2010–2011 Harley-Davidson Touring Twin Cam 96 (FLTRX Road Glide Custom)

Development and Design

The creation of the FLTRX Road Glide Custom was a direct response to a significant trend in the motorcycle market. Riders were increasingly modifying their touring bikes, lowering the suspension, adding larger front wheels, and stripping away excess chrome and accessories for a cleaner, more muscular look. Harley-Davidson recognized this movement and applied the same successful “factory custom” formula used on the Street Glide to the Road Glide platform.

Key design elements that set the FLTRX apart included a large 18-inch front wheel, a significant change from the 16 or 17-inch wheels on other touring models of the era. The rear suspension was lowered, providing a slammed stance that reduced the seat height. A new, sculpted seat was designed to be narrower at the front, enhancing the bike’s low-slung profile while still offering support. Aesthetically, the model featured blacked-out components, including powder-coated engine covers, and a clean rear fender with a streamlined tail light assembly, further contributing to its custom appeal. The iconic shark-nose fairing housed dual headlamps and a full suite of instrumentation, along with a Harman/Kardon audio system.

Differences from Previous Models and Contemporaries

As a new model for 2010, the FLTRX did not have a direct predecessor. Instead, its differences are best understood in comparison to the standard Road Glide (FLTR) of the time and the pre-2009 touring platform.

Powertrain: The Harley-Davidson Touring Twin Cam 96

At the heart of the FLTRX Road Glide Custom was the rubber-mounted Twin Cam 96 engine. This air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin engine had a displacement of 96 cubic inches (1584cc) and was equipped with Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) for reliable starting, smooth throttle response, and consistent performance across various altitudes and temperatures.

The engine was paired with Harley-Davidson’s 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission. This gearbox was designed with a tall sixth gear that acted as an overdrive, lowering engine RPM at highway speeds to reduce vibration and improve fuel economy during long-distance travel. The power was delivered to the rear wheel via a clean and low-maintenance belt drive system. The powertrain was engineered to produce strong low-end torque, which is a hallmark of Harley-Davidson V-twins, providing brisk acceleration from a stop and ample passing power.

Chassis and Handling

The FLTRX’s handling was defined by two key components: the redesigned touring frame and its signature frame-mounted fairing. Unlike the fork-mounted “batwing” fairing on a Street Glide or Electra Glide, the Road Glide’s fairing is fixed to the frame. This design removes the weight and aerodynamic pressure of the fairing from the handlebars, resulting in lighter steering input and enhanced stability, particularly in crosswinds.

The suspension consisted of 41.3 mm telescopic front forks and air-adjustable rear shock absorbers. While the rear suspension was lowered by an inch to achieve the custom stance, it retained its air-adjustability, allowing riders to tune the preload to account for a passenger or luggage. Braking was handled by a high-performance Brembo system featuring dual 300 mm discs with four-piston calipers at the front and a single disc at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available as a factory-installed option.