2024–2025 Harley-Davidson Touring Milwaukee-Eight 117 (FLTRX Road Glide New Gen)

The 2024–2025 Harley-Davidson Touring Milwaukee-Eight 117 (FLTRX Road Glide New Gen) represents a significant evolution in the brand’s iconic grand American touring lineup. Unveiled for the 2024 model year, this new generation of the Road Glide marks a comprehensive redesign focused on enhancing performance, reducing weight, improving long-distance comfort, and integrating advanced technology. It moves away from the previous platform, introducing a host of changes centered around a more powerful engine, a completely new aerodynamic profile, and a state-of-the-art infotainment system, setting a new benchmark for the series.

Design and Aerodynamics

At the forefront of the new generation Road Glide’s design is its completely re-imagined “sharknose” fairing. Developed using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and wind tunnel testing, the new fairing is engineered to optimize aerodynamic efficiency. This results in a noticeable reduction in wind buffeting for the rider, a key factor in reducing fatigue on long journeys. Integrated into the fairing is a full LED lighting package, featuring a prominent single headlamp that creates a distinctive and modern light signature. The new design also incorporates a “floating” windshield mount, further enhancing its sleek appearance.

A major engineering focus was weight reduction. The 2024 Road Glide is 16 pounds (7.3 kg) lighter than its predecessor. This was achieved through refinements in chassis components, a redesigned fuel tank, and other material optimizations, contributing to improved handling, acceleration, and braking performance.

Powertrain: The Updated Milwaukee-Eight 117

Powering the new Road Glide is the updated Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin engine. While the 117 cubic inch displacement is familiar, this version features significant enhancements. A key update is a new liquid-cooled cylinder head system, designed to improve thermal comfort for the rider, especially in slow-moving traffic or warmer climates. This system targets heat dissipation away from the rider’s legs without detracting from the classic air-cooled look.

The engine also benefits from a revised intake and exhaust system. A new, larger airbox and reshaped intake tracts improve airflow, while the high-flow exhaust system helps the engine breathe more freely. These changes result in a marked increase in performance, producing 105 horsepower and 130 ft-lb of torque, providing strong acceleration and effortless highway passing power.

Chassis and Rider Experience

The chassis and suspension have been thoroughly revised to enhance both comfort and handling dynamics. The new Road Glide features a new rear suspension system with 3.0 inches (76 mm) of travel, a 50% increase over the previous generation touring models. This increased travel significantly improves bump absorption and provides a more plush ride over varied road surfaces. The front suspension is handled by 49mm Showa forks, providing stable and predictable handling.

Further enhancing the riding experience is the introduction of selectable Ride Modes, a first for the standard Road Glide model. Riders can choose from four pre-programmed modes: Road, Sport, Rain, and a customizable Custom mode. Each mode electronically adjusts the bike’s performance characteristics, including power delivery, engine braking, Cornering Antilock Braking System (C-ABS), and Cornering Traction Control System (C-TCS) settings to suit different conditions and rider preferences.

Technology and Infotainment

The most significant technological leap is the replacement of the previous analog gauges and smaller screen with a new 12.3-inch TFT color touch screen display. This expansive, anti-glare screen is powered by the new Skyline OS infotainment system. It offers a highly customizable and intuitive interface with embedded navigation, Bluetooth connectivity for music and calls, and full integration with the motorcycle’s systems. The system provides a clean, modern interface that is easily readable in all lighting conditions and can be operated via the touch screen or handlebar-mounted controls.

Specifications