Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special [2017-2020]: A Timeless Touring Icon Reimagined

Introduction

The Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special (2017-2020) isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a statement. Built for riders who demand equal parts style, comfort, and raw American V-twin power, this generation refined Harley’s touring DNA with modern engineering while staying true to its rebellious spirit. Whether carving through mountain roads or devouring interstate miles, the Street Glide Special balances the brand’s iconic design language with practical upgrades that make every ride feel like an event. Let’s dissect what makes this machine a legend in its own time.

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Design & Styling: Where Form Meets Function

The Street Glide Special’s visual identity is unmistakable. Its Batwing fairing—a Harley hallmark since the 1970s—does more than turn heads: it slices through wind turbulence while housing a premium Boom! Box GTS infotainment system. The 2017-2020 models leaned into aggressive styling with options like Gloss Black Prodigy wheels (2020) and finishes ranging from understated Vivid Black to flamboyant Hard Candy Hot Rod Red Flake.

Practicality shines through details like hard-shell saddlebags (22.7L capacity each) and a 715mm (28.1-inch) seat height that keeps riders firmly planted. The 2020 update introduced a slightly lower 691mm (27.2-inch) seat, improving accessibility without sacrificing the "king-of-the-road" posture. Chrome accents on the 2-1-2 exhaust and Enforcer cast aluminum wheels scream premium craftsmanship, while optional ABS-equipped brakes add modern safety to classic lines.

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Engine & Performance: Milwaukee-Eight Muscle

At its heart lies the Milwaukee-Eight 107 (1745cc) or 114 (1868cc) V-twin engine, depending on the model year. These powerplants are engineering marvels: - 107 Engine (2017-2019):
89 HP @ 5450 RPM | 150 Nm (110.6 lb-ft) @ 3250 RPM
- 114 Engine (2020):
100 HP @ 5020 RPM | 165.4 Nm (122 lb-ft) @ 3000 RPM

Harley’s switch to DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts) and hydraulic lifters eliminated manual valve adjustments, a godsend for long-haul riders. The engine’s 10.0:1 compression ratio (10.5:1 on 2020 models) pairs with precision Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) for responsive throttle control. Despite its 361-379 kg (796-836 lb) curb weight, the Street Glide Special feels surprisingly nimble, thanks to a 64-inch wheelbase and 26° rake angle that inspire confidence in sweeping corners.

Fuel efficiency hovers around 5.2-5.9 L/100km (43-39 mpg), though this varies with riding style. The 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission ensures relaxed highway cruising, with sixth gear acting as an overdrive to keep RPMs low.

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Riding Experience: Master of the Open Road

Swing a leg over the Street Glide Special, and you’re greeted by a cockpit designed for marathon rides. The fairing-mounted gauges provide critical data without forcing riders to glance down, while the Boom! Box GTS system delivers crisp audio even at 110 km/h (68 mph). Key highlights: - Ergonomics: The mini-ape handlebars place riders in a natural upright position, reducing wrist fatigue.
- Suspension: 49mm telescopic forks and preload-adjustable rear shocks absorb bumps competently, though heavier riders might crave upgraded springs.
- Braking: Dual 300mm front discs with 4-piston calipers (optional ABS) provide strong stopping power, though the single rear disc feels modest for a bike this weighty.

Where the Street Glide Special truly excels is highway dominance. The fairing and windshield create a still-air bubble, while the seat’s foam density strikes a balance between plushness and support. At 120 km/h (75 mph), the Milwaukee-Eight purrs at ~2,500 RPM—a sweet spot where vibration is minimal but torque remains on tap.

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Technology & Features: Touring Meets Tomorrow

Harley bridged the analog-digital divide beautifully in this generation: - Infotainment: The Boom! Box GTS supports Bluetooth, GPS navigation, and USB connectivity. Its 6.5-inch touchscreen is glove-friendly, though menu navigation can feel clunky compared to modern TFT displays.
- Rider Aids: Optional cruise control is a must for interstate warriors, while security systems deter would-be thieves.
- Instrumentation: Analog-style fuel/voltage/oil pressure gauges satisfy traditionalists, complemented by a digital trip computer.

Notably, the 2020 model introduced a new tire combo—130/60-B19 front and 180/55-B18 rear—improving grip over earlier 130/60-B19 + 180/65-B16 setups.

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Competition: How It Stacks Up

The Street Glide Special’s rivals are formidable, but each caters to a different ethos: 1. Indian Roadmaster
- Pros: Smoother ride, higher-tech suspension.
- Cons: Less aftermarket support, polarizing styling.
2. Honda Gold Wing
- Pros: Supreme comfort, DCT automatic option.
- Cons: Lacks Harley’s "bad-boy" charisma.
3. BMW K 1600 B
- Pros: Inline-6 power, dynamic ESA suspension.
- Cons: Sterile exhaust note, complex maintenance.

The Harley Difference: No competitor matches the Street Glide Special’s aftermarket ecosystem or that earth-shaking V-twin soundtrack. While rivals prioritize tech or comfort, Harley sells a lifestyle—one that’s endlessly customizable through brands like Screamin’ Eagle.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Legend Alive

Owning a Street Glide Special isn’t just about riding—it’s about stewardship. Key maintenance aspects: - Oil Changes: Every 8,000 km (5,000 miles) using SAE 20W-50 (4.9L with filter).
- Belt Drive: Inspect every 16,000 km (10,000 miles) for tension and wear.
- Brake Fluid: Replace DOT 4 fluid biannually.
- Tire Pressure: 2.5 bar (36 psi) front / 2.8 bar (41 psi) rear (2019+ models).

Pro Tips from MOTOPARTS.store:
- Upgrade to a high-flow air filter (e.g., Arlen Ness Big Sucker) to unlock hidden torque.
- Swap stock NGK CR9EB plugs for iridium alternatives for longer service intervals.
- Consider aftermarket shocks (Ohlins, Progressive) if you frequently ride two-up.
- LED auxiliary lights improve visibility without taxing the electrical system.

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Conclusion: More Than a Motorcycle

The 2017-2020 Street Glide Special isn’t just transportation—it’s a rolling testament to Harley-Davidson’s ability to evolve without losing its soul. While newer models boast flashier tech, this generation strikes a perfect balance between analog charm and modern reliability. Whether you’re retrofitting performance cams or adding custom exhausts, this bike invites ownership as personal as your riding style. At MOTOPARTS.store, we’re here to ensure your Glide isn’t just maintained—it’s perfected.

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Specifications sheet

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