2010 Electra Glide Ultra Limited
Harley Davidson’s best-selling bike is the $21K Electra Glide Ultra Classic luxury-tourer. Despite it being the most expensive model outside the “CVO” line, this shows that there are still many well-heeled touring types who want a high level of luxury from their loaded baggers. To fill this demand, Harley has brought out the new Electra Glide Ultra Limited.This is an upgraded model for 2010 that comes close to the “CVO” levels of luxury and finish details. It features the larger 103-inch Twin Cam motor that was formerly part of the CVO line. It is now exclusive to this model. “CVOs” now receive the Twin Cam 110 Screamin’ Eagle engine. Harley says to expect a 10% bump in torque compared to the Twin Cam 96. An oil cooler helps shed additional heat from the more powerful engine.
The existing Ultra Classic Electra Glide was already nicely equipped with features like cruise control, an 80-watt Harman/Kardon audio system (with CD, MP3, CB, intercom), adjustable wind deflectors and vented fairing lowers. Along with all those luxeries, the new Limited adds even more standard equipment. Heated grips with six power level, Brembo triple-disc anti-lock brakes, and a self-arming security system to thwart thieves.
The new Electra Glide Ultra Limited Tour-Pak luggage also receives upgrades. A full-size rack adorns the large top-case, and inside is a 12-volt power supply to go along with the accessory plug located in the fairing’s console. Also included are liners for the three luggage components. New cast-aluminum Contrast Chrome wheels have chrome-plating on the faces of their 28 spokes, and a pair of 35-watt driving lights augment the headlight. The Electra Glide Ultra Limited’s only option is your choice of five two-tone color choices, two of them being “Custom Colors” that add $1200 to the MSRP. A quintet of Ultra Limited badges tell the world you’re riding something special. At 901 lbs of bike and fluids, the Electra Glide Ultra Limited is cumbersome at parking-lot speeds, but it is nonetheless quite well balanced. A low seat height of 27.3 inches helps manageability, and the saddle’s padding is much more plush than the Street Glides and Road Glides. The luxo-tourer emits a throaty note through a new exhaust system that culminates in dual mufflers.
Memphis Shades Windshields For Batwing FairingsThe Ultra Limited is an effortless cruiser, with mellow vibes coming from the rubber mount engine and smooth tunes pouring from the powerful stereo. The Ultra Classic Electra Glide’s 103-inch (1690cc) motor is a worthy addition to the Electra Glide platform, as the Twin Cam 96 would feel wheezy in the mountains while considering the bike’s weight.
Although Harleys aren’t generally known for their handling qualities, the stiffer frame introduced last year is a real improvement. No more puckering wallow when hitting a bump in the middle of a corner, allowing confident use of the fairly generous ground clearance and decent grip from new dual-compound tires. Air-adjustable rear shocks do a fine job although they have just 3.0 inches of travel. The ABS-equipped Brembos slow the big bike effectively. Protection from the elements is provided by a the batwing fairing and an upright windshield, and the rider’s legs are sheltered by fairing lowers. The cockpit gauges feature the new titanium-colored faces and larger numerals and are illuminated by brighter LED lighting. LED strips running along the sides of the Tour Pak trunk are an added saftey feature. Passenger accommodations are very plush, with a generously padded seat and large wrap-around backrest.
The Ultra Limited finds perfect harmony around 65 mph, inhaling miles without stress for rider or machine. At this pace, the rider is comfortably transported for the duration of a 6.0-gallon tank of fuel. Dreams of cross-country road trips are inevitable when riding the Limited. It is easy to convince yourself that $24,699 is a reasonable price for this fully dressed bagger.
