Honda’s Gold Wing 1800, the BMW K1200LT and Harley-Davidson’s Electra Glide Ultra Classic are arguably the top three and each have their plus points.
Having ridden the Hog recently, the Harley’s best features are the sheer luxury of the seating, the on-board CD/radio, which automatically gets louder the more you twist the throttle, plus decent hard luggage space.
On the downside, it’s undeniably slow, especially when riding two-up. The new 1584cc engine has six gears, but sixth is an overdrive and you need to change down one, or sometimes two gears, to overtake lorries safely. It just doesn’t have the sheer pull of the Gold Wing or the big BMW.
Pleasant
The sound of the big American V-twin is pleasant, the bike handles better than it used to and it cruises beautifully. The new motor is miserly on fuel – 50mpg is achievable at a steady 65mph and the bike boasts cruise control, helmet intercom system, dashboard diagnostics, handlebar controls for the CD/radio and excellent lighting.
The brakes could do with upgrading to cope with the Harley’s 372kg dry weight – it still takes too long to stop in an emergency.
One final factor seals the deal for me; Harley’s resale values.
This bike costs £16,500 new, but you could own it for three years and get around £12,000 back. Few motorcycle brands can compete with that tempting financial fact of life.
What do you think? Have your say.
