Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2019 Street Glide Special, a bike that has captured the hearts of many riders. This review isn't just about specs; it's about the experience, the feel, and whether this machine lives up to the legendary Street Glide name. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

Overview of the 2019 Street Glide Special

The 2019 Street Glide Special is a bagger that seamlessly blends style, performance, and comfort. As part of Harley-Davidson's iconic lineup, the Street Glide Special is known for its sleek design, powerful engine, and rider-friendly features. It’s built for those who crave long rides, weekend getaways, and turning heads wherever they go. The Street Glide Special stands out with its blacked-out components, low-profile stance, and stretched saddlebags. These design elements contribute to a modern and aggressive look that sets it apart from other touring bikes. Beyond aesthetics, the bike is designed to provide a comfortable and confident riding experience, making it a popular choice for both seasoned riders and those new to the touring scene.

One of the most significant aspects of the 2019 Street Glide Special is its Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine. This powerhouse delivers impressive torque and smooth power delivery, making it a joy to ride on the open road. The engine's responsiveness ensures that riders have ample power for passing, climbing hills, and cruising at highway speeds. Additionally, the bike features responsive suspension and linked braking, providing a controlled and stable ride. These features enhance rider confidence and contribute to overall safety, making the Street Glide Special a reliable and enjoyable touring machine. It is important to keep in mind that the technological innovations, such as the Boom! Box infotainment system and the Reflex Linked Brakes with ABS, provide not only convenience but also add to the safety and control that modern riders expect. The smooth integration of these features highlights Harley-Davidson's commitment to combining traditional styling with contemporary technology.

The 2019 Street Glide Special also offers a range of customization options, allowing riders to personalize their bikes to reflect their individual tastes and preferences. From custom paint jobs and chrome accessories to performance upgrades and comfort enhancements, the possibilities are endless. This level of customization enables riders to create a truly unique machine that stands out from the crowd. Harley-Davidson's extensive aftermarket support ensures that riders have access to a wide variety of parts and accessories, making it easy to tailor the Street Glide Special to their specific needs and desires. Whether you're looking to enhance the bike's performance, improve its comfort, or simply add a personal touch, the Street Glide Special offers a canvas for self-expression and creativity. The ability to transform the bike into a reflection of one's personality is a significant draw for many enthusiasts, adding to the Street Glide Special's enduring appeal.

Key Features and Specs

Let’s break down the core components that make this bike tick. Understanding the features and specifications of the 2019 Street Glide Special is crucial for appreciating its capabilities and performance. This section provides a detailed overview of the key aspects that define this iconic motorcycle, ensuring that riders have a comprehensive understanding of what makes it special. The detailed specifications offer insights into the engine, chassis, dimensions, and other essential elements that contribute to the bike's overall performance and ride quality.

Engine and Performance

At the heart of the 2019 Street Glide Special lies the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine. This engine is known for its robust performance and smooth operation, delivering ample power for a variety of riding conditions. The Milwaukee-Eight 114 is a significant upgrade from previous Harley-Davidson engines, offering improved torque, reduced vibration, and enhanced fuel efficiency. These improvements translate to a more enjoyable and comfortable riding experience, particularly on long journeys. The engine's design focuses on providing a broad powerband, ensuring that riders have access to plenty of power across the rev range. This makes the Street Glide Special responsive and capable in both city traffic and on the open road, providing the confidence and control that riders demand.

• Engine: Milwaukee-Eight 114
• Displacement: 114 cubic inches (1,868 cc)
• Torque: 123 lb-ft at 3,000 rpm
• Horsepower: Around 93 HP

The engine's performance is complemented by its refined engineering, which includes features like four-valve cylinder heads and dual spark plugs. These enhancements contribute to improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions, making the Milwaukee-Eight 114 a modern and environmentally conscious engine. The engine's smooth operation also enhances rider comfort, minimizing fatigue on long rides. Harley-Davidson's dedication to innovation and performance is evident in every aspect of the Milwaukee-Eight 114, making it a standout feature of the 2019 Street Glide Special.

Chassis and Handling

The 2019 Street Glide Special features a sturdy chassis designed for stability and comfort. The frame is engineered to provide a balanced and predictable ride, ensuring that riders feel confident in various road conditions. The suspension system includes front forks and rear shocks that are tuned to absorb bumps and vibrations, enhancing overall ride quality. The bike's handling is responsive and precise, allowing riders to navigate curves and turns with ease. The combination of a well-engineered chassis and responsive suspension contributes to a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience, making the Street Glide Special a capable and reliable touring machine.

• Front Suspension: 49mm forks with dual bending valve suspension
• Rear Suspension: Low-profile rear shocks with emulsion technology
• Brakes: Reflex Linked Brakes with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

The braking system on the 2019 Street Glide Special is designed to provide confident stopping power in a variety of conditions. The Reflex Linked Brakes with ABS offer enhanced control and stability, particularly in emergency situations. The ABS system prevents wheel lockup, allowing riders to maintain steering control and reduce the risk of skidding. The linked braking system automatically balances the front and rear brakes, optimizing stopping performance and enhancing overall safety. These advanced braking features provide riders with peace of mind, knowing that they have the technology to handle unexpected situations on the road.

Technology and Features

The Street Glide Special isn’t just about raw power; it’s packed with tech too. The 2019 Street Glide Special comes equipped with a range of advanced technology features designed to enhance the riding experience. These features include a Boom! Box infotainment system, which provides access to navigation, music, and communication functions. The infotainment system is integrated seamlessly into the bike's dashboard, offering a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls. Additionally, the bike includes features like cruise control, which allows riders to maintain a consistent speed on long rides, reducing fatigue and enhancing comfort. These technological enhancements contribute to a more enjoyable and connected riding experience, making the Street Glide Special a modern and sophisticated touring machine.

• Infotainment: Boom! Box 6.5GT with touchscreen display
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB
• Lighting: LED headlamp and fog lamps

The Boom! Box infotainment system is a standout feature of the 2019 Street Glide Special, offering a wide range of functions to keep riders entertained and informed on the road. The touchscreen display is easy to read and navigate, even in bright sunlight, and the system supports Bluetooth connectivity for smartphones and other devices. Riders can stream music, make phone calls, and access navigation information through the infotainment system, enhancing their overall riding experience. The system also includes voice recognition, allowing riders to control functions hands-free, further improving safety and convenience. Harley-Davidson's commitment to integrating technology into their motorcycles is evident in the Boom! Box system, making the Street Glide Special a cutting-edge touring machine.

Riding Experience

Okay, enough about the specs. How does this thing actually ride? Getting a feel for the 2019 Street Glide Special on the road is essential to understanding its capabilities and appeal. This section delves into the subjective aspects of riding the bike, focusing on comfort, handling, and overall enjoyment. Rider feedback provides valuable insights into how the Street Glide Special performs in various conditions, from city streets to open highways. The riding experience is influenced by factors such as ergonomics, suspension, and engine performance, all of which contribute to the overall sensation of being in control and connected to the road.

Comfort and Ergonomics

The 2019 Street Glide Special is designed with rider comfort in mind. The seat is contoured to provide support and cushioning, reducing fatigue on long rides. The handlebars are positioned to offer a comfortable reach, allowing riders to maintain a relaxed posture. The footpegs are placed in a natural position, further enhancing rider comfort. These ergonomic considerations ensure that riders can enjoy extended periods in the saddle without experiencing discomfort or strain. Harley-Davidson's attention to detail in designing the Street Glide Special's ergonomics contributes to a more enjoyable and comfortable riding experience.

The fairing on the 2019 Street Glide Special provides excellent wind protection, shielding riders from the elements and reducing wind fatigue. The fairing is designed to deflect wind away from the rider's body, creating a comfortable pocket of air. This is particularly beneficial on long rides, as it reduces the amount of energy required to maintain a steady position. The fairing also houses the bike's infotainment system and gauges, providing easy access to information and controls. The combination of wind protection and convenient access to technology enhances the overall riding experience, making the Street Glide Special a comfortable and capable touring machine.

Handling and Stability

On the road, the 2019 Street Glide Special feels planted and stable. The bike handles well in a variety of conditions, from smooth highways to winding backroads. The suspension system absorbs bumps and vibrations effectively, providing a smooth and controlled ride. The bike's weight is distributed evenly, contributing to its stability and balance. These handling characteristics make the Street Glide Special a confident and enjoyable ride, allowing riders to focus on the road ahead. The combination of a well-engineered chassis and responsive suspension ensures that the bike performs predictably and reliably in various situations.

The steering on the 2019 Street Glide Special is precise and responsive, allowing riders to navigate turns and curves with confidence. The bike's low center of gravity contributes to its stability, making it easy to maintain control at both high and low speeds. The brakes are powerful and provide excellent stopping power, further enhancing rider safety. These handling characteristics make the Street Glide Special a joy to ride, whether you're cruising down the highway or exploring winding mountain roads. The bike's overall performance is a testament to Harley-Davidson's commitment to engineering excellence and rider satisfaction.

Pros and Cons

Time for the nitty-gritty. Let's weigh the good with the not-so-good. Considering the pros and cons of the 2019 Street Glide Special is essential for making an informed decision about whether it's the right bike for you. This section provides a balanced assessment of the bike's strengths and weaknesses, highlighting the factors that may influence your purchase decision. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of the Street Glide Special can help you determine if it aligns with your riding preferences, needs, and budget.

Pros

• Powerful Engine: The Milwaukee-Eight 114 delivers impressive torque and smooth power.
• Comfortable Ride: Ergonomic design and effective suspension make for a comfortable experience.
• Stylish Design: The blacked-out components and sleek profile give it a distinctive look.
• Advanced Technology: The Boom! Box infotainment system and other features enhance the riding experience.

Cons

• Price: It can be a bit expensive compared to other touring bikes.
• Weight: The bike is heavy, which can be a challenge for some riders at low speeds.
• Heat: The engine can generate a lot of heat, especially in warm weather.

Final Verdict

So, is the 2019 Street Glide Special worth it? Absolutely. If you're looking for a bike that combines style, power, and comfort, this is a fantastic choice. While it may have a few drawbacks, the overall riding experience and iconic status make it a top contender in the touring bike category. The 2019 Street Glide Special stands out as a well-rounded and capable touring machine that offers a blend of classic styling and modern technology. Its powerful engine, comfortable ergonomics, and advanced features make it a joy to ride on long journeys. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to the touring scene, the Street Glide Special provides a confident and enjoyable experience. While the price and weight may be considerations, the overall performance and iconic status of the bike make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a premium touring motorcycle.