Road Glide Custom (FLTRX) $18,999
The hot-rod bagger look is well, pretty damn hot these days, and Harley's Road Glide Custom is just that. It's billed as "a tougher, younger vision of the shark-nose Harley-Davidson classic," according to Harley, and to add to the hot rod feel, it's available in red or black, but two-tone paint options are also available.
The RG Custom is based on a single-spar, rigid backbone frame and features air-adjustable, 1-inch lowered rear shocks to fit different rider styles and cargo loads. For wheels, black, slotted cast aluminum rollers (18-inch front, 16-inch rear) were chosen for their maximal stiffness and minimal weight. The power plant is a rubber-mounted, black-powdercoated 96ci Twin Cam with chrome covers that also features the ESPFI intake system that self-adjusts to different riding conditions and altitudes. The RG Custom features a two-into-one with single 4-inch diameter muffler exhaust system that was designed to minimize heat exposure to the rider and passenger. A six-speed Cruise Drive Transmission with a tall top gear for quiet, economical highway cruising brings power to the rear wheel-wrapped in a Dunlop D407 Multi-Tread 180/65-16 skin that features a harder center tread compound and softer shoulder compound. And to stop the bike are dual rotors and two four-piston Brembo calipers up front with a single disc in the rear and a rear four-piston Brembo caliper. The handlebar features Harley's Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system, which allows for an easy upgrade to optional cruise control. The GTX nylon hard bags have been injection molded and feature color-matched latches, and the 40-watt Advanced Audio System by Harman/Kardon comes standard in the fairing; also on the fairing is a low and dark windshield. And in between the bags and rear fender, filler panels have been added to remove the gaps. Also in the rear, a new taillight assembly and two red LED brake/tail/turn lamps lets those behind you know where you're at, and at the bottom of the rear fender you'll also find the Tri-line LED strips as an added bonus.
Riding the RG Custom for the short time I was allotted was quite the experience. Its lowered rear suspension did not seem to affect handling characteristics in the mountain switchbacks. And the custom bucket seat with perforated insert kept my derriere comfortably in place. Throttle response was quick and sharp with the 96ci motor and the Brembo system works phenomenally. My experience on the Road Glide Custom was somewhat limited as editors from different pubs battled it out for seat time on the hot new bagger. What time I did spend, I rather enjoyed. I think HOT BIKE needs this bike for a long-term review, hint hint.