Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS 2020 vs. BMW R 18 Classic 2021

Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS 2020

Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS 2020

BMW R 18 Classic 2021

BMW R 18 Classic 2021

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Overview - Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS 2020 vs BMW R 18 Classic 2021

The Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS 2020 and the BMW R 18 Classic 2021 are both touring motorcycles with their own unique features and strengths.

Starting with the Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS 2020, it is powered by a V2 engine that delivers 90 HP and 150 Nm of torque. The engine provides a distinct Harley-Davidson experience with its "good vibrations." The bike's design is also a standout feature, with high-quality paintwork and a unique aesthetic. It comes equipped with a generous amount of features, including a great sound system and a high level of comfort with a cosy seating position. The brakes are well-controlled and stable, with cornering ABS for added safety. The bike also offers sufficient lean angle clearance and powerful acceleration.

Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS 2020

Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS 2020

On the other hand, the BMW R 18 Classic 2021 is equipped with a Boxer engine that produces 91 HP and 158 Nm of torque. The engine delivers a fascinating sound and provides a wonderful riding experience. The bike offers well-tuned riding modes, allowing riders to customize their experience. It also has trustworthy handling and a comfortable seating position, making it suitable for long rides. The BMW R 18 Classic has a classy appearance and offers a good overall touring package.

In terms of weaknesses, the Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS 2020 has a high weight, which may affect maneuverability for some riders. It also lacks a reverse gear, which can be inconvenient in certain situations. Additionally, the bike may not be considered a bargain due to its higher price point.

BMW R 18 Classic 2021

BMW R 18 Classic 2021

The BMW R 18 Classic 2021 has its own set of weaknesses. Some riders have reported experiencing turbulence at motorway speeds, which can affect the overall riding experience. The brake and clutch levers require a lot of hand force, which may be uncomfortable for some riders. There have also been reports of a rough response from the reverse gear.

In conclusion, both the Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS 2020 and the BMW R 18 Classic 2021 offer unique features and strengths. The Harley-Davidson model stands out with its powerful V2 engine, unique design, and high level of comfort. On the other hand, the BMW R 18 Classic offers a fascinating engine, well-tuned riding modes, and a comfortable seating position. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS 2020 compared to BMW R 18 Classic 2021

Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS 2020
BMW R 18 Classic 2021

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeVEngine typeBoxer
BoreBore100 mmBore107.1 mm
StrokeStroke111.1 mmStroke100 mm
Engine powerEngine power90 HPEngine power91 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power5,450 rpmRpm at Max. Power4,750 rpm
TorqueTorque150 NmTorque158 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque3,250 rpmRpm at Torque3,000 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio10 Compression Ratio9.6
Fuel systemFuel systemInjectionFuel systemInjection
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeToughened, Dry
TransmissionTransmissionBeltTransmissionProp shaft
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders2
ValvesValvesOHVValvesOHV
CoolingCoolingAirCoolingOil-air
DisplacementDisplacement1,745 ccmDisplacement1,802 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionTelescopic forkFront suspensionTelescopic fork

Chassis

FrameFrameSteelFrameSteel
Frame typeFrame typeDouble cradleFrame typeDouble cradle
RakeRake26 degreeRake57.3 degree
TrailTrail173 mmTrail150 mm

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeDouble disk

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width130 mmFront tyre width130 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height60 %Front tyre height90 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter19 inchFront tyre diameter16 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width180 mmRear tyre width180 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height65 %Rear tyre height65 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter16 inchRear tyre diameter16 inch
LengthLength2,430 mmLength2,440 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,625 mmWheelbase1,731 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height685 mmSeat Height710 mm
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity22.7 lFuel Tank Capacity16 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS 2020

Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS 2020

The Road Glide Special is good proof that it works very well to combine tradition with modernity in a very unobtrusive way. Visually, of course, the "Sharknose" catches the eye - whether you like it or not, it is unique. Inside, on the other hand, the most modern technology is installed: A combined ABS brake, traction control, LED headlights, a powerful infotainment system and the powerful 114 cubic inch (1868 cubic metres) V2 engine, which stomps so wonderfully, as it should for a Harley. The thick Murl allows very low-revving riding, and the enormous torque of 163 Newton metres delivers enough pressure in any situation. Only the high weight and the lack of reverse gear can sometimes cause problems when stopping and manoeuvring.

Typical Harley V2 engine with "good vibrations"

unique design, high-quality paintwork

generous equipment

sufficient lean angle clearance

well-controlled and stable brakes with cornering ABS

great sound system

high level of comfort with cosy seating position

powerful acceleration.

High weight

no reverse gear

no bargain

BMW R 18 Classic 2021

BMW R 18 Classic 2021

The BMW R 18 Classic presents itself as the second expansion stage of the magnificent boxer cruiser and offers a well-equipped all-round package. The Classic-specific equipment elevates the comfort and practicality of the R 18 without detracting from the charm of this mechanical motorbike. A great coup from BMW in more ways than one!

fascinating engine

wonderful sound

well-tuned riding modes

trustworthy handling

comfortable seating position

pride of ownership in the saddle

classy appearance

good overall touring package

Turbulence at motorway speed

Brake and clutch levers need a lot of hand force

Rough response of reverse gear

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS vs BMW R 18 Classic

There are a few key differences between a Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS 2020 and a BMW R 18 Classic 2021. In terms of price, the actual average price of a Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS 2020 is about 55% higher. Compared to BMW R 18 Classic 2021 there are more Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS 2020 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 10 compared to 6. It takes less time to sell a BMW R 18 Classic with 129 days compared to 147 days for the Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS. Since model year 2015 1000PS.de editors have written 9 reviews for the Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS and 14 reviews for the BMW R 18 Classic since model year 2021. The first review for the Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS was published on 8/3/2014 and now has more than 11,800 views. This compares to more than 21,400 views for the first review on BMW R 18 Classic published on 10/22/2020.

Price Harley-Davidson Touring Road Glide Special FLTRXS

Model year
Current average market prices

Price BMW R 18 Classic

Model year
Current average market prices

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