The 2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide is an iconic American touring motorcycle, recognized for its distinctive "shark-nose" frame-mounted fairing. Part of Harley's long-standing touring lineup, this bagger body style has seen continuous evolution. Key trims include the Road Glide (Standard), Road Glide Special, Road Glide Limited, and the high-end CVO Road Glide. New pricing ranged from approximately $21,699 to over $42,000 for the CVO. Its unique fairing offers superior wind protection and handling stability, making it a popular choice for long-distance riders and those desiring a bold, aggressive aesthetic.
The Good
The 2020 Road Glide offers robust performance from its Milwaukee-Eight engine, delivering strong torque for highway cruising. Its frame-mounted fairing enhances comfort and stability, while the distinctive design appeals to emotional buyers seeking American motorcycle heritage. Practical advantages include good reliability with proper maintenance, decent fuel economy for its class, and strong resale value, making it a valuable long-term investment for discerning riders.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses include its substantial weight, which can make low-speed maneuvering challenging. Engine heat, particularly in congested traffic, can be noticeable. While reliable, the cost of genuine Harley-Davidson parts and dealership labor can be high. Some riders also find the infotainment system less intuitive or feature-rich compared to some modern rivals.
2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- Milwaukee-Eight 107 V-Twin (107 cubic inches/1,746cc): Standard Road Glide
- Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-Twin (114 cubic inches/1,868cc): Road Glide Special, Road Glide Limited
- Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin (117 cubic inches/1,923cc): CVO Road Glide (limited production) - Horsepower/Torque:
- Milwaukee-Eight 107: Approximately 93 HP; 111 lb-ft of torque at 3,250 RPM
- Milwaukee-Eight 114: Approximately 100 HP; 118 lb-ft of torque at 3,250 RPM
- Milwaukee-Eight 117: Approximately 106 HP; 125 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 RPM
(Horsepower figures are approximate as Harley-Davidson typically emphasizes torque.) - Fuel Economy:
- Estimated 43-45 MPG (combined city/highway, varies by engine and riding style) - 0-60 Times:
- Not a primary performance metric for touring motorcycles; estimates range from 4.5 to 5.5 seconds, depending on engine and rider. - Towing Capacity:
- Not applicable for motorcycles. - Trim-Level Features:
- Road Glide (Standard): Milwaukee-Eight 107, BOOM! Box 4.3 infotainment with 5.25-inch speakers, classic analog gauges, hard-shell saddlebags, mini-ape handlebars, cast aluminum wheels.
- Road Glide Special: Milwaukee-Eight 114, BOOM! Box GTS infotainment system with 6.5-inch touchscreen and 6.5-inch speakers, custom blacked-out or chrome finishes, stretched saddlebags, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Reflex™ Linked Brembo® Brakes with standard ABS, unique wheels. Often includes the RDRS (Reflex™ Defensive Rider Systems) as an option or standard in some configurations.
- Road Glide Limited: Milwaukee-Eight 114, BOOM! Box GTS infotainment, heated handgrips, Cruise Control, Tour-Pak® luggage carrier with passenger backrest, full LED lighting, passenger floorboards.
- CVO Road Glide: Milwaukee-Eight 117, premium custom paint and finishes, top-tier BOOM! Box GTS infotainment with premium audio, advanced RDRS, heated grips, custom wheels, limited edition badging, headset, and often additional exclusive features like custom accessories and a unique paint scheme.
2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2020 |
| Make | Harley-Davidson |
| Model | Road Glide |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Motorcycle |
| Category | Motorcycle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | YORK |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 1746CC |
| Engine Size | 1746L |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Have?
For the 2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide, and the Milwaukee-Eight engine platform in general, several issues have been frequently reported. One common concern is engine heat, especially in traffic, which can be uncomfortable for riders. While improvements have been made, the "sumping" issue, where oil transfers from the crankcase to the primary, was a concern on earlier Milwaukee-Eight models (primarily 2017-2018), though less prevalent by 2020. However, it's still something to monitor.
Electrical glitches, such as infotainment system freezing or minor sensor failures, can occur, though not widespread. Some owners have reported issues with the BOOM! Box GTS infotainment system, including slow boot-up times or occasional software bugs. Clutch issues, particularly with hydraulic systems, were noted on some earlier M8 bikes but were largely addressed by the 2020 model year.
Regarding recalls for the 2020 Road Glide, it's always best to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) database. Historically, Harley-Davidson has issued recalls for various components across its touring line, which could include brake system issues, clutch master cylinder, or fuel pump components. For example, some models received a recall for potential brake fluid issues in 2020, and others for turn signal functionality.
Long-term reliability concerns, beyond typical wear and tear, might involve eventual gasket leaks, starter motor issues, or further electrical gremlins as components age. Regular maintenance and addressing service bulletins can mitigate many of these potential problems, ensuring the Road Glide remains a dependable touring machine for years.
Electrical glitches, such as infotainment system freezing or minor sensor failures, can occur, though not widespread. Some owners have reported issues with the BOOM! Box GTS infotainment system, including slow boot-up times or occasional software bugs. Clutch issues, particularly with hydraulic systems, were noted on some earlier M8 bikes but were largely addressed by the 2020 model year.
Regarding recalls for the 2020 Road Glide, it's always best to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) database. Historically, Harley-Davidson has issued recalls for various components across its touring line, which could include brake system issues, clutch master cylinder, or fuel pump components. For example, some models received a recall for potential brake fluid issues in 2020, and others for turn signal functionality.
Long-term reliability concerns, beyond typical wear and tear, might involve eventual gasket leaks, starter motor issues, or further electrical gremlins as components age. Regular maintenance and addressing service bulletins can mitigate many of these potential problems, ensuring the Road Glide remains a dependable touring machine for years.
How long will the 2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide last?
With proper maintenance and regular service, a 2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide can reliably achieve well over 100,000 miles, with many owners reporting 150,000 to 200,000+ miles. This translates to an average service life of 15 to 20 years or more. The Milwaukee-Eight engine and transmission are generally robust and built for long-haul durability.
Long-term durability is a strong point, with the frame and major components designed to last. However, weaknesses over time can include wear on suspension components, eventual replacement of wheel bearings, potential for exhaust system corrosion, and deterioration of chrome or paint finishes if not diligently cared for. Electrical connections can also become brittle or corroded, leading to intermittent issues. Consistent fluid changes, belt inspections, and general preventative maintenance are crucial for maximizing longevity and mitigating these age-related weaknesses.
Long-term durability is a strong point, with the frame and major components designed to last. However, weaknesses over time can include wear on suspension components, eventual replacement of wheel bearings, potential for exhaust system corrosion, and deterioration of chrome or paint finishes if not diligently cared for. Electrical connections can also become brittle or corroded, leading to intermittent issues. Consistent fluid changes, belt inspections, and general preventative maintenance are crucial for maximizing longevity and mitigating these age-related weaknesses.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide offers a solid suite of technology and entertainment features, primarily centered around its infotainment systems. The base Road Glide comes with the BOOM! Box 4.3 system, featuring a full-color screen, radio, USB input, and Bluetooth connectivity. Stepping up to the Road Glide Special, Limited, and CVO models brings the more advanced BOOM! Box GTS, a 6.5-inch touchscreen system with a modern interface, turn-by-turn GPS navigation, voice recognition, Apple CarPlay compatibility (when paired with a compatible headset), and higher-fidelity speakers.
For driver-assistance and safety, the 2020 Road Glide introduced, or made more widely available, the optional Reflex™ Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS) package. This suite of technologies includes:
It's important to note that traditional crash-test ratings, like those for automobiles (e.g., NHTSA 5-star or IIHS ratings), are not conducted or applicable for motorcycles.
For driver-assistance and safety, the 2020 Road Glide introduced, or made more widely available, the optional Reflex™ Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS) package. This suite of technologies includes:
- Cornering Enhanced Antilock Braking System (C-ABS): Optimizes braking in turns.
- Cornering Enhanced Electronic Linked Braking (C-ELB): Electronically balances front and rear braking in corners.
- Cornering Enhanced Traction Control System (C-TCS): Prevents excessive rear wheel spin during acceleration and deceleration.
- Drag-Torque Slip Control System (DSCS): Prevents excessive rear-wheel slip under abrupt downshifts.
- Vehicle Hold Control (VHC): Assists in holding the bike on hills.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): Provides real-time tire pressure readings.
It's important to note that traditional crash-test ratings, like those for automobiles (e.g., NHTSA 5-star or IIHS ratings), are not conducted or applicable for motorcycles.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide models had a starting MSRP of approximately $21,699 for the Standard, $28,000 for the Special, and around $28,299 for the Limited, with the CVO Road Glide commanding over $42,000.
Current used market prices for a 2020 model typically range from $17,000 to $20,000 for the Standard, and $22,000 to $26,000 for the Special, depending heavily on mileage, condition, optional extras, and regional demand. CVO models generally retain a higher percentage of their value.
Depreciation for Harley-Davidson touring bikes is relatively good compared to many other motorcycle brands. While there's an initial drop in value from new, it tends to stabilize, making them a solid investment. Factors significantly affecting resale value include low mileage, excellent cosmetic condition, complete maintenance records, desirable factory options (like RDRS), popular colorways, and the presence of tasteful, high-quality aftermarket accessories. Custom paint and limited-edition CVO models also hold their value exceptionally well.
Current used market prices for a 2020 model typically range from $17,000 to $20,000 for the Standard, and $22,000 to $26,000 for the Special, depending heavily on mileage, condition, optional extras, and regional demand. CVO models generally retain a higher percentage of their value.
Depreciation for Harley-Davidson touring bikes is relatively good compared to many other motorcycle brands. While there's an initial drop in value from new, it tends to stabilize, making them a solid investment. Factors significantly affecting resale value include low mileage, excellent cosmetic condition, complete maintenance records, desirable factory options (like RDRS), popular colorways, and the presence of tasteful, high-quality aftermarket accessories. Custom paint and limited-edition CVO models also hold their value exceptionally well.
2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide typically entails higher ownership costs than many other motorcycles. Insurance premiums can be substantial due to the bike's value, engine size, and target demographic; rates vary widely by rider profile and location. Fuel efficiency is moderate, averaging 43-45 MPG, and premium fuel is often recommended, contributing to fuel expenses.
Maintenance at authorized dealerships can be costly, with scheduled services, specialized fluids, and parts adding up. While the Milwaukee-Eight engine is robust, out-of-warranty repairs, especially for complex systems, can be expensive due to specialized labor and part costs. Overall, the 2020 Road Glide is a costly vehicle to own long-term, reflecting its premium status and sophisticated touring capabilities.
Maintenance at authorized dealerships can be costly, with scheduled services, specialized fluids, and parts adding up. While the Milwaukee-Eight engine is robust, out-of-warranty repairs, especially for complex systems, can be expensive due to specialized labor and part costs. Overall, the 2020 Road Glide is a costly vehicle to own long-term, reflecting its premium status and sophisticated touring capabilities.
2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Insurance
Insurance for a 2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Motorcycle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Compare to Other Motorcycle?
The 2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide competes in the fiercely contested bagger and touring segment against strong rivals like the Indian Chieftain, Indian Challenger, Honda Gold Wing, and BMW K 1600 B.
In terms of Performance, the Road Glide's Milwaukee-Eight engines (107, 114, 117) deliver ample torque, offering that classic V-twin rumble and strong roll-on power. The Indian Chieftain and Challenger, with their Thunderstroke and PowerPlus engines respectively, are direct competitors in terms of character and power output, often matching or slightly exceeding Harley's torque figures. The Honda Gold Wing and BMW K 1600 B, however, typically offer significantly more horsepower and smoother, more refined engine characteristics, prioritizing outright speed and high-revving performance over the low-end torque of American V-twins.
For Features, the Road Glide Special/Limited/CVO with the BOOM! Box GTS and optional RDRS package offers modern infotainment, navigation, and enhanced safety. The Indian Challenger offers a comparable infotainment system (Ride Command) with similar safety tech. The Honda Gold Wing often leads in advanced technology, featuring options like DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission), electronically adjustable suspension, and even more sophisticated infotainment. BMW's K 1600 B also boasts extensive electronic aids, cruise control, and advanced suspension.
Reliability is generally good across all these brands. Harley-Davidson has a strong reputation, though some modern M8 engine issues (like heat or sumping on earlier models) have been noted. Honda Gold Wings are legendary for their bulletproof reliability. Indian and BMW also have solid reliability records.
Price-wise, the Road Glide is competitive with the Indian Chieftain/Challenger. The Honda Gold Wing and BMW K 1600 B can often be more expensive, especially when highly optioned.
Recommendations:
In terms of Performance, the Road Glide's Milwaukee-Eight engines (107, 114, 117) deliver ample torque, offering that classic V-twin rumble and strong roll-on power. The Indian Chieftain and Challenger, with their Thunderstroke and PowerPlus engines respectively, are direct competitors in terms of character and power output, often matching or slightly exceeding Harley's torque figures. The Honda Gold Wing and BMW K 1600 B, however, typically offer significantly more horsepower and smoother, more refined engine characteristics, prioritizing outright speed and high-revving performance over the low-end torque of American V-twins.
For Features, the Road Glide Special/Limited/CVO with the BOOM! Box GTS and optional RDRS package offers modern infotainment, navigation, and enhanced safety. The Indian Challenger offers a comparable infotainment system (Ride Command) with similar safety tech. The Honda Gold Wing often leads in advanced technology, featuring options like DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission), electronically adjustable suspension, and even more sophisticated infotainment. BMW's K 1600 B also boasts extensive electronic aids, cruise control, and advanced suspension.
Reliability is generally good across all these brands. Harley-Davidson has a strong reputation, though some modern M8 engine issues (like heat or sumping on earlier models) have been noted. Honda Gold Wings are legendary for their bulletproof reliability. Indian and BMW also have solid reliability records.
Price-wise, the Road Glide is competitive with the Indian Chieftain/Challenger. The Honda Gold Wing and BMW K 1600 B can often be more expensive, especially when highly optioned.
Recommendations:
- For more advanced tech and smoother, higher-performance engines: Honda Gold Wing, BMW K 1600 B.
- For a similar American V-twin heritage and competitive modern features: Indian Chieftain or Indian Challenger.
- For a slightly more budget-conscious alternative (potentially): Explore well-maintained used models of any of these brands, or consider a Yamaha Star Venture if seeking value.
Final Verdict: Is the 2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide a Good Motorcycle?
The 2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide is ideal for riders seeking a comfortable, stable, and distinctive touring motorcycle with undeniable American heritage. It's perfect for long-distance cruising, riders who appreciate the iconic "shark-nose" fairing's wind protection and handling characteristics, and those who value the strong Harley-Davidson community.
It is definitely worth buying for the right individual. For buyers prioritizing the latest technology, a full warranty, and the ability to customize from day one, buying new (or a very late model year equivalent) is suitable if the budget allows. However, a used 2020 Road Glide offers excellent value, having absorbed the initial depreciation. We recommend thoroughly inspecting any used model and verifying maintenance records. The Road Glide Special trim is often considered the "sweet spot," balancing the powerful Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine and advanced BOOM! Box GTS infotainment system without reaching the CVO's premium price point, offering a compelling blend of features and value.
It is definitely worth buying for the right individual. For buyers prioritizing the latest technology, a full warranty, and the ability to customize from day one, buying new (or a very late model year equivalent) is suitable if the budget allows. However, a used 2020 Road Glide offers excellent value, having absorbed the initial depreciation. We recommend thoroughly inspecting any used model and verifying maintenance records. The Road Glide Special trim is often considered the "sweet spot," balancing the powerful Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine and advanced BOOM! Box GTS infotainment system without reaching the CVO's premium price point, offering a compelling blend of features and value.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.