The seat is excellent, the best I have yet sampled on a cruiser. This fact, combined with a more compliant rear suspension system than I have sampled on previous Harleys, mean that the Wide Glide proves to be one of the most comfortable cruisers on the market. Still, a really big bump will overcome the suspension and give you a good smack in the kidneys to wake you up.

While I didn’t sample the pillion seat, it does look a lot more inviting than the flat pad provided on some cruisers. The provision of a sissy bar should make your passenger quite comfortable.

Most of my 300km aboard the Wide Glide were in very wet conditions, this highlighted why maybe we don’t see too many Harleys out in the rain. After one wet weather ride, signs of corrosion were already appearing on the end of the shift shaft, pipe baffles and front wheel bearings.  So unless you really enjoy polishing and cleaning, it is best to leave your Harley in the shed when it buckets down. This worry aside, I thoroughly enjoyed the Wide Glide.

Although Harley’s haven’t really changed their looks or layout since God was a boy, they have still managed to come a very long way. I would go as far to say the Wide Glide would be my cruiser of choice for long distance rides. The fact that touring ranges in excess of 300km can be stretched out of its 19 litre fuel tank just adds more kudos to its long distance abilities.

FAST FACTS - Harley-Davidson FXDWG Wide Glide

• Engine – 1449cc, air-cooled, twin-cam, 45º v-twin

• Bore x Stroke – 95.3 x 101.6mm

• Compression Ratio – 8.8:1

• Induction – EFI

• Starter - Electric

• Transmission – Five speed

• Final Drive - Belt

• Wheel Base – 1,665mm

• Seat Height – 680mm

• Fuel Capacity – 19.3 litres

• Front Tyre – MH90-21

• Rear Tyre – 150/80B-16

• Front Suspension – 41mm telescopic forks

• Front Brake – 292mm single disc

• Rear Brake – 292mm single disc

• Dry Weight – 295kg

• RRP - $28,750

• Warranty – Two years, unlimited kilometres