Why is the Harley Davidson Road King Special, so Special? A large cruiser motorcycle with lots of luggage space and supreme …
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RIDERS of Harley-Davidson motorcycles are just discovering a handy, lesser-known feature that can be utilized even when the bike’s engine is turned off.
This renowned brand, cherished throughout the US, frequently embeds a variety of innovative capabilities into their bikes – many of which may go unnoticed by riders.
While the bike’s features are detailed in the owner’s manual, it’s not common for riders to consult it unless they’re seeking something specific.
Take the 2024 Road Glide, for instance; it comes with an accessory mode that allows interaction with the bike’s electronic systems without needing to start the engine.
Activating this mode is quite straightforward: simply press and hold the trip switch on the key fob. This powers the instrument panel and accessory circuit while keeping the headlamp and turn signal lamps off.
In accessory mode, the Infotainment Control Unit (IFCU) provides crucial information, such as the fuel gauge and odometer, letting you monitor fuel status and mileage without starting the engine.
This can be particularly useful if you need to briefly power the headlamp to survey your surroundings.
Once you’re finished, you can turn the bike off again by pressing and holding the trip switch once more.
However, it’s worth noting that accessory mode is intended for short-term usage; leaving the bike in this mode for an extended period can lead to battery drain.
If the motorcycle remains in accessory mode for two hours, it will automatically shut down to avoid complete battery discharge. Should you need to re-engage the mode after it has shut off automatically, just press and hold the trip switch to resume.
Overall, this feature serves as a practical method to check essential information and adjust settings while conserving energy .
This comes as a biker recently undertook a 12,000-mile journey on a Harley Davidson and commended its robust engine – while also noting a frustrating issue.
The bike’s engine delivered impressive power, offering smooth acceleration coupled with a raw, exhilarating roar.
The CVO Pan America showcased strong acceleration across various speeds and slowed down effortlessly, making it more manageable on rough terrains.
The seat provided outstanding comfort, enabling long rides to be comfortable, including a 1,025-mile journey in under 24 hours.
Aesthetically, the Pan America was a head-turner, boasting an aggressive fairing and appearance reminiscent of a 1960s muscle car rather than the bulkier adventure bikes popular in the 70s.
Yet, the bike was not without its flaws.
One major drawback was the absence of a standard 12V accessory point, which frustrated the rider, necessitating the use of an adapter or direct wiring to the battery.
The most pressing issue, however, was the intermittent dropout of fourth gear during hard accelerations.
Harley-Davidson faces significant obstacles in the coming year as the European Union prepares to impose $28 billion in tariffs on US goods, including motorcycles, starting April 1.
As a result, the iconic brand may experience price increases in Europe , exacerbating its already considerable challenges.
Harley-Davidson Closures in 2024
There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships across the United States.
However, numerous locations have closed for various reasons throughout 2024 – sometimes without any explanation.
Below is a list of some Harley-Davidson dealerships that have closed this year and their reasons for closure:
A location in San Francisco closed in June 2024 after 110 years due to ‘chaos’ from new management .
Miracle City Harley-Davidson in Titusville, Florida, closed in September 2024 with no explanation provided .
Harley-Davidson’s legacy location in New York City shut its doors on September 28, 2024, with the owner citing economic difficulties .
Reiman’s Harley-Davidson dealership in Kewanee, Illinois, closed in October 2024 after the owners sold the business to the Walter Brothers Harley Davidson dealership in Peoria, Illinois.
Another Illinois dealership closed in November 2024.
Additionally, the dealership in West Bend, Wisconsin, is temporarily closing for the season from November 2 until April 1, 2024.
In 2025, Hideout Harley-Davidson in Missouri announced its closure at the end of March.
Harley-Davidson motorcycle riders are beginning to discover a valuable, lesser-known feature that can be utilized even when the engine is not running.
The iconic brand, cherished across the United States, frequently integrates an array of cutting-edge features into their bikes, many of which may go unnoticed by riders.
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While the owner’s manual provides details about the bike’s features, it’s common for riders not to consult it unless they have a specific query.
For instance, the 2024 Road Glide is equipped with a practical accessory mode, allowing users to engage with the bike’s electronic systems without needing to start the engine.
Engaging this mode is straightforward: simply press and hold the trip switch on the key fob. This activates the instruments and accessory circuit while disabling both the headlamp and turn signal lights.
In accessory mode, the Infotainment Control Unit (IFCU) displays crucial information, such as the fuel gauge and odometer, enabling you to track fuel levels and mileage without starting the engine.
This is particularly handy for instances where you may wish to briefly turn on the headlamp to assess your surroundings.
After you’ve completed your checks, you can turn off the bike again by pressing and holding the trip switch.
However, it’s important to note that accessory mode is designed for short-term use, as prolonged activation can deplete the battery.
If the motorcycle remains in accessory mode for two hours, it will automatically shut down to safeguard against full battery drain. Should you need to utilize the mode once more after this automatic shutdown, just press and hold the trip switch to reactivate it.
Overall, this feature offers an efficient way to access essential information and adjust settings while conserving energy.
This comes in light of a rider who recently embarked on a 12,000-mile journey on a Harley Davidson and praised its powerful engine, yet pointed out a frustrating problem.
Harley-Davidson’s 2025 Lineup: 7 New Bikes Unveiled
The motorcycle’s engine delivered robust power, ensuring smooth acceleration with an exhilarating roar.
The CVO Pan America boasted impressive acceleration from low to high speeds while also providing quick deceleration, facilitating control on uneven roads.
Its seat was remarkably comfortable, making lengthy rides effortlessly manageable, including a notable 1,025-mile journey in under 24 hours.
Aesthetically, the Pan America certainly turned heads with its aggressive fairing and presence, reminiscent more of a 1960s muscle car than the bulkier adventure bikes of the 1970s.
Nonetheless, not all aspects of the motorcycle were perfect.
The absence of a standard 12V accessory point frustrated the rider, necessitating the use of an adapter or directly wiring gear to the battery.
Additionally, the most concerning issue was the unexpected drop-out of the fourth gear during periods of hard acceleration.
Harley-Davidson faces considerable challenges in the upcoming year, especially with the European Union set to impose $28 billion in tariffs on U.S. goods, including motorcycles, beginning April 1.
This historic brand is expected to see price increases in Europe, further exacerbating its existing challenges.
Harley-Davidson Store Closures in 2024
There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships located throughout America.
However, several locations have closed their doors for various reasons throughout 2024, often without any explanation.
Here’s a list of some Harley-Davidson locations that have shut down this year, along with their closures’ reasons:
One outlet in San Francisco shut down in June 2024 after 110 years due to ‘chaos’ caused by new management.
Miracle City Harley-Davidson in Titusville, Florida, closed in September 2024, with no provided reason.
The iconic New York City location ceased operations on September 28, 2024, with the owner attributing the closure to economic troubles.
Reiman’s Harley-Davidson in Kewanee, Illinois, closed its doors in October 2024 after the owners sold the business to the Walter Brothers Harley Davidson dealership in Peoria, Illinois.
Another Illinois dealership also closed in November 2024.
Additionally, a dealership in West Bend, Wisconsin, will temporarily shut down for the season from November 2 until April 1, 2024.
Looking ahead to 2025, Hideout Harley-Davidson in Missouri has announced it will close at the end of March.
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.
HARLEY-DAVIDSON enthusiasts might not be aware of a vital safety feature that could help avert accidents.
Several Harley-Davidson motorcycles, including the 2024 Road Glide, are equipped with hidden functionalities aimed at boosting safety and comfort, which often escape the notice of new riders.
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Credit: Getty
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Credit: Shutterstock
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Credit: Getty
Since 1903, Harley-Davidson has played an integral role in American motorcycling, with the 2024 Road Glide exemplifying its cutting-edge engineering.
The 2024 Road Glide is celebrated for its stylish design and features that prioritize safety while riding, particularly on inclines.
Among these is the Hill Hold Control (also known as Vehicle Hold Control), which prevents the motorcycle from rolling backwards on slopes, as noted by Slash Gear.
When the bike is stationary, applying additional brake pressure keeps it secured in place, providing more control when starting on an incline.
This feature utilizes brake pressure to lock the bike until you’re ready to proceed.
However, it functions best for short stops.
If left inactive for five minutes, it disengages automatically to avoid overheating.
There’s more than just this feature hiding in plain sight.
The accessory mode allows riders to view crucial information, including fuel levels, without needing to start the engine.
To activate this, simply press and hold the trip switch; the bike’s systems turn on, ensuring everything stays operational without draining the battery.
Harley-Davidson’s 2025 Lineup: 7 New Bikes Unveiled
If you need to assess your environment, you can also turn on the headlamp using the flash-to-pass button without starting the engine.
However, it’s important not to leave the bike in accessory mode for too long. After two hours, it will automatically turn off to conserve battery life.
For riders who frequently transport their bikes, the Road Glide is equipped with a Transport Mode.
This mode keeps the bike’s security system active without setting off alarms during transit.
Harley-Davidson closures in 2024
Over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships operate across the United States.
However, numerous locations closed in 2024 for various reasons, with little explanation provided.
Below are a few Harley-Davidson dealerships that closed last year, along with their reasons for shutting down:
The San Francisco dealership closed in June after 110 years due to ‘chaos’ caused by new management.
Miracle City Harley-Davidson in Titusville, Florida, closed in September with no provided reason.
Harley-Davidson’s iconic location in New York City shuttered its doors on September 28, with the owner citing economic issues.
Reiman’s Harley-Davidson in Kewanee, Illinois, also closed in October, after the owners sold the business to the Walter Brothers Harley Davidson in Peoria, Illinois.
Windy City Motorcycle Company opened a two-story dealership in Parkway Bank Park in Rosemont, Illinois, in 2019, but announced last November that it would close due to a decline in sales.
Additionally, a Harley-Davidson dealership in West Bend, Wisconsin, temporarily closed for the season from November 2 until April 1, 2025.
Activating these features is simple, and once engaged, the bike can’t be started until it recognizes the key fob.
This is especially useful when relocating your bike without triggering the full security system.
Another feature that enhances the ride is the adjustable suspension.
FOR CONTROL AND COMFORT
The 2024 Road Glide permits rear suspension adjustments tailored to your weight, riding style, and road conditions.
Additionally, the rear suspension includes settings for compression and rebound damping, influencing how the bike reacts to bumps and returns to a neutral position.
Proper adjustments can vastly improve the ride, but caution is needed not to overdo it, as this may damage the shocks.
The front brake lever is also adjustable, a feature many may overlook.
Riders with smaller hands or those favoring a more responsive brake feel can customize the lever distance from the handlebar according to their preferences.
Though a minor change, this adjustment significantly enhances comfort and control.
Moreover, for rides in colder weather, the 2024 Road Glide has integrated power ports for heated gear like gloves or vests.
These ports are conveniently positioned beneath the seat, allowing riders to stay warm without the need for additional devices or modifications.
HARLEY-Davidson has introduced its most powerful motorcycle ever available for public roads, but a significant portion of the fanbase is expressing dissatisfaction with the unveiling.
The iconic motorcycle manufacturer showcased their 2025 CVO Road Glide RR in a promotional video shared on social media, following its announcement at a press conference held in Austin, Texas.
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The new CVO Road Glide RR is designed on Harley’s touring platform and features a 131 cubic-inch engine that delivers an impressive 153 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque.
However, aspiring owners may find it challenging to obtain one, as only 131 units of this model will be produced, and it carries a hefty starting price of $110,000.
This price point marks the highest ever set by the company for one of its motorcycles, which is said to honor its participation in the renowned “King of the Baggers” motorcycle race series.
During the press event, Jason Kehl, Harley’s Product Development Leader, remarked: “A project like this, a motorcycle of this exclusivity, hand-crafted with only 131 units, wouldn’t be viable without the complete backing of the company.
“This is a ‘factory motorcycle.’ Harley Davidson has referred to that term, pertaining to racing, since 1914.”
For those unaware, Mission King of the Baggers features Harley’s heavier bikes – equipped with fairings and saddlebags – competing against their sole American competitor, Indian Motorcycle.
With this latest model, Harley aims to capitalize on the growing popularity of the racing series, although the response from fans has not met the company’s expectations.
In comments on the unveiling video shared on Facebook, many users voiced their confusion regarding Harley’s choice to launch such an expensive motorcycle.
One commenter said: “Yeah, this is just what people want right now in this economy…spending $150,000 on a Harley after taxes.”
Another remarked: “This is an answer to a question no one asked. You already make $30K bikes with technology that can’t compete against Japanese models priced a third less.”
Harley-Davidson riders point to glaring ‘oversight’ by brand after chain’s stock plummets & dealerships close for good
“Instead of addressing that – you roll out this?”
A third user commented: “If this was the surprise you teased for three quarters, you’re going to disappoint a majority of your audience.
“You’ve missed your target, a swing and miss, HD.”
However, not all feedback was negative.
An optimistic user stated: “For someone who desires the absolute best…here’s your motorcycle, and if I could, I certainly would be interested.”
In a similar vein, Indian released its own race replica, the Challenger RR, in 2023, which was intended strictly for track use—but sales were poor.
Only 29 units were produced, initially priced at $92,229, and the Challenger RR is still available at various dealers for less than the original cost.
In recent months, shares of Harley-Davidson have declined, with motorcycle sales witnessing a third consecutive annual drop.
Escalating prices and interest rates have largely deterred potential buyers.
Harley-Davidson closures in 2024
There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships around the United States.
Nevertheless, various locations have closed for numerous reasons throughout 2024, with little explanation provided.
Below is a list of some Harley-Davidson outlets that have shut down this year:
The San Francisco location closed in June after 110 years of operation due to ‘chaos’ caused by new management.
Miracle City Harley-Davidson in Titusville, Florida, ceased operations in September with no reason specified.
Harley-Davidson’s landmark shop in New York City closed on September 28, with the owner citing economic challenges.
Reiman’s Harley-Davidson dealership in Kewanee, Illinois, shut its doors in October after the ownership transferred the business to the Walter Brothers Harley Davidson dealership in Peoria, Illinois.
Additionally, the dealership in West Bend, Wisconsin, will be temporarily closing for the season from November 2 until April 1, 2024.
HARLEY-Davidson seems poised to refresh one of its most popular accessories, generating excitement among fans eager to see the brand’s new offerings for the coming year.
The motorbike company has allegedly submitted a patent for this new design in Europe.
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2Credit: Harley Davidson
The patent details a redesigned Tour-Pak luggage for touring models such as the Road Glide and Street Glide, as reported by Top Speed.
These Tour-Paks are storage containers with watertight latches, designed for riders who need to carry essentials on extended journeys.
Although they have been a staple accessory for Harley bikes, it’s been ten years since their last significant design update, leading to a demand for a refresh.
The new patent suggests a redesigned top box capable of separating storage into two compartments.
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These updated Tour-Paks are notably thicker and feature a “hump” at the ends, which alters the angle at which they sit on the bike’s rear.
They also come with a passenger headrest, allowing the second rider to comfortably lean back rather than holding tightly to the driver.
Additionally, the design includes two visible speakers for music enjoyment from the backseat.
The overall layout remains similar to the original model, opening from right to left with a key.
However, it seems that there is an opening at the back of the pack, potentially intended for securing valuables.
While the implications of this Tour-Pak redesign for the brand’s future remain unclear, there is a growing interest in Harley-Davidson’s touring offerings.
‘What about the warranties?’ cry drivers after Harley-Davidson dealership closes – its nearest location is an hour away
This storage solution could either accompany a new motorcycle model or serve as an upgrade accessory for existing rides.
Typically, Harley-Davidson unveils its new model lineup in January, so fans can expect clarity on this soon.
The U.S. Sun has contacted the brand for their comments on the newly filed patent.
MORE HARLEY NEWS
Last year, the company launched a 120th-anniversary edition of the Road Glide Special, with only 1,600 units produced.
This bike is powered by a Milwaukee-Eight 114 cubic-inch engine, delivering a powerful 1868cc V-twin with 93bhp and 117 ft-lb of torque.
It also features cruise control functionality and a Boom! Box GTS Infotainment system.
Harley-Davidson marked the debut of this model with a special homecoming festival.
Meanwhile, a dealership representing the iconic motorcycle brand is unexpectedly shutting down after relocation plans fell through.
The store was set to move to a nearby arena but ultimately did not happen.
This comes as Harley-Davidson’s CEO has announced a new business collaboration which may bring an iconic race to international locations.
Motorcycle racers in Barcelona, Spain are eager to ride the beloved American motorcycles following this surprising announcement.