Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special - 2016 Specifications and Reviews

The 2016 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special is a heavyweight touring cruiser designed for riders seeking long-distance comfort with aggressive styling. Known for its distinctive frame-mounted fairing and low-slung chassis, it delivers 87 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque from its Twin Cam engine, ideal for highway cruising. Best suited for experienced riders who prioritize stability and wind protection on extended tours.

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General information

CategoryTouring
Year2016
ModelHarley-Davidson Road Glide Special

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemChrome, 2-1-2 dual exhaust with tapered mufflers
Greenhouse gases129.9 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Fuel consumption5.60 litres/100 km (17.9 km/l or 42.00 mpg)
DrivelineChain, 34/46 ratio primary drive
ClutchMulti-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemOil & air
Lubrication systemDry sump
Fuel controlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Fuel systemInjection. ESPFI
Bore x Stroke98.4 x 111.3 mm (3.9 x 4.4 inches)
Compression9.7:1
Torque138.00 Nm (14.1 kgf-m or 101.8 ft.lbs) @ 3250 RPM
Power87.00 HP (63.5 kW) @ 5000 RPM
Engine detailsIntegrated Oil-Cooler
Engine typeV2, four-stroke
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

WheelsEnforcer Cast Aluminum
Rear brakesSingle disc. ABS. 4-piston
Front brakesDouble disc. ABS. 4-piston
Rear tyre180/65-BW16
Front tyre130/70-BW18
Rear SuspensionTwin shocks
Front SuspensionTelescopic fork
Trail173 mm (6.8 inches)
Rake (fork angle)26.0°

Physical measures and capacities

Oil capacity3.80 litres (0.25 quarts)
Fuel capacity22.71 litres (6.00 gallons)
Wheelbase1,625 mm (64.0 inches)
Ground clearance140 mm (5.5 inches)
Overall length2,430 mm (95.7 inches)
Seat height695 mm (27.4 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.2358 HP/kg
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc385.0 kg (848.8 pounds)
Dry weight369.0 kg (813.5 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
CommentsSmall windshield. Cruse control. Alarm.
Carrying capacitySaddle bags
LightHigh beam, running lights, front fender light, directional light bar, neutral, low oil pressure, engine diagnostics, turn signals, security system (optional), 6-speed, low fuel warning, cruise control (optional), ABS (optional)
InstrumentsFairing-mounted electronic speedometer with odometer; time-of-day clock on CD player/stereo; dual trip meter; low fuel indicator light and mileage countdown feature; low oil pressure indicator light; engine diagnostics readout; LED indicator lights; 6-speed indicator light Tachometer with fuel, voltage, oil pressure and ambient air temperature gauges
StarterElectric
Color optionsBlack Denim, Velocity Red Sunglo, Vivid Black, Black Quartz, Superior Blue, Cosmic Blue Pearl, Hard Candy Black Gold Flake, Hard Candy Gold Flake.

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

100 hp
Peak Power
4.8s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track10%
City40%
Cornering40%
Daily Riding60%
Touring97%
Passenger90%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to experienced riders who are comfortable managing a very heavy, long-wheelbase touring machine at low speeds and in traffic.
PurposeBuilt for covering long interstate miles in comfort with a fairing, saddlebags, and infotainment rather than for quick sporty rides.
Rider FitRequires a taller and reasonably strong rider to confidently handle its substantial weight when pushing it around, parking, or executing slow maneuvers.
CharacterA classic American cruiser-tourer with a torquey V-twin thump, a commanding highway presence, and a relaxed, unhurried riding character.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for new riders, city commuters wanting nimble handling, or anyone seeking off-road or track capability.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2016 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 695mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2016 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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