Understanding the Road Glide's Features
The Harley Davidson Road Glide is built for long-distance touring with features that enhance comfort, stability, and control. It’s equipped with a frame-mounted fairing, which reduces wind buffeting and provides better handling, especially at highway speeds. The advanced suspension system and Reflex Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS) contribute to a safer riding experience by improving traction and stability. Familiarizing yourself with these features is essential to maximizing your safety on the road.
Pre-Ride Safety Checks
Before hitting the road, it’s crucial to conduct a thorough pre-ride inspection. For the Road Glide, this includes:
Tire Pressure and Tread: Ensure that both front and rear tires are properly inflated and check for adequate tread depth.
Brakes: Inspect the brake pads for wear and ensure the brake fluid is at the correct level.
Lights and Signals: Confirm that all lights, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals, are functioning correctly. Upgrading to LED lights, like those from Eagle Lights, can improve visibility.
Oil and Fluids: Check the engine oil, coolant, and other essential fluids to avoid mechanical issues on the road.
Wearing the Right Gear
While the Road Glide offers a comfortable and smooth ride, the importance of proper riding gear cannot be overstated. Even on a well-designed touring bike, riders should prioritize:
Helmet: A DOT-approved helmet is a must. For added comfort on long rides, consider a modular or full-face helmet with ventilation and communication features.
Protective Clothing: Wear abrasion-resistant clothing such as leather or textile jackets, pants, and gloves. Many touring gear options also come with armor for extra protection.
Footwear: Sturdy, over-the-ankle boots provide better control and protect your feet in case of a fall.
Mastering Safe Riding Techniques
Riding a heavyweight motorcycle like the Road Glide requires skill and experience. Key techniques include:
Cornering: The Road Glide’s low center of gravity helps with stability in turns, but riders should always enter corners at a safe speed and avoid abrupt braking or acceleration.
Braking: The bike’s linked braking system improves stopping power, but it’s still essential to apply both front and rear brakes smoothly and progressively.
Lane Positioning: Stay visible to other motorists by positioning yourself within the lane strategically. This not only helps avoid blind spots but also allows for better visibility of the road ahead.
Staying Alert and Aware
Even with all the right gear and techniques, staying vigilant is key to motorcycle safety. Long rides can lead to fatigue, so it’s essential to:
Take Breaks: Schedule regular stops to rest and hydrate, especially on extended trips.
Monitor the Weather: The Road Glide handles well in most conditions, but severe weather can still pose risks. Be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary.
Scan the Road: Continuously scan your surroundings for hazards such as potholes, debris, or erratic drivers. Maintaining a safe following distance gives you more time to react.
Group Riding Considerations
The Road Glide is popular among touring groups. When riding in a group:
Maintain Staggered Formation: This allows for better visibility and more space to maneuver.
Communicate Clearly: Use hand signals or communication devices to keep the group informed of changes in speed or direction.
Ride at Your Comfort Level: Never feel pressured to exceed your skill or comfort level to keep up with the group.
Enhancing Visibility
The Road Glide’s size and lighting make it visible, but additional measures can improve your presence on the road:
Use of High Beams: During the day, using high beams can make you more noticeable to oncoming traffic.
LED Lighting Upgrades: Installing brighter, longer-lasting LED lights, like those from Eagle Lights, enhances visibility in low-light conditions.
