Many of Harley-Davidson’s Big Twin motorcycles already have a fair degree of touring ability built-in. They generally have comfortable seats, relaxed, large-capacity engines and with optional screens and luggage bags fitted, you can go a long way in style on them. But for the committed touring fan who needs the extra luxury and capability of a bespoke tourer, the Ultra Classic offers much more. Harley’s latest Twin Cam 96 engine powers a softly-sprung chassis that carries a full set of touring bodywork and luggage. There’s a built-in stereo CD/radio, with intercom function, a comprehensive dashboard, and luxurious, well-padded seats.
The Tour Classic isn’t a high-performance tourer: indeed, on European roads, the engine can be found wanting in outright speed and power. Similarly, the chassis is designed for long, straight highways: trying to wrestle it around twisty backroads is a mistake. But kept in its element – gentle-paced, long-legged mile-munching – the Classic is one of the most civilised ways to travel.
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