Trikes are a little different. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure that out obviously, but it’s also a little mental to try and master the art of going fast on something with three wheels. Take the 2024 Harley-Davidson Road Glide 3 for example.
As the name suggests, this three-wheeler is based on the popular touring model, right down to the iconic shark nosed fairing. Our test subject was coated in super cool Sharkskin Blue, which looks mint against black and chrome accents that adorn the trike.
Climbing aboard delivers in instant feeling of cool that engulfs the rider as you lean forward and grab the handlebars. All the controls are standard Harley-Davidson and apart from the two rear wheels, the bike mirrors the Project Rushmore Road Glide.
Standard Road Glide analogue gauges remain too, showing fuel, battery, revs and speed, all nestled around a full colour 5.25-inch TFT display which houses navigation and music controls.
There’s plenty of storage too, with a large boot that’s big enough to fit a carton of beer and a six pack of Canadian Club, with some additional clever little compartments in the fairing for storing your wallet, keys and phone (with a USB port in one of them).
Out on the road it feels a little foreign when compared to a normal motorcycle, and the experience takes a little getting used to. Having three wheels also means cornering and navigating traffic is a very different kettle of fish.
When piloting the trike, you are dealing with more weight and width. There is the benefit of not having to put your foot down when you stop, which is an added bonus for older or less mobile riders. Steering isn’t a task for the weak of heart though.
A little finesse is required, alongside some muscle and throttle. Take a bend too slow and it’ll feel as if the inside rear wheel wants to lift, while a little too much enthusiasm makes for a butt puckering and enlightening experience.
The suspension on the Road Glide 3 is up to the task though, ensuring you get all of that Milwaukee Eight muscle down on the tarmac. The 49mm front fork features dual ending valves, allowing close to 120mm of travel.
The rear is fitted with a hand-adjustable emulsion suspension setup. This lets the astoundingly hefty 528kg trike soak up the bumps and ensures a plus ride, especially when you’re smashing out freeway kilometres.
Braking comes from dual 300mm discs with 4-piston callipers up front, which do an admirable job of bring this big unit to a stop, with some good bite and feel. The rear features a single 270mm disc and integrated park brake.
An electric reverse gear is fitted standard and makes parking and maneuvering the trike a hell of a lot easier. The park brake is simply engaged with your foot, utilising the back brake pedal and ensures your pride and joy doesn’t go rolling away during a pit stop.
Powering the Road Glide 3 is Harley-Davidson’s tried and trusted 114 cubic inch Milwaukee Eight motor. Producing 65kW and 159Nm, it delivers more than enough grunt to have some serious fun aboard the trike.
Harley-Davidson claims 6.5-litres/100km, which should mean its good for about 300km per tank. RDRS rider assistance is also included and offers a collection of functions designed to provide additional safety.
All-in-all it’s a cool, comfortable and competent touring package that delivers one hell of a good time and a metric shed load of attitude. It just happens to do it with three wheels instead of two.
Harley-Davidson’s 2024 Road Glide 3 trike is available in six colours, three with black trim and three with chrome. The former comes in Vivid Black, Atlas Silver Metallic and Shark Skin Blue, with the latter in Vivid Black, Billiard Grey and Red Rock.
It’s priced from $59,995 ride away and backed by a 2-year unlimited kilometre warranty. To find out more, visit the Harley-Davidson website or contact your local dealer.
Our test bike was provided by Harley-Davidson Australia for independent review purposes.
