Road Trip Tested: 1,500 Mile REVIEW of the 2024 Harley-Davidson Road Glide

Summary

The video script features a detailed review of the 2024 Harley-Davidson Road Glide, highlighting the motorcycle's redesign and improvements from the perspective of a smaller rider. The reviewer shares personal experiences from a 1500-mile road trip, discussing the bike's ergonomics, comfort, and handling, particularly noting the advantages for shorter riders. They also delve into the new suspension, weight balance, and technological enhancements, including the headlight and infotainment system. The reviewer emphasizes the bike's nimbleness despite its size and provides insights on ride modes, practicality for shorter individuals, and their preference for the Softail over the touring chassis. The summary concludes with the reviewer's recommendation for those considering an upgrade and addresses questions about the bike's price, starting at $2,999 for the base model.

Takeaways

• 🛣️ The 2024 Harley-Davidson Road Glide has been completely redesigned, offering significant improvements over previous models, particularly in handling and comfort.
• 🚴‍♀️ The new model features taller handlebars and redesigned hand controls, which are more ergonomic and accessible for shorter riders.
• 💺 The stock seat on the Road Glide is comfortable enough for long rides, which is a major consideration for touring motorcycles.
• 🦵 Challenges for shorter riders include reaching the kickstand and maneuvering the bike in tight parking spaces, but the new model is more accommodating for a wider range of rider sizes.
• 🎚️ The suspension on the 2024 model is an upgrade from previous versions, providing a smoother ride without the immediate need for aftermarket suspension.
• 🔍 The new headlight is both a cosmetic and performance improvement, offering better visibility on night rides.
• 📱 The bike comes with a new infotainment system featuring a large digital screen, which includes different ride modes like sport, rain, and custom, enhancing the riding experience.
• 📡 While the infotainment system is a significant upgrade, the reviewer personally didn't use the integrated Apple CarPlay or the upgraded speakers, preferring a separate phone mount and helmet headset.
• 💰 The base model of the 2024 Road Glide starts at $2,999, with prices varying based on trim and color options.
• 🌟 For riders considering an upgrade from a previous model, the improvements are substantial, but the decision to upgrade should align with personal preferences and riding styles.
• 🏍️ The reviewer personally prefers the Softail model for its agility and size, and would choose a Pan America for off-road adventures over a Road Glide, reflecting a preference for a specific riding style.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video?

The main topic of the video is a review of the 2024 Harley-Davidson Road Glide motorcycle, including the reviewer's personal experience on a 1500-mile road trip and addressing questions from the audience on social media.

Why did the reviewer choose to ride the Road Glide instead of the Street Glide?

The reviewer chose the Road Glide because they prefer the new handlebars and the fixed fairing that comes with it, which they found more comfortable and better suited for their riding style compared to the Street Glide.

What are the new features of the handlebars and hand controls on the 2024 Road Glide?

The 2024 Road Glide features new handlebars that are taller, and new hand controls that allow for easier access to buttons without having to remove the whole hand, which is particularly beneficial for riders with smaller hands.

How did the reviewer find the stock seat on the 2024 Road Glide in terms of comfort for long rides?

The reviewer found the stock seat to be very comfortable, stating that they could easily ride for 400-500 miles a day without any issues and that they would consider keeping it for the long term.

What challenges did the reviewer face as a shorter rider with the 2024 Road Glide?

As a shorter rider, the reviewer had difficulty reaching the kickstand and found it challenging to maneuver the bike into certain parking spots due to their size.

What are the reviewer's thoughts on the suspension and handling of the 2024 Road Glide?

The reviewer liked the new suspension and felt that it was an upgrade over the old one. They did not feel the need to purchase aftermarket suspension, as the stock suspension performed well for their riding needs.

How does the reviewer feel about the new headlight on the 2024 Road Glide?

The reviewer found the new headlight to be a significant improvement both cosmetically and in terms of performance, especially during a nighttime ride through pitch dark areas.

What are the available ride modes on the 2024 Road Glide and how did the reviewer use them?

The 2024 Road Glide has several ride modes including Road, Sport, Rain, and Custom modes. The reviewer personally preferred using Sport mode for highway riding but also utilized Rain mode during periods of heavy rain.

What is the reviewer's opinion on the new infotainment system and its large screen?

The reviewer acknowledges that the new infotainment system with its large screen is a significant change, but personally did not use it extensively during their ride, preferring to use their own phone mount and helmet headset for navigation and music.

Would the reviewer recommend upgrading from an older Road Glide model to the 2024 version?

The reviewer believes it is a significant upgrade, especially for those with a pre-2018 model, and recommends upgrading for the improved handling and features. However, they would not personally upgrade from a 2023 model due to personal preference and financial considerations.

How does the reviewer compare the 2024 Road Glide to the Pan America and Low Rider ST models?

The reviewer prefers the Pan America for off-road capabilities and the Low Rider ST for its size and maneuverability, which suits their riding style better. They suggest that those who stick to paved roads should opt for the new Road Glide or Street Glide.

What is the starting price for the 2024 Road Glide?

The base model of the 2024 Road Glide starts at $2,999, with the price varying depending on the trim package and color chosen.