Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2019 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special. This bike isn't just a motorcycle; it's a statement. It's about hitting the open road with style, comfort, and a whole lot of attitude. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just dreaming of your first cross-country trip, the Street Glide Special deserves a serious look. Let's break down what makes this bike so special, from its performance and handling to its features and overall riding experience.

Engine and Performance

At the heart of the 2019 Street Glide Special lies the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine. This powerhouse delivers a massive amount of torque, making acceleration smooth and powerful. You'll feel it the instant you twist the throttle. The engine's refined design also minimizes vibrations, providing a more comfortable ride, especially on those long hauls. Harley-Davidson has really nailed the balance between raw power and rider comfort with this engine. The Milwaukee-Eight 114 isn't just about brute force; it's about delivering that power in a way that's usable and enjoyable for the rider. Whether you're cruising down the highway or navigating city streets, the engine responds quickly and predictably. This gives you confidence in any riding situation.

Fuel economy is always a concern, and the Street Glide Special doesn't disappoint. While it's not the most fuel-efficient bike on the market, it strikes a reasonable balance considering the engine's size and performance capabilities. You can expect to get decent mileage, allowing you to enjoy longer rides without constantly worrying about refueling. Plus, the bike's large fuel tank ensures you can cover significant distances between stops. The six-speed transmission is smooth and precise, making gear changes effortless. This is crucial for maintaining control and comfort, particularly during extended rides. The well-tuned transmission complements the engine's characteristics, providing optimal performance across a wide range of speeds and riding conditions. Overall, the engine and transmission work together seamlessly to deliver a fantastic riding experience.

Handling and Ride Quality

The 2019 Street Glide Special offers impressive handling for a bike of its size. The responsive chassis and well-tuned suspension provide a stable and confident ride. Whether you're carving through twisty roads or cruising on the interstate, the bike feels planted and in control. The suspension does a great job of absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road, ensuring a comfortable ride even on less-than-perfect surfaces. The bike's relatively low center of gravity also contributes to its stability and ease of handling. This makes it easier to maneuver at low speeds and navigate through traffic. The Brembo brakes provide ample stopping power, giving you confidence in emergency situations. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) is a valuable safety feature that helps prevent wheel lockup, especially in slippery conditions. Overall, the handling and ride quality of the Street Glide Special are top-notch, making it a pleasure to ride in a variety of conditions.

The bike's frame is designed to provide a solid and stable platform, which enhances its handling characteristics. The frame's rigidity minimizes flex, allowing the suspension to do its job effectively. This translates to a more predictable and controlled ride, especially when cornering. The steering is responsive and precise, allowing you to confidently navigate through turns. The bike's weight is well-distributed, which further contributes to its stability and balance. This is especially important when carrying a passenger or luggage. The combination of a well-designed frame, responsive steering, and balanced weight distribution makes the Street Glide Special a joy to ride on winding roads. The suspension is also adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune the ride to your preferences. This is a valuable feature for riders who want to optimize the bike's performance for different riding conditions or loads. Whether you prefer a plush and comfortable ride or a firmer and more responsive feel, the adjustable suspension allows you to dial in the perfect setup.

Features and Technology

The 2019 Street Glide Special is packed with features designed to enhance your riding experience. The Boom! Box 6.5GT infotainment system is a standout, offering a large touchscreen display, navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a powerful audio system. You can easily control your music, make calls, and get directions without taking your hands off the handlebars. The infotainment system is user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to navigate through the various menus and options. The display is bright and clear, even in direct sunlight. The bike also features cruise control, which is a must-have for long rides. Cruise control allows you to maintain a consistent speed without having to constantly hold the throttle, reducing fatigue and improving comfort. The LED lighting provides excellent visibility, both day and night. The bright headlights and taillights make you more visible to other drivers, enhancing safety. The turn signals are also LED, further improving visibility and safety.

The bike's instrumentation is clear and easy to read, providing you with all the essential information you need at a glance. The gauges display speed, RPM, fuel level, and other important data. The instrument panel is well-lit, making it easy to read even in low-light conditions. The bike also features a security system, which helps protect it from theft. The security system includes an alarm and an immobilizer, which prevents the engine from being started without the key fob. The bike's storage capacity is also impressive. The hard saddlebags provide ample space for carrying luggage and other essentials. The saddlebags are lockable, providing added security for your belongings. The bike also features a glove box, which is a convenient place to store small items like your phone or wallet. Overall, the 2019 Street Glide Special is a well-equipped bike that offers a wide range of features designed to enhance your riding experience.

Style and Design

The 2019 Street Glide Special boasts a sleek and aggressive design that's sure to turn heads. The blacked-out components give it a modern and sinister look, while the iconic batwing fairing adds a touch of classic Harley-Davidson style. The bike's lines are clean and flowing, creating a visually appealing silhouette. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the design, from the chrome accents to the custom badging. The bike's low-slung profile and muscular stance give it a commanding presence on the road. The available color options allow you to personalize the bike to your taste. Whether you prefer a classic black finish or a bold and vibrant color, there's a Street Glide Special to suit your style. The bike's overall design is a perfect blend of form and function. It looks great, and it's also comfortable and practical for long rides.

The bike's seat is designed to provide all-day comfort. The seat is well-padded and contoured to provide support and reduce fatigue. The rider and passenger seats are separate, allowing each person to adjust their position for optimal comfort. The bike's handlebars are positioned to provide a comfortable reach, reducing strain on your wrists and shoulders. The foot controls are also well-placed, allowing you to maintain a comfortable and natural riding position. The bike's overall ergonomics are excellent, making it a joy to ride for hours on end. The fairing provides excellent wind protection, shielding you from the elements. The fairing also helps reduce wind noise, making it easier to hear the music from the infotainment system. The bike's overall design is a testament to Harley-Davidson's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Every detail has been carefully considered to create a bike that's both stylish and functional.

2019 Street Glide Special: The Verdict

The 2019 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special is a fantastic bike that offers a winning combination of power, comfort, and style. It's perfect for riders who want a bike that can handle long-distance touring as well as around-town cruising. While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, its features and performance justify the price. If you're looking for a bike that will turn heads and provide you with years of riding enjoyment, the Street Glide Special is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared for the envious stares and the constant questions about your awesome ride!

Ultimately, the 2019 Street Glide Special isn't just a motorcycle; it's an experience. It's about the feeling of freedom as you cruise down the open road, the camaraderie with fellow riders, and the sense of pride in owning a piece of American motorcycle history. If you're ready to embrace the Harley-Davidson lifestyle, the Street Glide Special is a great place to start. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and experience the thrill of the ride!