2009 Harley Davidson Tri Glide Ultra Classic
July 22nd, 2008 at 2:13 pm by Paul Crowe - "The Kneeslider"
Harley Davidson is introducing a trike from the factory, the new Tri Glide Ultra Classic. Since so many companies already modify the HD touring bikes to 3 wheel configuration, HD asked, why not make them in house? The advantage of doing this is a trike with a chassis specifically designed as a 3 wheeler from the start instead of modifying a 2 wheeler for the different loads associated with tricycle operation.
From Harley Davidson:
Harley-Davidson brings original-equipment design, quality and service to the three-wheel motorcycle segment with the introduction of the 2009 Tri Glide Ultra Classic motorcycle. Based on a new chassis designed specifically for this three-wheel application, the Tri Glide offers the classic styling and popular touring features of the Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide in a vehicle that will be sold and serviced by the network of Harley-Davidson dealers and covered by a two-year Harley-Davidson limited warranty. The Tri Glide will have an MSRP of $29,999.
Harley-Davidson launched a “wheels-up” strategy in the development of the Tri Glide, and has created a frame and associated chassis structure that is engineered specifically to handle the loads generated by the steering forces and weight of a three-wheel vehicle. Changes to the front-end geometry enhance steering control by reducing steering effort up to 25 percent. The forks have been lengthened by 1.775 inches compared to the regular Touring motorcycle, and rake is increased from 29.25 degrees to 32.00 degrees. A steer damper controls coast-down wobble, and minimizes bumps and other road inputs during turning events.
Harley-Davidson has designed a new rear-axle assembly for the Tri Glide that utilizes an aluminum center section with steel axle tubes. The Tri Glide retains the high-strength and low-maintenance advantages of belt final drive, and the smooth operation of a rubber-cushioned, compensated rear drive. The rear suspension features dual air-adjustable rear shock absorbers.
The Tri Glide is powered by a Twin Cam 103 V-Twin engine with Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), rated at 101 ft. lbs. of torque. It retains the 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission used on Harley-Davidson Touring motorcycles, but adds an optional electric reverse ($1,195) integrated with the rear differential assembly that is engaged with a handlebar-mounted reverse module. The Tri Glide has dual front disc brakes and a Hayes Brake dual-disc rear brake system with a lever-actuated, integrated park brake.
Classic Harley-Davidson Styling
The Harley-Davidson styling department gave the new body components of the Tri Glide clean lines that integrate with the existing Ultra bodywork, especially the Tour Pak luggage compartment and the passenger seating area. The new bodywork is painted with the same quality OEM paint and process used on all Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and is a perfect color match for the tank and front fender. The composite rear fenders complement the lines of the front fender. Because the rear fenders are each a separate piece from the rest of the rear bodywork, they can be removed individually for repair or replacement, or when required to service the Tri Glide.
The molded-composite trunk provides 4.5 cubic feet of storage space and can be accessed through a rear hatch. The trunk and Tour Pak have a combined capacity of 6.56 cubic feet and are rated to carry up to 80 pounds. A single key will handle all luggage locking functions, and activate the ignition. Dual mufflers with tapered end caps exit below the trunk. Brake/tail/turn lights are located on each fender, and the Tri Glide retains the Tour Pak lighting used on the Ultra Classic, including the LED side running lights. Matching front and rear black and machined split seven-spoke cast aluminum wheels provide the Tri Glide its integrated and true, factory-built look. The 16-inch front wheel is three inches wide and carries a MT90B16 motorcycle tire, while the 15-inch rear wheels are five inches wide and are fitted with P205/65R15 tires.
Forward of the rear wheels, the Tri Glide retains the style and features of the Ultra Classic Electra Glide, including the distinctive “bat wing” fairing, auxiliary driving lamps, and deep-skirted front fender. A low-profile chrome console tops a six-gallon fuel tank. The fairing holds complete instrumentation and the 80-watt Advanced Audio System with CB radio and passenger intercom system. Adjustable air deflectors on the fairing and vented fairing lowers allow the rider to control wind flow for comfort in warm or cool weather. Cruise control is standard equipment.
The Tri Glide Ultra Classic will be offered three colors: Vivid Black, Dark Blue Pearl, and Red Hot Sunglo.
FLHTCUTG Tri Glide Ultra Classic features:
* Three-wheel specific frame
* Rubber mounted Twin Cam 103 engine with ESPFI
* 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission
* Black powder-coated engine with chrome treatment
* Brembo dual-disc front brake system
* Hayes Brake dual-disc rear brake system with integrated park brake
* Six-gallon fuel tank
* Electronic Throttle Control
* 2-1-2 exhaust system
* Engine isolation system
* Isolated Drive System
* Triple Circuit Damping (TCD) front forks
* Air-adjustable rear suspension
* Bat-wing, fork-mounted fairing
* Full instrumentation
* 80-watt Advanced Audio System by Harman/Kardon
* 40-watt CB radio and intercom system
* Cruise control
* Shorty antennas
* Clear-lens reflector-optics auxiliary lamps
* Fiberglass adjustable King Tour-Pak with passenger backrest
* Tour-Pak mounted tail/stop light
* Rear luggage trunk
* One-piece, two-up Electra Glide comfort-stitch touring saddle
* Vented lower fairings with integrated storage compartments
* Adjustable fairing wind deflectors
* Steering damper
* Optional electric reverse
* Optional Smart Security System
Posted in American Motorcycles, Motorcycle Business, Three Wheel Motor Vehicles
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29 Responses to “2009 Harley Davidson Tri Glide Ultra Classic”
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July 22nd, 2008 at 2:23 pm
Looks like Harley is going after the Boomer market. Lotta trikes out there for the older riders. With a $30K price tag it’s for the more well healed customer.
Harley is showing strength in the recent economic downturn.
July 22nd, 2008 at 2:56 pm
$30k is reasonable if compaired to a stock ultra classic plus cost of conversion. awsome. already visualizing custom trikes to come out of one of these.
July 22nd, 2008 at 3:38 pm
I can’t wait for the meter maid version… and the ice cream cart version!
-todd
July 22nd, 2008 at 4:41 pm
Mixed feelings about this 3-wheel ride … on one hand it’s great to think when you’re old and not so strong, or disabled, you still can enjoy riding a harley, but on the other hands it’s like leveraging the market by the bottom … giving a chance to ride to “non-motard” people, who either can not or do not want to commit to the motorcycling experience.
Whatever, let’s not be too serious
July 22nd, 2008 at 5:36 pm
I checked the HD website to see the other color options and couldn’t find any trikes. I got hold of HD customer service and was informed by the rep that if it isn’t on the HD site then the model isn’t available from HD. I said I’d seen on thekneeslider site and the rep just repeated herself. What gives? When is it going to be available and how come Harley isn’t promoting it? How did thekneeslider get first look? I know HD struck an agreement with Lehman to develop an OEM trike awhile back, so what’s with the lack of product on the HD website? Just curious…
July 22nd, 2008 at 5:47 pm
wendawg, this model was just announced today along with the rest of their 2009 lineup. It should all show up on the main HD website soon.
July 22nd, 2008 at 9:45 pm
This is a great value,as a trike owner I’ve been waiting for this.Harley has put together a pkg that has all the bells you need in a trike.I ordered mine in black as soon as I heard they were out!
July 22nd, 2008 at 9:56 pm
Room for beer ! After the ride that is .
July 23rd, 2008 at 6:12 pm
I would consider this trike for myself cuz I can not hold up the other bikes to heavy
have to look into this when it is availiable first time I would buy a bike for myself
I am a baby boomer and would like to try a harley
but was afraid of the 2 wheelers maybe not so much fear with the 3 wheeler
thanx jan
July 24th, 2008 at 8:37 am
Great to see the factory goes after nichemarkets, but why not make it available to the rest of the world? we have several Lehman-trikes built and got them approved for the European Roads. But Harley decides that those products should only be available for the US markets…. Too bad!
It looks good, it feels good and it rides fantastic! Chapeau for HD! But show us now your are a real global marketeer!
July 24th, 2008 at 11:13 am
The new HD trike is a good marketing idea. Harley Davidson wants to keep their long time customers because they’re not being replace, sufficiently, by younger ones. As we get older (I’m 59) we worry a bit about handling the wieght of a touring bike. I have found another solution that will keep me on two wheels for a long time. It’s a jack that stores in the saddlebag & will lift the bike if I ever drop it. You can get it at http://www.SaveYourBackJack.com. Three wheels is just not the same ride as two. Maybe, when I’m 80, I’ll think about a trike!
July 24th, 2008 at 3:11 pm
It is listed on the H-D Media site
its for real
whats next air conditioning vents and cane holders?
July 24th, 2008 at 4:43 pm
Nicholas, I have riden over 100,000 two-wheel miles on Harleys, the last 48,000 on my 1998 Aniversary Ultra which I had converted to a Lehman trike 4 years ago. If I had not done so, I probably would not be riding now (I have over 64,000 miles on the trike now). I would seriously consider buying one of these new trikes.
July 25th, 2008 at 12:57 pm
It gives a whole new meaning to the term “Geezer Glide.”
July 25th, 2008 at 5:17 pm
For the most accurate information on the new H-D Tri Glide, visit http://www.lehmantrikes.com and click on the July 22nd news release from Lehman direct.
July 29th, 2008 at 10:07 pm
My wife and I have been waiting paitently for the H-D factory to come out with a factory trike. I am handicapped from a very bad motorcycle accident (totaled ‘95 Electic Glide Standard) and had a new ‘98 Ultra Classic converted to a Lehman trike, which I have been ridding since. We’ve aleady passed 80,000 miles and will be getting a new ‘Tri Glide’ when available. Not everyone is an “old geezer” when it comes to riding a trike. I am 52 yrs old and unable to hold up a 500lb. motorcycle let alone an ultra.
For us handicapped riders, H-D is actually helping us out.
July 31st, 2008 at 1:10 am
Wonder if this tri-glide will have the same over heating problem as the 2008 96cu. in. Why Lehman for goodness sakes? Trunk space is too small. Priced at $29,999 plus $1,195 for reverse. If you want it to sound like a Harley you will need pipes and a new air cleaner system and a power commander. So figure another $2,000. Think hard before buying.
July 31st, 2008 at 1:20 am
California side car or Champion makes a much better trike kit. You can buy a 2008 GL1800 Honda on Ebay for much less. Better bike, less trouble, better ride and you don’t have to buy all that extra chrome to keep up with the Jones’.
July 31st, 2008 at 11:21 am
I own a 2006 Ultra Classic with Lehman conversion as well as a 2006 FXSTSI; love them both. The price tag of the Tri-Glide is reasonable considering the conversion expense. Bad thing is the Tri-Glide has reduced the selling value of mine by $10,000; not that I have plans of selling anytime soon. Reference Lehman vs. Champion they are two totally different rides. The Champion will lean where the Lehman will not. The problem here is the Champion leans the wrong way; not much but enough to make it less stable than the Lehman (in my opinion). Before anyone gets weird on me I am not saying the Champion is unstable; it is a fine machine. Lehman vs. Champion gives a person a choice; like BMW vs. Mercedes or Ford vs. Chevy. Obviously Harley agrees with my assessment of Lehman vs. Champion (maybe I should ask for a job). I am curious to see how they have incorporated reverse with the rear end. I am anxiously awaiting a close look at one. I for sure like the redesign of all touring models with regard to re-routing the exhaust. Harley has had its ups and downs over the years (the pit being AMF); I can always rely on Harley to improve things each year. Another job well done.
July 31st, 2008 at 10:41 pm
I also own a Harley, 2002 Deuce. Quite possibly the last one I’ll ever own. Harley does not hold it’s value like the old days (starting riding in the 60’s). Harley is probably going to water cooled engines, only way to keep down their heating problems. Harley, just like BMW, Lexus, Volvo etc. are status symbols. When you’re my age you stop caring about status and go more for comfort and reliability. Just my opinion.
August 1st, 2008 at 10:48 am
The heat problem can be an issue. My 2006 Ultra (with Lehman conversion) has a heat issue but mainly because the engine has been punched out to 113 cu in. Engine oil runs at about 285 degrees. I just purchased an oil cooler and plan on installing it this evening with the hope it will bring oil temp back down to an acceptable level. I agree with the HD Status symbol and I think it is a good thing. To me it represents everything American; freedom, personal choice, freedom, going your own way, freedom, road trips, freedom, and side road Mom and Pop establishments that make the best breakfast. Oh yea… did I mention freedom? Many think Trikes are for the older crowd but I disagree. It is good for the older rider who suffers from the unstoppable age syndrome and of course it is perfect for those with handicaps but refuse to give up riding. The sensation of riding a two wheel vs. a three wheel is different for sure but the three wheel sensation is just as good. I have a three wheel and a two wheel and I love them both. My wife feels safer on three wheels which may be an illusion but if that is what it takes to make her feel safe I have no issues with it. I’ve heard the jokes; geezer-glide, “…does it come with a box of Depends…”, training wheels, etc. Joke all you like; I have yet to meet a rider who does not want to take my Trike for a spin.
August 1st, 2008 at 7:41 pm
I am 38 yoa, I had a 2007 Road Glide, was hit in April resulting in the loss of my left leg. It was rumored that HD was going to produce a trike at some point with Lehman, I am glad the rumors were true. Having said that, I am buying a new HD 2009 TriGlide. I contacted my HD dealer and they are obtaining only two for this model year. My name is on one of them. Red SunGlow.
I only have four words to say…Sturgis, here I come!
August 2nd, 2008 at 12:02 am
Dear HOGYLD I am so sorry about your accident and pleased with your enthusiasm. Hope you have fun with your trike for MANY years. Steve, I agree with you so much on American. I am as red, white and blue as they come. I love Harley’s, if I didn’t I wouldn’t own one now. I’m just saying I think they are over rated. I was at Myrtle Beach bike week one year and bought a hat that I liked, got home with it and looked inside and it said made in Vietnam. If I had checked it before, I would have never bought it. I doubt there is one house in America that you can go in and not find something made in a foreign country, especially after NAFTA passed. I, like you, am for FREEDOM too. I have supported our troops since the Vietnam era. I hope you and your wife enjoy riding for many years to come.
August 13th, 2008 at 8:26 pm
I can remember thirty years ago,when trikes were badass.I would read mags that had full spreads about trikes.The trikes looked really great too.It was all about customizing in those days.And everyone would look as a trike rode by.So don’t get all big in the head,because you ride a motorcycle.I ride a motorcycle, and a trike.And yes,I enjoy riding my motorcycle more.But,my FLHTC trike is a true road warrior.So,if you get a chance to test ride a trike.I suggest you do so.
August 21st, 2008 at 12:47 pm
I love to ride but am a whopping 5′ tall and 125 lbs and can’t hold up the big bikes I always wanted to ride. My husband has plans build me a trike but now that HD came out with this one I’ll have to give it a try.
Thanks HD!
MzM
September 13th, 2008 at 4:04 am
I have a 1979 Harley Davidson Lowrider. I loved riding it until my industrial accident on April 12, 2007, where I had to have my right arm removed to save my life after a 12,000 pound steel coil fell on my right shoulder. I have been looking for options to ride my Harley again but with my whole right arm removed my options are limited. So I began to look into trikes which I am very happy to see this trike. I wanted a trike with the Harley feel and loudness for safety on the road. I definately will buy one when they come out on the market!!!
October 16th, 2008 at 6:38 pm
I myself just got into riding a few years ago at the “tender” age of 54. Shortly thereafter i got Meniere’s disease, which for those of you not medically educated, it is a disease of the inner ear which affects hearing and BALANCE. My wife can’t ride with me anymore and i am having more and more trouble balancing my bike. (It’s terrible at night, i am all over the road, so i don’t ride at night. However, Harley’s intro of the Tri-Glide is the answer for my problem. I won’t have to worry about balance and my wife can once again ride with me. For all of you out there who are critcal of three wheels, all i can say is, be careful, you might find yourself handicapped, or older, if you’re lucky, and be on the other side of the ridicule!!
October 21st, 2008 at 12:12 pm
To all of those who ride. I’ve been riding used police bikes since my uncle got me my first fixer upper in the summer of 75′. {In New York City} Never so much as had a flat, But in July of 2006 while on vacation with my 1994 FLHTP @ 3:30pm on a super sunny day. I came in contact with alittle bit of road gravel that changed my life for ever. My bike made it with crushed saddle bag and a bent handle bar. I on the other hand, found the only road sign there, and got a broken back out of the deal. So a trike for me is the only way to keep the dream alive… RIDE ON!
November 14th, 2008 at 1:14 am
I just brought home my 2009 HD TriGlide and it is a lovely and high powered machine. I have an inner ear issue that rules out two wheeled riding. I rode a 1998 converted Sporty for 3 years and this is my big step up. Oh my, the miles I am going to ride. The Tri Glide is so much more than the advertising made it seem.