Evolution → M8 117
+50bhp · +30 years
1996 Tour Glide was 1340cc Evolution carb, 55bhp, no electronics. 2026 Road Glide is 1923cc M8 117 FI, 105bhp, full IMU/cornering ABS/TFT/cruise. Same touring brief, vastly more bike.
vs Street Glide (sister)
Same engine, different fairing
Street Glide: handlebar-mounted batwing fairing, lighter steering feel. Road Glide: frame-mounted shark-nose, dual headlights, more wind protection at speed. Identical engine, brakes, electronics, bags. Pure aesthetic + steering preference choice.
vs Indian Challenger
Different engine character
Challenger has liquid-cooled PowerPlus 122bhp. Road Glide has air-cooled M8 117 105bhp. Indian sells the modernity story; HD sells the heritage story. Both at ~£25k. Different riders.
Real cost trajectory
Down 19% in real terms
1996 Tour Glide was £31,000 in today's money. 2026 Road Glide is £24,999 — competitive pricing in the bagger war with Indian.
Rider aids count (1996 → 2026)
0 → 7+
Cornering ABS, IMU, traction control, 4 ride modes, Skyline OS, optional ACC, heated grips std.
Cheapest way in
£7,500 (2008-2012)
A clean 2008-2012 FLTRI/FLTRX is the cheapest Road Glide entry. £6.5-11k for a tidy one. Watch cam tensioner (TC88) and cam plate (TC103).
