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Harley-Davidson Touring: Road King, Electra Glide and what to check
Harley-Davidson Touring — the range of large touring motorcycles, produced since 1980, including Road King, Electra Glide, Street Glide and other models. We look at the generations, engines and what to check when buying a used motorcycle.
Touring in brief
Touring — the Harley-Davidson range of large touring motorcycles, designed for long journeys. The range includes Road King, Street Glide, Road Glide, Electra Glide and Ultra Limited.
These motorcycles are known for their high comfort, wind protection, saddlebags and powerful engines. Due to their large mass, they are suitable for experienced riders.
Generations — what's the difference
The first Touring models (from 1980) had rubber engine mounts, reducing vibration. Later, engines changed — Evolution, Twin Cam 88, Twin Cam 96.
The 2014 model was updated (Project Rushmore) — liquid-cooled cylinder heads, new infotainment system. The Milwaukee-Eight engine arrived in 2017.
Engine and transmission
Engines — V-twin, from around 1340cc to over 1700cc Milwaukee-Eight. They are powerful and suitable for long journeys.
Transmission — manual, belt-driven. Newer models have ABS, cruise control and more electronics.
What to check when buying a used Touring
For Twin Cam versions, check the cam chain tensioners — they are a known weak point. Check for oil leaks.
Check the electrics, infotainment system, sound system and seats. Inspect the brakes, ABS and rear shock absorbers.
Check for non-original modifications, especially to the exhaust system. Inspect the service history and paperwork.
Trim levels and versions
Trim levels vary by year and market; below are the main versions.
Road King
From 1994Classic version with a windscreen and seats.
- Classic looks
- Removable windscreen
- Seats
Electra Glide
From 1980Large touring version with upholstery.
- Front upholstery
- Often comes with a sound system
- Plenty of comfort
Street Glide
From 2006A more sporty touring version.
- Trim on the steering wheel
- Seats
- Often comes with a sound system
Ultra Limited
By yearThe top-of-the-range version.
- Often — packed with kit
- Often — heated
- Maximum comfort
Touring versions compared
| Road King | Street Glide | Ultra Limited | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Classics | For a sportier style | For maximum comfort |
| Wind protection | Sunroof | Trim | Generous equipment |
| Equipment | Base | Well-equipped | Top-spec |
| Weight | Heavy | Heavy | Heaviest |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Mid-range | High-end | High-end |
Classic enthusiasts will love the Road King, while long-distance travellers should consider the Electra Glide or Ultra Limited.
Pros
- Excellent comfort for long journeys
- Powerful engine
- Generous equipment
- Holds its value well
Cons
- Hefty weight
- Expensive to maintain
- Twin Cam chain tensioners
Frequently asked questions
Which Touring model is best?
It depends on your needs: Road King for the classics, Street Glide for style, Ultra Limited for comfort.
What's the Twin Cam's weak spot?
The obvious weak spot is the timing chain tensioners.
Are they suitable for beginners?
No, they're big and heavy.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
