Beatrice Lang
The Harley Electra Glide is a popular motorcycle model that has been around for decades, with a new iteration released in 2020. While the weight of the bike is a common concern for prospective riders, it is important to note that the height of the bike plays a more significant role in handling it. Riders of various heights and weights have shared their experiences with adjusting to the bike, which is heavier than some other Harley models. However, once accustomed to the Harley Electra Glide, many riders find ways to make it easier to handle.
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What You'll Learn
The weight is unnoticeable when riding
The Harley Electra Glide is a heavy bike, and its weight can be noticeable when handling it at low speeds or when it's on a stand. However, once you're riding and up to speed, the weight is unnoticeable. This is true of most touring bikes, which are heavier than Sportsters, but have a better centre of gravity.
The weight of the bike becomes irrelevant when you're riding because the engine is powerful enough to easily counteract it. The Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine on the Electra Glide provides more than enough power to move the bike at speed, and the bike's centre of gravity means it handles well.
The weight of the Electra Glide is only really noticeable when you're not riding. Some riders report that it can be challenging to balance the bike at very low speeds or when manoeuvring in tight spaces. The weight can also be noticeable when trying to get the bike off its stand, but there are techniques to make this easier. For example, one rider recommends turning the bars all the way to the left to make it easier to get the bike off the stand.
While the weight of the Electra Glide can be noticeable when not riding, it's not a deal-breaker. Many riders report that it's easy to get used to the weight, and it just takes some time to adjust. The worry about the weight is often just in your head, and it's not a problem once you're out on the road.
Overall, while the Harley Electra Glide is a heavy bike, the weight is unnoticeable when riding. The powerful engine and good centre of gravity mean that the bike handles well and the weight is not an issue. While the weight can be noticeable when handling the bike at low speeds or on a stand, there are techniques to make it easier, and it's easy to get used to the weight with practice.
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Height, not weight, is the problem
While the Harley Electra Glide is a heavy bike, it is the height, not the weight, that can be the problem. One rider, at 5'7" and 135 lbs, said that they had no problem with the bike once they got used to it. They found ways to make it work for them, such as turning the bars all the way to the left to get it off the stand easily. They also made adjustments to the bike, including lowering the seat and adding foam to move them forward in the seat.
Another rider, at 5'6", agreed that weight is not the biggest problem with the Electra Glide, it's height. They also said that the weight difference is not huge compared to other touring bikes.
The Harley Electra Glide is a large touring bike with a powerful engine. While the weight of the bike is not insignificant, it is the height that can be more of a challenge for shorter riders. The bike has a high seat height, which can make it difficult for shorter riders to reach the ground comfortably. This can affect the rider's confidence and control of the bike.
However, there are ways to adjust the bike to better suit shorter riders. As mentioned above, the seat height can be lowered, and adjustments can be made to the handlebars and footpegs to bring them closer to the rider. These adjustments can help shorter riders feel more comfortable and in control of the bike.
While the weight of the Harley Electra Glide is not insignificant, it is the height that can be the most significant challenge for shorter riders. However, with some adjustments, the bike can be made more accessible and comfortable for a wider range of riders.
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Centre of gravity is better than Sportsters
The Harley-Davidson Electra Glide is a touring motorcycle that offers a range of features for long-distance riding. While the weight of the Electra Glide is not explicitly stated, it is described as being heavier than some other Harley-Davidson models, such as the Sportster. However, when it comes to the center of gravity, the Electra Glide has some advantages over the Sportster.
The Harley-Davidson Sportster is a popular model known for its agility and maneuverability. It is generally lighter and has a shorter wheelbase than the Electra Glide, which contributes to its nimble handling. However, the Electra Glide has a better center of gravity than the Sportster, despite being a larger bike. This advantage in center of gravity gives the Electra Glide superior stability and balance, making it more capable of absorbing road imperfections and providing a smoother ride, especially on highways and open roads.
The center of gravity of a motorcycle refers to the point at which the bike's weight is evenly distributed, allowing it to maintain balance. A lower center of gravity generally improves stability and makes it easier to control and maneuver the bike, especially during cornering and lean angles. The Electra Glide's center of gravity is lower than that of the Sportster, which contributes to its superior handling and stability. This lower center of gravity makes the Electra Glide feel more planted and secure, even at higher speeds.
While the Sportster's lighter weight and shorter wheelbase make it more agile and easier to maneuver in certain situations, the Electra Glide's center of gravity provides a more stable and controlled riding experience. The Electra Glide's superior stability becomes particularly evident during long-distance riding, where maintaining balance and absorbing road imperfections are crucial for rider comfort and endurance. Additionally, the Electra Glide's longer wheelbase contributes to its excellent balance and stability, making it a more forgiving bike for riders of varying skill levels.
Overall, while the Sportster may have its advantages in terms of agility and maneuverability, the Electra Glide's superior center of gravity makes it a more stable and controlled ride, especially for long-distance touring. The Electra Glide's design emphasizes comfort, stability, and a smooth riding experience, making it a preferred choice for riders seeking to embark on extended journeys. Its ability to maintain balance and absorb road imperfections ensures a serene and enjoyable journey, showcasing the benefits of its well-designed center of gravity.
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Takes time to get used to handling
The Harley Electra Glide is a heavy bike, and while its exact weight is unclear, it is agreed that it takes some time to get used to handling. Its weight is not the biggest problem, but rather its height, and it has a better centre of gravity than the Sportsters.
One user who is 5'9" and 220 lbs found that it took some time to handle the bigger bike. They also mention that you will drop it at least once, and recommend making it a nice, soft, controlled drop so that the engine guards will protect it from any damage. Another user who is 6 ft tall and 190 lbs found that riding the Ultra took some getting used to after riding a bike that weighed 300 lbs less. They also mention that a lot of the worry is just in your head.
Some users have offered tips to make handling the Electra Glide easier. One user recommends turning the bars all the way to the left to make it easier to get off the stand. They also recommend lowering the seat and adding foam to move forward. Another user recommends installing a True Track 3rd pivot point on the Trans and adding a new composite front engine mount. They also suggest taking off the Dunlops and adding stiffer sidewalls and better compound Avons. Additionally, they mention that getting rid of sidewall flex by using taller wheels and short sidewall tires can improve handling.
Another user mentions that the Electra Glide handles very badly at speeds of 80 to 95 mph. They suggest that the suspension should be addressed by replacing the oil in the front end with a heavier weight and adding an additional 1/2 ounce in each leg to stiffen things up. Other users agree that changing the suspension can improve handling, specifically by changing the fork oil and replacing the rear shocks with better units like progressives.
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Age and fitness affect ease of use
The Harley-Davidson Electra Glide is a iconic motorcycle, known for its comfortable ride and ability to cover long distances with ease. However, one aspect that can be a cause for concern, especially for older riders or those with reduced physical strength, is the weight of the bike.
With an approximate dry weight of 822 pounds (373 kg) for the 2022 model, the Electra Glide is undoubtedly a heavy machine. While experienced riders may be accustomed to handling such weight, it's important to acknowledge that age and fitness levels can significantly affect how easily one can manage this bulk.
For older riders, a decline in physical strength and flexibility is common. This can make maneuvering a heavy motorcycle like the Electra Glide more challenging. Mounting and dismounting the bike may require more effort, and the process of pushing or walking the bike backwards could become strenuous. Additionally, the weight distribution of the Electra Glide, with its low-slung engine and wide handlebars, may require a rider to exert more force to maintain balance at low speeds or when making tight turns.
Fitness plays a crucial role too. A rider who engages in regular physical activity, particularly strength and endurance training, will likely find it easier to handle the weight of the Electra Glide. Good core strength and upper body strength can aid in balancing and maneuvering the bike. Additionally, a fit rider may recover more quickly from the physical demands of riding, such as managing long-distance rides or dealing with challenging road conditions.
While age and fitness levels can impact the ease of use, it's important to note that riding skills and experience also come into play. A seasoned rider who understands weight distribution and has honed their slow-speed maneuvering skills may find that they can manage the weight of the Electra Glide effectively, regardless of their age or fitness level. Ultimately, it is a combination of physical ability, skill, and familiarity with the motorcycle that determines how easily one can handle the weight of a Harley-Davidson Electra Glide.
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