Summary
- In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll explore the key features, specifications, and differences between the Harley Davidson Street Glide and Street Glide Special to help you make an informed choice.
- The Street Glide and Street Glide Special both offer impressive performance, but the Special has a slight edge due to its larger engine.
- Both the Street Glide and Street Glide Special are designed for long-distance riding, and they offer a comfortable ride with plenty of legroom and backrest support.
Harley Davidson’s Street Glide and Street Glide Special are two of the most iconic touring motorcycles on the market. Both bikes offer a comfortable ride, ample storage, and a powerful engine, but they also have some key differences that may influence your decision. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll explore the key features, specifications, and differences between the Harley Davidson Street Glide and Street Glide Special to help you make an informed choice.
Key Features
Street Glide
- Milwaukee-Eight 107ci engine
- 6-gallon fuel tank
- 17-inch wheels
- Boom! Box GTS infotainment system
- Reflex Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS)
Street Glide Special
- Milwaukee-Eight 114ci engine
- 6.5-gallon fuel tank
- 18-inch wheels
- Boom! Box GTS infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Reflex Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS)
Specifications
| Feature | Street Glide | Street Glide Special |
| — | — | — |
| Engine | Milwaukee-Eight 107ci | Milwaukee-Eight 114ci |
| Displacement | 1746cc | 1868cc |
| Horsepower | 91 hp | 114 hp |
| Torque | 119 lb-ft | 125 lb-ft |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 6 gallons | 6.5 gallons |
| Wheel Size | 17-inch | 18-inch |
| Infotainment System | Boom! Box GTS | Boom! Box GTS with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto |
| RDRS | Yes | Yes |
Performance
The Street Glide and Street Glide Special both offer impressive performance, but the Special has a slight edge due to its larger engine. The Milwaukee-Eight 114ci engine provides more power and torque, resulting in better acceleration and passing power. However, the Street Glide’s smaller engine is more fuel-efficient, offering slightly better gas mileage.
Handling
Both the Street Glide and Street Glide Special handle well, but the Special has slightly better stability at high speeds thanks to its larger wheels. The 18-inch wheels provide a more planted feel and reduce the risk of wheel chatter. However, the smaller wheels on the Street Glide make it more agile and easier to maneuver at low speeds.
Comfort
Both the Street Glide and Street Glide Special are designed for long-distance riding, and they offer a comfortable ride with plenty of legroom and backrest support. The Special has a slightly more luxurious seat and a taller windshield, providing better wind protection. Additionally, the Special’s larger fuel tank allows for longer rides without refueling.
Features
The Street Glide and Street Glide Special come with a variety of features designed to enhance the riding experience. Both bikes have the Boom! Box GTS infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, and a USB port. The Special has the added benefit of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to connect your smartphone for music, navigation, and other apps.
Price
The Harley Davidson Street Glide has a starting price of $22,999, while the Street Glide Special starts at $25,999. The Special’s higher price is justified by its larger engine, larger wheels, and additional features.
Wrap-Up: Making the Right Choice
The Harley Davidson Street Glide and Street Glide Special are both excellent touring motorcycles, but they offer different advantages depending on your needs and preferences. If you prioritize power, stability, and features, the Street Glide Special is the better choice. However, if you prefer a more fuel-efficient and agile bike, the Street Glide is a great option. Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both models and see which one feels better.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which bike has a larger engine?
A: The Street Glide Special has a larger engine (Milwaukee-Eight 114ci) compared to the Street Glide (Milwaukee-Eight 107ci).
Q: Which bike has a larger fuel tank?
A: The Street Glide Special has a larger fuel tank (6.5 gallons) than the Street Glide (6 gallons).
Q: Which bike has larger wheels?
A: The Street Glide Special has larger wheels (18-inch) compared to the Street Glide (17-inch).
Q: Which bike has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration?
A: Only the Street Glide Special has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
Q: Which bike is more expensive?
A: The Street Glide Special is more expensive than the Street Glide.
