Comparing the kings: harley davidson ultra vs. street glide – pros and cons

What To Know

  • In this comprehensive blog post, we delve into the key differences between the Harley Davidson Ultra and Street Glide to help you make an informed decision about which one suits your touring needs best.
  • The Street Glide has a more agile chassis with a shorter wheelbase and a steeper front end.
  • The Street Glide exudes a more aggressive and sporty style with its sleek lines, blacked-out components, and a low, laid-back riding position.

Harley Davidson motorcycles have long been the epitome of American freedom and adventure. Among their iconic touring models, the Ultra and Street Glide stand out as top contenders for riders seeking comfort, style, and performance. In this comprehensive blog post, we delve into the key differences between the Harley Davidson Ultra and Street Glide to help you make an informed decision about which one suits your touring needs best.

Performance and Engine

Both the Ultra and Street Glide are powered by Harley Davidson’s legendary Milwaukee-Eight engine, renowned for its torque and power delivery. However, there are subtle differences in their performance characteristics.

  • Ultra: The Ultra features a 114 cubic inch (1868cc) Milwaukee-Eight engine, producing 119 ft-lbs of torque at 3250 rpm. Its focus is on smooth, effortless cruising, with plenty of low-end power for effortless overtaking and hill climbing.
  • Street Glide: The Street Glide comes with a 117 cubic inch (1923cc) Milwaukee-Eight engine, generating 125 ft-lbs of torque at 3500 rpm. It offers a more responsive and spirited ride, with a higher rev range for exhilarating acceleration and performance.

Handling and Ride Quality

Handling and ride quality are crucial considerations for touring motorcycles. Both the Ultra and Street Glide offer exceptional comfort and stability, but they have distinct characteristics.

  • Ultra: The Ultra boasts a touring-oriented chassis with a long wheelbase and a raked-out front end. This setup provides excellent stability and a plush ride, absorbing road imperfections with ease.
  • Street Glide: The Street Glide has a more agile chassis with a shorter wheelbase and a steeper front end. This gives it a more nimble handling and a sportier feel, allowing for more precise cornering and maneuverability.

Features and Amenities

The Ultra and Street Glide come packed with features and amenities designed to enhance the touring experience. Some key differences include:

  • Wind Protection: The Ultra features a large, adjustable windscreen that provides excellent wind protection for the rider and passenger. The Street Glide has a smaller windscreen, offering less wind protection but a more open and airy feel.
  • Luggage Capacity: The Ultra has a massive storage capacity with its integrated saddlebags and top box. The Street Glide has a smaller luggage capacity, but its saddlebags are removable for greater flexibility.
  • Infotainment System: The Ultra comes standard with Harley Davidson’s Boom! Box GTS infotainment system, which includes a touchscreen display, navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Street Glide offers a more basic infotainment system with a smaller screen and fewer features.

Styling and Aesthetics

The styling and aesthetics of the Ultra and Street Glide reflect their distinct personalities.

  • Ultra: The Ultra has a classic touring look with a wide, imposing front end, chrome accents, and a comfortable, upright riding position.
  • Street Glide: The Street Glide exudes a more aggressive and sporty style with its sleek lines, blacked-out components, and a low, laid-back riding position.

Price and Value

The Harley Davidson Ultra and Street Glide come with different price tags, reflecting their varying features and performance capabilities.

  • Ultra: The Ultra has a higher starting price due to its larger engine, increased luggage capacity, and more extensive amenities.
  • Street Glide: The Street Glide offers a more affordable entry point into the Harley Davidson touring lineup, with its smaller engine, reduced luggage capacity, and fewer features.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Motorcycle for Your Needs

The Harley Davidson Ultra and Street Glide are exceptional touring motorcycles that cater to different riding styles and preferences. If you prioritize comfort, stability, and maximum luggage capacity, the Ultra is an ideal choice. If you seek a more agile, responsive ride with a sportier edge, the Street Glide will better suit your needs. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to take both motorcycles for a test ride and experience their unique characteristics firsthand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which motorcycle has better fuel economy?
A: The Street Glide generally has slightly better fuel economy due to its smaller engine and lighter weight.

Q: Can I customize the Ultra or Street Glide to my liking?
A: Yes, Harley Davidson offers a wide range of accessories and customization options to personalize your motorcycle.

Q: Which motorcycle is better for long-distance touring?
A: Both the Ultra and Street Glide are suitable for long-distance touring, but the Ultra’s larger luggage capacity and improved wind protection make it more comfortable for extended journeys.

Q: What is the horsepower of the Ultra and Street Glide?
A: The Ultra produces approximately 95 horsepower, while the Street Glide generates around 103 horsepower.

Q: Which motorcycle has a longer warranty?
A: Both the Ultra and Street Glide come with a standard two-year limited warranty.