Harley Davidson Road Glide: Troubleshooting Common Issues and How to Fix Them

The Harley Davidson Road Glide is known for its unique frame-mounted fairing and comfortable long-distance touring capabilities. However, even this powerhouse cruiser can experience occasional mechanical and comfort issues. In this post, we’ll go through some of the most common problems Road Glide riders encounter and how to effectively resolve them.

1. Engine Overheating

Problem: Like its sibling, the Street Glide, Road Glide riders often report overheating issues, especially on hot days or during long rides. The air-cooled engine can struggle to maintain a stable temperature, especially in slow-moving traffic.

Solution:

• Upgrade to an Oil Cooler: Consider installing an aftermarket oil cooler for better temperature management.
• Use Synthetic Oil: Switching to synthetic oil will improve the bike’s heat resistance and help the engine stay cooler.
• Avoid Prolonged Idling: Keep your bike moving as much as possible to ensure sufficient airflow over the air-cooled engine.

2. Handlebar Vibration at High Speeds

Problem: Road Glide owners sometimes complain about excessive vibration in the handlebars, especially at highway speeds. While some vibration is typical for Harley models, too much can lead to discomfort on long rides.

Solution:

• Check the Engine Mounts: Make sure the engine mounts are not worn out or damaged. Replacing old mounts can reduce vibrations significantly.
• Install Vibration Dampeners: Some riders find installing handlebar dampeners or switching to aftermarket handlebars designed for vibration reduction helps alleviate the issue.

3. Stock Windshield Too Short

Problem: Many riders find that the stock windshield on the Road Glide is too short to adequately block wind, resulting in buffeting at high speeds.

Solution:

• Upgrade to a Taller Windshield: An aftermarket windshield, especially a taller or flared design, can drastically reduce wind turbulence and improve overall comfort.
• Wind Deflectors: Adding fork-mounted wind deflectors is another option to further reduce wind impact on the rider’s head and torso.

4. Infotainment System Glitches

Problem: The Boom!™ Box Infotainment system on the Road Glide is a valuable feature, but some riders experience issues with it freezing, not connecting to Bluetooth, or malfunctioning during use.

Solution:

• Update the Software: Make sure the system is running the latest version of its software by visiting a Harley-Davidson dealership or downloading updates online.
• Reset the System: If the system freezes, a simple reset often resolves the issue.
• Check Connections: Ensure all wiring and connections are properly installed and haven’t loosened over time.

5. Seat Comfort for Long Rides

Problem: Similar to the Street Glide, the stock seat on the Road Glide may not be comfortable enough for long-distance touring. Riders often report back pain or discomfort after hours in the saddle.

Solution:

• Upgrade to a Touring Seat: Consider investing in an aftermarket seat designed for long rides, such as a gel-padded touring seat.
• Add a Seat Pad: If replacing the seat is too costly, you can also add a gel seat pad for extra cushioning.

6. Brake Squeaking Noise

Problem: Some Road Glide owners report that their brakes, particularly the rear ones, tend to squeak during operation.

Solution:

• Clean the Brake Pads: Dust and dirt accumulation on the brake pads can lead to squeaking. Clean the pads or replace them if necessary.
• Use Anti-Squeak Brake Grease: Applying this grease to the back of the brake pads can prevent squealing noises.
• Check Rotor Alignment: Ensure that the brake rotor is properly aligned, as misalignment can also cause noise.

Conclusion

The Harley Davidson Road Glide is built for long, comfortable rides, but like any bike, it requires proper maintenance to avoid common issues. By addressing these potential problems proactively, you can enjoy a smoother and more enjoyable riding experience. Regular checkups, timely upgrades, and a little DIY maintenance will go a long way in keeping your Road Glide in peak condition.