2025 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special : The 2025 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a rolling testament to American engineering, blending brute power, cutting-edge tech, and head-turning style into a package that’s dominating highways worldwide. With a price tag of ₹41.78 lakh (ex-showroom) and upgrades that make even the 2024 model blush, this touring titan is rewriting the rules of long-distance riding. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s throttle into the details.
Launch Details: The 2025 Road Glide Special Hits the Road
Harley-Davidson unveiled the 2025 Road Glide Special as part of its January 2025 lineup, continuing the legacy of its iconic Touring series. While the core design remains faithful to the shark-nose fairing heritage, this year’s model introduces Firestorm paint options—a factory-custom finish with intricate metallic flake and depth previously reserved for CVO models. Available in six colors, including Alpine Green and Whiskey Fire, it’s a visual masterpiece.Deliveries began globally in February 2025, with India’s Harley-Davidson dealerships prioritizing pre-orders. The bike retains its “King of the Highway” status, targeting riders who demand comfort, tech, and unshakable road presence.
Design & Aesthetics: Shark-Nose Majesty Meets Modern Flair
The Road Glide Special’s design is a masterclass in form meeting function:
- Frame-Mounted Shark-Nose Fairing: Reduces wind buffeting and enhances stability at highway speeds.
- LED Lighting: Signature Daymaker® headlamps, fog lamps, and taillights for maximum visibility.
- Firestorm Paint: Multi-layered metallic finishes with hand-painted accents, rivaling aftermarket customs.
- Ergonomics: 720mm seat height, heated grips, and a plush two-up seat for marathon rides.
The 22.7-liter fuel tank and 380 kg kerb weight scream touring intent, while the 130mm ground clearance tackles uneven roads with ease.
Engine & Performance: Milwaukee-Eight® Muscle Unleashed
At its heart lies the Milwaukee-Eight® 117 V-Twin engine, a 1,923cc air/oil-cooled beast:
- Power: 92.5 bhp @ 5,250 rpm
- Torque: 158 Nm @ 3,250 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed Cruise Drive with slipper clutch
This engine pairs Harley’s classic rumble with modern refinement, offering three ride modes (Road, Rain, Sport) to adapt to conditions. The 0–100 km/h sprint takes 4.5 seconds, while the governed top speed sits at 177 km/h.
Technology & Features: Infotainment Meets Innovation
- Boom!™ Box GTS Infotainment: 6.5-inch TFT touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and voice command.
- Wireless Connectivity: Syncs with helmets for music, GPS, and calls.
- Advanced Safety Suite: Cornering ABS, traction control, tire pressure monitoring, and linked braking.
- Suspension: Showa® 49mm Dual Bending Valve forks + gas-charged rear shocks (preload adjustable).
The bike also features keyless ignition, a security system, and a 200-watt Harman Kardon® audio system with four speakers—perfect for drowning out wind noise.
Safety Features: Guardian Angel at 170 km/h
- Reflex™ Defensive Rider Systems: Cornering-enhanced ABS and traction control.
- LED Cornering Lights: Illuminate bends during leans.
- Vehicle Hold Control: Prevents rollback on inclines.
- Disc Brakes: Dual 320mm front discs + 300mm rear disc with Brembo® calipers.
The tubular steel frame and magnesium swingarm ensure rigidity, while the Michelin® Scorcher® tires (130/60B19 front, 180/55B18 rear) offer grip in all conditions.
Efficiency & Practicality: Touring Without Compromise
- Mileage: 16 kmpl (ARAI) – respectable for a 1.9L engine.
- Range: 360 km per tank (22.7L capacity).
- Storage: Lockable saddlebags (29L each) + optional Tour-Pak® trunk.
While not built for city commutes, the Road Glide Special’s 2.1m length and 1.66m wheelbase make it surprisingly nimble for its size.
Price & Availability: The 1%’s Touring Machine
Priced at ₹41.78 lakh in India, the Road Glide Special undercuts rivals like the BMW K 1600 GTL (₹43.5 lakh) but costs nearly double the Honda Gold Wing (₹27 lakh). Globally, it retails for $28,999 (US) and £26,500 (UK).Only 150 units are allocated to India annually, ensuring exclusivity. Buyers can opt for Harley’s H-D Connect® subscription for real-time diagnostics and stolen vehicle tracking.
Heritage & Evolution: From 1998 to 2025
The Road Glide debuted in 1998, introducing Harley’s frame-mounted fairing to reduce rider fatigue. Over 25+ years, it evolved from a niche model to a touring icon:
- 2009: Introduced the Twin Cam 96 engine.
- 2014: Adopted Project Rushmore upgrades (LED lighting, improved ergonomics).
- 2021: Switched to Milwaukee-Eight® 114 engine.
- 2024: Overhauled infotainment and suspension.
- 2025: Firestorm paint, refined ride modes, and enhanced connectivity.
Verdict: The Touring Titan Reigns Supreme
The 2025 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a lifestyle. With its fusion of classic styling, modern tech, and relentless comfort, it’s the ultimate choice for riders who refuse to compromise. While the price is steep, the Road Glide’s aura and capability justify every rupee.
Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special Q&A
Q: How does it compare to the 2024 model?
A: The 2025 edition adds Firestorm paint, updated ride modes, and a revised suspension setup for smoother rides.
Q: Is it suitable for short riders?
A: The 720mm seat height is accessible, but the 380kg weight demands confidence at low speeds.
Q: What’s the maintenance cost?
A: Service intervals every 8,000 km, costing ₹25,000–₹40,000 per visit.
Q: Can it handle Indian roads?
A: Yes, but avoid potholes—the low ground clearance (130mm) isn’t for off-roading.
Q: Why choose this over a CVO model?
A: The CVO Road Glide (₹55 lakh+) offers more power (121 hp) and exclusive finishes, but the Special balances value and prestige.