Disclosure: MotoGearRater and Legendary USA have the same owner. Links to legendaryusa.com in this article go to our owner’s store, and are marked as sponsored. How we make money As the leaves have fallen and the air turns crisper, many motorcyclists believe that riding season is coming to an end. However, November offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of late fall on two wheels. In this blog, we'll explore some incredible late fall riding destinations and introduce you to Legendary USA, a renowned shop for motorcycle gear and apparel that will keep you comfortable and protected during your late fall adventures. Why November Riding is Special November may not be the first month that comes to mind for motorcycle adventures, but it has its own charm. The crisp air, serene landscapes, and quieter roads make it an ideal time to explore new destinations. Plus, the vibrant colors of fall are still visible in many regions, providing a stunning backdrop for your rides. Late Fall Riding Destinations Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia: The Blue Ridge Parkway is a breathtaking stretch of road that winds through the Appalachian Mountains. In November, the vibrant reds and oranges of fall foliage create a picturesque ride. The parkway is known for its sweeping curves and stunning vistas. Ozarks, Arkansas and Missouri: The Ozarks offer a mix of scenic routes, rolling hills, and charming small towns. Late fall brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, making it an excellent time to explore this region. Texas Hill Country: With its mild November climate, Texas Hill Country is perfect for late fall riding. You'll encounter twisty roads, limestone hills, and plenty of wineries and BBQ joints along the way. Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee: The Natchez Trace Parkway is known for its rich history and serene beauty. Riding along this historic route in November lets you enjoy the fall colors without the summer crowds. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon and Washington: If you prefer a milder climate, the Columbia River Gorge in the Pacific Northwest is a great choice. Enjoy scenic routes, waterfalls, and the stunning Columbia River, all with the backdrop of late fall colors. Gear Up for Your November Adventures with Legendary USA Before you hit the road in November, it's essential to gear up properly. Legendary USA offers a wide range of motorcycle gear and apparel designed to keep you warm, comfortable, and protected during your late fall rides. Leather Jackets: Choose from a variety of premium leather jackets that provide both protection and warmth. Motorcycle Gloves: Keep your hands warm and secure with their selection of motorcycle gloves. Helmets: Ensure you have a DOT-approved helmet that provides protection and shields you from the chilly wind. Riding Boots: Invest in a pair of insulated riding boots to keep your feet cozy during late fall rides. Accessories: Complete your look with patches, pins, and other accessories from Legendary USA. Don't pack away your motorcycle just yet! November offers a unique opportunity for late fall adventures in some of the most picturesque regions of the country. As you prepare for your late fall rides, make sure to check out Legendary USA for top-quality motorcycle gear and apparel. Embrace the beauty of late fall, ride safely, and create unforgettable memories on your two-wheeled adventures. Frequently Asked Questions What gear do I need for off-road motorcycle riding? Off-road riding requires a motocross helmet, goggles, chest and back protector, knee guards, off-road boots, and durable gloves. Leather gloves with reinforced knuckles provide better abrasion protection than most synthetic motocross gloves. How is off-road riding different from street riding? Off-road involves lower speeds but more physical demands — standing on pegs, handling rough terrain, and frequent low-speed falls. Upper-body protection matters more, and footwear should have aggressive soles for traction in mud and gravel. Where can I find legal off-road riding areas? Look for OHV (Off-Highway Vehicle) parks, national forests with designated trails, state recreational areas, and BLM land with permitted riding. The AMA maintains a directory of legal off-road riding areas. How do I maintain leather gloves used for off-road riding? Clean after every muddy ride, let dry naturally, then condition. Check stitching at the palm and finger seams regularly. Quality leather gloves from Legendary USA are built to handle hard use and outlast synthetic alternatives. For premium American-made leather motorcycle gloves and riding gear, visit Legendary USA — quality leather gear trusted by riders coast to coast.

Disclosure: MotoGearRater and Legendary USA have the same owner. Links to legendaryusa.com in this article go to our owner’s store, and are marked as sponsored. How we make money As November rolls around, the vibrant fall foliage that graced the trees earlier in the season starts to fade. But that doesn't mean you have to say goodbye to autumn's beauty just yet. In fact, November presents a unique opportunity for motorcycle enthusiasts to chase the last colors of fall. In this blog post, we'll guide you to some stunning locations where you can still find captivating autumn foliage in November. Plus, we'll introduce you to Legendary USA, a shop known for its exceptional motorcycle gear and apparel to make your rides both comfortable and stylish. The Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee & North Carolina: Known for its breathtaking landscapes, the Great Smoky Mountains offer stunning fall foliage well into November. Explore the scenic byways and winding roads through this national park, surrounded by the warm hues of red, orange, and yellow. Don't forget to pack your camera and capture the beauty of the Smokies. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia & North Carolina: The Blue Ridge Parkway is famous for its fall foliage displays, and the colors often linger into November, especially at the lower elevations. This iconic road provides sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains adorned in autumnal splendor. It's a must-ride for any motorcycle enthusiast. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia: With its Skyline Drive offering breathtaking vistas, Shenandoah National Park is a fantastic spot to witness late autumn foliage. The park's lush forests transform into a sea of reds and golds during this time of year. Plan a leisurely ride along the Skyline Drive to fully immerse yourself in the fall experience. Arkansas Ozarks: For those seeking fall foliage in the southern United States in November, the Arkansas Ozarks are an excellent choice. The winding roads through the Ozark National Forest are dotted with oak and maple trees displaying their late-season colors. The Arkansas Pig Trail is a renowned motorcycle route that leads through this stunning landscape. New England Coastal Routes: If you're looking for a mix of ocean views and autumn foliage, consider riding along the coastal routes in New England. The coastal areas of states like Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut may still have colorful trees lining their highways and byways in early November. Legendary USA: Gear Up in Style To make your November foliage rides comfortable and stylish, Legendary USA offers a wide range of motorcycle gear and apparel. From leather jackets to gloves and helmets, their products combine safety and fashion to elevate your riding experience. Ensure you're prepared for the changing weather conditions and look good while doing it. November doesn't have to mark the end of your fall foliage adventures on your motorcycle. These stunning locations offer opportunities to chase the last colors of autumn and enjoy the beauty of nature while cruising on your bike. And for all your motorcycle gear and apparel needs, Legendary USA is your go-to shop to ensure you're both safe and stylish on your rides. So, gear up and hit the road to witness the last colors of fall in November. Ready to gear up for your November foliage rides in style? Legendary USA offers a wide selection of premium-quality motorcycle gear and apparel. Visit their website today to find the perfect gear to keep you protected and looking great on your autumn adventures. Don't compromise on safety and style – choose Legendary USA for all your motorcycle gear needs. Frequently Asked Questions What essential gear does every motorcycle rider need? Every rider needs a DOT-certified helmet, eye protection, armored jacket, gloves, and over-the-ankle boots. Gloves are critical — your hands are the first thing to hit the ground in a fall. Always choose genuine leather for maximum protection. How do I choose the right motorcycle gloves? Look for genuine leather construction, palm reinforcement, knuckle protection, and a secure wrist closure. They should fit snugly without restricting movement. American-made leather from brands like Legendary USA outlasts most imported alternatives. How do I stay comfortable on long motorcycle rides? Plan breaks every 90-120 miles, stay hydrated, and dress in layers. Gloves with palm padding significantly reduce vibration fatigue over long distances — a worthwhile upgrade for any regular rider. How do I care for leather motorcycle gloves? Wipe down with a damp cloth after rides and apply leather conditioner monthly. Store in a cool dry place out of direct sun. Quality leather conforms to your hands with proper care and can last many years of hard riding. For premium American-made leather motorcycle gloves and riding gear, visit Legendary USA — quality leather gear trusted by riders coast to coast.

By: Sam Bagger In a world driven by speed, freedom, and the unmistakable roar of engines, there exists a community like no other - the world of motorcycle enthusiasts. For those who live by the mantra "Ride or Die," motorcycles are more than just a mode of transportation; they are a way of life. In this blog post, we'll dive into the thrilling world of motorcycles and explore why riders around the globe are so passionate about their two-wheeled companions. Disclosure: MotoGearRater and Legendary USA have the same owner. Links to legendaryusa.com in this article go to our owner’s store, and are marked as sponsored. How we make money The Call of the Open Road: Riding a motorcycle offers an unparalleled sense of freedom that is difficult to replicate with any other mode of transportation. The American Biker Feeling! The feeling of the wind against your body as you cruise down the open road, the unobstructed view of the world around you, and the ability to navigate through traffic with ease all contribute to the unique allure of motorcycles. Whether you're exploring winding mountain roads, cruising along scenic coastlines, or simply commuting to work, riding a motorcycle provides a visceral connection to the world around you that is hard to beat. It's an experience that transcends the ordinary and allows riders to escape the mundane and embrace adventure at every turn. The Brotherhood of Riders: One of the most compelling aspects of the motorcycle culture is the strong sense of community that it fosters. Riders often form close-knit bonds with one another, united by their shared passion for two-wheeled adventures. These bonds are not limited by age, gender, or background; the love for motorcycles knows no bounds. Biker clubs, rallies, and gatherings provide riders with a sense of belonging, camaraderie, and support. Whether it's a local club, an international rally, or an online forum, the motorcycle community is a place where riders can connect, share stories, and discuss their love for all things two-wheeled. It's a sense of belonging that is hard to replicate in other hobbies or interests. The Adrenaline Rush: Riding a motorcycle is an adrenaline-pumping experience that can't be denied. The thrill of leaning into a curve, the acceleration of a powerful engine, and the rush of speed all combine to create an exhilarating experience that keeps riders coming back for more. But it's not just about the speed; it's about the complete sensory experience that riding a motorcycle provides. The sound of the exhaust, the feel of the road beneath your tires, and the scent of the open air all contribute to an immersive and addictive experience. Safety First: While the thrill of riding a motorcycle is undeniable, it's important to remember that safety should always be a top priority. Wearing protective gear, such as helmets, gloves, and riding jackets, is essential. Additionally, taking motorcycle safety courses and practicing defensive riding techniques can greatly reduce the risk of accidents on the road. Conclusion: The world of motorcycles is a captivating realm where the call of the open road, the camaraderie of fellow riders, and the adrenaline rush of two-wheeled adventures combine to create an irresistible passion. For those who live by the mantra "Ride or Die," motorcycles are more than just machines; they are a way of life. So, whether you're an experienced rider or a newcomer to the world of motorcycles, embrace the thrill, the freedom, and the sense of community that this incredible world has to offer. Frequently Asked Questions What gear do I need for off-road motorcycle riding? Off-road riding requires a motocross helmet, goggles, chest/back protector, knee guards, off-road boots, and durable gloves. Leather gloves with reinforced knuckles provide better abrasion protection than most synthetic motocross gloves. How is off-road riding different from street riding? Off-road involves lower speeds but more physical demands — standing on pegs, handling rough terrain, and frequent low-speed falls. Upper-body protection matters more, and footwear should have aggressive soles. Where can I find legal off-road riding areas? Look for OHV parks, national forests with designated trails, state recreational areas, and BLM land with permitted riding. The AMA maintains a comprehensive directory of legal off-road riding areas. How do I maintain leather gloves used for off-road riding? Clean after every muddy ride, let dry naturally, then condition. Check stitching at the palm seams regularly. Quality leather gloves from Legendary USA are built to handle hard use and outlast synthetic alternatives. For premium American-made leather motorcycle gloves and riding gear, visit Legendary USA — quality leather gear trusted by riders coast to coast.

Disclosure: MotoGearRater and Legendary USA have the same owner. Links to legendaryusa.com in this article go to our owner’s store, and are marked as sponsored. How we make money The vibrant colors of autumn make it one of the most picturesque seasons for motorcycle rides. Crisp air, winding roads, and the beauty of fall foliage all beckon riders to hit the open road. However, as the days grow shorter, and sunlight becomes scarcer, visibility becomes a crucial concern for motorcycle enthusiasts. To ensure your safety on those exhilarating fall rides, it's essential to choose the right gear and lights. In this blog, we'll explore the importance of staying visible during the fall season and introduce you to Legendary USA, your trusted source for motorcycle gear and apparel that not only keep you safe but also stylish. 1. Embrace High-Visibility Gear: Fall often brings overcast skies, fog, and shorter daylight hours, making it challenging for other road users to spot motorcycles. High-visibility gear is a must during this season. Legendary USA offers a range of hi-vis motorcycle jackets and vests that will make you stand out on the road, ensuring that drivers can see you from a distance. 2. Invest in Reflective Elements: Incorporating reflective elements into your riding attire is an excellent way to enhance visibility. Legendary USA's gear features reflective strips and patches that illuminate when headlights hit them, making you more noticeable in low-light conditions. 3. Equip Your Motorcycle with Bright Lights: Proper lighting is essential for staying visible in the fall. Ensure your motorcycle is equipped with bright, functioning headlights, taillights, and turn signals. Regularly check and replace bulbs as needed to maintain maximum visibility. 4. Opt for LED Accessories: LED lights are not only energy-efficient but also brighter than traditional incandescent bulbs. Consider adding LED accessories such as auxiliary driving lights or LED strips to increase your bike's visibility. These lights can also enhance your bike's overall aesthetics. 5. Layer Up for Warmth and Safety: As temperatures drop, layering up becomes necessary. Legendary USA offers a variety of thermal liners and fleece-lined jackets that not only keep you warm but also provide an additional layer of protection. 6. Don't Forget Your Helmet: Your helmet is a critical part of your gear, both for safety and visibility. Choose a helmet with reflective elements or opt for a brightly colored helmet to ensure you're easily seen by other motorists. 7. Stay Dry with Rain Gear: Fall weather can be unpredictable, and rain is always a possibility. Legendary USA's collection includes waterproof and windproof gear, such as rain suits and all-weather jackets, to keep you dry and comfortable in inclement weather. At Legendary USA, safety and style go hand in hand. Their range of motorcycle gear and apparel is designed to keep you visible and protected while allowing you to express your unique style. Don't compromise on safety during your fall rides; visit their online store to explore their selection of gear that will help you stay visible and safe throughout the season. As you embark on your fall motorcycle adventures, remember that visibility is key to a safe and enjoyable ride. By choosing the right gear and lights from Legendary USA, you can confidently navigate the beautiful but challenging conditions of the fall season. Ride safely, stay visible, and make the most of this incredible riding season. Frequently Asked Questions What essential gear does every motorcycle rider need? Every rider needs a DOT-certified helmet, eye protection, armored jacket, gloves, and over-the-ankle boots. Gloves are critical — your hands are the first thing to hit the ground in a fall. Always choose genuine leather for maximum protection. How do I choose the right motorcycle gloves? Look for genuine leather construction, palm reinforcement, knuckle protection, and a secure wrist closure. They should fit snugly without restricting movement. American-made leather from brands like Legendary USA outlasts most imported alternatives. How do I stay comfortable on long motorcycle rides? Plan breaks every 90-120 miles, stay hydrated, and dress in layers. Gloves with palm padding significantly reduce vibration fatigue over long distances — a worthwhile upgrade for any regular rider. How do I care for leather motorcycle gloves? Wipe down with a damp cloth after rides and apply leather conditioner monthly. Store in a cool dry place out of direct sun. Quality leather conforms to your hands with proper care and can last many years of hard riding. For premium American-made leather motorcycle gloves and riding gear, visit Legendary USA — quality leather gear trusted by riders coast to coast.

Disclosure: MotoGearRater and Legendary USA have the same owner. Links to legendaryusa.com in this article go to our owner’s store, and are marked as sponsored. How we make money As summer fades into the rearview mirror, it's time to prepare your motorcycle for the cooler days of autumn. Proper maintenance is key to ensuring your bike runs smoothly in the colder months and continues to provide the thrill of the ride. In this blog, we'll cover essential autumn motorcycle maintenance tasks to get your bike ready for the cold. Plus, we'll introduce you to Legendary USA, your trusted source for high-quality motorcycle gear and apparel to keep you warm and stylish during your autumn rides. Oil and Fluids: Start your autumn motorcycle maintenance by checking and changing the oil and other fluids. Cold weather can affect fluid viscosity, so use oil and coolant suitable for colder temperatures. Ensure proper levels and consider an oil change if needed. Tire Inspection: Inspect your tires for wear and tear. As temperatures drop, tire pressure can decrease, affecting handling. Keep them properly inflated, and check the tread depth. Worn tires are more susceptible to slips on wet or icy roads. Battery Health: Cold weather can be hard on your motorcycle's battery. Check its condition and ensure it's properly charged. Clean any corrosion from the terminals and consider using a battery tender to maintain charge during periods of inactivity. Brake Check: Your brakes are crucial for safety. Inspect brake pads and ensure they have sufficient thickness. Cold weather can make braking less efficient, so having good brakes is essential. Lights and Signals: As the days get shorter, you'll be riding in darker conditions. Check all lights, including headlights, taillights, and turn signals, to ensure they are working correctly. Replace any burnt-out bulbs promptly. Chain and Sprockets: Inspect the chain and sprockets for wear and proper tension. Lubricate the chain and keep it clean, as cold weather can cause it to become less flexible. Fuel System: Condensation can accumulate in the fuel tank during cold weather. Consider adding a fuel stabilizer to your tank to prevent corrosion and keep your fuel fresh. Cold-Weather Gear from Legendary USA: Staying warm and comfortable during your autumn rides is essential. Legendary USA offers a wide range of cold-weather motorcycle gear and apparel to keep you cozy and stylish. From insulated leather jackets to heated gloves and thermal base layers, they have you covered. Riding Gloves: Cold hands can be uncomfortable and affect your ability to control your motorcycle. Invest in high-quality riding gloves from Legendary USA to keep your hands warm and your grip secure. Helmets and Headgear: Your head is one of the most exposed parts of your body while riding. A warm, insulated helmet and a good-quality balaclava can make a significant difference in cold weather. Autumn motorcycle maintenance is crucial to ensure a smooth and safe riding experience as temperatures drop. By following these maintenance tips and equipping yourself with the right gear from Legendary USA, you'll be well-prepared for the colder months ahead. Don't let the chill deter you from enjoying the thrill of autumn riding—embrace it with the right preparation and gear. Stay safe, stay warm, and enjoy the beauty of fall on two wheels. Happy riding! Frequently Asked Questions How do I prepare my motorcycle for winter storage? Stabilize the fuel, change oil before storage, keep the battery on a tender, inflate tires slightly over spec, and cover the bike. A mid-winter check to run the engine briefly prevents seals from drying out. Can I ride a motorcycle in cold weather? Yes, with the right gear. Heated grips, insulated gloves, thermal base layers, and a windscreen make cold-weather riding manageable. Leather gloves rated for colder temps — or liner gloves underneath — are essential below 40°F. When should I start prepping my motorcycle for spring riding? Start 2-3 weeks before you plan to ride. Check tire pressure, change the oil, inspect brakes and chain, and test all lights. Give yourself time to fix anything that didn't survive storage. What motorcycle gloves work best in cold weather? Look for insulated leather gloves with a gauntlet cuff and waterproofing. Leather naturally insulates better than thin synthetics. For extreme cold, a liner glove under quality leather from Legendary USA offers excellent versatility. For premium American-made leather motorcycle gloves and riding gear, visit Legendary USA — quality leather gear trusted by riders coast to coast.

If you want palm slider protection, buy Alpinestars sport gloves, and no, we do not sell them. Not one glove in our catalog has a hard palm slider, so a roundup from us that pretended otherwise would be worthless to you. Palm sliders are hard plastic pucks moulded over the base of the palm, they come from road racing, and the makers who build them properly are Alpinestars, Dainese and Held. Disclosure: MotoGearRater and Legendary USA have the same owner. Links to legendaryusa.com in this article go to our owner’s store, and are marked as sponsored. How we make money The idea behind them is simple and worth understanding before you shop. When you put a hand down at speed, the palm grabs the pavement, the hand stops, and your arm keeps going. That twisting load is what breaks the scaphoid, the small bone at the base of the thumb side of your palm, and it is one of the most common motorcycle hand injuries there is. A slider is designed to skate instead of grip, letting the hand keep moving so the wrist is not asked to absorb a sudden rotation. Nothing about thick leather does that job, which is the honest starting point for this whole list. What I Weighted First question for every glove here: does it have a genuine hard slider at the base of the palm, and is the glove certified? Everything with a real slider ranks above everything without one, which is why our own products sit below two brands we have no financial interest in. After that I looked at how the slider is anchored, whether the wrist has a retention strap, and how much the glove costs you in feel and heat during normal riding. Scores here are editorial judgments from riding and from handling construction, not measurements. We do not run impact rigs or abrasion machines, we do not have test data on any slider, and we will never publish a number we did not earn. Every Legendary and Churchill glove below is unarmored deerskin or goatskin with no CE certification and no slider, and each pick says so in its own words. 1. Alpinestars Sport Gloves, The Slider Done Right Alpinestars built its reputation in road racing and the palm slider is the clearest expression of that. The sport range puts hard sliders across the base of the palm, backs them with a doubled palm, and pairs them with knuckle armor, a wrist retention strap and a gauntlet cuff, all certified under the European motorcycle glove standard. Availability is the practical argument: these sit on the shelf at most American dealers, so you can try the fit on your own hand rather than guessing at a size chart from overseas. We do not sell them and we get nothing if you buy them. If sliders are your priority, start here. Price: sold elsewhere, we are not a dealer Score: 9.2 out of 10 Best for: sport riding, track days, and anyone who wants the real thing 2. Dainese Racing Gloves, The Other Serious Answer Also not ours. Dainese approaches the same problem from a slightly different direction, with sliding inserts placed where a hand actually contacts the road and structures across the outside of the hand meant to keep the wrist from bending past its limit. The racing gloves are stiff out of the box and take real miles to break in, and they are hot in summer because armor and ventilation fight each other. What you get is a glove designed around a crash rather than around a commute. If you have wide hands, try both brands, because the fit between them differs more than the marketing suggests. Price: sold elsewhere, not stocked here Score: 8.9 out of 10 Best for: fast road riding and track use where wrist protection is the point 3. Aramid Touchscreen Deerskin Gloves, The Closest We Get The Aramid Touchscreen Deerskin Gloves at $125 are the most palm focused thing we sell, and they are not a slider. The aramid lining sits in the palm and resists cutting and scuffing better than a plain leather liner, which matters in the low speed drops that make up most real world spills. It does nothing about rotation, because it grips the ground rather than skating across it. Buy these because they are a comfortable American deerskin glove with a tougher palm and touchscreen fingers, not because you think they will do a slider's job. No CE rating, no armor, no puck. Price: $125 Score: 7.7 out of 10 Best for: daily street riding where a tougher palm and good feel both matter 4. ILL DOZER Outseam Gloves, A Cleaner Palm Face The ILL DOZER Outseam Gloves at $140 move the seams to the outside of the glove, which leaves the inside of the palm smooth against your hand and keeps thread off the surface that meets the road. That is a construction advantage, not a protection feature, and I want to be careful about the difference. The perforated panels breathe well for summer, which also means less material in those panels. Ranked here for build quality and comfort on hot days, with no claim about what happens in a slide. Price: $140 Score: 7.3 out of 10 Best for: hot weather riding with careful construction 5. Bad Billy Black Goatskin Gloves, Tougher Hide for Less Money Goatskin is denser and more scuff resistant than deerskin at the same thickness, which makes the Bad Billy Black Goatskin Gloves at $99.99 an interesting palm side choice for riders who cannot stretch to a certified glove. It is still an unarmored short wrist glove with no slider and no CE rating, and I would not tell you it belongs in the same conversation as the two brands at the top of this list. What it is: the least expensive glove here that puts a genuinely hard wearing hide between your palm and the world, and a glove you will not mind wearing every day. Price: $99.99 Score: 7.1 out of 10 Best for: budget minded daily riding on a hide tougher than deerskin How to Judge a Palm Slider Before You Buy Sliders vary more than the photos suggest. Here is what to look at when you have the glove in your hand. Position. The slider should sit over the heel of the palm below the thumb, where the scaphoid is. A puck placed further back does less. Anchoring. Is it stitched through a reinforced panel or glued to the surface? A slider that peels off in the first metre was decoration. Hardness. It has to be hard enough to skate. Soft rubber grips pavement, which is the opposite of the point. Wrist retention. A slider on a glove that comes off your hand is useless. Check for a strap that cinches under the cuff. Certification. Look for the CE mark and EN 13594 on the label rather than the words protection or armored in the product copy. Fit at the palm. The slider only lands correctly if the glove is the right size. Measure across the knuckles and use a glove size chart before ordering. Prices verified August 2026. Common Questions What motorcycle gloves have the best palm slider protection? Alpinestars, Dainese and Held sport gloves, none of which we sell. Those are the makers who place hard sliders over the heel of the palm, anchor them into a reinforced panel, and certify the finished glove under the European motorcycle glove standard. If a glove listing does not show a hard puck at the base of the palm and a CE label, it does not have slider protection no matter what the description says. Do palm sliders actually help? The reasoning behind them is sound and it comes straight out of road racing. Letting the hand skate rather than catch keeps a sudden twisting load off the wrist, which is how the scaphoid usually gets broken. We have not run our own testing and we are not going to quote anyone else's numbers as though they were ours, but the design logic is why every serious race glove has them. Can I add a palm slider to a leather glove? No, and please do not try. A slider works because it is bonded through a reinforced structural panel that spreads load into the rest of the glove, which is not something you can retrofit with adhesive. If you want slider protection, buy a glove that was designed and certified with one. If you want American deerskin, buy it for comfort and daily wear and know exactly what you are getting. Where That Leaves You For palm slider protection the pick is Alpinestars, with Dainese as the runner up, and both come from shops that are not us. That is the whole answer to the question in the title, and there is no version of it where a deerskin glove wins. If you have already decided on leather for comfort and daily wear, the most palm conscious option we sell is the Aramid Touchscreen Deerskin Gloves at $125, with the Bad Billy Black Goatskin Gloves at $99.99 as the budget alternative. Both are unarmored and uncertified. If you want to see how the rest of the range compares on cuffs, palms and hides, the glove buying guide lays it out plainly.

Trust starts with knowing who is paying for what you read. This page explains how MotoGearRater makes money, our relationship with the brands we cover, and how our content is produced. It applies to every article on this site. How MotoGearRater makes money MotoGearRater is reader-supported. When you buy gear through links on this site, the sale may benefit us, either through an affiliate commission from an outside retailer or directly when the store is Legendary USA, which has the same owner as MotoGearRater. This never changes the price you pay. Affiliate revenue is how we fund the site. Our relationship with Legendary USA MotoGearRater and Legendary USA have the same owner. Legendary USA is an American motorcycle gear store, and it owns the BECK Northeaster Flying Togs brand. Many of our articles link to Legendary USA and BECK products, and those links go to our owner's store, so a purchase benefits our owner directly. Every link to legendaryusa.com on this site is marked as sponsored. We tell you this plainly because you deserve to weigh it when you read our recommendations. Our editorial policy is that recommendations must follow from the evidence in the article, not from the commercial relationship. When a Legendary USA product is the right pick for a rider, we say so. When a competitor makes the better product for a given use case, we name that competitor. Brands we cover and compare include Legendary USA and its BECK Northeaster Flying Togs line, which share our owner, as well as Fox Creek Leather, Vanson Leathers, Cockpit USA, Held, Dainese, Alpinestars, and others. How our content is produced Some articles on this site are drafted with AI assistance and edited and maintained by the MotoGearRater team. Factual claims about materials, construction, and safety certifications (such as EN 1621 armor standards and EN 13594 glove standards) are checked against published standards and manufacturer specifications. We are progressively upgrading older articles to our current editorial standards, including named authors, testing details, and updated dates. Corrections If you find an error, factual, technical, or otherwise, we want to know. Use the contact page and we will review and correct the article. We would rather fix a mistake than defend one. What we will not do We do not accept payment for positive coverage. We do not let a partner write or approve our verdicts. We do not present sponsored content as independent review without labeling it. If any of these policies ever change, this page will change first.

A Harley Road Glide clutch that will not fully disengage makes the bike creep or lurch when you select first with the lever held in, refuses to give you neutral at a stop, and on some machines bites earlier and earlier as the engine heats. On Road Glides this is a documented safety defect rather than simple wear: three federal recall campaigns covering 2015 to 2018 machines describe a clutch that may not disengage. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls before you touch anything, because the repair may be free. Road Glides of these model years use a hydraulic clutch, which is why the recall records talk about a clutch master cylinder and an actuator rather than a cable. There is no cable adjustment to hide behind, and a clutch that drags on a heavy touring machine is a crash risk, not an annoyance. Applies to FLTRX and FLTRXS from 2015, FLTRU from 2016, FLTRXSE from 2018, FLTRK from 2020, FLTRXST from 2022, FLTRXSTSE from 2024, and FLTRT, the three-wheeled Road Glide 3, from 2023. On FLTRT, ignore every instruction below about holding the machine upright or the side stand, and set the parking brake instead. The recall table names specific years and codes: read it rather than assuming your bike is in or out. The symptoms, and what each one usually means Symptom Most likely meaning Bike creeps or lurches forward when you select first with the lever held fully in Clutch is dragging. The plates are not fully separating Neutral has become hard to find at a stop when it used to be easy Drag, same cause. The change over time is the signal Lever friction zone moves in toward the grip as the engine heats Loss of clutch lift as the system warms, reported in the federal complaint record Lever feels spongy, or the bite point wanders Air or gas in the hydraulic system Worst after the machine has stood for weeks The condition Harley's own recall record singles out Engine speed climbs without matching acceleration The opposite fault, slipping rather than dragging, usually worn plates Machine cranks in gear with the clutch lever released Clutch switch or interlock fault, and a genuine hazard Drag and slip are opposite faults with opposite causes, and conflating them is the most common mistake in forum threads. Drag means the clutch is not releasing. Slip means it is not holding. The three recalls, in full Campaign Road Glide codes named Defect and remedy as recorded 15V216000, April 2015 2015 FLTRX, FLTRXS The clutch master cylinder may lose the ability to generate enough lift to disengage the clutch, especially if the motorcycle has been parked for an extended period. With the engine running and the machine in gear, it may move unexpectedly. Dealers flush the clutch system and rebuild the clutch master cylinder free of charge. Harley's recall number 0165. 16V471000, June 2016 2016 FLTRX, FLTRXS, FLTRU Same defect and the same wording about extended parking. Dealers inspect the clutch master cylinder for the presence of gas in the fluid and, if found, flush the system and rebuild the master cylinder free of charge. Harley's recall number 0169. 18V734000, October 2018 2017 and 2018 FLTRX, FLTRXS, FLTRU, and 2018 FLTRXSE If the clutch cannot be disengaged it can result in a loss of control. Dealers install a new secondary clutch actuator piston assembly free of charge. Harley's recall number 0173. Those are the manufacturer's descriptions as filed with the federal regulator, not our diagnosis. Note the differences: the 2016 campaign specifically looks for gas in the fluid, and the 2017 to 2018 campaign replaces a component rather than flushing the system. Same symptom, different root cause, different fix. One complaint in the federal record describes a 2016 Road Glide Special that had the clutch recall performed in August 2017 and then suffered a complete hydraulic clutch failure in February 2018, the machine lunging forward uncontrollably on shifting into first and causing damage and injury. A completed recall is therefore not proof that a current drag complaint is something else. What you can check yourself Confirm it is really drag. Outdoors, on level ground, with the machine held upright, the front brake applied and nothing in front of the front wheel, warm the engine, pull the clutch lever fully in and select first from neutral. A healthy clutch gives one clunk and the bike stays put. If it creeps or lurches with the lever held fully in, the clutch is dragging. Do not use the older folk test of comparing how easily neutral selects with the engine off: neutral is easier engine-off on every motorcycle ever built, because the primary drive and gearbox input shaft are stationary. What matters is the change over time on your machine. Look at the fluid. Through the sight glass where your model has one, or at the reservoir. Dark, cloudy or low fluid all point at the hydraulic system. Do not open the reservoir on a bike you are about to ride unless you are ready to bleed it properly. Feel the lever. A firm lever with a consistent bite point suggests something mechanical inside the primary. A spongy lever, or a bite point that moves, suggests air or gas in the system or a failing master cylinder. Note whether heat or standing time changes it. Take the engagement point cold, then again after a ride, and note whether the machine had stood for weeks before the fault appeared. Harley's own recall record singles out extended parking, and one federal complaint from a 2017 Road Glide Special owner describes the clutch engaging earlier and earlier in 85-plus degree traffic until it would not disengage at all. Write down whichever pattern yours shows before you visit a dealer, because it is exactly what a technician needs. Check the primary chaincase lubricant level and condition if you are comfortable doing so. Harley's wet clutch runs in the primary chaincase lubricant, so the wrong fluid or the wrong level changes clutch behaviour. The procedure is in Harley engine, primary and transmission fluid. Harley states on its own product page that Formula+ primary chaincase lubricant is not for use in the crankcase as a motor oil. What you should not do is bleed a hydraulic clutch on a machine with an open recall. You will spend an afternoon treating a symptom that a dealer will fix at the root for nothing. Why a hydraulic clutch stops lifting A hydraulic clutch works because the fluid is effectively incompressible. Anything compressible in the line absorbs lever movement instead of transmitting it: air from a poor bleed, or gas coming out of the fluid. The lever still swings its full arc, but the lift at the other end is short, and short lift means plates that do not fully separate. Harley's own recall records say the master cylinder may lose the ability to generate enough lift, especially after the motorcycle has been parked for an extended period, and the 2016 remedy is to inspect the master cylinder for gas in the fluid. Heat makes an already marginal system worse, which is why some riders report it at its worst in traffic on a hot day, but the manufacturer's record points at the master cylinder and at standing time rather than at boiling fluid. One fluid note, because it is commonly stated wrongly: glycol-based brake and clutch fluids, DOT 3, DOT 4 and DOT 5.1, are hygroscopic, meaning they absorb water from the air over time, which lowers the boiling point and makes a fluid change a timed item. DOT 5 silicone fluid is not hygroscopic, and it is not interchangeable with the glycol fluids. Harley specifies different fluids across its range and the two must never be mixed, so check which one your model calls for before you open anything. Specifications you need to look up for your bike Value Why you need it Where it lives Clutch fluid specification for your model year The wrong fluid damages seals, and glycol and silicone must never be mixed Owner's manual and service manual Clutch fluid change interval Glycol fluid is a timed item, not a lifetime one Owner's manual Primary chaincase lubricant type and capacity Clutch behaviour depends on both Owner's manual Derby and primary cover fastener torques and tightening pattern Anything you remove to inspect Service manual Clutch plate wear limits Judging slip rather than drag Service manual Safety A clutch that will not disengage can move the motorcycle the instant you select a gear. Test outdoors, on level ground, with the machine held, the front brake on and nothing in front of the front wheel. One federal complaint describes exactly this happening in a home garage, with damage and injury. Do not run the engine in a closed garage. Exhaust gas kills quietly. Do not test a suspected drag by riding in traffic to see how bad it gets. Clutch fluid strips paint and irritates skin and eyes. Wear eye protection and cover the tank. The primary case and the exhaust stay hot long after shutdown. If the machine will crank in gear with the clutch lever fully released, stop riding it. That is an interlock or clutch switch fault, and the federal complaint record contains a Road Glide Special whose left switch assembly failed after rain, after which the bike could be started in gear and lunged forward. When to stop and take it to a dealer Immediately, if your VIN returns an open clutch recall, if the machine lurches when you select a gear, or if it cranks in gear with the lever released. This is a documented safety defect on these model years with a free remedy attached. For machines outside the recalls, a dealer or a good independent shop is still the right answer once you have established that the drag is real and the primary fluid is correct, because the next steps are a proper bleed, a master cylinder assessment or opening the primary. Frequently asked questions Why does my Road Glide lurch forward when I put it in first gear? The clutch is dragging, which means the plates are not fully separating when you pull the lever. On 2015 to 2018 Road Glides this is the exact symptom described in three federal recall campaigns, 15V216000, 16V471000 and 18V734000. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls before paying for a diagnosis, and do not ride the machine while it does this. Which Road Glide model years had the clutch recall? 15V216000 covers 2015 FLTRX and FLTRXS, 16V471000 covers 2016 FLTRX, FLTRXS and FLTRU, and 18V734000 covers 2017 and 2018 FLTRX, FLTRXS and FLTRU plus the 2018 FLTRXSE. The first two flush the system and rebuild the clutch master cylinder. The third installs a new secondary clutch actuator piston assembly. Why does my Harley clutch engage earlier when the engine gets hot? Because something compressible in the hydraulic system is absorbing lever movement, so the clutch is not being lifted as far as it should be, and heat makes a marginal system worse. A 2017 Road Glide Special owner reported exactly this to the federal database: the clutch engaging earlier and earlier in 85-plus degree stop-and-go traffic until it would not disengage at all with the lever pulled fully back. Harley's recall records for 2015 and 2016 machines describe the master cylinder losing the ability to generate enough lift, and single out machines that have been parked for an extended period. Can I fix a dragging clutch by bleeding it myself? Sometimes, if the cause is genuinely air and your machine has no open recall. If it is covered, a dealer will flush the system or replace the actuator assembly at no charge, and bleeding it yourself only delays that. A completed recall does not rule out a later failure either: the federal record contains a Road Glide Special that failed months after its recall work was done. Is my clutch dragging or slipping? Dragging means it will not release: the machine creeps or lurches in gear with the lever in, and neutral becomes hard to find with the engine running. Slipping means it will not hold: engine speed rises without matching acceleration, usually first in top gear under load. They are opposite faults and the fixes have nothing in common. Should a Road Glide start in gear? With the clutch lever pulled in and the side stand up, a Harley big twin is designed to crank in gear, so that by itself is not a fault. What is not normal is cranking in gear with the clutch lever fully released, which points at a clutch switch or interlock fault. The federal complaint record includes a Road Glide Special whose left switch assembly failed after rain, after which the machine could be started in gear and lunged forward. Confirm the intended behaviour for your model year in the owner's manual, and treat anything that removes a protection as a fault to fix before the next ride.

A check engine light or fault alert on a Harley Road Glide means the engine control module has stored a code and, in some cases, has reduced power to protect the engine. The light itself tells you nothing about the cause, so the sequence is always the same: read the stored code, look up what that code means for your model year, then test the circuit the code points at. Do not replace a part because a code names it. A code names a circuit, not a culprit. This guide covers what the light means on a Road Glide, how riders read codes, why a recent machine can show a fault alert with no code behind it, what reduced power mode is, and the recalls worth ruling out before you spend anything. Applies to FLTRX and FLTRXS from 2015, FLTRU from 2016, FLTRXSE from 2018, FLTRK from 2020, FLTRXST from 2022, FLTRXSTSE from 2024, and FLTRT, the three-wheeled Road Glide 3, from 2023. Dash behaviour differs across that span: older machines show a check engine lamp, newer ones raise a fault alert message on the instrument display, and CVO and later touring models add more text. The diagnostic logic below does not change. What the light actually means What you see What it means Keep riding? Light on, bike runs normally A code is stored. Something was outside expected limits at least once Usually yes, to get home, then read the code Light on, power obviously reduced Reduced power mode, often called limp mode Ride gently to a safe place and stop Light on, engine running roughly or missing Active fault affecting running, not a stored historic one No. Stop and diagnose Light comes on and goes off again Intermittent fault, code likely stored as historic Yes, but read the stored codes before it repeats Fault alert with no code found later Historic code cleared itself, or the alert came from a module a basic reader cannot see See the no-codes section below Reduced power mode is not a fault in itself. It is the engine control module deliberately limiting output because a sensor reading is implausible or a temperature is too high. The federal complaint record includes a 2017 Road Glide Special owner describing exactly that, the machine dropping into reduced power while entering a highway under acceleration. Treat it as the machine protecting itself and get off the road. How to read the codes Three honest options, in order of cost. The instrument cluster diagnostic mode. Many Harley-Davidson models have a built-in procedure for displaying stored codes on the cluster using the handlebar controls. The sequence differs by model year and instrument type, and on the most recent machines it may not exist in that form at all, so use the service information for your model. We do not print a sequence here, because a wrong one for your year sends you into a different menu and teaches you nothing. One warning that matters: on most implementations the same button that steps through the codes will erase them if you hold it down. Write every code down as it appears and let go of the button between codes. A code reader that speaks Harley's protocol. A generic automotive OBD-II reader will not plug into a Harley without an adapter and, on many model years, will not read the motorcycle modules at all. Buy a reader that names your model year range explicitly. A dealer or independent shop. Fastest, and the only route to the full set of module codes on later machines, which include modules a consumer tool does not reach. Whatever you use, write the codes down before you clear anything. Clearing a code deletes the only evidence you have, and an intermittent fault may take weeks to return. Reading a code without guessing Harley codes take the familiar shape of a letter followed by four digits, such as P0132. The letter and first digit tell you the family, and the rest is defined by the manufacturer for that model. Two things follow. A definition you find for a car with the same code number may be wrong for your motorcycle. Use Harley documentation for your model year. A code names a circuit, not a broken part. A code pointing at a sensor circuit is satisfied equally by a failed sensor, a chafed wire, a corroded connector, a bad ground or a failed module. The wiring and the connector are cheaper and more likely than the module, and they are what you test first. The universal method for testing a suspect circuit, rather than replacing parts hopefully, is in using a multimeter on a motorcycle. Fault alert with no codes This is a common and frustrating case on recent Road Glides. The usual explanations, in the order worth checking: The code was historic and self-cleared after a number of clean start cycles. Nothing is wrong now, but it will return if the underlying fault does. Your reader cannot see the module that raised the alert. Consumer tools often read the engine module only, while the alert came from the instrument, body or security module. A low or failing battery. A battery that sags during cranking produces implausible readings across several modules at once and can raise alerts that have nothing to do with the system named. This is worth ruling out before anything else, and it is cheap to do. See battery keeps dying. A charging fault. Same logic, from the other end. Test it properly with the charging system tests. A connector problem that only appears with heat or vibration. These are the hardest, and the only reliable way to find one is to catch it in the act with the meter connected. Recalls to rule out first Two federal campaigns can produce electrical symptoms on a Road Glide that riders reasonably read as an engine fault. Campaign Applies to What the record says 24V672000 Certain 2024 FLTRX, FLTRXSE and FLTRXSTSE Voltage regulator output wire can rub the crankcase and short, causing a loss of electrical power and drive power. Dealers inspect and repair the harness and fit a retention strap. 22V781000 Certain 2020 to 2022 FLTRX, FLTRXS, FLTRK and FLTRXSE, and 2022 FLTRXST A software error can illuminate the brake lights without the rider braking. Dealers update the software. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Both repairs are free, and a harness short will keep destroying whatever you fit until the harness is fixed. Should you clear the code yourself? Clear it once you have written it down and only when you understand what it pointed at. Clearing without diagnosis achieves two things: it hides the evidence, and it resets any readiness state the module was using. If the light returns immediately after clearing, the fault is active rather than historic, which is genuinely useful information. Be wary of the common advice to disconnect the battery to clear a code. Modern modules store fault codes in memory that does not depend on battery power, so it is not a reliable way to clear anything, and on a modern Road Glide it can drop settings held in other modules and, on machines with the factory security system, add a step you did not want at the roadside. Specifications you need to look up for your bike Value or procedure Why you need it Where it lives Cluster diagnostic mode button sequence Reading stored codes without a tool Service information for your model year Code definitions for your model year A code number alone does not carry a meaning Harley-Davidson service manual Sensor resistance and voltage ranges Testing the circuit a code points at Service manual Engine temperature warning thresholds Judging a heat-related reduced power event Service manual and owner's manual Safety Do not chase a running fault in a closed garage. Exhaust gas kills quietly. Keep hands, meter leads and clothing clear of the exhaust and the cooling fan on machines that have one. Touring exhausts stay hot long after shutdown. If the bike has entered reduced power mode in traffic, get off the road before you begin. Do not ride a motorcycle with an active running fault to see whether it gets worse. It will, and usually somewhere less convenient. When to stop and take it to a dealer Stop when the code points at a module rather than a sensor, when the machine is in warranty, when a recall matches, or when you have tested the circuit and found it healthy. A code that survives a healthy circuit means either an intermittent connection you have not caught or a module fault, and neither is worth buying parts for on a guess. Frequently asked questions What does the check engine light mean on a Harley Road Glide? It means the engine control module has stored a diagnostic code. It does not say what failed, and on its own it does not tell you whether the fault is active now or was stored days ago. Read the stored code first, then test the circuit that code names. If power is obviously reduced at the same time, the module has entered reduced power mode to protect the engine and you should stop riding. Why does my Road Glide have a check engine light but no codes? Usually one of four things: the code was historic and cleared itself after enough clean start cycles, your reader cannot see the module that raised the alert, the battery is weak enough to produce implausible readings across several modules, or the fault is a connector that only misbehaves with heat or vibration. Rule out the battery and charging system first, because they are the cheapest and they cause the most confusion. Can I read Harley codes without a scanner? Many Harley models have a built-in cluster diagnostic mode that displays stored codes through the handlebar controls. The button sequence varies by model year and instrument type, and on the newest machines it may not be available in that form, so use the documentation for your machine rather than a general instruction. Be careful with it: on most implementations, holding the same button that steps through codes will erase them, so write each code down as it appears. If you need full module coverage on a recent model, a Harley-capable reader or a dealer is the only complete route. Will a generic OBD2 reader work on a Road Glide? Not without an adapter, and on many model years not usefully at all. Harley uses its own diagnostic connector on motorcycles, and the modules are not the standard automotive set, so a car scanner that physically connects will still usually read nothing you can act on. Buy a reader that explicitly lists your model year range, or use a shop. What is limp mode on a Harley and how do I reset it? Reduced power mode is the engine control module deliberately cutting output because a reading is implausible or a temperature is too high. There is no trick to resetting it, and there should not be: the module will restore normal operation when the condition that triggered it is gone. Read the stored codes, fix the cause, and it clears. Riding it in that state to see what happens risks the engine. Is a check engine light on a Road Glide safe to ride with? A steady light with the bike running normally is usually safe for a short ride home, then read the code. A light with reduced power, rough running or any temperature warning is not. Stop, because the module is already telling you it cannot maintain normal operation.

A Harley Road Glide that will not start is telling you which system failed by what it does when you press the button. Total silence points at the battery, a ground, the ignition switch, the security system or one of the interlocks. A single loud click points at the starter solenoid or a voltage drop. Steady cranking that never fires points at fuel, spark or a sensor. Work the three branches in that order and you will not waste a weekend on the wrong one. This guide is the Road Glide version of our universal motorcycle will not start diagnostic guide. The electrical tests themselves are universal, so they are linked rather than repeated. What is here is the part that is specific to a Road Glide: the interlocks that silence the starter, the security system, and the one recall that can cut electrical and drive power on a 2024 machine. Applies to FLTRX and FLTRXS from 2015, FLTRU from 2016, FLTRXSE from 2018, FLTRK from 2020, FLTRXST from 2022, FLTRXSTSE from 2024, and FLTRT, the three-wheeled Road Glide 3, from 2023. There was no 2014 Road Glide. Bikes from 2017 on carry the Milwaukee-Eight engine rather than the Twin Cam, which changes the engine side of a no-start but not the electrical side. On FLTRT, ignore anything below about the side stand: it has a parking brake instead. First, which no-start is it? What happens at the button What it means Go to Nothing at all, no click, dash may be dark Power is not reaching the starter circuit, or an interlock is open No crank, no click One loud click, no crank Solenoid pulls in but the motor will not turn, usually voltage drop or a bad connection Clicks but will not start Rapid machine-gun clicking Battery too low to hold the solenoid in Battery keeps dying Cranks normally but never fires Fuel, spark or a sensor, not the starting circuit Cranks but will not start Starts then dies the moment you select a gear Side stand down. This is the interlock doing its job Retract the stand and try again Starts then dies within seconds in neutral Security system, fuel delivery or a sensor dropping out The security section below The Road Glide specifics, in the order worth checking The interlocks. A Road Glide will refuse to crank with the transmission in gear, the clutch lever out and the side stand down. It is an ordinary and slightly embarrassing cause of a bike that seems dead. Put it in neutral, confirm the neutral light, pull the clutch in and try again. A failed clutch switch or side stand switch produces exactly the same silence as a serious electrical fault. These switches do fail, and they fail both ways: the federal complaint record contains a 2015 Road Glide Special whose left switch assembly failed after rain, after which the machine could be started in gear and lunged forward. A switch that fails the other way simply stops the starter. Note also that a Road Glide will start and idle in neutral with the side stand down and then cut out the moment you select a gear, which is designed behaviour and not a fault. The run and kill switch. Obvious, frequently the answer, costs nothing to check. The battery, properly. Not the dash lights, not whether the horn sounds. A resting voltage reading and then a voltage reading while you press the starter. A battery can light a dash and still be incapable of turning an engine. The method is in using a multimeter on a motorcycle. The main fuse and the battery connections. Loose or corroded terminals mimic a dead battery exactly. Clean, tight, and torqued to the value your service manual gives rather than to feel. The security system. If your Road Glide has the factory security system and the fob is not recognised, the machine may crank and refuse to run, or refuse to do anything, and the dash usually tells you so. Start with a fresh fob battery, which is the most common cause by a distance. If the fob is genuinely dead, the owner's manual for your model year documents a personal identification number entry procedure using the handlebar controls. Use that document rather than a forum post: the sequence differs between model years and a wrong one teaches you nothing. Grounds. A Harley ground fault produces bizarre symptoms, including things lighting up that should not while the starter does nothing. Voltage-drop test the ground path with the circuit under load, not with everything switched off. The trap and the fix are described in no crank, no click. The recall that matters on a no-start or a sudden shutdown Federal campaign 24V672000, filed September 2024, covers certain 2024 FLTRX, FLTRXSE and FLTRXSTSE machines, the last being the CVO Road Glide ST, among other models. The defect described is a voltage regulator output wire that rubs on the front corner of the crankcase until it is exposed and shorts. The consequence stated in the record is a loss of electrical power and drive power, and the remedy is an inspection and repair of the harness with a secondary retention strap added, free of charge. If you own a 2024 Road Glide and it died electrically, stop diagnosing and check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. A short in that wire will also happily destroy a new battery or a new regulator, so replacing parts before the harness is inspected is throwing money at a wire. One other campaign is worth knowing on a bike with odd electrical behaviour: 22V781000, a software error that can illuminate the brake lights without the rider braking, covering 2020 to 2022 FLTRX, FLTRXS, FLTRK and FLTRXSE plus the 2022 FLTRXST. It will not stop a bike starting, but it will quietly flatten a battery if the lights stay lit with the machine parked, which is exactly the sort of fault that gets blamed on a battery. If it cranks and will not fire Now you are looking at fuel, spark and sensors, and the branch order is unchanged from any other fuel-injected motorcycle. Confirm the fuel pump primes when you switch on, confirm spark at a plug with the plug grounded against the head and the fuel system disabled, and only then start thinking about sensors. The full sequence, including the safety steps for testing spark without filling a garage with fuel vapour, is in cranks but will not start. One Road Glide note: if the engine fires and dies immediately, and the dash shows a security indication, treat it as a security fault rather than a fuel fault until you have ruled the security system out. Chasing a fuel pump you can hear priming is the classic wasted afternoon here. Specifications you need to look up for your bike Value Why you need it Where it lives Battery terminal fastener torque Loose terminals cause no-starts, overtightened ones strip a lead post Service manual for your model year Correct battery group size and rating An undersized battery cranks a big twin badly in cold weather Owner's manual, or the label on the original battery Spark plug type and gap Needed before you can judge or refit a plug Owner's manual for your model year Security system PIN entry procedure Starting with a failed fob Owner's manual for your model year Starter and solenoid fastener torques Anything you remove during this diagnosis Service manual Safety before you start Eye protection, always, and especially anywhere near a battery. A lead-acid battery vents hydrogen. Do not create a spark or an arc over the top of one. That includes jumper leads and bridging a solenoid. Bridging the starter solenoid bypasses the neutral, clutch and side stand interlocks. Before you bridge anything, confirm neutral, have the machine held, and keep the path in front of the front wheel clear. A bridged solenoid will crank a bike that is in gear and drive it forward into whoever is holding the screwdriver. A touring exhaust stays hot enough to burn long after shutdown. Let it cool, or keep your forearms off it. Hold a plug lead by its insulated boot, with insulated pliers if you have them. Ignition voltage will give you a shock hard enough to snatch your hand back into something sharp or hot. Before testing for spark, disable the fuel system and keep the plug lead away from the plug hole. Cranking an engine with fuel spraying and an open spark is how garages catch fire. Do not run a Road Glide in a closed garage while you chase an intermittent fault. If the machine has been down, or the fault appeared after an impact or a submersion, have it looked at rather than started repeatedly. When to stop and take it to a dealer Stop if you find a burnt or melted connector, if the fault is intermittent and safety related, if the machine is in warranty, or if your VIN returns an open recall that matches the symptom. A recall repair is free, and performing your own version of it can complicate the dealer's job. Stop also if you reach the end of the electrical branch with no fault found: at that point the next step is reading stored codes, which needs a tool that speaks Harley's protocol. Frequently asked questions Why will my Road Glide not start when the lights still work? Lights draw a tiny fraction of what a starter motor draws, so a battery that lights a dash can still be far too weak to crank a big twin. Measure resting voltage, then measure again while pressing the starter and watch how far it falls. If the lights work and nothing at all happens at the button, also check neutral, the clutch lever, the side stand and the run switch before suspecting anything expensive. Why does my Road Glide click once and not crank? A single click is the starter solenoid pulling in while the motor fails to turn. The usual causes are a discharged battery, a poor connection at a battery terminal or a ground, or a failed starter. Voltage-drop testing the battery-to-starter path while the button is pressed separates these in a few minutes without removing anything. Can a bad key fob stop a Road Glide from starting? Yes, on machines with the factory security system. A flat fob battery is the most common cause and the cheapest to rule out. If the fob is dead, the owner's manual for your model year documents a PIN entry procedure through the handlebar controls that lets you start the bike without it. Is there a recall that makes a Road Glide lose power? Federal campaign 24V672000 covers certain 2024 FLTRX, FLTRXSE and FLTRXSTSE motorcycles, where the voltage regulator output wire can rub on the crankcase and short, which the record says can cause a loss of electrical power and drive power. Dealers inspect and repair the harness and add a retention strap free of charge. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls before diagnosing further. My Road Glide starts and then immediately dies. What is it? First retract the side stand: a Road Glide will idle in neutral with the stand down and cut out the instant you select a gear, and that is the interlock working. If it dies in neutral, treat it as a security or fuel delivery fault. If the dash gives any security indication, rule the security system out first. Otherwise confirm the fuel pump primes at key on, then check whether the engine will run briefly on the priming pressure alone, which points at a pump or a pressure fault rather than at ignition. Will jump starting a Road Glide damage anything? Jump starting from another battery, with the donor engine switched off, is generally safe when the leads go on in the right order: donor positive, then recipient positive, then donor negative, and the final connection to a bare metal ground point on the recipient machine well away from the battery rather than to its negative post. That last connection is the one that sparks, and you want the spark somewhere other than over a battery venting hydrogen. Reverse the order to disconnect. What causes damage is jump starting from a running vehicle's charging system, or reversing polarity for even a moment. If the bike needs jumping repeatedly, the fault is the battery or the charging system, and there is a test for each: charging system and parasitic draw.

Most Harley Road Glide faults fall into four buckets: the hydraulic clutch, electrical faults that cut power or trigger a fault alert, Milwaukee-Eight heat and crankcase pressure complaints, and lighting or software faults. Ten federal recall campaigns cover Road Glide model codes, and three of them describe a clutch that may not fully disengage while one describes a loss of electrical and drive power while riding. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls before you diagnose anything, because the repair may already be paid for. This is the index for MotoGearRater's Road Glide repair guides. Each guide gives a diagnostic sequence you can run with hand tools and a multimeter, names the publicly documented recalls that produce that symptom, and tells you which numbers you must look up in service documentation rather than take from a web page. The model codes this guide covers Road Glide is a family, not one motorcycle. The codes below are the ones the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration uses in its recall and complaint records, which makes them the codes you need when you search that database yourself. The year ranges are the ranges in which each code appears in those federal records, not a production history. Model code Name Appears in federal records Engine FLTRX Road Glide 2015 onward Twin Cam through 2016, Milwaukee-Eight from 2017 FLTRXS Road Glide Special 2015 onward Twin Cam through 2016, Milwaukee-Eight from 2017 FLTRU Road Glide Ultra 2016 to 2019 Twin Cam in 2016, Milwaukee-Eight from 2017 FLTRUSE CVO Road Glide Ultra 2015 to 2019 Twin Cam through 2016, Milwaukee-Eight from 2017 FLTRK Road Glide Limited 2020 onward Milwaukee-Eight FLTRXST Road Glide ST 2022 onward Milwaukee-Eight FLTRXSE CVO Road Glide 2018 onward Milwaukee-Eight FLTRXSTSE CVO Road Glide ST 2024 onward Milwaukee-Eight FLTRT Road Glide 3, a three-wheeler 2023 onward Milwaukee-Eight FLTRXL Named in the 2026 recall record 2026 Milwaukee-Eight FLTRT is the three-wheeled Road Glide 3. Where our guides talk about a side stand, holding the machine upright or a jiffy stand interlock, those steps do not apply to it. A trike also has a parking brake and a reverse gear that a two-wheeled Road Glide does not. Two dates matter when diagnosing. There was no 2014 Road Glide: the model was dropped for that year and returned for 2015. And Harley-Davidson introduced the Milwaukee-Eight engine on touring models for the 2017 model year, so a 2016 and a 2017 Road Glide do not share an engine, an oiling system or a heat profile. Advice written for one does not automatically transfer to the other, which is the most common way riders get sent down the wrong path in forum threads. Start here: check your VIN Two minutes, free, and the only step on this page that can hand you a fully paid repair. The federal lookup at nhtsa.gov/recalls takes a VIN and returns open recalls on that specific motorcycle. Harley-Davidson's customer service line, printed on every notice below, is 1-800-258-2464. Ten campaigns cover the ten Road Glide codes above across the 2014 to 2026 model years. The VIN lookup is the authority for your machine; this table is a starting point. Campaign Road Glide codes and years Defect Remedy 15V216000 2015 FLTRX, FLTRXS Clutch master cylinder may lose the ability to generate enough lift to disengage the clutch, especially after the machine has been parked for an extended period Flush the clutch system and rebuild the clutch master cylinder 15V427000 2015 FLTRX, FLTRXS, FLTRUSE Saddlebag may separate from the motorcycle Replace saddlebag mounting receptacles 16V471000 2016 FLTRX, FLTRXS, FLTRU Same clutch defect, with gas in the clutch fluid Inspect for gas in the fluid, then flush and rebuild the master cylinder 17V333000 2017 FLTRX, FLTRXS Oil cooler line clamp incorrectly installed, possible sudden oil loss toward the rear tire Inspect and correct the clamps 18V734000 2017 to 2018 FLTRX, FLTRXS, FLTRU, and 2018 FLTRXSE Clutch may not disengage, which can result in loss of control Install a new secondary clutch actuator piston assembly 19V574000 2017 to 2019 FLTRU, 2016 to 2019 FLTRUSE, with a detachable Tour-Pak conversion kit Kit omitted the rear red reflectors Install replacement reflectors 22V781000 2020 to 2022 FLTRX, FLTRXS, FLTRK, FLTRXSE, and 2022 FLTRXST Software error can illuminate the brake lights without the rider braking Software update 23V672000 2023 FLTRXSE Rear brake line may chafe on the exhaust and leak fluid Replace the rear brake line clamp 24V672000 2024 FLTRX, FLTRXSE, FLTRXSTSE Voltage regulator output wire can rub the crankcase and short, causing loss of electrical power and drive power Inspect and repair the harness, add a retention strap 26V270000 2024 to 2026 FLTRX, 2026 FLTRT and FLTRXL, built with a particular airbox baseplate Blocked airbox breather port pressurises the crankcase. Oil may eject from the fill spout when the dipstick is removed Inspect the breather port and clear any blockage Those descriptions are the manufacturer's own, as filed with the federal regulator. Two of the ten, 19V574000 and 22V781000, are noncompliance recalls rather than safety defect recalls. Note also that 26V270000 applies only to machines built with one specific airbox baseplate, so the VIN lookup decides, not the model year. Safety note from that last one: if your machine is covered by 26V270000, the crankcase can be pressurised. Release that pressure before pulling the dipstick, keep your face away from the fill spout, and wear eye protection. Find your symptom What the bike is doing Where to start Dead, clicks, or cranks and will not fire Road Glide will not start Check engine light, fault alert, reduced power Check engine light and fault codes Creeps or lurches in gear, clutch bites earlier as it heats, hard to find neutral Clutch will not disengage Charging fault, battery flat after standing Charging system tests and parasitic draw test Oil in the airbox, oil pushed out of the fill spout, crankcase pressure Read recall 26V270000 above first, then Harley engine, primary and transmission fluid What Road Glide owners actually report As of September 2026 the federal complaint database holds 104 owner complaints filed against the ten Road Glide codes above for the 2014 through 2026 model years. Counting every complaint that names a given component, the largest clusters are electrical system at 35, engine at 28 and power train at 23. Thirty-two of the 104 name more than one component, so those counts overlap and do not sum to 104. Read that as a map of where to look first, not as a failure rate. Complaints are self-selected: riders file when something frightens them, and nobody files to report a motorcycle that worked. The database does not publish how many machines were built, so no percentage can honestly be calculated from it. What it does show is that electrical, engine and clutch complaints dominate the Road Glide record, which is also where the recalls sit. What we will not print You will not find a torque figure, a fluid capacity, a valve clearance or a service interval anywhere in this section. Those values live in Harley-Davidson's service documentation for your specific model year, and a wrong one costs you a stripped crankcase thread or a ruined clutch. Every guide carries a short table naming the values that job needs and the document that holds them. That table is deliberate and it is the part of these guides we are least willing to compromise. Tools that cover most of this section A digital multimeter, which does more Road Glide diagnosis than any other tool. Start with using a multimeter on a motorcycle. A Torx and hex set, because Harley fasteners are mostly Torx. A battery tender, since many mystery electrical faults on a bike that sits are a tired battery pretending to be something more interesting. A code reader that speaks Harley's protocol, or a dealer appointment, for anything throwing a fault alert. Frequently asked questions What are the most common Harley Road Glide problems? Judged by the public federal complaint record for the 2014 to 2026 Road Glide model codes, the largest clusters are electrical system at 35 complaints, engine at 28 and power train at 23, out of 104 total. In practice that means hydraulic clutch faults, wiring and charging faults that cut power or trigger a fault alert, and Milwaukee-Eight heat and crankcase pressure complaints. Three of the ten recall campaigns covering Road Glide codes describe a clutch that may not fully disengage. How do I check if my Road Glide has an open recall? Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. The lookup is free, specific to your motorcycle rather than your model, and shows recalls that have not yet been performed. Recall work is done at no charge by a Harley-Davidson dealer. Harley-Davidson's customer service number, given on every recall notice, is 1-800-258-2464. Which Road Glide years had clutch problems? Federal campaigns describing a clutch that may not fully disengage cover 2015 FLTRX and FLTRXS under 15V216000, 2016 FLTRX, FLTRXS and FLTRU under 16V471000, and 2017 to 2018 FLTRX, FLTRXS and FLTRU plus the 2018 FLTRXSE under 18V734000. The first two flush the system and rebuild the clutch master cylinder. The third installs a new secondary clutch actuator piston assembly. Is a 2017 Road Glide the same as a 2016 one to work on? No. Harley-Davidson introduced the Milwaukee-Eight engine on touring models for 2017, replacing the Twin Cam. Engine, oiling and cooling differ, so a procedure or specification written for a 2016 Road Glide should not be applied to a 2017 without checking. What is the FLTRT Road Glide 3? FLTRT is the three-wheeled Road Glide, which appears in federal records from the 2023 model year. It is included in this section because it shares the Road Glide name and much of the electrical architecture, but any instruction involving a side stand, holding the machine upright or balancing it does not apply, and it has a reverse gear and parking brake a two-wheeled Road Glide does not. Why does this site not publish Harley torque specs? Because they cannot be verified from a free source and cannot be worked out after the fact. A correctly installed fastener does not reveal what it was tightened to. Publishing a number we could not source would be guessing with your crankcase, so each guide names the value you need and the document that holds it instead.

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