Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra 2015 — Specifications

Who said you had to choose between a car and a Harley? With the Tri Glide Ultra, the Milwaukee manufacturer has been blurring the lines for years, and it’s undeniable that the object fascinates. It’s not like other motorcycles; it’s a factory trike, a mechanical rarity that draws its roots from a century of the brand’s history. The idea of offering such a machine on the French market, as with the 2018 or 2019 models, is bold. It’s far from a simple accessory for Harley Davidson; it’s a philosophy in its own right.

Let’s measure the beast. Based on the frame of an Electra Glide Ultra Classic, this machine has its rear swingarm replaced by a rigid axle, two car tires, and a monumental trunk. The result? A wheelbase of 1692 mm and a curb weight approaching 561 kg, the equivalent of a small city car. Next to it, a Goldwing seems light. This architecture provides absolute stability, a feeling of a boat anchored to the asphalt that will reassure car converts, but signals the end of any desire for committed turns. The 119 mm ground clearance quickly reminds you of the limits of the concept.

Under the 22.7-liter tank, the mythical V-Twin Twin Cam 1690, here in Twin-Cooled version, delivers 86 horsepower and a meaty torque of 138 Nm from 3250 rpm. Power is not the issue; it’s the surge of propulsion, that characteristic roll, that counts. Project Rushmore brought its share of refinement: linked ABS, 49 mm fork, Daymaker LED headlights, and the essential BOOM! GTS multimedia system. Comfort is royal, the trunk is practical, and the electric reverse gear is a lifesaver facing this mass.

So, who is this monument for? Clearly not the purist motorcyclist seeking raw sensations. The Tri Glide Ultra Classic, whether you’re looking for it used in France or new, is an extreme touring machine, a motorhome on two… or three wheels. Its price, exceeding 35,000 euros for recent models like the 2022 or 2023 Harley Davidson Tri Glide Ultra, makes it a significant investment. Its major asset? Being accessible with a simple B license, opening the doors of the Harley family to an audience of motorists wishing to taste the freedom of the road without the perilous balances. It’s a unique experience, an expensive but seductive compromise for those who prioritize travel over acrobatics.