I’m Not Typically a Harley Fan, But This Impressive New Touring Bike Might Change My Perspective

The 2025 Street Glide combines timeless design with advanced technology to create an impressive package.

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“Don’t overthink it. Just dive in, embrace whatever happens, and enjoy the journey.”

That’s the wisdom I received from a motorcycling expert when grappling with the idea of owning a motorcycle in New York City—a choice that seemed anything but sensible.

Fast forward ten years and my 2014 Triumph Bonneville T-100 has carried me through many highs and lows. I’ve managed to keep the shiny side up, create countless memories, and carry forth with virtually no regrets.

This is likely why I find myself drawn to Harley-Davidson’s 2025 Street Glide, which boasts an enticing mixture of characteristics that promise an exhilarating ride.

Naturally, its stunning appearance adds to its appeal.

Blending Tradition and Innovation

As a person whose current motorcycle is void of luxurious features like a windshield, cruise control, a gear indicator, or even a gas gauge, I’m somewhat cautious about bikes filled with modern conveniences—some might as well be a car.

The new Street Glide captures the ideal balance between classic allure and contemporary advancements, with its design harkening back to the past while the technology in its iconic batwing fairing embraces the present.

However, after numerous long rides on my chosen model, I’ve discovered the joy of experiencing more opulently equipped motorcycles, such as Indian’s Challenger and Harley’s own Low Rider ST.

The new Street Glide captures that balance of classic charm and modern innovation, with its design reminiscent of yesteryear and the advancements behind its iconic batwing fairing embodying the now.

Here are a few aspects that have caught my attention, despite not being a devoted Harley fan or a touring motorcycle enthusiast, prompting me to contemplate trading my trusted Bonnie.

1. The Fairing that Works

The batwing fairing might not appeal to everyone, yet this latest version is unrivaled in both appearance and functionality. It’s crafted with computational fluid dynamics to enhance the motorcycle’s aerodynamics and improve rider comfort. The integrated LED signature lighting is seamlessly designed and adequately brightens the road ahead.

2. Unmatched Power

While the idle of the brand’s modern motorcycles has been reduced to avoid the feeling that parts might start falling off at a traffic stop, the power has only improved. The Street Glide’s strength comes from a Milwaukee-Eight 117 liquid-cooled V-twin engine (displacement: ~1,917cc) that delivers 105 horsepower and 130 ft-lbs of torque at 3,250 rpm.

3. Touchscreen Experience

The 12.3-inch TFT Display might just tempt me into retiring my old-school phone mount. It lets you monitor critical motorcycle and journey information, switch between ride modes—Road, Sport, Rain, and custom—and utilize GPS navigation. (Though I have yet to find a built-in navigation system that surpasses Google Maps, I’m excited to give this one a try.)

4. Unleashing the Sound

Integrated audio helmets are fantastic—I’m a firm believer in my Sena Outrush R—but for the best overall safety, ease of use, and the ability to annoy pedestrians, a built-in system is unbeatable. The Street Glide features two fairing-mounted speakers powered by a 200-watt, four-channel amplifier, perfect for cranking up the soundtrack of your life—be it Wicked or any other genre you enjoy.

Pricing and Availability

The 2025 Street Glide, alongside other new Grand American Touring models like the Road King Special and Road Glide, is currently available at authorized Harley-Davidson dealerships globally. The starting price is $27,749, with additional options such as the chic black-on-black paint elevating that price significantly.

2025 Harley-Davidson Street Glide