Harley-Davidson 1870 Tri Glide Ultra 120ème anniversaire FLHTCUTGANV 2023 — Specifications

Who still buys a trike in 2023? The question deserves to be asked given that the market boils down to a handful of models. Among mainstream manufacturers, the choice is quickly made: Harley-Davidson reigns virtually alone with its Tri Glide Ultra, the Freewheeler playing in a more stripped-down category. So when Milwaukee decides to celebrate its 120 years of existence by dressing its three-wheeled ocean liner in a commemorative livery, suffice it to say the event targets a niche within the niche. Production limited to 1,100 units, exclusive paint, gold badges on the tank. The Tri Glide Ultra 120th Anniversary isn't looking to win over new customers. It wants to seduce those who are already converted.

On the aesthetic front, the "Heirloom Red Fade" color scheme plays the card of a deep burgundy that gradually blends into a darker "Midnight Crimson" at the extremities. The effect is polished, almost solemn. The seat features a matching two-tone treatment, the passenger armrests follow the same color code, and a golden eagle presides over the 22.7-liter tank. You either love or hate this chromed patriotism, but no one can accuse Harley of cutting corners on the presentation of its special editions. Every detail breathes commemoration, from the engine badge to the air filter stamped with the anniversary logo.

Beneath this ceremonial bodywork beats the Milwaukee Eight 1868 cc in Twin Cooled configuration, partially liquid-cooled. The 45-degree V-twin produces 87 hp at 5,020 rpm and, more importantly, 159.8 Nm of torque from just 3,000 rpm. On paper, those numbers speak for themselves. In reality, they have to contend with 564 kg at full wet weight. Add a passenger, load up the 124-liter trunk and the Tour Pak, and you're piloting a convoy that flirts with the mass of a compact car. Top speed caps out at 170 km/h, which remains anecdotal for a machine designed for long-haul cruising. The generous torque partly compensates for the heft, with the belt drive and 6-speed gearbox delivering smooth, unhurried acceleration. But don't expect any sprightliness. The Tri Glide moves forward with the calm determination of a cargo ship heading up the Mississippi.

The equipment makes up for what the dynamics cannot offer. Electric reverse, parking brake, Daymaker LED headlights, Boom Box GTS infotainment system with a 6.5-inch TFT screen and four speakers. The RDRS electronic suite adapts ABS braking, traction control, and drag-torque management to the specific behavior of a three-wheeler in corners. Stability, in fact, is the trump card of the trike format. No kickstand to manage, no balance to maintain at a standstill. For aging riders or those whose physical condition no longer allows them to handle a 400 kg bagger, the Tri Glide opens a door that no one else truly offers at this level of refinement.

Then comes the uncomfortable question. At €60,500, the Tri Glide Ultra 120th Anniversary is priced in premium sedan territory. And the surcharge for the commemorative finish alone represents the price of a Nightster. It's hard to justify such a premium with a few badges and an exclusive color, however well executed it may be. The target audience knows it, accepts it, and signs the check without flinching. This Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra is not a rational purchase. It's a statement, a rolling totem that turns every outing into a parade. Provided you accept that the price of admission, for its part, is anything but commemorative.