Harley Davidson Touring Overview
Harley Davidson had 3 things in mind when they designed their Touring motorcycles: comfort, smooth handling, and convenience. The fact that all 7 models in this line of bikes have the characteristic Harley Davidson power behind them makes the Touring models perfect for long road trips. The current line-up includes the Road King and Road King Classic, Street Glide, Road Glide, and 3 Electra Glide models (Standard, Classic, and Ultra Classic). Each is built for long-range travel and comes with extra storage space, detachable windshields, and heftier fuel tanks.
2008 saw the introduction of a number of new features to the Touring line-up. Brembo brakes have been added, offering an anti-lock braking system. The size of the fuel tank has been expanded to a generous 6 gallons, making longer road trips possible. The cables and wiring that were once present around the throttle have been replaced by an electronic throttle control. Not only does the electronic control give the bike a cleaner look, but it also sets the stage for cruise control capability.
Because the Touring bikes are built for long-range, comfortable travel, an isolated drive system has been added to make accelerating and shifting less noisy. This system also reduces the amount of vibration felt by the rider while cruising.
One of the most anticipated updates to the Touring motorcycles is coming in 2009. Harley Davidson has completely upgraded the chassis. 28 years have passed using the same basic frame. Ben Wright, the Project Lead on the 2009 Touring models, recently stated that the chassis upgrade was the most monumental task embarked upon since the beginning of the Touring platform.
Harley Touring Engines, Transmissions, and More
All 7 Touring models are equipped with rubber-mounted, air-cooled 1584cc Twin Cam engines and 6-speed transmissions. The rear suspension has been carefully designed to accommodate different loads. Each has a distinctive look and provides hard-shell saddlebags for convenient storage. 3 of the 4 Glide models even boast a 40-watt stereo system (the Ultra Classic Electra Glide features an 80-watt stereo system).
Harley Davidson motorcycles have a long history of power, versatility, and responsiveness. The wheels and frame deliver instant feedback from the road to the rider. With the 2008 system and component upgrades, and the much-anticipated 2009 chassis upgrade, the Touring bikes are poised to enjoy accolades from their growing fan base.
Harley Davidson Touring Motorcycles for Sale
