Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Standard Police [2021-2022]: A Law Enforcement Legend for Civilian Roads

Introduction

The Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Standard Police isn’t just a motorcycle – it’s a statement of authority reimagined for civilian riders. Built on the backbone of Harley’s iconic touring lineage and refined for police duty, this 2021-2022 generation model retains its purpose-built DNA while offering enthusiasts a unique blend of rugged capability and touring comfort. With its Milwaukee-Eight® 107 engine, imposing silhouette, and law enforcement-grade components, this Electra Glide variant stands out as a heavyweight champion in the touring segment. After spending a week with this machine, I can confidently say it’s more than just a retired patrol bike – it’s a rolling testament to American motorcycle engineering.

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Design & Presence

The Electra Glide Standard Police cuts an intimidating figure. The Vivid Black paint scheme (the only color option) accentuates its 2,400 mm (94.5") length and 391 kg (862 lbs) wet weight, giving it a prowling silhouette that commands attention. The 49 mm telescopic front forks and twin shock rear suspension are built to handle emergency maneuvers, while the full-length windshield and standard saddlebags (2.3 cu ft capacity) hint at its touring potential.

The police-specific modifications are subtle but functional:
- Dual 300 mm front brake discs with 4-piston calipers (vs. civilian single-disc setups)
- Reinforced crash bars and auxiliary lighting mounts
- A seat height of 752 mm (29.6"), slightly taller than the civilian model’s 680 mm (26.8")
- Heavy-duty alternator (though exact output isn’t advertised for civilian versions)

While the 170 mm (6.7") trail and 26° rake angle suggest stable cruising, the 1,625 mm (64") wheelbase makes low-speed maneuvers feel deliberate. This isn’t a bike that disappears in traffic – it owns its lane.

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Engine & Performance

The Milwaukee-Eight® 107 Heart

At the core beats the 1,746 cc (107 cu in) air/oil-cooled V-twin, producing 90 HP (66 kW) @ 5,450 RPM and a ground-shaking 150.5 Nm (111 lb-ft) @ 3,250 RPM. Harley’s counterbalancer system tames vibrations without neutering the classic Big Twin character.

Key performance notes from my ride:
- 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): ~5.2 seconds (estimated) – respectable for 372 kg (820 lbs)
- Overtaking acceleration: 80-120 km/h (50-75 mph) in 4th gear feels effortless
- Fuel consumption: 5.47 L/100 km (43 mpg) during highway cruising
- Exhaust note: A subdued rumble at idle that crescendos into a bark under acceleration

The six-speed Cruise Drive transmission shifts with Harley’s characteristic clunk, but the belt final drive ensures smooth power delivery. The 32/68 sprocket ratio (civilian models use 34/46) gives quicker acceleration – a police necessity that civilian riders will appreciate in traffic.

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Handling & Comfort

The Patrol-Ready Chassis

Harley’s Dual Bending Valve front suspension and preload-adjustable rear shocks are calibrated for load-bearing stability. With 124 mm (4.9") of ground clearance, scraping floorboards is rare unless you’re attacking canyon roads.

At speed:
- Highway stability is impeccable – crosswinds barely faze the 180/65-B16 rear tire
- The 130/80-B17 front tire offers precise tracking through sweepers
- ABS intervention is seamless, though the linked brakes require a firm pull

Ergonomics:
- The stepped seat positions riders upright, with arms reaching naturally to buckhorn bars
- Floorboards offer multiple foot positions during long hauls
- Wind protection is adequate up to 130 km/h (81 mph), with minimal helmet buffeting

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Competition

How It Stacks Up Against Rivals

1. Honda Gold Wing Tour
2. Smoother DCT transmission but lacks the Harley’s low-end torque
3. 35 kg (77 lbs) lighter but feels less planted in crosswinds

4. Aftermarket support can’t match Harley’s ecosystem

5. Indian Roadmaster

6. Thunder Stroke 116 engine delivers more power (126 lb-ft torque)
7. Ride Command infotainment outclasses Harley’s analog dash

8. 12% higher maintenance costs (independent study)

9. BMW K 1600 GTL

10. 160 hp inline-six obliterates the Electra Glide in acceleration
11. Complex electronics suite vs. Harley’s simplicity
12. 50% pricier for comparable model years

The Electra Glide’s Edge: Unmatched parts availability, lower service costs, and that indomitable V-twin character. For riders valuing tradition over tech, it remains the touring segment’s anchor.

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Maintenance

Keeping the Legend Road-Ready

As a MOTOPARTS.store journalist, I’d prioritize these maintenance aspects:

1. Oil Changes
2. Use SAE 20W-50 (4.9L/5.18 qt with filter) every 5,000 km (3,100 mi)

3. Watch for consumption – 0.5L/1,000 km is normal for air-cooled Big Twins

4. Primary Chaincase

5. 900 mL of SAE 80W-90 gear oil – change every 16,000 km (10,000 mi)

6. Check for belt tension (140-link) during service

7. Brake System

8. DOT 4 fluid flush every 2 years

9. Pad replacement at 3 mm thickness – police-spec semi-metallics last 30% longer

10. Spark Plugs

11. NGK CR9EB (standard) or CR9EIX (iridium) every 12,000 km (7,500 mi)

12. Gap to 0.8-0.9 mm (0.031-0.035")

13. Tire Pressures

14. 2.5 bar/36 psi (front), 2.8 bar/41 psi (rear) when loaded

Pro Tip: Upgrade to a high-flow air filter and Vance & Hines slip-ons (MOTOPARTS.store #VH-MH06) to unlock 5-7% torque gains.

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Conclusion

The Electra Glide Standard Police isn’t just a retired workhorse – it’s a gateway to Harley-Davidson’s most durable touring platform. While tech enthusiasts might scoff at its analog nature, there’s undeniable appeal in its mechanical honesty and overbuilt components. For riders who value presence over pixels and torque over touchscreens, this H-D generation remains a compelling choice.

Whether you’re maintaining a fleet or personalizing a single machine, MOTOPARTS.store offers the consumables and upgrades to keep your Electra Glide policing the highways in style. From NGK spark plugs to Screamin’ Eagle performance kits, we’ve got your back – just like this Harley’s got yours on the open road.

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Specifications sheet

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