuel System | Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual, Belt Drive |
| Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Bore x Stroke | 103.5 mm x 114.3 mm |
| Front Suspension | Showa 49mm Telescopic Forks with Dual Bending Valve |
| Rear Suspension | Hand-Adjustable Rear Shocks |
| Front Brake | Disc, 4-Piston Fixed Caliper, Cornering ABS |
| Rear Brake | Disc, 4-Piston Fixed Caliper, Cornering ABS |
| Tyres (Front/Rear) | 130/60B19 61H / 180/55B18 80H (Dunlop Harley-Davidson Series) |
| Wheel Type | Contrast-Cut Alloy Wheels |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22.7 Litres |
| Kerb Weight | 368 kg |
| Ground Clearance | 125 mm |
| Seat Height | 690 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1625 mm |
| Length x Width x Height | 2430 mm x 960 mm x 1330 mm |
Note: Specifications are based on the latest available data from BikeDekho, BikeWale, and Harley-Davidson’s official website as of April 2025. Minor variations may occur depending on the model year or market.
Variants
The Harley-Davidson Street Glide is offered in a single variant in India, ensuring a focused offering packed with premium features. Below is the variant table:
| Variant | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Street Glide Standard | Milwaukee-Eight 117 Engine, Boom! Box GTS Infotainment, Cornering ABS, LED Lighting, Batwing Fairing |
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Harley-Davidson Street Glide varies across metro cities in India due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and other costs. Below is a table detailing the ex-showroom and on-road prices in key cities, verified from BikeDekho and BikeWale:
| City | Ex-Showroom Price (INR) | On-Road Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 38,79,000 | 43,50,683 |
| Mumbai | 38,79,000 | 44,67,607 |
| Bengaluru | 38,79,000 | 46,54,800 |
| Chennai | 38,79,000 | 44,28,687 |
| Kolkata | 38,79,000 | 43,89,603 |
Note: On-road prices include ex-showroom price, RTO, insurance, and other applicable charges. Prices are approximate and subject to change based on dealership offers and taxes as of April 2025.
About the Harley-Davidson Street Glide
Design and Exteriors
The Harley-Davidson Street Glide is a visual masterpiece, embodying the brand’s iconic cruiser aesthetic with a modern twist. Its most distinctive feature is the batwing fairing, a hallmark of Harley’s touring lineup, designed using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to reduce head buffeting and enhance rider comfort. The fairing seamlessly integrates LED signature lighting, providing excellent visibility and a sleek, aggressive look. Available in nine premium paint options, including three Factory Custom schemes like Whiskey Firestorm and Mystic Shift (a color-shifting finish from gunmetal to purple, blue, and orange), the Street Glide commands attention wherever it goes. The contrast-cut alloy wheels—19-inch front and 18-inch rear—add a bold stance, while the chrome accents and blacked-out engine finish options cater to varied aesthetic preferences.
The bike’s low-slung profile, with a seat height of 690 mm, ensures accessibility for a wide range of riders, while the stretched saddlebags offer ample storage for long journeys. The Street Glide balances form and function, with aerodynamic lines that not only enhance its visual appeal but also improve stability at high speeds. The one-piece seat design complements the bike’s silhouette, providing comfort for both rider and pillion during extended rides. Every detail, from the hand-finished fuel tank to the chrome-tipped dual exhausts, reflects Harley-Davidson’s commitment to craftsmanship.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Street Glide lies the Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin engine, a liquid-cooled powerhouse displacing 1923 cc. This engine delivers a staggering 107.2 bhp at 5250 rpm and a peak torque of 175 Nm at 3500 rpm, ensuring effortless acceleration and commanding presence on highways. The Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) system provides crisp throttle response, while the 6-speed manual transmission with belt drive ensures smooth power delivery. The engine’s low-end torque is particularly suited for cruising, allowing riders to tackle long distances without fatigue.
The Street Glide achieves an ARAI mileage of 16 kmpl, which is respectable for a bike of its size and power. The liquid-cooled cylinder heads keep the engine temperature in check, even in India’s hot climate, while the high-flow intake ensures optimal performance. The slipper clutch prevents rear wheel lock-up during aggressive downshifting, enhancing safety and control. Whether navigating urban streets or cruising on open roads, the Street Glide offers a refined yet exhilarating ride, living up to Harley-Davidson’s reputation for building torque-rich machines.
Ride and Handling
The Street Glide is engineered for long-distance touring, with a chassis designed to balance stability and agility. The Showa 49mm telescopic forks with dual bending valve technology provide a plush front suspension, absorbing road imperfections with ease. The rear suspension, featuring hand-adjustable shocks, allows riders to fine-tune the ride based on load and road conditions. Weighing 368 kg, the bike feels planted at high speeds, thanks to its 1625 mm wheelbase and low center of gravity.
The Dunlop Harley-Davidson Series tyres—130/60B19 front and 180/55B18 rear—offer excellent grip, complemented by the 4-piston fixed caliper disc brakes with cornering ABS. The cornering-enhanced anti-lock braking system (C-ABS) adjusts brake pressure based on lean angle, ensuring confident stopping power even in tight turns. Additional rider aids, such as cornering traction control (C-TCS) and drag-torque slip control (C-DSCS), enhance safety by preventing wheel slip during acceleration or deceleration, especially on wet roads. The Street Glide strikes a perfect balance between comfort and control, making it ideal for both seasoned riders and those new to the touring segment.
Interiors and Comfort
While motorcycles don’t have “interiors” in the traditional sense, the Street Glide offers a rider-centric cockpit designed for maximum comfort and functionality. The batwing fairing shields the rider from windblast, reducing fatigue on long rides. The one-piece seat, positioned at 690 mm, is ergonomically designed to support extended journeys, with ample padding for both rider and pillion. The mid-mount foot controls and stainless steel pullback handlebars create a relaxed riding posture, ideal for covering vast distances.
The Street Glide also features spacious saddlebags, seamlessly integrated into its design, providing practical storage for gear and essentials. The fairing houses a 12.3-inch touchscreen TFT display, part of the Boom! Box GTS infotainment system, which offers navigation, music, and smartphone connectivity via Bluetooth. With voice recognition and a 200-watt, four-channel amplifier powering fairing-mounted speakers, riders can enjoy crystal-clear audio on the go. The customizable ride modes—Road, Sport, Rain, and a user-defined mode—allow riders to tailor the bike’s performance to suit conditions, enhancing comfort and versatility.
Advanced Features
The Street Glide is packed with cutting-edge technology, setting it apart in the touring segment. The Boom! Box GTS infotainment system is a standout, featuring a 12.3-inch color TFT touchscreen that integrates navigation, calls, and media. The system supports voice commands and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing riders to stay connected without taking their hands off the handlebars. The 200-watt audio system delivers deep lows and crisp highs, enhancing the riding experience.
Safety is a priority, with Harley-Davidson’s Rider Safety Enhancements package. This includes cornering ABS, cornering traction control, and vehicle hold control, which prevents rollback on inclines. The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) provides real-time alerts, ensuring optimal performance. The bike also features LED lighting throughout, including signature headlamps and tail lamps, for superior visibility. The keyless ignition and security system add convenience and peace of mind, making the Street Glide a blend of tradition and innovation.
Variants and Customization
In India, the Street Glide is available in a single Standard variant, but Harley-Davidson offers extensive customization options through its accessories catalog. Riders can personalize their bike with upgraded seats, exhaust systems, handlebars, and paint schemes. The nine color options, including Vivid Black, Billiard Gray, and the Factory Custom Whiskey Firestorm, cater to diverse tastes. The ability to tailor the Street Glide to individual preferences ensures that every bike feels unique, reinforcing Harley’s ethos of individuality.
Pricing and Value
The Street Glide is a premium offering, with an ex-showroom price of INR 38.79 lakh in Delhi, escalating to around INR 43.50 lakh on-road due to taxes and insurance. While the price places it in the luxury segment, the bike justifies its cost with its powerful engine, advanced features, and iconic brand value. In metro cities like Mumbai and Bengaluru, on-road prices can reach up to INR 46.54 lakh, reflecting regional tax variations. For buyers, the Street Glide represents an investment in a lifestyle, offering unmatched prestige and performance.
Close Competitors
The Harley-Davidson Street Glide faces stiff competition in India’s premium touring segment, with rivals offering similar blends of power, comfort, and technology. Below are its closest competitors, analyzed in detail:
Indian Roadmaster
The Indian Roadmaster is a direct rival, priced between INR 43.49 lakh and 52.46 lakh (ex-showroom). Powered by a 1890 cc Thunderstroke 116 engine, it produces 120 bhp and 170 Nm of torque, slightly less than the Street Glide’s output. The Roadmaster boasts a 7-inch touchscreen Ride Command system, heated seats, and adjustable windshields, catering to luxury-focused riders. However, its heavier 412 kg kerb weight makes it less agile than the Street Glide’s 368 kg. The Roadmaster excels in pillion comfort but lacks the Street Glide’s iconic batwing fairing and customizable ride modes.
Honda Gold Wing
The Honda Gold Wing, priced at INR 39.16 lakh (ex-showroom), is another formidable competitor. Its 1833 cc flat-six engine delivers 124 bhp and 170 Nm, offering smoother power delivery than the Street Glide’s V-Twin. The Gold Wing features a 7-inch TFT display, Apple CarPlay, and a dual-clutch transmission (DCT), appealing to tech-savvy riders. However, its 383 kg weight and higher seat height of 745 mm may deter shorter riders. The Gold Wing prioritizes refinement over the Street Glide’s raw, visceral appeal, making it a choice for those who prefer sophistication over heritage.
BMW R 1250 RT
The BMW R 1250 RT, priced at INR 24.95 lakh (ex-showroom), is a more affordable alternative. Its 1254 cc boxer engine produces 134 bhp and 143 Nm, offering superior power-to-weight ratio due to its 279 kg kerb weight. The R 1250 RT includes a 10.25-inch TFT display, adaptive cruise control, and dynamic ESA suspension, outpacing the Street Glide in tech. However, it lacks the Street Glide’s iconic styling and brand cachet, appealing more to performance-oriented tourers than cruiser enthusiasts.
Comparison Analysis
The Street Glide holds its own against competitors with its blend of heritage, power, and modern tech. The Indian Roadmaster matches it in luxury but feels bulkier, while the Honda Gold Wing offers refinement at the cost of cruiser charisma. The BMW R 1250 RT is lighter and more advanced but lacks the emotional pull of a Harley. The Street Glide’s Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine and Boom! Box GTS system give it an edge in raw performance and entertainment, while its 368 kg weight strikes a balance between stability and maneuverability. For riders prioritizing brand legacy and customization, the Street Glide remains unmatched.
Market Positioning and Appeal
In India, the Harley-Davidson Street Glide caters to a niche audience of affluent riders who value exclusivity and performance. Its INR 38.79 lakh price tag positions it as a status symbol, appealing to business professionals, touring enthusiasts, and Harley loyalists. The bike’s ability to blend classic cruiser styling with modern technology makes it versatile, suitable for both weekend getaways and cross-country adventures. Harley-Davidson’s strong community culture, with events like India Bike Week, further enhances the Street Glide’s appeal, fostering a sense of belonging among owners.
Maintenance and Ownership
Owning a Street Glide requires commitment, as maintenance costs are higher than average due to its air-cooled engine and premium components. Regular oil changes, belt adjustments, and brake inspections are essential, with servicing typically done at authorized Harley dealerships. Annual maintenance costs can range from INR 50,000 to 80,000, depending on usage. However, the bike’s build quality and durability ensure long-term reliability, and Harley’s extensive service network in India provides peace of mind. Owners also enjoy the DIY aspect, with many customizing their bikes to reflect their personality.
Pros and Cons
The Street Glide shines with its iconic design, powerful engine, and advanced features, but it’s not without flaws. Its pros include a comfortable ride, extensive customization options, and a strong community. However, the high price, moderate mileage, and weight may deter some buyers. Compared to competitors, the Street Glide prioritizes emotion and heritage, making it a lifestyle choice rather than a purely practical one.
Final Thoughts!
The Harley-Davidson Street Glide is more than a motorcycle—it’s a statement of freedom, power, and individuality. With its Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, Boom! Box GTS infotainment, and batwing fairing, it redefines touring in India’s premium segment. Priced at INR 38.79 lakh (ex-showroom), it competes with the Indian Roadmaster, Honda Gold Wing, and BMW R 1250 RT, yet stands out for its heritage and charisma. Whether cruising highways or turning heads in the city, the Street Glide delivers an unforgettable experience, making it a worthy investment for those who live to ride.
