Harley Davidson Road King vs Street Glide: Which One to Choose

When it comes to motorcycles, there are a lot of different choices out there. But if you’re looking for a truly iconic ride, it’s hard to go wrong with a Harley-Davidson. For more than a century, Harley-Davidson has been synonymous with freedom and rebellion, and their bikes have been ridden by some of the most famous names in history.

Choosing between a Harley Davidson Road King and a Street Glide, you should really depend on what you’re looking for in a motorcycle. If you want a traditional cruiser-style bike, then the Road King is probably the better option. But if you want a more modern and sleek-looking bike, then the Street Glide is probably the way to go.

No matter what it is that draws you to Harley-Davidson, there’s no doubt that these bikes are truly unique. And when it comes to choosing the right Harley for you, the options are endless.

Road King vs Street Glide: Fast Comparison Table

In this table, you’ll learn the main features and key differences between the Harley Davidson Road King vs Street Glide.

Specification	Road King	Street Glide
Engine	Milwaukee-Eight	Milwaukee-Eight
CC	1746	1868
RPM	6,500	7,000
Gear Box	6-Speed	6-Speed
Seat height	28.2”	27.4”
Weight	379 kg	376 kg
Top Speed	140 mph	174 mph
Length	2450 mm	2450 mm
Price	$18,749	$20,899

Harley Street Glide or Road King: Detailed Comparison

And now we will compare these two models and their characteristics in more detail. Both bikes have their fair share of fans, but which one is the better bike? Here’s a comparison of the two bikes to help you decide.

Engine

One of the most important is the engine. The engines of a Street Glide and a Road King are both Milwaukee-Eight, but there are some key differences.

The Street Glide has a slightly larger displacement at 107 cubic inches, compared to the Road King’s 106. This gives a bit more power, with 18% more torque and 10% more horsepower. The Street Glide also has a higher redline, at 7,000 RPM compared to the Road King’s 6,500 RPM.

The Street Glide also has a different air intake and exhaust system. The air intake is a bit larger, and the motorcycle exhaust is shorter and has a different muffler. This gives the Street Glide a slightly louder and more aggressive sound.

Specifications

There are a few key differences between the Road King and the Street Glide that give each one its own unique performance:

1. The Road King is a bit more nimble and responsive than the Street Glide. It handles curves and turns a bit better and is ideal for riders who like to take their bike on winding roads.
2. The Street Glide, on the other hand, is a bit more stable and forgiving. It’s perfect for riders who want a cruiser that is comfortable and easy to handle.
3. When it comes to ground clearance, there is a clear difference between the Road King and Street Glide. The first one has a ground clearance of 7.5 inches (19.1 cm), while the second has a ground clearance of 6.7 inches (17 cm). This means that the Road King is better suited for riding on rough roads or in off-road conditions. The Street Glide, on the other hand, is better suited for riding on smooth pavement.
4. The Road King is a bit longer than the Street Glide, measuring 96.5 inches from end to end. The Street Glide, on the other hand, is 94.3 inches long. This may not seem like a big difference, but it can make a difference when it comes to maneuverability and storage.

Electricals

Both motorcycles have their own unique set of features, but one major difference between the two is the electronics. The Road King comes standard with a set of basic electronics, including an odometer, speedometer, and trip meter.

The Street Glide, on the other hand, comes with a more advanced set of electronics that includes a touch screen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and GPS navigation.

While the Road King’s electronics may be sufficient for some riders, the Street Glide’s more advanced features may be better suited for those who want more out of their riding experience.

Tires and Brakes

The Road King has a 19-inch front wheel and a 16-inch rear wheel. The Street Glide has a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel. This means that the Street Glide will have slightly better braking power, as the larger front wheel provides more contact with the ground.

The Road King has a single disc brake in the front and a dual disc brake in the rear. The Street Glide has dual disc brakes in the front and rear. This means that it will have better-stopping power overall.

The rear tire for Road King is wider than for the Street Glide. This gives it better traction, especially in wet conditions.

Chassis

The main difference between their chassis is the rake. The Road King has a rake of 26 degrees, while the Street Glide has a rake of 30 degrees. This gives a more aggressive look, and also makes it more aerodynamic. The Street Glide also has a shorter wheelbase, which makes it more maneuverable.

Seat and Weight

The difference in the seat and the weight the Road King or Street Glide seat can support is significant. The Road King seat can support up to 500 pounds while the Street Glide seat can only support up to 350 pounds. This is a big difference and it is important to take note of when choosing a motorcycle.

The Road King will be able to accommodate a wider range of riders, including those who are heavier. If you are looking for a motorcycle that can seat two people comfortably, then the Road King is the better option.

Fuel Capacity

Another most noticeable is the size of the fuel tanks. The Road King’s fuel tank is larger, holding six gallons compared to the Street Glide’s five-gallon tank. This gives the Road King a longer range between fill-ups.

Another difference is the way the two bikes consume fuel. The Street Glide, getting about 48 miles to the gallon compared to the Road King’s 40 miles to the gallon. This is due to the fact that the Street Glide has a smaller engine.

Finally, the volume of the fuel tanks is different. The Road King’s tank can hold up to 22 liters, while the Street Glide’s tank can only hold 18 liters. This means that the Road King can hold more fuel, giving you a longer ride between fill-ups.

Options And Features

There are a few key differences between the Harley Davidson Road King and the Street Glide. The Road King comes with a color infotainment system with a 4.3-inch screen, while the Street Glide has a 5.25-inch front speaker.

Additionally, the Street Glide has voice recognition and Bluetooth hands-free features, while the Road King does not. The Road King is also available with anti-lock brakes and security systems, while the Street Glide is not.

The Price

The 2016 Harley-Davidson Road King starts at $18,749 MSRP, while the 2016 Street Glide starts at $20,899 MSRP. Both motorcycles come in a wide range of colors, but the Street Glide does not offer two-tone finishes or custom colors. The Street Glide provides “Hard Candy Custom” color combinations, which aren’t available on the Road King.

Which One Is Better for Beginners?

Both bikes have their own unique features and benefits that might make them a better choice for different riders.

The Road King is a classic touring bike that is perfect for long rides. It has a comfortable riding position and comes with a windscreen and saddlebags that make it ideal for extended trips. The Street Glide, on the other hand, is designed for urban riding. It has a more aggressive stance and comes with a shorter windscreen and a more streamlined fairing that helps to reduce wind drag.

The Street Glide is also a little more nimble and easier to handle in tight spaces than the Road King. It’s perfect for riders who want a bike that is comfortable for long rides but that also has some of the handling and agility of a sport bike.

So, which bike is better for beginners? The Road King is the better option for beginners because it is more comfortable and easier to handle. It also has a lower price tag, which makes it a more affordable option.

What Are the Similarities Between the Road King and Street Glide?

Both are Touring models, meaning they are designed for long-distance riding. Both have large, comfortable seats, and their fairings provide wind protection for the rider. They also have large fuel tanks, which give them a long range between fill-ups.

They are powered by Harley’s iconic V-twin engine. This engine provides plenty of power for cruising on the open road. And both models come with ABS brakes and traction control, which help you stay safe when riding in challenging conditions.

Interchangeable Parts

In fact, most of the parts are the same. The engines are the same, as are the frames, fuel tanks, and fenders. The biggest difference between the two bikes is the windscreen. The Street Glide has a taller windscreen, while the Road King has a shorter one.

Most of the parts that are different between the two bikes are cosmetic. For example, headlights, taillights, and saddlebags. The Road King has a different front fender and exhaust system.

Is Road King Better?

There are a number of reasons why the Road King is a great choice for a motorcycle:

• it is comfortable to ride, with a relaxed riding position and plenty of legroom;
• it is easy to handle, even for beginners;
• it is reliable and low-maintenance, making it a great choice for long-distance touring;
• it has a wide range of accessories and customization options, so you can make it your own;
• it is affordable, making it a great value for the money.

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• There is a lot of storage space on the bike
• It is really comfortable
• It has a great suspension

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• The bike is heavy

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Is Street Glide Better?

This is a touring motorcycle that is a part of the company’s Project Rushmore. The motorcycle has a number of features that make it a great choice for those looking for a touring bike. One of the most notable features of the Street Glide is its new frame. The frame is designed to provide a smoother ride, and it does not vibrate as much as other motorcycles on the market. This is a big advantage for those who want to take long trips on their motorcycle.

Another great feature is the new suspension system. It provides a smoother ride and helps to absorb some of the bumps that can occur on the road. This is a great feature for those who want to ride on rough roads or who want to take their bike off-road.

The Street Glide also has a new engine that is more powerful than the previous model. The new engine provides more power and torque, which is great for those who want to ride on the open road.

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• Powerful Twin Cam 103 engine
• Handles well
• It has a really spacious seat

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• A bit pricey

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FAQ

Which Harley-Davidson is the most comfortable to ride?

Some riders may find the Sportster models to be the most comfortable, while others may prefer the larger Touring or Cruiser models. Ultimately, it is important to test-ride multiple models in order to find the one that best suits your needs.

What is considered high mileage for a Harley?

It depends on a number of factors, such as how well the bike has been maintained, the type of Harley, and the riding conditions. However, many people consider a Harley with over 50,000 miles to be high mileage.

What is the easiest Harley-Davidson to ride?

Street 500 is the smallest and lightest motorcycle in Harley-Davidson’s lineup. It is designed for easy maneuverability and a relaxed riding position. Street 500 is a good choice for beginners or experienced riders who are looking for a nimble and fun bike to ride.

What are the factors that affect Road King or Street Glide’s prices?

The two models of Harley-Davidson motorcycles have different prices due to a variety of factors. The Street Glide generally costs more because it is a newer model with more features than the Road King. The Road King is also less popular, which contributes to its lower price. Other factors that can affect the price of either model include the condition of the motorcycle, the location, and the availability.

The Bottom Line

The choice between a Harley Street Glide vs Road King can be a difficult one. Both are great bikes, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. The Road King is Harley’s classic touring bike.

It’s comfortable, with a laid-back riding position, and is great for long-distance rides. The Street Glide, on the other hand, is a stripped-down version of the Road King. It’s a little lighter and more nimble, making it better suited for city riding.