Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited Classic [2021-2022]: A Touring Powerhouse Reimagined

Introduction

The Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited Classic needs no introduction among touring enthusiasts, but its 2021-2022 iteration demands attention. Built for riders who crave endless highways and the throaty rumble of American engineering, this machine straddles the line between classic Harley charisma and modern touring sophistication. After spending days slicing through mountain passes and hugging coastal roads, one thing becomes clear: this isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a lifestyle statement wrapped in steel and chrome. Let’s dive into what makes this Road Glide generation a standout in Harley’s storied lineup.

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Design: Where Aggression Meets Function

The Road Glide’s signature shark-nose fairing isn’t just for show. This frame-mounted design cuts through wind with purpose, reducing buffeting at speed while maintaining the aggressive stance Harley riders adore. The 2021-2022 models come dressed in moody palettes like Snake Venom Green and River Rock Grey Denim, colors that shift subtly under sunlight and scream premium quality.

At 2,596 mm (102.2 inches) long with a 1,625 mm (64-inch) wheelbase, this is no compact machine. Yet, the low-slung 691 mm (27.2-inch) seat height keeps it approachable, even for shorter riders. Every detail feels intentional—from the Slicer II cast aluminum wheels to the 2:1:2 exhaust system with 4-inch tapered mufflers that exit with authority.

Practicality isn’t sacrificed for style. The Road Glide Limited packs 37 liters of saddlebag space and an optional top case, swallowing enough gear for cross-continent adventures. Despite its 422.8 kg (932 lb) wet weight, the bike carries its mass low, making parking-lot maneuvers less intimidating than the spec sheet suggests.

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Performance: Milwaukee-Eight Muscle

The star of the show is the Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-Twin, a 1,868cc (114 cu in) behemoth that pumps out 122 ft-lbs (165.4 Nm) of torque at just 3,000 RPM. On the road, this translates to effortless passing power—crack the throttle at 100 km/h (62 mph), and the bike surges forward without downshifting. Harley’s claimed 89 HP (65 kW) might seem modest, but torque rules the touring realm, and here, it’s delivered with the subtlety of a sledgehammer.

Fuel efficiency sits at 5.47 L/100 km (43 mpg), reasonable for a bike this size. The six-speed Cruise Drive transmission is slick, though the tall sixth gear truly shines on highways, where 3,000 RPM settles into a relaxed 110 km/h (68 mph) cruise. The belt final drive is virtually maintenance-free, a blessing for riders who’d rather clock miles than wrench.

But it’s the sound that addicts. The Milwaukee-Eight’s idle is a syncopated heartbeat, deepening into a bass-heavy roar under acceleration. Harley’s dual exhaust tuning keeps decibels civil at steady speeds but unleashes a symphony when you demand power.

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Comfort: Mile-Crushing Ergonomics

Touring bikes live and die by comfort, and the Road Glide Limited delivers. The seat is a plush throne, wide enough for all-day rides yet contoured to keep you planted during aggressive cornering. Heated grips and seats (optional) are godsends in chilly weather, while the adjustable windscreen—though modest in size—directs airflow cleanly over a full-face helmet.

Suspension is where compromises emerge. The 49mm telescopic fork and twin rear shocks handle smooth asphalt with grace, but sharp bumps can jolt through the chassis. Laden with gear, the preload-adjustable rear improves, though serious tourers might eye aftermarket upgrades.

Where this Harley truly excels is wind management. The fixed fairing eliminates the wobble common to fork-mounted designs, creating a stable bubble even at 130 km/h (80 mph). Combined with cruise control, it turns 500-mile days into a fatigue-free reality.

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Technology: Infotainment Meets Analog Soul

Harley’s infotainment system is a surprise standout. The Boom! Box GTS unit pairs seamlessly with Bluetooth, pumping crisp audio through fairing-mounted speakers. Navigation prompts pop up on the analog-style dash, which also houses a gear indicator, fuel range, and tire pressure monitoring.

Safety tech includes standard ABS and Harley’s Reflex Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS), which adds cornering-enhanced braking and traction control. Purists might scoff, but on rain-slicked roads, these features inspire confidence without intruding.

Quirks exist: the USB port’s placement requires contortion to reach, and menu navigation isn’t as intuitive as touchscreen rivals. Yet, the blend of digital smarts and analog gauges feels authentically Harley—a bridge between old-school cool and modern convenience.

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Competition: How the Road Glide Stacks Up

The touring segment is fierce, but the Road Glide Limited carves its niche:

• Indian Roadmaster: Offers comparable power and a smoother ride but lacks Harley’s aftermarket ecosystem. Indian’s fairing design also trails in wind protection.
• Honda Gold Wing: More tech-forward with a silky flat-six engine. However, its subdued exhaust note and “futuristic” styling alienate riders craving raw character.
• BMW K 1600 Grand America: A tech marvel with an inline-six that revs to the moon. Yet, BMW’s maintenance costs soar higher, and its styling lacks Harley’s bad-boy edge.

The Road Glide’s ace is its balance. It’s less refined than the Gold Wing but more engaging. Less tech-heavy than the BMW but easier to personalize. For riders valuing heritage and aftermarket support (hello, MOTOPARTS.store!), it’s the sweet spot.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Legend Alive

The Milwaukee-Eight engine is robust, but neglect is its nemesis. Key tips:
- Oil Changes: Stick to Harley’s 5,000 km (3,100 mi) interval. The 4.7L (5 qt) capacity demands quality synthetic oil—we recommend MOTOPARTS.store’s premium 20W-50.
- Belt Drive: Inspect every 10,000 km (6,200 mi) for cracks. Replacement is rare but opt for genuine Harley belts when needed.
- Brakes: The 4-piston calipers bite hard, but pads wear faster on heavy tours. Check thickness annually.
- Winter Storage: Battery tenders are mandatory. Harley’s security system drains juice over time.

Common upgrades include aftermarket shocks (Öhlins or Legend Suspensions), taller windshields, and performance air filters. All available through—you guessed it—MOTOPARTS.store.

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Conclusion: The Open Road, Perfected

The 2021-2022 Road Glide Limited Classic isn’t just a motorcycle; it’s a passport to freedom. Yes, it’s heavy. Yes, the tech isn’t cutting-edge. But few bikes blend visceral thrills and touring practicality so seamlessly. From the engine’s soul-stirring growl to the way it cossets riders across continents, this Harley reminds us why we chase horizons.

For those who’ve ridden one, no explanation is needed. For those who haven’t, no explanation will suffice. The Road Glide Limited doesn’t just move you—it moves with you. And when the time comes to make it truly yours, MOTOPARTS.store will be waiting.

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Specifications sheet

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