2019 Electra Glide Standard is a Dressed-Down Dresser

Unvarnished Touring

Cycle World described the 2019 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Standard as “unvarnished,” free of “frippery and fandanglery” — meaning no bells and whistles. Harley-Davidson is pitching the Electra Glide Standard to those looking to “disconnect...and heighten the experience of the journey.” Unplugging might just be the antidote for a busy, cyber-saturated life.

Glide Family

Launched in early March 2019, the Electra Glide Standard makes a reappearance after almost a decade on the sidelines. At first glance, the Electra Glide Standard looks like a Street Glide without the infotainment system. While the two models are very similar, there are a few significant differences — after all, the Electra Glide chronologically precedes the Street Glide. 

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Black and Shine

The Electra Glide Standard is an exercise in reductive thinking. Visually, it is uncomplicated, but stands-out with distinct tank badges, and just the right balance of blacked-out components, chrome, and satin finishes. Channeling Henry Ford, the Electra Glide Standard is available in any color, so long as it is black.

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Riding Motorvation

The Electra Glide Standard has the lowest price point of all the touring models. Part of that cost-saving measure means that the Milwaukee-Eight 107 is the only available engine option. Moving up to the larger 114 cubic-inch motor is possible but entails an after-purchase upgrade — at the customer's expense. Limited choices are all part of keeping the initial cost as low as possible. 

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Rims and Brakes

One of the biggest model differences are the wheel sizes. While both the Street Glide and the Electra Glide Standard share the Impeller Cast Aluminum rims, the Electra Glide Standard keeps the seventeen-inch front rim of previous touring model years. The rear is the same for both models at sixteen inches. For an additional $795, the Reflex Linked and ABS brake features can be added. 

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Easy Ride

The Electra Glide Standard has the same rear suspension as the Street Glide. The user-friendly handwheel on the rear left shock easily sets the preload. The front Showa Dual Bending Valve makes for an overall premium suspension package. Combined with the three Brembo disc brakes, ABS or not, the whole system handles all manner of driving conditions and road surface with ease. 

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Blacked-Out Dash

The Electra Glide Standard's differences are most notable behind the controls. Keeping the touring rider in mind, cruise control, keyless ignition and a security system are all standard. While the flat black fairing is pre-wired for audio, it is not available as an option. Mirrors are located on standard mounts — not integrated into the fairing like on the Street Glide, and the analog gauges have a black background. 

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Rider Focused

In a calculated move, Harley-Davidson says the Electra Glide Standard is part of its “More Roads” strategy. The aim is to introduce new products and inspire more riders to engage in motorcycling. The Electra Glide Standard fulfills that mandate in a really straight-forward manner. The approach invites a simple, yet fundamental riding experience — something which has always been the life-blood of the Motor Company. 

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