Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special - 2018 Specifications and Reviews

The 2018 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special is a heavyweight touring cruiser designed for long-distance riders seeking premium comfort and technology. Known for its distinctive batwing fairing, advanced infotainment system, and stable handling on highways, it combines classic cruiser styling with modern conveniences like cruise control and optional ABS. This machine excels at delivering smooth, confident touring performance across varied terrain.

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General information

CategoryTouring
Year2018
ModelHarley-Davidson Road Glide Special
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemBlack, 2-1-2 dual exhaust with tapered mufflers
Greenhouse gases136.9 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Fuel consumption5.90 litres/100 km (16.9 km/l or 39.87 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 Stroke100.0 x 111.1 mm (3.9 x 4.4 inches)
Compression10.0:1
Torque150.00 Nm (15.3 kgf-m or 110.6 ft.lbs) @ 3250 RPM
Power89.00 HP (65.0 kW) @ 5450 RPM
Engine detailsMilwaukee-Eight® 107
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 tyre180/55-B18
Front tyre130/60-B19
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 ratio0.2392 HP/kg
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc388.0 kg (855.4 pounds)
Dry weight372.0 kg (820.1 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
CommentsSmall windshield. Cruise control. Alarm. Infotainment.
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 optionsVivid Black, Wicked Red, Bonneville Salt Pearl, Hard Candy Hot Rod Red 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

2018 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 2018 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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Rider Reviews

Total comments: 1
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MotorcycleDB Review

The 2018 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special is a top-of-the-line touring motorcycle that delivers both power and style. The Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine provides the Road Glide Special with ample performance for long rides, while the sleek and aggressive design stands out on the open road. This bike is equipped with top-of-the-line features such as a BOOM! Box GTS infotainment system and Reflex Linked Brembo brakes, making it a fantastic option for riders who prioritize both comfort and functionality. In addition to its impressive performance and design, the 2018 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special also offers a smooth and stable ride. The responsive suspension and improved aerodynamics make for a comfortable experience, even on longer journeys. For riders in search of a premium touring motorcycle that offers the perfect blend of power, style, and comfort, the Road Glide Special is definitely worth considering. It's a bike that's built to impress and is sure to turn heads wherever you go.
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