Of course. Here is a full article about the 2015–2016 Harley-Davidson FLTRX Road Glide, written in the requested style and format.
*
2015–2016 Harley-Davidson FLTRX Road Glide
The 2015–2016 Harley-Davidson Touring Twin Cam 103 HO (FLTRX Road Glide) marked the highly anticipated return of the iconic “sharknose” touring motorcycle after a one-year absence from the company’s lineup. Its reintroduction was part of the comprehensive, customer-led “Project RUSHMORE” initiative, which brought significant upgrades to Harley-Davidson’s touring family. The new Road Glide was not merely a refresh but a thorough redesign, incorporating rider feedback to improve aerodynamics, power, braking, and infotainment, setting a new standard for the model.
The most significant departure from the previous generation (pre-2014) was the complete overhaul of its core components. While the predecessor was powered by the standard Twin Cam 103 engine, the 2015 model received the more potent High Output (HO) version. Aerodynamically, the frame-mounted fairing was re-engineered with a distinctive Triple Splitstream vent to drastically reduce head buffeting. Furthermore, the 2015–2016 models featured Reflex Linked Brakes with ABS, superior Dual Daymaker Reflector LED headlamps, and the modern Boom! Box 4.3 infotainment system, all of which were major advancements over the prior iteration.
Development and Redesign
The decision to temporarily halt production of the Road Glide for the 2014 model year allowed Harley-Davidson engineers to focus on a complete re-imagination of the motorcycle under the Project RUSHMORE banner. This project emphasized a rider-centric design process, sourcing thousands of hours of feedback from customers and dealers to guide development.
The most visible result was the new “sharknose” fairing. While retaining its iconic aggressive look, it was reshaped in a wind tunnel to offer superior aerodynamic performance. The centerpiece of this redesign is the Triple Splitstream vent, which opens and closes to equalize pressure between the front and back of the fairing, leading to a smoother airflow and a significant reduction in the turbulent air experienced by the rider. This frame-mounted design also keeps the weight of the fairing off the forks, contributing to lighter and more responsive handling compared to the fork-mounted “batwing” fairing on models like the Street Glide.
Project RUSHMORE and the Harley-Davidson Touring Twin Cam 103 HO Engine
At the heart of the 2015–2016 Road Glide is the Harley-Davidson Touring Twin Cam 103 HO** engine. The “High Output” designation signifies key enhancements over the standard Twin Cam 103, including a new camshaft profile and a high-flow airbox. These improvements were engineered to deliver more low-end torque and improved passing power throughout the rev range. The engine retains its classic 45-degree, air-cooled V-Twin architecture, delivering the signature sound and feel expected from the brand.
Paired with the engine is the six-speed Cruise Drive transmission, which provides smooth shifting and a tall final gear for relaxed, low-RPM cruising on the highway. This powertrain combination was designed to offer robust performance for long-distance touring, whether riding solo or with a passenger and full luggage.
Chassis, Brakes, and Rider Features
The 2015–2016 FLTRX Road Glide is built on Harley-Davidson’s robust touring chassis, designed for stability and comfort on long hauls. The suspension features stout 49mm front forks and air-adjustable rear shocks, allowing riders to tune the preload for varying loads.
A major safety and performance upgrade was the standard inclusion of Reflex Linked Brakes with ABS. This system electronically links the front and rear brakes to provide optimal braking force to each wheel, regardless of which brake control the rider applies. The system is designed to be especially effective in urgent braking situations and helps prevent wheel lock-up.
Ergonomics were also a key focus. The updated model features a new handlebar with a more swept-back position, bringing the grips closer to the rider for improved comfort and control. Onboard technology saw a massive leap forward with the Boom! Box 4.3 infotainment system. It featured a full-color screen, Bluetooth connectivity, USB input, and large, glove-friendly buttons, integrating navigation, communication, and audio into a single dashboard unit. Practical touring features were refined with new one-touch saddlebags, which are easy to open and close with a single hand.
Specifications
| General | |
| Brand | Harley-Davidson |
| Model | Road Glide |
| Model Class | Touring (FLTRX) |
| Model Year | 2015–2016 |
| Type | Touring / Bagger |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 1,360 lb. (617 kg) |
| Maximum passengers | 2 |
| Performance | |
| Max. power | Approx. 86 hp (64 kW) / 5010 RPM (Not officially published) |
| Max. torque | 101.8 ft-lb (138 N•m) / 3500 RPM |
| Lean Angle, Right | 32° |
| Lean Angle, Left | 31° |
| Size | |
| Length | 95.7 in. (2430 mm) |
| Width | 38 in. (965 mm) |
| Height | 53.3 in. (1355 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 64 in. (1625 mm) |
| Seat height (laden) | 26.1 in. (663 mm) |
| Ground clearance | 5.3 in. (135 mm) |
| Curb weight (in running order) | 849 lb. (385 kg) |
| Engine | |
| Type | High Output Twin Cam 103, Air-cooled, V-Twin, Four Stroke |
| Displacement | 103.1 cu in (1690 cc) |
| Bore × Stroke | 3.87 in. × 4.37 in. (98.4 mm × 111.1 mm) |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 |
| Starting system | Electric starter |
| Fuel supplying system | Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| Lubricating system | Pressurized, dry-sump with oil cooler |
| Oil capacity | 4 qt (3.8 L) with filter |
| Transmission | |
| Transmission type | 6-speed Cruise Drive, manual |
| Clutch type | Wet, multi-disc |
| Driving system | Belt drive |
| Primary reduction ratio | 1.353 |
| Final reduction ratio | 2.125 |
| Gear ratio | 1st: 3.337; 2nd: 2.313; 3rd: 1.719; 4th: 1.391; 5th: 1.188; 6th: 1.000 |
| Chassis | |
| Tire size | Front: 130/60B19 61H; Rear: 180/65B16 81H |
| Rim size | Front: 19 in. Enforcer Cast Aluminum; Rear: 16 in. Enforcer Cast Aluminum |
| Capacity of fuel tank | 6 gal (22.7 L) |
| Fuel consumption | Approx. 42 mpg (5.6 L / 100 km) |
| Electric | |
| Battery | 12V / 28 Ah |
| Headlight | Dual Daymaker™ Reflector LED Headlamps |
| Infotainment | Boom!™ Box 4.3 |
| Brakes | |
| Front | 32 mm, 4-piston fixed calipers, dual floating rotors |
| Rear | 32 mm, 4-piston fixed caliper, fixed rotor |
| System | Reflex™ Linked Brakes with ABS |
