Hey guys! Let's dive deep into a true American classic – the 2012 Harley Davidson Street Glide. This bike isn't just a motorcycle; it's a statement. It’s about freedom, the open road, and that unmistakable Harley rumble. If you're thinking about getting one, or you're just curious about what makes this bike so special, you're in the right place. We’re going to break down everything from its performance and features to its overall value and why it continues to be a favorite among riders. So, buckle up and let's get started!

A Legacy of Touring Excellence

The Harley Davidson Street Glide has carved out a legendary status in the touring motorcycle world. The 2012 model year is no exception, carrying forward the iconic design and robust performance that riders have come to expect. This model blends classic Harley styling with modern features, making it a compelling choice for both seasoned riders and those new to the touring scene. When you see a Street Glide, you immediately recognize its distinctive silhouette, characterized by its sleek batwing fairing and low-slung profile. It’s a bike that commands attention, and for good reason.

What sets the Street Glide apart is its ability to deliver a comfortable and engaging riding experience, whether you’re cruising down the highway or navigating city streets. The bike's ergonomics are designed for long-distance comfort, with a well-padded seat, comfortable handlebar reach, and strategically placed foot controls. This means you can spend hours in the saddle without feeling fatigued, making it perfect for those cross-country adventures you’ve been dreaming about. But it’s not just about comfort; the Street Glide also offers impressive handling and stability, giving you confidence in every ride. The frame is robust and well-engineered, providing a solid foundation for the bike's components. This translates to predictable handling and a smooth ride, even on less-than-perfect road surfaces. Whether you're tackling twisty mountain roads or cruising down the interstate, the Street Glide delivers a balanced and controlled ride.

The 2012 Street Glide also comes with a host of features that enhance the riding experience. The integrated infotainment system keeps you connected and entertained on the road, with options for music, navigation, and communication. The fairing-mounted speakers deliver clear and powerful sound, so you can enjoy your favorite tunes while you ride. Additionally, the bike offers ample storage space, making it practical for long trips. The saddlebags are spacious enough to carry your essentials, and there are options for adding additional storage if needed. This combination of comfort, performance, and features makes the 2012 Harley Davidson Street Glide a standout choice in the touring motorcycle market. It’s a bike that embodies the spirit of Harley Davidson, offering a blend of classic style and modern functionality that appeals to a wide range of riders.

Engine and Performance: The Heart of the Ride

At the heart of the 2012 Harley Davidson Street Glide lies the powerful Twin Cam 103 engine. This engine is a cornerstone of Harley's reputation for delivering robust performance and that signature Harley rumble. Displacing 103 cubic inches (1690cc), the Twin Cam 103 provides ample torque and horsepower, making it a joy to ride in various conditions. Whether you're accelerating onto the highway or cruising at a steady pace, this engine delivers the power you need with smooth and responsive throttle control.

The Twin Cam 103 engine is designed for both performance and reliability. It features electronic sequential port fuel injection (ESPFI), which ensures precise fuel delivery and optimal engine performance. This technology enhances fuel efficiency and reduces emissions, making the engine both powerful and environmentally conscious. The engine's design also focuses on durability, with robust components and a proven track record. This means you can rely on the Twin Cam 103 to deliver consistent performance mile after mile, making it a great choice for long-distance touring. The engine's power is complemented by a smooth-shifting six-speed transmission, which allows you to effortlessly navigate through the gears. This transmission provides the right gear for any situation, whether you're accelerating quickly or cruising at highway speeds. The gear ratios are carefully chosen to maximize the engine's performance, providing smooth and seamless transitions between gears.

The performance of the 2012 Street Glide isn't just about raw power; it's also about the overall riding experience. The engine delivers a broad torque curve, which means you have plenty of power available at low and mid-range RPMs. This makes the bike incredibly responsive and easy to ride, whether you're in stop-and-go traffic or cruising down the open road. The engine's characteristic rumble and exhaust note are also a key part of the Harley experience. The 2012 Street Glide delivers that iconic Harley sound, adding to the overall enjoyment of the ride. It's a sound that's both powerful and soothing, enhancing the connection between the rider and the machine. Overall, the engine and performance of the 2012 Harley Davidson Street Glide are a testament to Harley's engineering prowess. The Twin Cam 103 engine provides the perfect blend of power, reliability, and character, making it a standout feature of this iconic touring motorcycle. It’s an engine that embodies the spirit of Harley Davidson, delivering a riding experience that's both exhilarating and satisfying.

Key Features and Technology: Blending Tradition with Modernity

The 2012 Harley Davidson Street Glide isn't just about raw power and classic styling; it also incorporates a range of key features and technology that enhance the riding experience. This model year strikes a balance between traditional Harley design and modern amenities, making it a compelling choice for riders who appreciate both. One of the standout features of the 2012 Street Glide is its infotainment system. This system integrates audio, communication, and navigation functions, allowing you to stay connected and entertained on the road. The system includes a radio, CD player, and auxiliary input, so you can listen to your favorite music while you ride. It also features integrated Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to pair your smartphone for hands-free calling and music streaming.

The infotainment system is controlled through handlebar-mounted controls, making it easy to adjust the volume, change tracks, and answer calls without taking your hands off the bars. The system also includes a clear and easy-to-read display, which provides information about your speed, RPM, fuel level, and other important metrics. In addition to the infotainment system, the 2012 Street Glide also features a range of other technologies that enhance its performance and safety. The bike is equipped with electronic cruise control, which allows you to maintain a consistent speed on long rides. This feature reduces fatigue and makes long-distance touring more comfortable. The bike also includes an antilock braking system (ABS), which helps prevent wheel lockup during hard braking. This enhances safety and control, especially in wet or slippery conditions.

The design of the 2012 Street Glide also incorporates several features that contribute to its overall comfort and convenience. The bike's fairing provides excellent wind protection, reducing fatigue and making long rides more enjoyable. The fairing also houses the bike's speakers, which deliver clear and powerful sound. The bike's saddlebags provide ample storage space, making it practical for touring. The saddlebags are easy to open and close, and they're large enough to carry your essentials for a weekend trip. The bike's seat is also designed for comfort, with ample padding and support. This makes the Street Glide a great choice for riders who plan to spend long hours in the saddle. Overall, the key features and technology of the 2012 Harley Davidson Street Glide enhance its performance, safety, and comfort. This model year combines traditional Harley styling with modern amenities, making it a versatile and enjoyable touring motorcycle. It's a bike that's equally at home on the open road and in the city, offering a blend of classic charm and contemporary functionality.

Riding Experience: Comfort and Control on the Open Road

The riding experience on the 2012 Harley Davidson Street Glide is where this bike truly shines. It's designed to provide a comfortable and controlled ride, whether you're cruising down the highway or navigating city streets. The bike's ergonomics, suspension, and handling all contribute to a riding experience that's both enjoyable and confidence-inspiring. One of the key aspects of the Street Glide's riding experience is its comfortable ergonomics. The bike's seat is well-padded and supportive, providing ample cushioning for long rides. The handlebars are positioned to provide a comfortable reach, and the foot controls are placed in a natural and intuitive position. This combination of factors allows you to maintain a relaxed and comfortable posture, even on extended journeys.

The bike's suspension also plays a crucial role in its riding experience. The 2012 Street Glide is equipped with air-adjustable rear suspension, which allows you to fine-tune the ride to your preferences. You can adjust the suspension to provide a softer ride for comfort or a firmer ride for more precise handling. The front suspension is also well-tuned, providing a smooth and controlled ride over a variety of road surfaces. Handling is another area where the 2012 Street Glide excels. The bike's frame is robust and well-engineered, providing a solid foundation for its components. This translates to predictable handling and stability, even at high speeds. The bike's steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The Street Glide's weight is also well-balanced, which contributes to its overall stability and handling.

The 2012 Street Glide's engine and transmission further enhance the riding experience. The Twin Cam 103 engine delivers smooth and predictable power, with plenty of torque available at low and mid-range RPMs. This makes the bike incredibly responsive and easy to ride in various conditions. The six-speed transmission shifts smoothly and seamlessly, providing the right gear for any situation. The bike's brakes are also powerful and responsive, providing confident stopping power when you need it. The optional ABS system further enhances safety and control, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Overall, the riding experience on the 2012 Harley Davidson Street Glide is a testament to Harley's commitment to comfort, control, and performance. This bike is designed to be ridden, and it rewards you with a smooth, enjoyable, and confidence-inspiring experience every time you hop in the saddle. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to touring motorcycles, the Street Glide offers a riding experience that's hard to beat.

Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Street Glide Right for You?

So, we've taken a detailed look at the 2012 Harley Davidson Street Glide, exploring its legacy, engine performance, key features, and riding experience. But the big question remains: is this bike the right choice for you? Let's break down the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

Pros:

• Iconic Styling: The Street Glide boasts classic Harley Davidson styling, with its distinctive batwing fairing and low-slung profile.
• Powerful Engine: The Twin Cam 103 engine delivers robust performance and that signature Harley rumble.
• Comfortable Ride: The bike's ergonomics, suspension, and seat are designed for long-distance comfort.
• Modern Features: The infotainment system, cruise control, and optional ABS enhance the riding experience.
• Ample Storage: The saddlebags provide plenty of space for your gear.

Cons:

• Weight: The Street Glide is a large and heavy motorcycle, which may be a factor for some riders.
• Price: Depending on the condition and mileage, a 2012 Street Glide can still command a significant price.
• Fuel Economy: While the Twin Cam 103 is powerful, it's not the most fuel-efficient engine.

Ultimately, the 2012 Harley Davidson Street Glide is an excellent choice for riders who value classic styling, powerful performance, and comfortable touring capabilities. If you're looking for a bike that can handle long rides with ease and turn heads wherever you go, the Street Glide is definitely worth considering. However, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons based on your individual needs and preferences.

If you're comfortable with a larger motorcycle and prioritize comfort and performance over fuel efficiency, the Street Glide could be the perfect bike for you. It's a machine that embodies the spirit of Harley Davidson, offering a blend of classic charm and modern functionality. Before making a final decision, it's always a good idea to test ride a 2012 Street Glide if possible. This will give you a firsthand feel for the bike's handling, comfort, and overall riding experience. Talk to current owners, read reviews, and do your research to ensure that this bike aligns with your expectations and riding style. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to the touring scene, the 2012 Harley Davidson Street Glide has something to offer. It's a bike that's built to be ridden, and it rewards you with a unique and satisfying experience every time you hit the road. So, if you're ready to embrace the open road and experience the freedom of riding a Harley Davidson, the 2012 Street Glide might just be your perfect match.