Why I'm Switching from a Street Glide to a Road Glide

With the redesign of Harley-Davidson's two most popular fairings, (Batwing and the Sharknose) the age-old discussion of which is better has been renewed. Matt has evaluated the options this year as he is looking to get a new 2024 model year motorcycle. He goes over what influenced his decision.
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[@mcscotty325]

I respect that you've kept that bike for so long. Most KZbinrs change bikes every 6 months and they don't own a dealership.

[@MattLaidlaw]

First off. I love your profile Pic. Secondly, I love this bike. It's been pretty much perfect. Why change what isn't broke right? Thanks for the comment man

[@karlanderson1791]

S@robertsenkow6584 wow. Somebody's mommy got them out of bed a little too early today

[@aaronross7925]

​@robertsenkow6584 wins the ass clown award for comments here 😅😂. Poor little fella is a internet gangster

[@steelrolex]

When it comes to honesty customer information about H-D there is no doubt that Matt is one of absolutely best sources 👍

[@MattLaidlaw]

I try to be. Thank you.

[@mkq786]

I second that. Love his videos 😎

[@garyallen6486]

I’ve literally used HIS videos as the main buying factor for my last 3 bikes. Best in class.

[@BraveClam]

I love how transparent Matt always is

[@christopherrobinson767]

Your comment about being different is exactly why I ride the Road King. Still a pure decker but it stands out. Town riding without the windshield is awesome

[@MattLaidlaw]

Agreed! That Road King stands alone in the lineup!

[@jasontackett4836]

Great Video!!! Really enjoyed meeting you in February!!! Didn’t get a TShirt because you were renovating!! But I’ll be back for a grand opening!!! You’re the real deal!!

[@9ictv2]

Thanks Matt. Much appreciated! I’m still in the Street Glide camp but I understand your good reasons for switching…enjoy!!!

[@kenpaul7399]

This is the hardest fought, yet fully complete conversion I've ever seen. Welcome to the RG family!

[@Diego-Delgado]

I went back and forth for moths. Made up my mind multiple different times. Flipped a coin. Went to the dealer to get the new road glide limited. Instead ordered a 2024 ultra limited tobacco fade. Couldnt be happier.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Oh nice man. That paint is so rad.

[@CVO17-GSA23]

I've been riding Electraglides since early 2005 and still can't see myself on a RG. Friend of mine was keeping his RG Limited in my garage for 7 months rode it couple times but just didn't feel at home with it.

[@stevesaunders6235]

Of If I was looking at the limiteds that tobacco fades paint job would have easily made the decision for me. One of the nicest paint jobs I’ve ever seen come out of Harley

[@68rules]

So great to get an honest, unbiased opinion regarding these two bikes from someone who has actually put on the miles to give this type of review! Thanks Matt, and safe riding!

[@colvilletitus9408]

Your honest reviews have made me respect you more. Everyone has to decide based on their riding style what is more comfortable for them to ride. I love the Road Glide as I’m 6’2”, great choice

[@jbluet]

Congratulations on the new bike Matt. Welcome to the road glide family!

[@MattLaidlaw]

HAha thanks for the welcome. Good to be here.

[@hatata]

Matt you have taken the quality of your videos to an incredible level. I am not even a Harley guy and I love watching your videos. You bring a really sincere and passionate approach that is hard to resist. I have a 2023 Triumph Rocket 3R and I am really tempted to add a second bike and I think the 2024 road glide would be it. I really would love to see a video around what you guys have been doing in terms of customizations to both the street and road platforms for the 2024 year as the after market catches up. Much love from Canada !

[@MattLaidlaw]

Hey man. Thank you for the comment. This is a huge compliment. Yes, we will be doing some customization videos on these new bikes for sure. We are just figuring out some opportunities at this point.

[@ChristianKustomz]

I'll be making the switch myself. Congratulations and thanks for your detailed opinions for both models

[@Andrew-cl7kg]

As a Harley owner for 31 years it has always baffled me why people trade in their bikes so often.we all spend alot of money changing a new bike to how we want it to look and perform. New exhaust, air intake, bars ,seat,luggage racks, mirrors,grips maybe upgraded suspension.......then buy another stock bike ????

[@mvl6800]

When you were a child, did you only play with one toy? Hell no.

[@mikemourer2416]

Just watched this one.thanks for the review here and, the other video you did. Your review of the RG3 played a part in my decision to buy and, at the moment I’m considering going back to 2 wheels and, these videos are helping.

[@bobmilo2786]

Great video. Thanks for the contribution to the community.

[@kenmuhleman5555]

The new CVO Road Glide ST would make just about anyone want to make the switch at first sight! Great content as always, and thank you for taking the time to talk with my wife and I at the shop Wednesday, was great to actually meet after watching just about all your videos. Looking forward to your new ST build.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks for stopping in! It's always good to meet people in person. Thanks for taking the time to drop by.

[@ericvancronk6021]

These videos are really really well done. Thanks for making them.

[@jasonbreedlove495]

Matt, alot of good points to break out the differences on these redesign HD iconic motorcycles. Back in July I swapped from my 17 streetglide Special to a 2019 roadglide Special. I've had a couple batwings over the years, and will always love the batwing. Had to downsize from 2 back to 1 bike for a bit, so time to try something new, plus it's in my fav paint; wicked red denim. Took a 1600+ trip 5 day after and the roadglide was a blast. Only differences I noticed is less wind turbulence passing semis at highway speeds. Both bikes can eat up miles in comfort for sure. I see the draw, more and more. Looking forward to your build like you did with your Stormtrooper Streetglide.

[@Rpm68]

To each his own, I prefer the look and style of the street Glide, but hard to knock the road Glide, especially to the guy who has some of the best video editing skills out there✌️

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks man. I know I know. The Street Glide looks great

[@mas3292]

Great review Matt. I always appreciate your honesty and candor. I'm happy for you and I don't think you will regret the change. I've had two Road Glides in the past. Great bikes, but still preferer Street Glides for their more classic and sporty look.

[@Goldencountry63]

The new look CVO Road Glide when seeing in action on the road is a thing of beauty. Nice pick and congrats...

[@douggantenbein5382]

Informative comparo. You do a good job of keeping these evaluations positive and objective. The frame mounted fairing on the roadglide always made more sense from an engineering viewpoint. Have been riding for a while now, cutting my teeth during the “Craig Vetter” days back in the 70’s. Another strong point you made is certainly the VVT. Been around quite a while in the automotive world, so there shouldn’t be a “working the bugs out” time period. It has the potential to affect both economy (gas mileage) and performance. Who doesn’t want some of that? Thanks Matt!

[@Consciousrider]

The CVO ST is in my garage now and man let me tell you , just a beauty and a damn beast! Love it! Black Raven Metallic🐦‍⬛🔥

[@kennethmoore5629]

Another awesome review of the new Road Glide and Street Glide. Prior to buying my '19 Tri Glide, I rode a '08 Street Glide and it sold me on the batwing fairing. But styling of th'23 RG3 pulled me over to the shark-nose fairing. The biggest thing I've noticed between the Tri Glide and the RG3 is the ride comfort. The lighter weight of the RG3 makes the rebound on RR Crossing noticeably better. Since I ride solo, the RG3 is a much better ride for me. Thanks again Matt, I really enjoy your reviews (keep up the good work).😊

[@Hoglife]

Thanks for all your professional info Matt,I think you changed my mind,I was gonna go with the Street Glide but all this info about the Road Glide sounds great,I will test ride both before I make my decision,so Thank you

[@billsmith5069]

Matt, great review, and I appreciate your efforts and expertise! Fran

[@sharkeymusic9165]

Another great video! Thank you Matt!

[@richmckenney1562]

I made the switch a few years ago.. i have less upper body fatigue with the road glide. But i love the look of the street glide.

[@michaelnolan7539]

Great video as usual Matt. I respect the thought that went into your decision. I loved my past BMW R100RS and R100RT for their lower leg protection. For my switch to Harley I went for a 2019 CVO Street Glide. I like the looks, the closer fairing and the fairing lowers to provide extra protection.

[@jdraupp]

Dude, once you jump on a shark nose, there’s no going back.

[@darrellfolk5284]

Awesome update Brother! I wish i would have been able to scoop up yoir Street Glide that bike is so Cool, its just starting to warm up here in Pennsylvania So Let the fun begin! Safe riding and keep the sweet videos coming Man! Later!

[@williamokeefe9677]

Good to hear your comments Matt. I traded my '12 Heritage and '20 Ultra Limited for the '24 Road Glide worrying a little about wind and vibration; the Ultra was such a smooth bike. But so far what I find is it's a cross between the low, stable Heritage and the smooth touring of the Ultra. Absolutely love it!

[@MattLaidlaw]

I think that's probably accurate. The seat is no where near as comfy as the Limited seat. That's for sure. Plus the leg fairings make a good wind difference as well.

[@locoocho2415]

Congratulations Matt

[@Hegshot87]

Dude you keep bikes way longer than me lol. That CVO RG st is on another level for sure. Glad to see you came over to the dark side 👊🏻

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yea I should probably upgrade sooner. I just lived my white Street Glide. I guess I’ll check out the dark side for awhile.

[@jerrybrown66]

Matt. Can't believe I'm only now becoming aware of your great videos. Now subscribed!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you and welcome to the channel!

[@rondavis9918]

For HD content, there is not a better source of information….

[@richedmundson8964]

A great HONEST review. Thanks for being a straight shooter!

[@jimmin9802]

Sweet. Enjoy the new ride when it comes in.

[@jacobs3883]

Great video, in 2015 when harley came out with the new RG fairing I wanted one ever since. Finally in 2022 I purchased a new RG special. I love the bike and will have it for years. Both of these new bikes look incredible but I would still get the RG. Mostly because of the handlebar options. It is a matter of opinion because they both ate great bikes.

[@bryanrogers9714]

Both bikes are a great choice. At the end of the day buy what makes you happiest. I am fortunate enough to have ridden both new models. I’ve always been a street glide guy too. I bought a new 2023 street glide last year but in the future it’s the new road glide for me too. I liked it just a little bit better. Congrats Matt can’t wait to see your new bike when you get it.

[@DCyclemoto]

I work around these things every day like you, Matt. I’m still leaning Street Glide if I were to upgrade. Can’t get with the RG fairing redesign. To each their own tho. Road Glides are definitely selling like crazy so that’s good news for us at dealerships!

[@user-vl2wk6tr1q]

As always Matt you are the rider that knows what you are talking about. When I am ready I will make the drive to your dealership.

[@Chuck-Sam]

Hey brother, I’m looking forward to seeing what you get and how you customize it to your fit. I’m also looking forward to heading down soon and going for a ride with you and Mickey ✊🏾✊🏾

[@RIPbiker13]

I rode a Street Glide across the country, thought 14 stated in the first year I had it. I loved it. The wind between the bikes, with the right seat and right windshield, wind in not a factor. I went with the Road Glide, for one of the reasons you did, the fairing storage. My GoPro fits in there a lot better and it's easy to grab while riding. As always, great video. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[@karenshoucairmcgray4902]

Makes good sense to me Matt! It is all is what is fitting to you! I love how you can walk up along side a bike onto a ramp and load it into a trailer without a hitch. No pun intended. You can't go wrong with White. The Golden White Pearl is so beautiful! I am hoping you get that one. 😊

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks man 🤙🏼

[@johnbrooks241]

Hi Matt, I've been team Road Glide since learning the back story with Vetter. Maybe you could share some of that when you get yours? Also, that is so cool you were able to take part in development (if even a small part). You might sell or trade the 2018 to keep the pocket change, but I hope you keep the new RG for life since you have a bit of dev history with it! Congrats on the new bike, but also your career taking you to a point where you have dev rides on new product and a following of nearly 200,000 riders! I've met dealership family members who just sit back and cash a check, NOT YOU brother, thanks for all the hard work.

[@jacosouthrider8360]

Good choice ! Have fun Matt !😊

[@user-ys6xd3kc1w]

I switched from a street glide and bought a Cvo roadglide also Matt. Good luck!

[@oldbikenewman]

I agree that it's a win no matter which bike that you choose. I will be honest, somehow, i have become "emotionally" attached to my old bike. I think it has to do with the effort that it took for me to get it really set up for me. If i were already used to upgrading every so many years, it would probably be easier for me. I'm looking forward to seeing the new bike and how you customize it. Godspeed

[@Roadglide117]

Congrats Matt, great choice. Welcome to the road glide family.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Haha Thanks man

[@ahmedalhosani]

Congrats in advance 😊

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks man

[@bizerker1497]

I owned a SG for a month and then went and bought a Road Glide Special. Can't go wrong with either one. But, for me. Being 6'4" the RG feels a little different. To each their own. Another great channel Brother! Enjoy the wknd.

[@urbanadventurer5]

This makes a lot of sense with the redesign. I have sat on both multiple times and used to like the Street Glide more, but I am definitely more of a fan of the Road Glide now. It felt so much more comfortable ergonomically and the performance opportunities push it over the top now to me. The Low Rider ST is probably still my favorite Harley but the new Road Glide is right there for me at this point.

[@Backroadsbehindhdbars]

Good for you Mat. I’ll probably join you in that decision next year.

[@kstuber564]

Thanks for an honest review.

[@dengmo3625]

Damn bro, that shit hit home lol “I wanted a new bike so I can have something to be excited about” same bro. I’m depressed and sometimes shopping helps lol

[@johnclaxton4745]

As always, thanks for the video Matt. I’ll probably be in to see you next year for my upgrade. Have you looked or heard what type of slack the HD factory left in the cables on the new road glide to be able to go up to 10 or 12 inch bars?

[@vasu925]

Enjoy the new bike when you get it! Looking forward to videos on the new bike!

[@Captain_Evinrude]

Thank you for this review. I am planning on a 2024 Road Glide for myself this year. I will wait to sell my Street Glide due to a soft used market currently.

[@tomm9493]

I 1000% agree with you that the Batwing fairing is MUCH more attractive that the Shark Nose look. I also like having a bike that looks unique. I've done a ton of customization on my Street Glide ST. I even like having a car that you don't see often V-Series Wagon 602HP. 👊

[@billbalyx8799]

good choice, love my 2018 FLTRU

[@tedzirbes6713]

Another great review Matt, about time they went all led lighting. Just curious, where do you keep the go pro on the 2018

[@Acmegamer]

One of us! One of us! Welcome to the Road Glide way of life! Heh. I wish I could remove the governor, it's really annoying. My RG is solidly planted at limited top speed. I'd love to be able to go upwards to say 130-140 mph if the engine can handle that, without going aftermarket.

[@toddr9836]

😂

[@johnnash4797]

I come from a fixed fairing 1981 BMW R100RT. Had a 2011 Road Glide Ultra. The RG has really become more popular on the east coast. Currently on a 2022 RGST ♥️ Matt your new RGST 121 rocks 👍🏻

[@MattLaidlaw]

Nice man. Glad you're livin' the Road Glide life. Those St Road Glides having only been made for 2 years will be a cool bike to have with the bronze accents.

[@tonyc2912]

They're really popular on the east coast. As a matter of fact it's all you see. Its pretty boring to see the same bikes. I ride my road king most days now

[@dandreger5616]

Lowers and a Klockwerks curved windshield created a calm riders pocket on my 2019 RGS

[@johnshell118]

Had a 2010 FLTRS most comfortable bike I ever owned, but not my favorite. The 2024 CVO RG is a gorgeous lookin’ bike, the lines are perfect. Nice choice Matt, enjoy!

[@lifebehindbars68]

You thinking Black or White. I personally would normally stay away from a black bike because it is harder to keep clean, but that black with the red accents just POP man. The white with the grey accents feel muted. I just love the black and red contrast. Ohhh Baby... Come to Papa!!!

[@Neocleese]

Congrats Matt on the new bike. What color are you going to get? Thanks for another great Vlog. Clint

[@NorCal-refrigeration]

I’ve already seen a bunch of 2024 RG in the wild up here. 🤘⚡️🤘✨✨

[@Russteevee]

Thanks for the education. I am a metric rider, but I appreciate all motorcycles. My son rides a Harley and I must admit I do not have any desire to have one. It’s nice to have a better understanding of those thumpers though. Nice video!

[@jeffhennings6579]

currently have a 2020 street glide ultra limited in the orange and the black out package absolutely love it really don’t to ever get rid of it but time will tell few new ones are awesome I’m liking that new hydro glide that’s a sweet bike

[@jeancarrier522]

I knew it! No secret here... :) Listening to your Road Glide review a couple weeks ago, It was so clear! Strangely enough, I owned a 2021 Road Glide Special for 2 years before moving to a lighter Road King Special and this year, I was wondering if I should go with the Street glide... So many possibilities! Thanks for the video Matt!

[@MattLaidlaw]

It's fun to switch things up. Variety is the spice of life right.

[@jeancarrier522]

Couldn't agree more. Enjoy!@@MattLaidlaw

[@ericroadking7564]

Awesome great content Matt!!!!!!!!!!!

[@TKinMB]

I couldn't agree more Matt, tryin to snag a 2024 Road Glide myself.

[@schmoofadoop]

I strongly feel the only way to decide between these bikes is to just ride them back to back and see for yourself! In 2017 I test rode a SG Special and then immediately the RG Special back to back and Immediately preferred the RG fairing setup... I felt slightly better / different wind deflection but also didn't like the visuals looking down at the ground / forks through the batwing and I also preferred the fixed fairing. I also didn't like the batwing screen being below the gauges vs above on the RG. The RG pockets with the weighted lids and the closable vents in the fairing were also nice. In 2020 I moved to an FLTRK and couldn't be happier. Matt I am surprised at 6'6" you didn't also prefer the RG all along. I am 6'2" and the reach to the RG fairing was never an issue and in fact I felt cramped on the SG, but probably like you said a minor thing that anyone would adjust to in either direction. These are both best of the best, you can't go wrong either way.

[@gnsmk357]

Mr. M. You make great videos on Harleys. I think it is because you enjoy your work and it this ever changing world thats hard to find. Would like to posit this. At low speed around turns the head light is not showing you the road, it is dark around the bend. BMW and some other car makers attempted to have head lights turn on some models but the cost to matain these systems were prohibitively expensive. Great Video.

[@anthonyfxbb9040]

Rad video! Hope too see a video on the CVO Pan America!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Coming in a month or so!

[@cbigelow]

I am seriously thinking about going with the new 2024 Road Glide CVO ST and selling my 2020 street glide special. Great comparison and many of the reasons you mentioned are the same reasons I am thinking of making the switch as well.

[@jaysonhollwedel9296]

Great points brotha ty!

[@srfsno_]

Great vid Matt. I used to rent ski's to people when I worked at a ski resort. One type of ski wasn't necessarily better than the other. But what was important was to decide what "kind of skiing" you like to do and match the ski to your purpose. Skiing moguls, powder, short turns, giant slalom turns?

[@FTWFLTRK]

Welcome to the team ✌🏾😎🇺🇸🍻🍻

[@willboyd7794]

Awesome video Matt So the road glide CVO ST will be made through out the year? Great I can save so more cash to get one!! Thanks for the heads up

[@thomascoppo1217]

Thanks Matt - I just bought a 2023 Road Glide and my choice over the Street Glide had many similarities to your choices -- my main reason was simply airflow - I rode both and the Road Glide fairing just provided more airflow through the fairing - Thank you for your continuing down to earth dialogue

[@MattLaidlaw]

Nice man. Enjoy. Yea, it boils down to the sum of personal preferences. Enjoy the bike.

[@marks.6656]

Another great job on the video, Matt. Has HD done anything to address highway wind buffeting on these new 2024 models? I LOVE the way the new Street Glide fairing lights look on the road at night, like wings coming at you, but thought the buffeting was terrible in 2022 and 2023 when I test rode and compared to my 2015 Rushmore Ultra. I don't ride the Colorado interstates without a full helmet because of how bad the 4-wheelers drive.

[@SFJ.Sparky]

I got to test ride both of these bikes @ Daytona bike week. They both are pretty sweet bikes. I would have to test them out some more to know which one I would upgrade to. I currently ride a 2007 Electra Glide Police . Great video!!!

[@g-man2045]

Well put, you didn't sound like a salesperson and Welcome to the road glide side.

[@georgesmith6785]

Great choice. I road the Road Glide limited the other day thats what I wish I had

[@MattLaidlaw]

Can't beat a limited for traveling

[@georgesmith6785]

Yep as we ride a trike. Only wish I had the road glide

[@kevinolsen3317]

Great breakdown on the new bikes,and I agree the road glide ST is the boom🤙🇨🇦

[@garyehrhardt3136]

Great comparison Matt,

[@recklessrt]

Hey Matt - It's all good. That CVO Road Glide ST is so totally cool given its break the mold race heritage, and you having a hand in its development. Harley should give you the bike for free after you being such an excellent ambassador for the Motor Company. Good luck and have fun!

[@mkebikers]

I thought I felt the Earth tremble….the SG RG switch is happening in Matt’s garage!!!!

[@toddaod295]

You are a practical guy Matt, your parents did good! I'm curious because I still own a 2018 107...how many miles do you have on your StreetGlide? I know from all your videos you have ridden it plenty. Thanks!

[@jiriza84641]

I went with the RG 2024 from a 2017 SGS. I test rode the RG after I did the purchase. I liked both. Overall, I feel the RG is easier to handle and not as front heavy as the SGS. Both are the same for my vertical challenged frame. Suspension is crap as usual even when sag and everything is set. It just kills my back and a suspension upgrade is in the near future. KW exhaust is first due to the factory exhaust is not up to par.

[@cameronbartley6139]

Beautiful bike Matt. Change is good

[@stevend8785]

I had the opposite reaction. I looked at the 24's. The styling will take years to get used to for me. The build quality felt a little cheap. The taillights move when you open the bag. The dash isn't painted like mine. I've got about 20K in addons and sucn on my bike I feel even more confortable now, keeping my paid off 2018, not giving it away on a trade-in, and starting over with a 2024. I think my 2018 is going to be a bike I keep for the duration of my riding hobby. I only ride 4 or 5 thousand miles a year anyway. I've finally got it dialed in. I can see why you upgrade because you're a dealer.

[@gslife1]

That new CVO road glide ST is a bad ass bike! I would definitely make the switch from bat fairing to the CVO ST.

[@patrickshanman7417]

Awesome review, makes sense that at your Height you definetly need to change bars and I would think windshield, Love my ST (not CVO but I've done good mods: saddle, bars, windshield, Pipe, add'l accessory lights off the crash bars which I also went for the bigger old school ones for touring, pegs and yes, safety) anyways peace out !

[@WHEELTREK]

Welcome to the Familia!

[@erikjensen6503]

I always loved the street glide but in the 24's the road glide is calling!

[@kevinlee8505]

Thanks for the great comparison! Maybe I missed it- are you staying with the white color?

[@tz1592]

Congrats Matt!!! Did you say whether you are going with black or white on the CVO ST? Both are amazing, but the white gets my vote. I'm spoiled because I kept my 2015 Ultra Limited and went with a new 24 CVO road glide. I have both fairings now! Looking forward to seeing the mods you make to the CVO ST.