The 2025 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® offers a carefully engineered combination of power, aerodynamics, and technology designed to meet the demands of serious touring riders. It features a unique Sharknose fairing and a liquid-cooled Milwaukee-Eight® 117 engine that delivers high torque and efficient performance. Its design and technology aim to improve handling, rider comfort, and safety while providing essential tools for navigation and entertainment.
Aerodynamic Design Tailored for Stability
The defining characteristic of the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® is its Sharknose fairing, developed using computational fluid dynamics to optimize airflow and minimize wind buffeting around the rider’s helmet. This fairing enhances aerodynamic efficiency and reduces fatigue over extended rides. Integrated LED lighting provides clear, consistent illumination and contributes to the bike’s cohesive visual design.
The wheels, constructed from cast aluminum, measure 19 inches at the front and 18 inches at the rear. Available in chrome and black trim options, the wheels are engineered for strength and reduced weight, enhancing the overall balance and responsiveness of the motorcycle. The one-piece seat is designed for long-distance comfort, maintaining a streamlined profile while supporting rider endurance.
Handlebars on the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® offer 27 degrees of adjustability to customize rider posture. This range of movement supports optimal control and reduces strain during long periods on the road. Premium paint options, including a Factory Custom Mystic Shift finish, provide a color-shifting effect that responds to changes in lighting conditions without compromising the bike’s professional appearance.
Engine and Performance Specifications
Liquid-cooled cylinder heads distinguish the Milwaukee-Eight® 117 V-Twin powering the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide®, enhancing thermal regulation during changing load and ambient conditions. This setup supports consistent engine performance by maintaining optimal temperatures across a range of riding scenarios. With an output of 105 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque, the engine delivers strong acceleration and stable power delivery at both low and high speeds.
The increase in engine displacement over previous models results in improved torque for better throttle response and towing capability. The combination of engine performance with a lighter overall weight and aerodynamic design enables the motorcycle to maintain stability and agility in diverse riding environments.
The suspension system includes rear shocks with asymmetric emulsion technology, allowing for quick adjustments to suit road conditions or rider preference. This design contributes to a smoother ride by absorbing road imperfections and maintaining wheel contact with the surface.
Advanced Control and Display Features
The 2025 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® is equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen TFT display that integrates navigation, audio, and vehicle information into a single interface. The screen is bright and uncluttered, allowing riders to access essential functions without distraction. The infotainment system operates on Skyline™ OS, offering embedded navigation, Bluetooth® connectivity, and media controls.
Ride modes allow the rider to adapt the bike’s behavior by adjusting throttle mapping, traction control, and anti-lock braking system settings. There are three pre-programmed modes and one customizable option, providing flexibility for different riding conditions and preferences. The audio system includes in-fairing speakers designed to deliver clear sound at highway speeds and during city travel.
Integrated Safety Systems for Controlled Riding
Rider Safety Enhancements form a comprehensive package of features intended to assist control during critical situations. The anti-lock brake system (ABS) prevents wheel lock-up during braking to maintain stability. Electronic Linked Braking (ELB) applies braking force to both wheels when either the front lever or rear pedal is used, helping to balance stopping power.
The Traction Control System (TCS) reduces the likelihood of rear wheel spin during acceleration, increasing stability on varying surfaces. The drag-torque slip control system (DSCS) is active during rapid downshifts or throttle reductions to prevent rear wheel lock or slip. These systems are tuned to work seamlessly with Cornering Enhanced versions that adjust their function based on lean angle, improving performance when the motorcycle is turning.
Vehicle hold control (VHC) maintains brake pressure after the rider releases the brake lever or pedal, which is especially useful for hill starts by preventing rollback. This feature operates automatically and is designed to support smoother takeoffs without affecting the parking brake function.
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) alerts the rider through the display if tire pressure deviates from recommended levels. Maintaining correct tire pressure is critical for handling, safety, and tire longevity.
Ergonomics and Customization for Touring Efficiency
The seat height of the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® measures 26.6 inches when loaded, making it accessible to a wide range of riders while maintaining proper ergonomics for long rides. The one-piece seat design contributes to continuous support and reduces pressure points during extended touring.
Adjustable handlebars allow riders to position controls optimally for comfort and leverage. This adjustability is important for managing fatigue and maintaining precise handling, especially on long-distance rides.
The 2025 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® offers multiple factory paint options that maintain a professional finish with durable coatings. The Mystic Shift paint introduces dynamic color changes under sunlight without compromising durability, offering a modern alternative to standard metallic finishes.
Handling and Efficiency for Varied Riding Conditions
The 2025 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® maintains a fuel economy rating of approximately 44 miles per gallon. This level of efficiency supports long touring rides with fewer stops for fuel. The combination of reduced weight, cast-aluminum wheels, and aerodynamic improvements enhances maneuverability and rider confidence across both highway and urban environments.
The bike’s suspension and frame geometry are calibrated to provide a balance between smooth cruising and responsive handling. This balance supports confident navigation of tight turns, corners, and uneven road surfaces while maintaining stability at high speeds.
Schedule a Test Ride at Stubbs Harley-Davidson®
To fully assess the technical features and performance of the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide®, an in-person evaluation is advisable. Experiencing the engine torque, handling characteristics, and integrated technology firsthand allows for a comprehensive understanding of the motorcycle’s capabilities. Scheduling a test ride at Stubbs Harley-Davidson® near Missouri City, TX, offers the opportunity to engage with advanced ride modes, touchscreen interface, and rider safety systems of the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide®. This hands-on experience is the most effective way to evaluate how the motorcycle’s engineering meets individual riding needs across different conditions.