I agree. That blacked out theme was played out a few years ago.

 

Bout time they got rid of the mis-matched chrome bikes. Stock bikes never looked that good to me, aside from some of the paint jobs. Now with black out parts to match the black frame and engine, machined aluminum and chrome accents can be added back to the right amounts. So there is actually a theme going on.

 

so what's the verdict? It looks like the only difference between 17 and 18 specials is the 18's are blacked out. Am I missing something performance wise that I'm not seeing?

 

Nothing performance wise that I know of. Basically blacked out, CVO style gauge's, bags. New style wheels.

 

Street Glide Special & Road Glide Special have the Ultra Classic style gauges, not sure they light up yellow as well, easier on the eyes. Took the pic below from 2017 year models while @ dealership.
The 2018 CVO gauges on the Street Glide are bad-a$$, would like to purchase them once I pay off the bike.
=)


2017:
Street Glide top left
CVO Ultra Limited top right
Ultra Classic bottom left
Ultra Limited bottom right

 

My '17 gauges light yellow and has bluetooth someone commented that the 17 special did not have Bluetooth I don't know mine does baby I'm the lucky one

 

I think since the Rushmores came out, u can connect your phone via Bluetooth to hear your tunes, but it was limited since u just can't connect with a headset. Now u can with the new kit.

Although dont know if it is limited to only MoCo wireless headsets, or any aftermarket like the Sena I have.

 

How about the 180/55/18 tire on the back instead of 180/65/16 tire on the 2017. Seems the low profile tire would ride a bit harder. Why do you think it changed?

 

There wasn't enough change to make me buy one. I was looking at the '17 SGS but holding off for the '18 in case the difference was big.

But then they put the new frame and 114" motor in the Fat Bob, so I bought one of those instead!

I think they will probably put the bigger motor and new frame into the Touring line up next year, so might be worth waiting for that....

 

The Street Glide Special for '18 still has a 16" rear wheel...

https://motorcycles.harley-davidson....d-pricing.html