Harley-Davidson offers a range of models that cater to varying tastes and needs.
Among these, the Electra Glide and Street Glide have gained significant attention due to their unparalleled blend of style and performance.
Though they share a common lineage, subtle differences in design and features set them apart.
In this article, we will aim to differentiate between the Electra Glide and Street Glide so you have a clear understanding of what each model has to offer.
Let’s dive in!
Electra Glide Vs Street Glide – Comparision
Harley-Davidson, a flagship of American motorcycle culture, offers diverse models designed to cater to the individual aesthetic and functional preferences of riders.
First of all, we will take a look at the technical features of both bikes to check any differences between them. Here we have compared the specs of the Electra Glide 2022 model and the Street Glide 2023 model.
| Features | Electra Glide 2022 | Street Glide 2023 |
| Engine | Milwaukee-Eight® 107 | Milwaukee-Eight® 107 |
| Engine Torque | 111 ft-lb | 111 ft-lb |
| Bore x Stroke | 3.937 in. X 4.375 in. | 3.937 in. X 4.375 in. |
| Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel System | Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) | Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 6-speed |
| Front Fork | 49 mm Dual Bending Valve | 49 mm Dual Bending Valve |
| Rear Shocks | Premium Low Hand-Adjustable Rear Suspension | Premium Low Hand-Adjustable Rear Suspension |
| Brakes (Front) | 32 mm, 4-piston fixed | 32 mm, Dual floating rotors |
| Brakes (Rear) | 4-piston fixed | 4-piston fixed |
| Tires Front | BW 130/80B17 65H | 130/60B19 61H |
| Tires Rear | BW 180/65B16 81H | BW 180/55B18 80H |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 6 gal. | 6 gal. |
| Weight, As Shipped | 781 lb. | 796 lb. |
| Seat Height | 26.1 inches | 26.1 inches |
| Infotainment System | None | Boom!™ Box GTS |
| Safety Features | Reflex™ Linked Brembo® Brakes with Standard ABS, Optional RDRS Safety Enhancements | Standard Brembo ABS, Optional Reflex™ Defensive Rider Systems |
| Price (USD) | $19,429 | $21,999 |
While both are from the Touring family, these two motorcycles maintain distinct differences that set them apart in terms of design, performance, and rider experience.
1. Reliability Comparison
When it comes to reliability, both the Electra Glide and Street Glide models of Harley-Davidson have their own merits.
The Electra Glide is known for its robust design and long-lasting performance, making it an excellent choice for long-distance rides.
Its durable build quality and less demanding maintenance routine stand as a testament to its reliability.
On the other hand, the Street Glide boasts reliable city commuting with its more compact design and nimble handling.
Its efficient engine performance and high-quality components contribute to remarkable reliability within city limits.
2. Engine & Performance
Now the most important thing to note in any motorcycle is its engine. The Electra Glide Standard is powered by a Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine.
This V-Twin engine delivers a peak torque of 150 Nm at 3250 rpm, providing a smooth, powerful ride.
Its suspension, featuring emulsion-technology rear shock absorbers with hand-adjustable preload, ensures a comfortable ride even on long journeys.
On the other side, the Street Glide also boasts a Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine with similar power and torque.
However, it differentiates itself with the inclusion of the Reflex Defensive Rider Systems, a new collection of technology designed to match motorcycle performance to available traction during acceleration, deceleration, and braking.
The engine and base performance of the Electra Glide and Street Glide are quite comparable. But the Street Glide goes a step further by integrating advanced rider systems for improved handling and control.
3. Comfort & Ergonomics
When it comes to comfort and ergonomics, both offer unique features. The Electra Glide is equipped with a robust, comfortable seat and a full-coverage front fairing to protect against the elements.
It features an upright and relaxed seat that provides ample comfort for long-distance rides.
The ergonomics of the Electra Glide are designed for maximum rider and passenger comfort, with well-placed handlebars and foot controls for an overall pleasant riding experience.
On the other hand, the Street Glide, still offering a comfortable ride, has a slightly more aggressive riding position.
It sports a low seat height, which appeals to riders who prefer having their feet flat on the ground at a stop.
Its windshield, though not as comprehensive as the Electra Glide, still offers effective wind and weather protection.
The Street Glide design gives it a sleeker, more modern look without compromising on rider comfort.
Yet, the Electra Glide offers a more relaxed riding position, making it ideal for long-distance touring, while the Street Glide’s aggressive stance is optimized for city riding.
4. Technology & Features
When comparing the several technological and feature differences come to light. The Electra Glide is built for comfort with its luxury touring design.
It includes a Batwing fairing, providing excellent wind and weather protection, and comes equipped with a BoomBox GTS infotainment system, offering excellent sound quality and GPS navigation.
On the other hand, the Street Glide is designed for the urban environment with its stripped-down hot-rod style.
It features a sleek, frame-mounted fairing and a high-performing BoomBox 4.3 infotainment system.
5. Handling
In terms of handling, the Electra Glide, with its full touring package, tends to feel more stable and grounded, especially at high speeds and on long rides, due to its heftier overall weight.
It boasts a plush and comfortable ride, making it an excellent choice for cross-country tours.
On the other hand, the Street Glide, while still a heavyweight, has a lower center of gravity, which makes it more agile and easier to handle at lower speeds, particularly in city traffic or tight turns.
Despite its learner profile, the Street Glide maintains a smooth and comfortable ride, making it versatile for city commuting and longer journeys.
6. Price Point
The Electra Glide, known for its full touring capabilities, superior comfort, and high-end features, comes with a higher price tag.
Depending on the specific model and optional add-ons, the Electra Glide’s price can range approximately from $24,000 to $28,000.
On the other hand, the Street Glide, while still offering a robust set of features for touring, is a more streamlined option and is priced a little lower.
The Street Glide’s price may fluctuate between $21,000 to $25,000 based on the model and additional features chosen.
It’s important to note that prices can vary based on local taxes, dealer prices, and seasonal offers.
Which Is Better?
To consider better for yourself firstly, consider the aesthetics: The Electra Glide offers a more traditional, classic look, while the Street Glide has a sleek, modern profile due to its “baggers” design.
Secondly, take into account your riding style. The Electra Glide lends itself to long, comfortable rides due to its well-cushioned seat and rear air-adjustable suspension.
On the other hand, Street Glide, with its lower seat height and lighter weight, is ideal for city riding and shorter trips.
You should also assess the features and technology each model brings, usually electra glide, including a tour pack, heated hand grips, and a BoomBox GTS infotainment system.
The Street Glide has a stripped-down, streamlined style, but it doesn’t skimp on technology with its touchscreen infotainment system and two-speaker audio system.
For a more classic, comfortable ride, especially on long trips, the Electra Glide may be the better choice.
For modern design and agility, particularly in city landscapes, the Street Glide could be the ideal match.
What Are The Main Differences Between Harley Davidson Electra Glide And Street Glide?
The main differences between the Harley-Davidson Electra Glide and Street Glide lie in their design, equipment, and purpose.
The Electra Glide is designed for long-distance touring, offering a comfortable ride with a larger fairing, a radio, and hard-shell saddlebags. It also has optional features like a Tour-Pak luggage carrier that houses two full-face helmets.
On the other hand, the Street Glide offers a more stripped-down, minimalist design. It’s a ‘bagger’ motorcycle with a sleeker, more streamlined look, a smaller fairing, and no radio.
It’s designed more for the city and shorter rides but can be equipped for touring.
Is There a Difference In Performance between the Electra Glide and Street Glide?
The Electra Glide and Street Glide are stellar motorcycles, each with its unique attributes that cater to specific rider preferences.
The Electra Glide is equipped with a Twin-Cooled Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, providing ample power for highway cruising.
On the other hand, the Street Glide runs on a Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine, which, while powerful, may not deliver the same level of performance as the 114 engine on the Electra Glide.
Thus, the choice between the two largely depends on your preference for comfort versus agility and performance.
Ahtsham Younas is a passionate blogger and content writer. He loves to ride motorcycles and learn the mechanical process behind the motorcycles.
He has been writing articles in the motorcycle industry since 2019 and has learned many things about motorbike niches.
