What To Know
- The Ultra Limited is a touring powerhouse, boasting a spacious Tour-Pak luggage carrier, a comfortable two-up seat, and a full fairing with adjustable vents.
- While not as extensively equipped as the Ultra Limited, the Street Glide offers ample touring amenities, including a spacious saddlebag, a comfortable seat, and a sleek fairing with a flip-up windshield.
- However, if you prefer a more sporty and versatile motorcycle with a modern aesthetic, the Street Glide is an excellent choice.
Embarking on a thrilling motorcycle adventure requires a machine that not only commands the road but also provides unparalleled comfort and convenience. Harley-Davidson’s Ultra Limited and Street Glide are two iconic touring models that have captivated riders for decades. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of these two exceptional bikes, comparing their features, performance, and suitability to help you make an informed decision.
Powertrain:
Harley Davidson Ultra Limited: Powered by the legendary Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, the Ultra Limited delivers an exhilarating 125 ft-lbs of torque. Its six-speed Cruise Drive transmission ensures smooth and effortless gear changes.
Street Glide: Equipped with the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, the Street Glide boasts an impressive 125 ft-lbs of torque and a crisp-shifting six-speed transmission. Its responsive throttle and crisp acceleration make it a joy to ride.
Chassis and Suspension:
Harley Davidson Ultra Limited: The Ultra Limited features a robust chassis with a 63.6-inch wheelbase, providing excellent stability and handling. Its dual Showa suspension system offers adjustable preload and damping, allowing for a customized ride experience.
Street Glide: With a shorter 62.2-inch wheelbase, the Street Glide offers increased maneuverability and a more sporty feel. Its Showa Dual Bending Valve suspension system provides a plush ride, absorbing bumps and road imperfections effortlessly.
Touring Amenities:
Harley Davidson Ultra Limited: The Ultra Limited is a touring powerhouse, boasting a spacious Tour-Pak luggage carrier, a comfortable two-up seat, and a full fairing with adjustable vents. Its Boom! Box GTS infotainment system provides navigation, music, and communication capabilities.
Street Glide: While not as extensively equipped as the Ultra Limited, the Street Glide offers ample touring amenities, including a spacious saddlebag, a comfortable seat, and a sleek fairing with a flip-up windshield. Its Boom! Box GTS infotainment system provides essential navigation and music functions.
Technology and Safety:
Harley Davidson Ultra Limited: The Ultra Limited comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including ABS, traction control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Its LED lighting system provides excellent visibility, while the cruise control and heated grips enhance comfort on long rides.
Street Glide: The Street Glide features ABS and traction control for enhanced safety. Its LED lighting system ensures optimal visibility, and the cruise control and heated grips provide added comfort.
Style and Aesthetics:
Harley Davidson Ultra Limited: The Ultra Limited exudes a classic touring style with its iconic batwing fairing, chrome accents, and spacious saddlebags. Its bold graphics and vibrant paint schemes make it an attention-grabber on the road.
Street Glide: The Street Glide embodies a more modern and aggressive aesthetic with its streamlined fairing, blacked-out components, and sleek graphics. Its muscular stance and sporty profile command respect on any highway.
Intended Use:
Harley Davidson Ultra Limited: Designed for extended touring, the Ultra Limited is ideal for riders who prioritize comfort, convenience, and storage capacity. Its extensive amenities and plush ride make it perfect for cross-country adventures and long-distance trips.
Street Glide: The Street Glide is a versatile motorcycle that excels in both touring and everyday riding. Its sporty handling and stylish looks make it equally comfortable on weekend getaways and daily commutes.
Pricing and Availability:
The Harley Davidson Ultra Limited and Street Glide are both available at Harley-Davidson dealerships nationwide. Pricing varies depending on the model year, color, and options selected.
Final Verdict:
Choosing between the Harley Davidson Ultra Limited and Street Glide ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize ultimate comfort, storage capacity, and a classic touring experience, the Ultra Limited is your ideal companion. However, if you prefer a more sporty and versatile motorcycle with a modern aesthetic, the Street Glide is an excellent choice.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Which model offers more storage space?
Answer: The Ultra Limited has a larger Tour-Pak luggage carrier and saddlebags, providing more storage capacity than the Street Glide.
2. Is the Street Glide more fuel-efficient than the Ultra Limited?
Answer: Both models have similar fuel efficiency ratings, with the Ultra Limited slightly more fuel-efficient due to its larger fuel tank.
3. Which bike has a better infotainment system?
Answer: Both models feature the Boom! Box GTS infotainment system, offering similar navigation, music, and communication capabilities.
4. Is the Ultra Limited too heavy for everyday riding?
Answer: While the Ultra Limited is heavier than the Street Glide, its well-balanced chassis and responsive handling make it comfortable for both touring and everyday use.
5. Which model is better for long-distance riding?
Answer: The Ultra Limited is better suited for long-distance riding due to its more extensive touring amenities, including a larger fuel tank, comfortable seat, and spacious luggage capacity.