Harley_Davidson_FLTR_Road_Glide_MY_OPINION
The 1998 Harley-Davidson FLTR/FLTRI Road Glide began rolling off the assembly line at York, Pennsylvania. This new model, only available in North America, features an enclosed twin-oval reflector optic headlight, low windshield and sleek frame-mounted fairing, which set it apart from the rest of the Touring family.
Harley_Davidson_FLTR_Road_Glide_MY_OPINION
The FLTR-I Road Glide sports a fuel-injected 1450cc engine, belt final drive, full cockpit instrumentation, and an aerodynamic frame-mounted fairing. A stereo, color matched saddlebags, air adjustable rear shocks, and cruise control are included in the package. The paint and chrome are the best in the industry. The options list is one of the most extensive in motorcycling, allowing the owner to personalize the bike however he or she so desires. H-D's best and least ostentatious touring bike is one of the last heavyweights that still looks and feels like a motorcycle. A big, comfortable motorcycle to be sure, but still a motorcycle. It is one of the few motorcycles in its class that is enjoyable on two lane roads as well as the interstate. I have little personal need for a heavyweight touring bike, but if I did, this would be the one.
Harley_Davidson_FLTR_Road_Glide_MY_OPINION
The Harley Davidson touring line is built around the idea that no matter how much comfort you load onto a motorcycle, nothing feels as fine as the wide open road rolling by. So when our touring motorcycles underwent a major update last year, we went to work on the essence of the experience. The ride. We re-engineered our touring frame. Lowered the seat. Lengthened the wheelbase. It enhanced everything riders love about a touring Harley. In a tight parking lot, you have nimble low speed handling. On the highway, the self-centering steering is more rock solid than ever. It is only fitting that the first all-new Harley built on the redesigned frame can be something special. The Road Glide takes touring in a new direction. Notice the custom influence. It starts with a sleek frame-mounted fairing and low windshield exclusive to this motorcycle. On front in an enclosed twin-oval reflector optic headlight. There is a unique new "H-D" embossed seat and pillion, which accepts a rider backrest. The overall effect is pure custom touring. The fairing interior is also new. A clean looking round gauge package wraps cockpit-style around the rider. If the mood strikes for background music, you are in for another treat. On all 1998 models with stereos, we have completely re-tooled the sound system. You can rock everything between here and the horizon without distortion. Even the controls are new and fidget free. And speaking of control, the special Road Glide handlebar includes all the wiring and switches you need to upgrade your ride according to your individual tastes on the road. Like all 1998 tourers, there is an air-adjustable suspension. The luggage has secure barrel type locks and quick release hardware. There is an accessory plug under the seat for electrical hook-ups. And one thing that truly sets Harley Davidson style apart. The chromed Evolution® V-twin (which gets an improved clutch with reduced lever effort for 1998). There is a choice of ways to get a Road Glide. Carburetor or fuel injection. And you can choose our stock production paint, or a midnight red & champagne pearl 95th Anniversary Edition with color matched cast wheels, cloisonne emblem and numbered plate. Signifying that touring on this bike will be one rare form of pleasure.
Harley_Davidson_FLTR_Road_Glide_MY_OPINION
Although I have only 402 miles so far, I can make this a simple review. Add the big bore 95 cubic inch stage 2 or 3, and enjoy the nicest ride of your life. The only thing wrong is it seems you can get off and have a smoke, then jog back to the bike. (Yikes) Once you are cruising, no problem but she is just under powered. I must admit I added over $6,000.00 in goodies (Road Zeppelin Air Seat, chrome stuff, Screaming Eagle Pipes, and the stage 1 kit for some examples) to make my first statement. I have had comments on this machine every place I have taken it, and yes they are all WOW !
You might also consider the extra tall windshield for comfort also as it adds 6" and reduces the wind buffet.
This baby is smooth as silk, the fixed fairing takes just an hour to get used to, and in fact you will love it on the open road. The stereo, cruise control, and other features give you a first class ride.
This machine is for Harley lovers, as a 2002 Wing is hard to beat unless you have to have the HOG ! Remember, it will take $30,000.00 to make this bike the way it should be. A true reality check indeed !! However, if you are going to keep this monster and really ride it (This is a trip bike, not an in town bar hopper) you will love it.