The 2009 Harley-Davidson Road Glide incorporates technological improvements while retaining the classic look Harley riders want.

The 2009 Harley-Davidson Touring lineup is new from the ground up. The Dunlop D407 Multi-tread tires are a perfect match for the new black 28 spoke cast aluminum wheels. The new frame and swingarm provide a solid base for the new components and provide greater carrying capacity.

2009 FLTR Road Glide features

• New 2-1-2 exhaust system
• New engine isolation system
• New Isolated Drive System
• New 28-spoke cast aluminum wheels, 17" front and 16" rear
• New Dunlop 407 tires, 130/80-17 front and 180/65-16 rear
• ABS brakes
• 40-watt Harman/Kardon audio system with CD/AM/FM/WB/MP3

Riding Impressions

I don't ride much during rainy season, so I had some concerns about the weather before starting our ride. All such concerns soon faded away—I found the 2009 Harley-Davidson FLTR Road Glide to be stable and confidence inspiring even when riding in heavy rain and windy conditions.

The wide fixed fairing provides excellent protection from the elements. My gloves and leather jacket stayed relatively dry considering the heavy rain we encountered on San Marco Pass. I noticed very minor buffeting at high freeway speeds, not surprising given the greater distance to the tall windscreen (located farther from the rider than the fork-mounted fairings on the other models). The one-piece, two-up Road Glide Classic seat allowed me to adjust my seating position during the ride, ensuring all-day comfort.

It's hard to believe the the Road Glide weighs 820 pounds while at speed. The handlebars and grip position, combined with well-placed and easy to use controls create a natural and comfortable riding position. Steering effort is light, consistent and precise, no doubt enhanced by the Road Glide’s frame-mounted fairing.

The tires have excellent grip and at times it felt more like riding a sport-tourer. 4-piston Brembo calipers, 300mm rotors (dual front and single rear) are well matched to the Road Glide's bulk. The front and rear brakes are easy to control. I was completely at ease with the balanced handling and strong brakes.

Ground clearance on the winding back roads was never an issue even when riding at a spirited "touring" pace. This sport-bike rider enjoyed riding the 2009 Road Glide even when pushing the limits.

No doubt about it, the 2009 Harley-Davidson FLTR Road Glide is up to the challenge of all-weather long-distance touring.

MSRP: Black $18,599, Color $19,049. Options included on test bike: ABS ($795) and California Emissions ($200).

For more information: Harley-Davidson USA

Credits

Photos by Kevin Wing (courtesy of Harley-Davidson).