HARLEY-DAVIDSON riders might not realize there is a safety feature that could help avert accidents.
Several Harley-Davidson motorcycles, such as the 2024 Road Glide, are equipped with concealed features intended to improve safety and comfort, which many new owners often overlook.
Since its inception in 1903, Harley-Davidson has played a significant role in American motorcycling , with the 2024 Road Glide showcasing its cutting-edge engineering.
Renowned for its streamlined appearance, the 2024 Road Glide integrates features that enhance riding safety, particularly on inclines.
Among these is the Hill Hold Control (also referred to as Vehicle Hold Control), a feature designed to stop your bike from slipping backward on slopes, as reported by Slash Gear .
When the bike comes to a halt, applying more pressure on the brake holds it steady, offering you greater control on steep terrains.
This system utilizes brake pressure to secure the bike until you’re ready to proceed.
However, it only functions for brief stops.
If idle for five minutes, it disengages to avoid overheating.
There are more features lurking beneath the surface.
The bike’s accessory mode enables riders to monitor critical information, such as fuel levels, without igniting the engine.
To access it, hold down the trip switch, and the bike’s systems activate, allowing everything to run without draining the battery.
Additionally, if you wish to check your surroundings, the headlamp can be activated using the flash-to-pass button without starting the bike.
Just remember not to keep the bike in accessory mode for extended periods; it will automatically shut off after two hours to conserve battery life.
For those who transport their motorcycle, the Road Glide includes a Transport Mode.
This mode keeps the bike’s security features active without setting off alarms during transit.
Harley-Davidson dealership closures in 2024
Over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships are located across America.
Nonetheless, numerous stores have closed for various reasons throughout 2024—some without providing explanations.
Here’s a list of several Harley-Davidson locations that closed last year and their reasons for doing so:
The San Francisco store shut down in June after 110 years of operation due to ‘chaos’ resulting from new management .
Miracle City Harley-Davidson in Titusville, Florida, closed its doors in September without offering any explanation .
Harley-Davidson’s iconic location in New York City ceased operations on September 28, with the owner attributing the closure to economic challenges.
Reiman’s Harley-Davidson dealership in Kewanee, Illinois, closed in October after the owners sold the business to Walter Brothers Harley Davidson in Peoria, Illinois.
Windy City Motorcycle Company opened a two-story dealership at Parkway Bank Park in Rosemont, Illinois in 2019 but announced last November that it would close due to declining sales.
Additionally, an HD dealership in West Bend, Wisconsin, temporarily closed for the season from November 2 until April 1, 2025.
This feature is simple to activate, and once enabled, the motorcycle cannot be started without the detection of the key fob.
This proves useful when moving the bike without triggering a full security lock.
Adjusting the suspension is another feature aimed at enhancing the ride.
FOR CONTROL AND COMFORT
The 2024 Road Glide permits adjustments to the rear suspension to correspond with your weight, riding style, and road conditions.
The rear suspension includes compression and rebound damping settings, which dictate how the motorcycle reacts to bumps and returns to its typical position.
Proper adjustments can improve overall riding comfort; however, it’s crucial to avoid excessive alterations to prevent damage to the shocks.
The front brake lever is also adjustable, a feature that not everyone may know about.
Riders with smaller hands or those who prefer an immediate brake response can customize the lever’s distance from the handlebar to meet their preferences.
This minor tweak can significantly enhance comfort and control.
Furthermore, for rides in colder weather, the 2024 Road Glide is equipped with built-in power ports to support heated gear like gloves or vests.
These power ports are conveniently located under the seat, ensuring warmth for riders without the requirement for additional devices or modifications.