Best and Worst Street Glide Years: A Comprehensive Guide for Enthusiasts

The Harley-Davidson Street Glide has been a favorite among motorcycle enthusiasts for years, known for its distinctive style, comfortable ride, and reliable performance. However, like any long-standing model, there are some years that stand out as exceptional and others that, well, might have missed the mark. Whether you’re considering buying a used Street Glide or just curious about the evolution of this iconic bike, this guide will help you navigate the best and worst years of the Harley-Davidson Street Glide.

Discover the standout years of the Harley-Davidson Street Glide and uncover which models are best avoided. Dive in to learn about the top picks and potential pitfalls before your next ride.

The Best Years for Harley-Davidson Street Glide

1. 2015 Harley-Davidson Street Glide
   • Why It’s Great: The 2015 model is often hailed as one of the best in the Street Glide lineup. This year marked the continuation of the Project RUSHMORE initiative, which brought several significant upgrades to the bike. Riders appreciated the improved aerodynamics, enhanced infotainment system, and the responsive Twin Cam 103 engine. The 2015 Street Glide offered a balance of comfort, power, and modern technology, making it a top pick for both long trips and daily rides.
   • Key Features:
     • High Output Twin Cam 103 engine
     • Reflex Linked Brakes with ABS
     • Boom! Box 6.5GT Infotainment System
     • Daymaker™ LED headlamp
2. 2020 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special
   • Why It’s Great: The 2020 Street Glide Special is a modern marvel, boasting the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, which offers more power and a smoother ride compared to its predecessors. This model also introduced a sleeker design, with blacked-out finishes and advanced rider aids like the Reflex Defensive Rider System (RDRS). If you’re looking for a Street Glide that combines classic Harley-Davidson style with contemporary technology, the 2020 Special is hard to beat.
   • Key Features:
     • Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine
     • RDRS (optional)
     • Stretched saddlebags for extra storage
     • Gloss Black Prodigy Wheels
3. 2009 Harley-Davidson Street Glide
   • Why It’s Great: The 2009 model year was a game-changer for the Street Glide. It introduced the new chassis that greatly improved handling and stability. Additionally, this was the year Harley-Davidson debuted the electronic throttle control, which was a significant advancement at the time. The 2009 Street Glide offered riders a blend of innovation and reliability, setting a new standard for the models that followed.
   • Key Features:
     • New frame and swingarm
     • Electronic Throttle Control
     • Upgraded suspension system
     • 96 cubic inch Twin Cam engine

The Worst Years for Harley-Davidson Street Glide

1. 2007 Harley-Davidson Street Glide
   • Why It’s Not So Great: While the 2007 Street Glide was generally well-received, it had its fair share of issues, particularly with the 96 cubic inch Twin Cam engine. Many riders reported excessive engine heat, which made riding in warmer climates uncomfortable. Additionally, the early electronic fuel injection system in this model was known to be temperamental, leading to inconsistent performance.
   • Common Problems:
     • Excessive engine heat
     • Early EFI issues
     • Cam chain tensioner failures
2. 2014 Harley-Davidson Street Glide
   • Why It’s Not So Great: The 2014 Street Glide was part of the initial rollout of Project RUSHMORE, which introduced several new features. However, being the first model year of a major overhaul, it also came with some growing pains. Owners of the 2014 model reported issues with the Boom! Box infotainment system, including frequent software glitches and poor touchscreen responsiveness. The Rushmore updates also introduced some handling quirks that were ironed out in subsequent years.
   • Common Problems:
     • Infotainment system glitches
     • Touchscreen responsiveness issues
     • Early production bugs
3. 2008 Harley-Davidson Street Glide
   • Why It’s Not So Great: The 2008 Street Glide is often cited as one of the less desirable years due to its problematic 96 cubic inch Twin Cam engine. This model was plagued by engine-related issues, particularly with the cam chain tensioners, which were prone to premature wear. Many riders found themselves facing expensive repairs far sooner than expected, making the 2008 model a less attractive option for buyers today.
   • Common Problems:
     • Cam chain tensioner wear
     • Engine noise and vibration issues
     • Electrical system faults

Conclusion: Navigating the Best and Worst Street Glide Years

Choosing the right Street Glide model year can make a world of difference in your riding experience. While the 2015, 2020, and 2009 models stand out for their innovations, performance, and reliability, the 2007, 2014, and 2008 models are best approached with caution due to their various issues. As always, when considering a used motorcycle, it’s essential to thoroughly inspect the bike, review its maintenance history, and, if possible, take it for a test ride.

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to the Harley-Davidson family, understanding the nuances of different Street Glide years will help you make an informed decision and ensure that you find a bike that suits your needs and style. Happy riding!