2019–2023 Harley-Davidson Touring Milwaukee-Eight 114 (FLHXS Street Glide Special)

The 2019–2023 Harley-Davidson Touring Milwaukee-Eight 114 (FLHXS Street Glide Special) represents a significant era for one of the most iconic models in the American manufacturer’s lineup. Serving as a premium, factory-custom “bagger,” the Street Glide Special of this period combined stripped-down hot-rod aesthetics with the formidable power of the Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-twin engine and upgraded technology, setting a new standard for the Grand American Touring category. This generation solidified the model’s position as a top seller by offering a darker, more aggressive style directly from the showroom floor.

The introduction of the 2019 model year marked a key evolution from its predecessors. The most substantial upgrade was making the potent Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine (1,868cc) standard equipment on the “Special” trim, a significant step up from the Milwaukee-Eight 107 that powered the standard Street Glide. This provided riders with a noticeable increase in torque and acceleration. Aesthetically, Harley-Davidson pivoted from the traditional chrome-heavy look, offering the 2019 Special with a comprehensive blacked-out finish on everything from the front forks and engine covers to the exhaust and console. Technologically, this generation saw the debut of the advanced Boom! Box GTS infotainment system, which replaced the outgoing 6.5GT unit with a faster, more intuitive interface, a durable Gorilla Glass touchscreen, and seamless smartphone integration.

Design and Features of the Milwaukee-Eight 114 FLHXS

The design language of the FLHXS Street Glide Special is defined by its commanding presence and custom-inspired details. Central to its identity is the signature fork-mounted batwing fairing, which provides wind protection while housing the infotainment system and gauges. The motorcycle’s profile is long and low, flowing from the fairing, over the 6-gallon fuel tank, and down to the stretched saddlebags that offer ample storage without compromising the sleek, ground-hugging silhouette.

Powertrain and Performance

At the core of the Street Glide Special is the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine. This air and oil-cooled, 45-degree V-twin features four valves per cylinder and dual spark plugs, delivering a massive wave of torque from low RPMs—ideal for effortless highway cruising and powerful overtakes. The engine is rubber-mounted and internally counter-balanced, which significantly reduces vibration at idle and provides a smoother ride compared to earlier generations, yet it retains the classic Harley-Davidson sound and feel. Power is managed by a 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, delivering it to the rear wheel via a low-maintenance belt drive.

Chassis, Suspension, and Brakes

The motorcycle is built on Harley-Davidson’s robust touring frame, designed for stability and responsive handling. The front suspension consists of 49mm forks with dual bending valve technology, providing linear damping characteristics for a controlled ride. The rear features premium low-profile emulsion shocks, with a single, easily accessible knob for hydraulically adjusting preload. This allows riders to quickly tune the suspension for the weight of a passenger or luggage without tools.

Braking is handled by Reflex Linked Brembo brakes with standard ABS. The system electronically links the front and rear brakes to provide the optimal amount of braking force to each wheel, whether using the hand lever or foot pedal, enhancing rider control in various conditions. Throughout this period, Harley-Davidson also offered the optional Reflex Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS), an advanced suite of electronic aids including Cornering Enhanced ABS, Cornering Enhanced Traction Control, and Drag-Torque Slip Control.

Technology and Ergonomics

The Boom! Box GTS infotainment system was a centerpiece of the rider experience. Its 6.5-inch full-color touchscreen offers navigation, communication, and music functions, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility for enhanced connectivity. The controls are designed for ease of use, with responsive joysticks on the handlebars allowing the rider to manage functions without taking their hands off the grips. Ergonomics are tailored for long-distance comfort, with a low-slung seat, floorboards, and a handlebar position that creates an upright and relaxed riding posture.

Specifications Table: 2023 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special (FLHXS)