"Whether you think that you can, or that you can't, you are usually right." - Henry Ford
We were fortunate enough to be invited by the folks at Harley Davidson to Denver, Colorado to see, feel, and ride the 2010 Touring models. We also were lucky enough to test ride these bikes on some of the best stretches of highway that this country of ours has to offer. Though it may sound like a dream vacation, we only had two days of riding 200-300 miles per session in which to do all of the testing whereas when we road test a motorcycle for a magazine feature, we have four weeks or more of saddle time per bike. This short period of time to get to know the different models made for many hot laps where we would stop frequently to switch bikes, take photos, and talk about the differences in each bagger's specs and handling. This is an account of what we found during our 48 hours of power.
For the 2010 lineup Harley-Davidson has continued to put their touring bike segment at the front of its to-do list. Though the list of H-D's bagger models has stayed pretty much the same, a few bikes have morphed into different model designations along with some parts upgrades and only a single bike has dropped off the list entirely. One thing is certain in 2010, Harley is giving bagger enthusiasts even more of what we love and want with this assemblage of bikes.
After riding all of the Baggers that Harley-Davidson has to offer for 2010, we can say with all honesty that the MoCo has been keeping its eyes and ears open to what the touring bike consumer wants and needs. And in one fail swoop H-D has sent all other motorcycle companies running back to the drawing board.
With a few hundred miles on the complete line of Harley baggers, we found the bikes to be both mechanically sound as well as good looking. We are sure that with the inclusion of the new models for 2010 there truly is something for every one. Good Job H-D. Good Job Indeed.
Look for more in-depth road tests on the full line of 2010 H-D Touring bikes in future issues of Baggers and on baggersmag.com
Street Glide
For the rider who wants more of a stripped down hot rod bagger, Harley still has the FLHX Street Glide ($18,999.00) and it sees a few changes for 2010. An OEM 2-into-1 exhaust is the first thing that catches the eye. Then the new taillight setup, which removes the brake light from the center of the fender and employs the turn signals as the run, brake and turn lamps. Tre cool! The bike also comes standard with an attractive 18-inch front wheel, furthering the trickness of the Street Glide. While riding, the slammed stance of the FLHX makes it a bit more fun in the twisties due to the center of gravity being lower with its reduced-height seat, but we did have our floorboards scraping like crazy when carving the turns, but that the price of admission.
Electra Glide Classic
Gone is the Electra Glide Standard for 2010, but H-D still has the FLHTC Electra Glide Classic ($18,999.00). A moderately spec'd Batwing bike, the Classic gives you what you need and at an affordable price. Another good thing about the Classic is that you have a great bike with room to upgrade as needed. ABS and a security system are a few of the many available options. The Classic handles like a Harley touring bike should and felt a little quicker due to the fact that without all of the bells and whistles the Ultra and Limited posess it weighs in a few pounds lighter.