Review of the 2025 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Ultra
30/08/2025
Harley-Davidson Street Glide Ultra 2025 combines iconic style with modern technology and comfort, redefining long-distance touring for two.
Spis treści
Introduction
The Harley-Davidson Street Glide Ultra 2025 is a bold step forward in the Grand American Touring line, combining iconic style with modern technology and increased comfort for long-distance travel. Designed for riding with a passenger, this motorcycle replaces the Ultra Limited model, offering a refined experience for motorcyclists seeking adventures beyond the horizon. In this review, we will take a look at its performance, design, technology, and overall touring capability to see if it lives up to Harley-Davidson's legendary reputation.
Design and Styling
The Street Glide Ultra features a refreshed aesthetic that retains the distinctive DNA of Harley-Davidson while introducing modern accents. The iconic Batwing fairing, designed using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and wind tunnel testing, reduces helmet buffeting by up to 60% thanks to a new, 4-inch taller windshield. The lower fairing components, now wider and equipped with adjustable air vents, also serve as storage compartments with a capacity of 0.15 cubic feet for small items like keys or gloves. The new emblem on the fuel tank, available in chrome or black, along with unique accents on the console proudly displays the name Street Glide Ultra, adding a premium character to the motorcycle. Available colors include Billiard Gray, Vivid Black, Blue Burst, and striking Whiskey Fire/Vivid Black and Mystic Shift, which changes shades in sunlight.
The King Tour-Pak, combined with large saddlebags and fairing storage, offers an impressive 4.9 cubic feet of capacity – more than double that of the standard Street Glide and 4% more than the 2024 Ultra Limited. The saddlebag guards protect the bodywork, ensuring durability during long journeys or in case of a tip-over. However, some premium features, such as rear speakers in the armrests or trunk lighting, have been removed, giving the design a slightly more minimalist look.
Performance and Suspension
At the heart of the Street Glide Ultra is the Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin engine, which delivers 105 horsepower and 176 Nm of torque. This powerplant, with liquid-cooled heads and a high-flow intake system, provides smooth riding even when fully loaded, making it ideal for long-distance touring. The motorcycle achieves a claimed 5.4 L/100 km, which is impressive for a touring motorcycle weighing 393 kg, offering a balance between power and efficiency. Riders notice the deep, distinctive sound of the engine that remains refined in factory form, although some may opt for aftermarket mufflers for a louder roar.
The updated chassis and Showa suspension, with an additional 22mm of rear travel, significantly improve handling compared to older models. While the motorcycle's weight is noticeable when stationary, once moving, it surprises with its agility, especially in low-speed situations such as maneuvering in traffic. Quick, twisty A-class roads are achievable if you brake early and stick to your chosen line, although mid-corner adjustments require some effort due to the 1625 mm wheelbase. Uneven B-class roads might slightly upset the suspension balance, but the focus on comfort over sporty performance ensures a smooth ride on long stretches.
Despite the improved suspension and slightly better travel, it still won't offer the same comfort as a BMW GS. You have to keep that in mind. The Street Glide Ultra is a touring motorcycle, but not an enduro. It is not designed for off-road riding or very rough surfaces. It is a machine for asphalt and long trips. Bumpy roads will take their toll by the end of the day of riding.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Designed for all-day riding with a passenger, the Street Glide Ultra excels in comfort. The reworked seat tilts the rider's hips forward, relieving the spine, while the thicker and longer passenger seat seamlessly integrates with the King Tour-Pak backrest and armrests, providing exceptional comfort. Heated grips and adjustable wind deflectors enhance the rider’s comfort, especially in varying weather conditions. The aerodynamic design, including fork-mounted deflectors and an adjustable panel behind the fairing, minimizes wind fatigue, making the motorcycle a true touring cruiser.
The seat height is 72.4 cm, slightly more than the standard Street Glide, but the locking side stand adds confidence when parking this hefty machine. Maneuvering at low speeds is surprisingly easy, although moving the motorcycle with the engine off requires skill due to the weight of the fairing and accessories mounted on the handlebars.
The motorcycle vibrates, and this cannot be hidden; for some, it will be a drawback, for others, an advantage. The vibrations are felt in the grips and footpegs, but they are not excessive, and their characteristic rhythm adds charm to riding a Harley. After longer rides, hand numbness may occur, something I felt for a while. I suspect something similar might be felt by dentists after a long day working with a drill or workers dealing with a pneumatic hammer.
Technology and Features
The Street Glide Ultra is equipped with modern technologies, led by a 12.3-inch Skyline OS infotainment system. This TFT touchscreen offers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay (although Android users are limited to basic Bluetooth connectivity). The system includes built-in navigation and a 200 W audio system with two 5.25-inch speakers in the fairing, providing clear sound while riding on the highway. Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates ensure that the system remains current, supporting new accessories or fixing software issues without needing a service visit.
The Rider Safety Enhancements (RDRS) package from Harley-Davidson enhances safety with features such as Cornering Electronically Linked Brakes (C-ELB), Cornering Traction Control (C-TCS), and Drag-Torque Slip Control System (C-DSCS). Vehicle Hold Control (VHC) prevents rolling back on inclines, making hill starts easier. Selectable ride modes – Road, Sport, Rain, and Custom – allow tuning of performance to conditions, with the Rain mode softening throttle response in wet conditions. These technologies work discreetly, enhancing safety without distracting from the ride.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional touring capability with 4.9 cubic feet of luggage capacity
- Powerful Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine with smooth performance
- Advanced Skyline OS infotainment system and safety features
- Improved aerodynamics and comfort for rider and passenger
- Striking design with customizable color options
Cons:
- High weight (393 kg) can be challenging at low speeds
- Some premium features have been removed from previous models
- Difficulties maneuvering at very low speeds and on twisty roads
- No reverse gear
- Android users do not have full integration with the infotainment system
- To use Apple CarPlay, a Bluetooth headset connection is required
- Starting price of €35,070, with additional costs for premium colors
Price and Availability
The starting price is €35,070 for the model in Billiard Gray with chrome accents, which is €1,000 more than the standard Street Glide, but several hundred euros less than the 2024 Ultra Limited. Additional colors or black finishes raise the price.
Verdict
The Harley-Davidson Street Glide Ultra 2025 redefines long-distance touring with a blend of power, comfort, and modern technology. While its weight and the absence of some premium features may deter some, the improved handling, spacious luggage, and advanced technologies make it an exceptional choice for two-up travelers. Whether you are traversing highways or exploring scenic routes, this motorcycle offers a refined yet distinctly Harley experience. For motorcyclists seeking the best Grand American Touring motorcycle, the Street Glide Ultra is a compelling choice that fulfills its legendary reputation.
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