14 August. Friday 2026
Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special - 2021 Specifications and Reviews
The 2021 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special is a premium touring cruiser built for long-distance riders seeking comfort and commanding presence. Powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine producing 100 horsepower and 160 Nm torque, it delivers smooth, accessible performance ideal for highway cruising. Known for its distinctive batwing fairing, advanced touring features, and classic Harley character, it suits riders prioritizing comfort and style on extended journeys.
General information | |
| Price as new | 3.5 See the detailed rating of touring capabilities, reliability, accident risk, etc. Compare with any other motorbike. |
| Category | Touring |
| Year | 2021 |
| Model | Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Exhaust system | 2-1-2 dual exhaust with tapered mufflers |
| Greenhouse gases | 121.3 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission) |
| Fuel consumption | 5.23 litres/100 km (19.1 km/l or 44.98 mpg) |
| Driveline | Chain, 34/46 ratio primary drive |
| Clutch | Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath |
| Transmission type | Belt (final drive) |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Cooling system | Oil & air |
| Lubrication system | Dry sump |
| Fuel control | Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) |
| Fuel system | Injection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection |
| Bore x Stroke | 102.0 x 114.3 mm (4.0 x 4.5 inches) |
| Compression | 10.5:1 |
| Torque | 160.0 Nm (16.3 kgf-m or 118.0 ft.lbs) @ 3250 RPM |
| Power | 100.0 HP (73.0 kW) @ 5020 RPM |
| Engine details | Milwaukee-Eight® 114 |
| Engine type | V2, four-stroke |
| Capacity: | 1868.0 ccm (113.99 cubic inches) |
| | |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Wheels | Gloss Black Prodigy |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. ABS. 4-piston |
| Front brakes | Double disc. ABS. 4-piston |
| Rear tire | 180/55-B18 |
| Front tire | 130/60-B19 |
| Rear Suspension | Twin shocks |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic fork |
| Trail | 173 mm (6.8 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 26.0° |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Oil capacity | 4.90 litres (5.18 US quarts) |
| Fuel capacity | 22.71 litres (6.00 US gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1625 mm (64.0 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 140 mm (5.5 inches) |
| Overall length | 2430 mm (95.7 inches) |
| Seat height | 695 mm (27.4 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Power/weight ratio | 0.2695 HP/kg |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 386.9 kg (853.0 pounds) |
| Dry weight | 371.0 kg (818.0 pounds) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Comments | Small windshield. Cruise control. Alarm. Infotainment. |
| Carrying capacity | Saddle bags |
| Light | High 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) |
| Instruments | Display features odometer, trip A, trip B, range to empty and gear indicator; and larger tell-tale indicators. |
| Starter | Electric |
| Color options | Vivid Black, Billiard Red/Vivid Black, Billiard Teal, Midnight Crimson Red |
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 For | Best suited to experienced riders who are comfortable managing a very heavy, long-wheelbase touring machine at low speeds and in traffic. |
| Purpose | Built for covering long interstate miles in comfort with a fairing, saddlebags, and infotainment rather than for quick sporty rides. |
| Rider Fit | Requires a taller and reasonably strong rider to confidently handle its substantial weight when pushing it around, parking, or executing slow maneuvers. |
| Character | A classic American cruiser-tourer with a torquey V-twin thump, a commanding highway presence, and a relaxed, unhurried riding character. |
| Not Ideal For | Not 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 Reviews
Total comments: 1
MotorcycleDB Review
The 2021 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special motorcycle is a powerful and stylish vehicle that offers a smooth and comfortable ride. Its Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine delivers impressive performance, while the sleek design and advanced technology make it a standout in its class. Whether you're cruising down the highway or navigating city streets, the Road Glide Special provides a responsive and agile experience that is sure to impress. One of the standout features of the 2021 Road Glide Special is its unique Sharknose fairing, which not only gives it a distinctive look but also provides excellent aerodynamics and wind protection. The bike also comes equipped with a high-performance suspension system and responsive handling, making it a joy to ride in any conditions. Overall, the 2021 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special is a top-of-the-line motorcycle that offers a thrilling and smooth ride, combined with cutting-edge design and technology.Add a Comment
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