Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide FLHTCU

Very disappointing – I rented a 2017 HD Ultra Limited with the new Milwaukee 8 engine. I have to say, I was very disappointed. I really wanted to like the bike, it looks fantastic and had some nice modern features like LED lighting and comprehensive infotainment. However I found the bike to be extremely uncomfortable, after a day's riding I was numb for 2 days afterwards.

The engine performance was very underwhelming, no power to speak of and no torque either. It performed like a 650 not a big capacity motor.

Handling and braking were OK and more than good enough for this style of bike.

Worst of all was the noise... just so noisy, it gave me a headache.

There is no way I would pay $40,000 for that bike. I wouldn't even pay half of that. I know Harley Davidson have a lot of fanatics, but I don't get it personally.

I'd rather buy a Japanese equivalent.

Most enjoyable Touring Motorcycle on the market – 2012 Ultra classic is best bike I have owned, not one warranty problem and now with 50,000 klms on clock runs better than ever. Designed for long haul, 2 up touring with ample storage for luggage and other equipment eg tent. Bike is for the Harley Enthusiast and is there to be enjoyed not compared. With a top speed of 180/190 klms per hour and 100 ft/ibs torque, this 400 Kg heavyweight is still quite nimble. Servicing costs would be best in class as no valve adjustment /shimming needed- hydraulic lifters and pushrods. The 103 cubic inch 1680 cc engine is a high tech blast from the past and a pleasure to ride.

The Harley mystique, an adventure in uncertainty – My 2010 Electra glide - A big, heavy, comfortable, easy ride that bristles with traditional looks and old time technology, a perfect touring bike for those on platinum auto club membership. If you are looking for that Harley mystique it delivers, with an adventure in uncertainty on every long ride. According to my local dealer principal the engine should be good for up to 50,000km. After that it risks destruction because of some unserviceable, low price components that cannot be readily inspected or replaced. When they disintegrate metal particles spread throughout the engine destroying cylinders, pistons, oil pump, big ends, main bearings. I got my new engine at 49,000km, apparently on cue if the dealer principal is to be believed. In my case it was a thrust bearing. When I picked up my bike with its new 103 upgrade in place of the 96 I received their earnest best wishes for another 50,000km of riding pleasure. The dealer principal did qualify by saying it's not necessarily inevitable, he has seen many go much further but said he has also seen them fail in the 20,000's, in his efforts to ease my pain. It is noteworthy that the crank, rods and big ends are a factory assembled unit and must be replaced in total. There is no dis-assembly and repair option at the dealer so if only part of them is damaged the whole lot must still be replaced. If mystique, uncertainty and travelling in life's lane of fate's handouts gets you excited then it's the bike to consider.

Another factor is their excellent winter riding comfort, with the welcome heat that this engine produces and pushes up to the rider. Unfortunately there is no off switch in summer. It was this hot running feature that caught me. It seized due to overheating shortly after its major service. I had reported this beforehand but was dismissed with the advice that it was normal. There was no consideration that it might be hot even for a Harley, The Dealer principal kindly explained that they call it a major service but it's only fluids and filters and they couldn't have done anything anyway, checking the tuning as requested isn't in their program. He also helpfully explained that Harley went to liquid cooling because of this kind of problem and my purchase of a new Harley would resolve it for me.

My bike's for sale with 400km on the new engine so if you want a bike that still has 49,600km left to run it would be an excellent buy.

Massey Furguson – Hired one in the US. Good if you want to plough a paddock but can't see the resemblance it has with motorcycling other than you out in the elements. The good points - fuel consumption, storage capactity, pillon comfort, ok in a straight line. The bad points - gutless, poor handling, poor riding position, seems tough enough although mine broke dowm with an electrical problem, pings like crazy (might be just the US altitude). The best analogy I can come up with is it is like paying for a Mercedes C Class and getting a a 1972 HQ Holden. Actually I would take the HQ over the Harley anyday. Performance is the same, handle the same but at least the HQ keeps you warm and dry. Nothing See the review