2019 Harley Davidson Sport Glide: Review, Specs, & More
Hey there, motorcycle enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the 2019 Harley Davidson Sport Glide, a bike that seamlessly blends touring comfort with classic Harley style. If you're looking for a versatile machine that can handle both weekend getaways and daily commutes, the Sport Glide might just be your perfect match. Let's explore what makes this bike stand out from the crowd, covering everything from its performance and handling to its design and features. We'll also touch on some key specifications and potential modifications to make it truly your own. So, buckle up and let's get started!
Overview of the 2019 Harley Davidson Sport Glide
The 2019 Harley Davidson Sport Glide represents a unique proposition in the Harley lineup: a bike that aims to be both a capable tourer and a stylish cruiser. It's designed for riders who want the ability to pack up and hit the open road, but also appreciate the stripped-down, classic look of a Harley-Davidson. The Sport Glide achieves this duality through a combination of practical features and iconic styling. Key to its touring capability are the detachable saddlebags and a small fairing, which can be quickly removed for a more streamlined appearance. This flexibility allows riders to transform the bike from a weekend tourer to a stylish urban cruiser in a matter of minutes.
Underneath its versatile exterior, the Sport Glide is powered by Harley-Davidson's Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine, providing ample power and torque for both city riding and highway cruising. The engine is known for its smooth operation and responsive throttle, making it a joy to ride in various conditions. The bike also features a comfortable riding position, with a well-padded seat and mid-mounted controls that cater to a wide range of rider sizes. In terms of technology, the Sport Glide includes features such as electronic cruise control, ABS brakes, and a security system, enhancing both safety and convenience. Its overall design is characterized by clean lines, a low-slung profile, and distinctive Harley-Davidson styling cues, making it a head-turner wherever it goes. The Sport Glide is a testament to Harley-Davidson's commitment to versatility and rider-focused design.
Key Features and Specifications
Let's get into the nitty-gritty details of what makes the 2019 Harley Davidson Sport Glide tick. First off, the heart of this beast is the Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine. This 1,746cc V-twin delivers a satisfying 108 lb-ft of torque, giving you plenty of grunt for acceleration and passing. It's a smooth engine, too, thanks to its internal counter-balancer, which reduces vibrations without sacrificing that classic Harley feel. The engine is paired with a six-speed transmission, offering smooth and precise gear changes. Now, onto the chassis. The Sport Glide features a lightweight frame that contributes to its nimble handling. The suspension consists of an inverted 43mm front fork and a rear monoshock with remote preload adjustment. This setup provides a comfortable and controlled ride, even on less-than-perfect road surfaces.
In terms of braking, the Sport Glide comes standard with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), offering added safety and peace of mind. The brakes themselves are responsive and provide good stopping power. Other notable features include electronic cruise control, which is a godsend on long rides, and a keyless ignition system for added convenience. The detachable saddlebags offer a combined storage capacity of 1.9 cubic feet, enough for a weekend getaway. And let's not forget the LED lighting all around, providing excellent visibility. The Sport Glide has a seat height of 26.6 inches, making it accessible to a wide range of riders. It tips the scales at 642 pounds in running order. All these features combine to create a versatile and capable motorcycle that's ready for anything you throw at it.
Performance and Handling
Alright, let's talk about how the 2019 Harley Davidson Sport Glide performs on the road. The Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine is a gem. It delivers strong, usable power throughout the rev range, making it a joy to ride in various conditions. Whether you're cruising around town or carving up a twisty road, the engine responds instantly to throttle inputs. The six-speed transmission is smooth and precise, allowing you to easily find the right gear for any situation. One of the standout features of the Sport Glide is its handling. Despite its size and weight, the bike feels surprisingly nimble and agile. The lightweight frame and well-tuned suspension contribute to its confident handling characteristics. The inverted front fork provides excellent feedback and control, while the rear monoshock absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road.
In corners, the Sport Glide holds its line well and inspires confidence. The mid-mounted controls provide a comfortable and natural riding position, allowing you to easily maneuver the bike. The brakes are also up to the task, providing ample stopping power when needed. The ABS system works seamlessly in the background, intervening only when necessary. Overall, the Sport Glide offers a balanced and refined riding experience. It's comfortable enough for long days in the saddle, yet sporty enough to keep you entertained on twisty roads. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to the world of Harley-Davidson, you'll appreciate the Sport Glide's user-friendly performance and handling. It's a bike that's easy to ride and fun to own. The Sport Glide offers a great mix of comfort, performance, and style. It's a bike that's equally at home on the open road and in the urban jungle.
Design and Styling
The 2019 Harley Davidson Sport Glide boasts a design that's both modern and classic, blending traditional Harley-Davidson styling cues with contemporary elements. Its low-slung profile, clean lines, and attention to detail make it a real head-turner. The Sport Glide is available in a range of colors, each accentuating its sleek and muscular appearance. One of the defining features of the Sport Glide is its detachable saddlebags and fairing. These components can be quickly and easily removed, transforming the bike from a touring-ready machine to a stripped-down cruiser in a matter of minutes. This versatility is one of the Sport Glide's biggest selling points. The fairing provides excellent wind protection on the open road, while the saddlebags offer ample storage space for your belongings. When removed, the bike takes on a more minimalist and aggressive look.
The Sport Glide also features LED lighting all around, including the headlight, taillight, and turn signals. This not only enhances visibility but also adds to the bike's modern aesthetic. The wheels are another standout design element, with their five-spoke design and machined accents. The attention to detail extends to the seat, which is comfortable and supportive, even on long rides. The Sport Glide also features a number of blacked-out components, including the engine, exhaust, and wheels, giving it a dark and menacing look. Overall, the Sport Glide's design is both functional and stylish. It's a bike that looks good whether it's parked in your garage or cruising down the highway. Its versatility and attention to detail make it a standout in the Harley-Davidson lineup. The design is a harmonious blend of form and function. The bike looks great, but it's also designed to be ridden and enjoyed.
Potential Modifications and Customization
One of the great things about Harley-Davidson motorcycles is the vast array of aftermarket parts and accessories available for customization. The 2019 Harley Davidson Sport Glide is no exception. Whether you're looking to improve performance, enhance comfort, or simply add your personal touch, there are plenty of options to choose from. For performance upgrades, you might consider installing a high-flow air filter, a performance exhaust system, and a fuel tuner. These modifications can help unleash the full potential of the Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine, improving horsepower and torque. On the comfort front, you could opt for a different seat, handlebar risers, or adjustable footpegs. These upgrades can make a big difference on long rides, allowing you to fine-tune the ergonomics to your liking.
In terms of aesthetics, the possibilities are endless. You could add custom paint, chrome accents, or aftermarket lighting. There are also a variety of different wheels, seats, and handlebars to choose from. One popular modification for the Sport Glide is to install a taller windscreen for added wind protection. Another common upgrade is to replace the stock suspension with aftermarket components, improving handling and ride quality. When it comes to customization, the only limit is your imagination (and your budget). With a little creativity and some aftermarket parts, you can transform your Sport Glide into a truly unique and personalized machine. A modified Sport Glide can reflect your individual style and preferences. Just remember to choose modifications that are compatible with your bike and that won't compromise its safety or reliability.
Pros and Cons of the 2019 Harley Davidson Sport Glide
Like any motorcycle, the 2019 Harley Davidson Sport Glide has its strengths and weaknesses. Let's break down the pros and cons to help you decide if this bike is right for you. On the positive side, the Sport Glide offers a versatile riding experience, thanks to its detachable saddlebags and fairing. This allows you to easily switch between touring and cruising modes. The Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine delivers ample power and torque, making it a joy to ride in various conditions. The bike handles well, thanks to its lightweight frame and well-tuned suspension. It also comes standard with features like ABS and cruise control, enhancing safety and convenience. The Sport Glide boasts a stylish design that blends classic Harley-Davidson styling with modern elements.
However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. The Sport Glide's seat may not be comfortable for all riders on long trips. The stock exhaust system is relatively quiet, which may not appeal to riders who prefer a louder sound. The bike's price tag may be a bit steep for some buyers. Additionally, while the detachable saddlebags are convenient, they are relatively small and may not offer enough storage space for extended trips. Finally, the Sport Glide's fuel economy is average, but not outstanding. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Sport Glide is a well-rounded motorcycle that offers a lot of value for the money. Its versatility, performance, and style make it a compelling option for riders who want a bike that can do it all. The pros outweigh the cons for most riders. But it's important to consider your individual needs and preferences before making a purchase.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the 2019 Harley Davidson Sport Glide is a versatile and stylish motorcycle that offers a compelling blend of touring comfort and classic Harley-Davidson appeal. Its detachable saddlebags and fairing make it easy to switch between touring and cruising modes, while its Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine delivers ample power and torque. The bike handles well, comes standard with useful features, and boasts a design that's sure to turn heads. While it may have a few minor drawbacks, such as a potentially uncomfortable seat for some riders and a relatively quiet exhaust, the Sport Glide's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. If you're looking for a motorcycle that can handle both weekend getaways and daily commutes, the Sport Glide is definitely worth considering. It's a bike that's equally at home on the open road and in the urban jungle.
Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to the world of Harley-Davidson, you'll appreciate the Sport Glide's user-friendly performance and stylish design. It's a bike that's easy to ride and fun to own. The Sport Glide is a testament to Harley-Davidson's commitment to versatility and rider-focused design. So, if you're in the market for a new motorcycle, be sure to give the 2019 Harley Davidson Sport Glide a look. You might just find that it's the perfect bike for you. Happy riding, guys!
