A four-year effort by Harley-Davidson called Project Rushmore has culminated in a number of features and improvements to the 2014 touring models, including the Street Glide Special here. Though it does not get the much ballyhooed partial liquid-cooling system that was introduced exclusively on the Ultra Limited, CVO Limited and Tri-Glide Ultra models for 2014, the Street Glide does get the improved “High Output” 103-cubic-inch (1,690cc) air-cooled V-twin with new cams and high-flow airbox.
A major change to the touring models is a beefier new 49mm fork replacing the 43.1mm version, and a new triple clamp with sealed bearings. The single-spar, rigid backbone steel frame, rear suspension and engine mounts remain unchanged.
The basic Street Glide ($20,399) is Harley-Davidson’s best selling model, and in addition to the features listed in the introduction to this article, the Special version ($22,499) we test here is a new model for 2014. It also includes an electronic security key fob (optional on the base model) that disables the starting system when it is carried several feet away from the bike. While anti-lock brakes are a $795 option on the base model Street Glide, they’re standard on the Special, and are an updated version referred to as Reflex Linked ABS. The front and rear brakes operate independently below 20-25 mph, but at greater speeds the linking system activates and a proportional control valve sends an appropriate amount of braking force to each wheel.
Another major feature of the Special model, in addition to its new gauges, is a more sophisticated sound and infotainment system that carries a 6.5-inch color screen as opposed to the standard model’s 4.3-inch screen. This Harmon Kardon system integrates audio, communications and navigation, and it can be controlled by audio prompts when paired with a wired headset. While there’s too much to tell here, note that the system works well and provides exceptional sound.
2014 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special
Base Price: $22,499
Price as Tested: $23,099 (color option)
Warranty: 2 yrs., unltd. miles
Website: harley-davidson.com
Engine
Type: Air-cooled, transverse, 45-degree V-twin
Displacement: 1,690cc (103ci)
Bore x Stroke: 98.4 x 111.1mm
Compression Ratio: 9.7:1
Valve Train: OHV, 2 valves per cyl.
Valve Insp. Interval: NA (self-adjusting)
Fuel Delivery: Electronic sequential port fuel injection
Lubrication System: Dry sump, 4.0-qt. cap.
Transmission: 6-speed, hydraulically actuated wet clutch
Final Drive: Belt
Electrical
Ignition: Electronic
Charging Output: 650 watts max.
Battery: 12V 28AH
Chassis
Frame: Tubular-steel double cradle w/ two-piece backbone
Wheelbase: 64.0 in.
Rake/Trail: 26 degrees/6.8 in.
Seat Height: 27.4 in.
Suspension, Front: 49mm stanchions, no adj., 4.6-in. travel
Rear: Dual shocks, remotely adj. spring preload, 2.13-in. travel
Brakes, Front: Dual discs w/ opposed 4-piston calipers, linked & ABS
Rear: Single disc w/ opposed 4-piston caliper, linked & ABS
Wheels, Front: Cast, 3.50 x 19 in.
Rear: Cast, 5.00 x 16 in.
Tires, Front: 130/60-H19
Rear: 180/65-H16
Wet Weight: 808 lbs.
Load Capacity: 552 lbs.
GVWR: 1,360 lbs.
Performance
Fuel Capacity: 6.0 gals., last 1.0 gal. warning light on
MPG: 91 PON min. (high/avg/low) 48.0/39.7/36.7
Estimated Range: 238 miles
Indicated RPM at 60 MPH: 2,250
(This Rushing More and Getting More sidebar was published as part of the American Baggers comparison in the February 2014 issue of Rider magazine. For the full article, CLICK HERE.)
