What To Know
- In terms of handling, the Road King is slightly more agile, while the Electra Glide provides a more stable and planted feel.
- The Electra Glide offers more features and amenities for the extra cost, but the Road King provides a great value for riders who prioritize classic styling and a more affordable option.
- However, if you prefer a classic style, a more affordable option, and a slightly more agile ride, the Road King is an excellent choice.
Harley-Davidson’s iconic touring motorcycles, the Road King and Electra Glide, have long been the subject of debate among riders. Both machines offer unparalleled comfort, style, and performance, but they also have their unique characteristics that set them apart. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Harley-Davidson Road King and Electra Glide, helping you make an informed decision when choosing your next touring companion.
Engine and Performance
The Road King and Electra Glide share the same legendary Milwaukee-Eight engine, offering a smooth, powerful ride. However, the Electra Glide has a slight edge in terms of performance, thanks to its slightly larger displacement (107 cubic inches vs 106 cubic inches). This translates to a bit more torque and horsepower, resulting in improved acceleration and passing power.
Chassis and Handling
The Road King and Electra Glide feature different chassis designs. The Road King has a more traditional Softail frame, while the Electra Glide uses a Touring frame. The Softail frame provides a more rigid ride, while the Touring frame offers a smoother, more comfortable ride, especially over long distances. In terms of handling, the Road King is slightly more agile, while the Electra Glide provides a more stable and planted feel.
Comfort and Amenities
Both the Road King and Electra Glide offer exceptional comfort for touring. The Electra Glide, however, takes the lead in this category with its plush seat, spacious floorboards, and adjustable backrest. It also features a full fairing with a large windshield, providing excellent protection from the elements. The Road King, on the other hand, has a more stripped-down design, with a smaller fairing and less wind protection. However, it still offers a comfortable ride, with a lower seat height and a more upright riding position.
Style and Aesthetics
The Road King and Electra Glide have distinct visual styles. The Road King exudes a classic, timeless appeal with its sleek lines and blacked-out finish. The Electra Glide, on the other hand, has a more modern and luxurious look, with a larger fairing, chrome accents, and optional premium paint schemes. Ultimately, the choice of style is a matter of personal preference.
Technology and Features
The Electra Glide is more technologically advanced than the Road King. It comes standard with a Boom! Box GTS infotainment system, which includes a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation. The Road King, on the other hand, has a simpler infotainment system with a smaller screen and fewer features. Both motorcycles offer cruise control, anti-lock brakes, and traction control as standard equipment.
Price and Value
The Harley-Davidson Electra Glide is more expensive than the Road King. The base model Electra Glide starts at around $22,000, while the base model Road King starts at around $19,000. The Electra Glide offers more features and amenities for the extra cost, but the Road King provides a great value for riders who prioritize classic styling and a more affordable option.
Which Harley-Davidson Touring Motorcycle is Right for You?
The choice between the Harley-Davidson Road King and Electra Glide depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance, comfort, and advanced technology, the Electra Glide is the better choice. However, if you prefer a classic style, a more affordable option, and a slightly more agile ride, the Road King is an excellent choice.
Final Thoughts
Both the Harley-Davidson Road King and Electra Glide are exceptional touring motorcycles that offer a unique blend of style, comfort, and performance. By considering the key differences between these two iconic machines, you can make an informed decision and choose the one that best suits your riding style and preferences.
What People Want to Know
Q: Which Harley-Davidson touring motorcycle has a larger engine?
A: The Electra Glide has a slightly larger engine (107 cubic inches) than the Road King (106 cubic inches).
Q: Which Harley-Davidson touring motorcycle has a more comfortable ride?
A: The Electra Glide generally offers a more comfortable ride, thanks to its plush seat, spacious floorboards, and adjustable backrest.
Q: Which Harley-Davidson touring motorcycle is more affordable?
A: The Road King is generally more affordable than the Electra Glide, with a lower starting price and fewer standard features.
Q: Which Harley-Davidson touring motorcycle has a more classic style?
A: The Road King has a more classic, timeless style with its sleek lines and blacked-out finish.
Q: Which Harley-Davidson touring motorcycle has more advanced technology?
A: The Electra Glide has more advanced technology, including a Boom! Box GTS infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation.