Harley-Davidson 2011 Road Glide Ultra FLRTU: Motorcycle Review

H-D Touring Bike at an Economical Price

Harley-Davidson reports it is introducing three new-for-2011 bikes. The one that caught my attention is the Road Glide Ultra FLRTU. A higher-end Harley, it remains affordable by leaving consumer teasers,obs and CVO options, for other models. Starting at $22,499, the buyer can have an incredible touring bike with the Harley-Davidson growl and name. Four colors cover this bike: Vivid Black, Brilliant Silver Pearl, Cool Blue Pearl, and Merlot Sunglo.

The fairing, described in greater detail bySmartcycleshopper, has dual headlights and cockpit-style instrumentation. It offers good wind deferral to speeds of about 60 mph, when the rider will start feeling some buffeting. The Road Glide Ultra FLRTU's fairing assembly is mounted to the frame, not the forks, putting minimal weight on the front wheel, allowing easier turning. The one-piece Electra Glide saddle, with its deeper bucket and narrower width, assures greater ground reach. Estimated mileage is 35 mpg city driving, and 54 mpg highway driving.Designed for an experienced rider, the Road Glide Ultra is 98.7 inches in length, and weighs in at 850 pounds dry weight. It requires a lot of heft to get it off the side stand. Two additional down sides to most riders are the strong kick needed to get into first gear, and the maximum lean angles of 33 degrees to the right and 31 degrees to the left, due to the 5.1 inch ground clearance. I am not sure why they limited the fuel tank to 6-gallons on a tour bike; perhaps it is because 91 octane or higher is recommended.

The larger 1690cc PowerPak engine, bundled with ABS, and security system, is part of the Road Glide Ultra. The hands-free fob is like getting candles on a birthday cake: it lends a special touch to a fantastic item. Ordering the PowerPak bundle for other touring bikes adds $1995 to their selling price, so it is a nice feature in the Road Glide Ultra. The 6-speed transmission makes for a more controlled ride. 

DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION:
The Contributor has no connection to nor was paid by the brand or product described in this content.

Posted in: motorcycle technology