Road Glide to Street Glide conversion package: remodeling your journey from a nimble road machine to a robust touring cruiser. This complete information dives deep into the world of conversion kits, exploring every little thing from the motivations behind the change to the nitty-gritty particulars of the method. We’ll study numerous package varieties, prices, efficiency enhancements, and even upkeep issues.
Get able to customise your journey and expertise the joys of the open highway!
The conversion course of itself is meticulously detailed, protecting compatibility, modifications, set up, and essential security elements. We’ll additionally have a look at the monetary implications, together with price breakdowns and potential financial savings. Crucially, we’ll study the visible and efficiency impacts of the conversion, evaluating the inventory Road Glide and the reworked Street Glide.
Introduction to Conversion Kits

Reworking a Road Glide right into a Street Glide is not nearly aesthetics; it is about tailoring a journey to your distinctive wants and preferences. This conversion is not a easy swap, however a meticulous course of that usually unlocks a major improve in dealing with, consolation, and total efficiency. The attract of a Street Glide’s refined fashion and upgraded options makes it a preferred selection for Harley fans.The motivations behind this conversion are assorted, starting from a want for a extra snug touring expertise to a want to precise a private fashion.
Usually, riders respect the Street Glide’s prolonged using ergonomics and storage capability, making it a fascinating selection for lengthy journeys. This transformation can considerably improve the rider’s expertise, making the journey extra fulfilling.
Widespread Motivations for Conversion
The enchantment of a Street Glide’s options and design usually motivates riders to undertake this transformation. The prolonged seating and passenger lodging, together with the elevated storage capability, are continuously cited as main benefits. Moreover, the inherent fashion and presence of a Street Glide continuously resonate with riders looking for a definite and complicated look. Consolation and practicality usually outweigh any perceived drawbacks.
Key Elements of a Conversion Equipment
An entire conversion package sometimes contains every little thing wanted to remodel a Road Glide right into a Street Glide. This includes essential parts like a modified entrance finish, tail part, and seat items. The package usually encompasses all vital {hardware}, wiring harnesses, and probably a modified gas tank. A correctly assembled package ensures a seamless and dependable conversion.
Typical Steps within the Conversion Course of
Cautious planning and execution are essential to a profitable conversion. Preliminary steps sometimes contain a radical evaluation of the Road Glide’s current parts, adopted by the cautious number of the conversion package. The package’s parts are then meticulously put in, making certain correct alignment and performance. Correct set up is significant to make sure the security and reliability of the modified motorbike.
This usually requires specialised instruments and methods, {and professional} steerage is very beneficial for a protected and environment friendly conversion.
Comparability of Inventory Road Glide and Street Glide Options
Function | Inventory Road Glide | Inventory Street Glide |
---|---|---|
Entrance Finish | Shorter, extra aggressive styling. | Longer, extra relaxed, touring-oriented styling. |
Rear Finish | Extra compact tail part. | Prolonged tail part with passenger lodging. |
Seat | Single rider seat. | Twin rider seat with extra consolation. |
Storage | Restricted storage choices. | Important space for storing underneath the seat and elsewhere. |
Ergonomics | Appropriate for shorter rides. | Designed for prolonged touring. |
The desk above highlights the important thing variations between the inventory fashions. These variations underscore the numerous adjustments a conversion package provides. The Street Glide’s options are tailor-made for a extra snug and intensive touring expertise, making it a compelling improve for a lot of riders.
Sorts of Conversion Kits
Choosing the proper conversion package is essential for a easy and satisfying road glide to highway glide transformation. Totally different kits cater to various wants and budgets, providing various ranges of customization and efficiency. Understanding the differing types out there is essential to creating the precise choice in your venture.The market provides a spectrum of conversion kits, every tailor-made to completely different ranges of customization and budgets.
Some kits present a whole overhaul, whereas others concentrate on particular parts. This permits riders to personalize their construct in line with their preferences and monetary constraints. Evaluating the standard, options, and pricing of every sort is important for making an knowledgeable selection.
Full Conversion Kits
Full kits are a preferred possibility for a simple conversion. They usually embody all vital parts, from the entrance fender and headlight meeting to the rear fender and tail mild. This normally saves time and ensures compatibility. Nonetheless, some riders would possibly need extra management over particular aesthetic or useful parts. The advantage of a whole package is its comfort and complete strategy, making certain a seamless transition from a Road Glide to a Street Glide.
The disadvantage lies in potential limitations on customizing particular person parts to completely match your fashion. Costs for full kits differ considerably, relying on the model, supplies used, and the precise options included.
Part-Particular Kits
Part-specific kits are perfect for these looking for a extra focused strategy. These kits concentrate on particular person components, equivalent to handlebars, seats, or exhaust methods. Riders can select precisely what they wish to change and improve, enabling a extra nuanced and tailor-made conversion. The profit is full management over the customization course of. The disadvantage is that riders should purchase the remaining parts themselves.
This could result in potential compatibility points if not fastidiously chosen. Costs for component-specific kits are usually decrease than full kits, reflecting the centered nature of the providing.
High quality and Options Comparability
High quality and options differ tremendously between completely different kits. Greater-quality kits usually use extra sturdy supplies, resulting in a extra refined and long-lasting conversion. These kits may embody options like upgraded suspension parts or extra superior electronics, leading to a extra snug and performance-enhanced journey. Decrease-quality kits could compromise on sturdiness and options, providing a extra budget-friendly possibility however probably requiring extra upkeep or changes.
Cautious analysis and comparisons are important to seek out the precise stability between high quality and price.
Worth Level Comparability
Worth factors for conversion kits are various, spanning from budget-friendly choices to premium packages. Full kits usually have larger worth tags resulting from their complete nature. Part-specific kits, nevertheless, provide a extra accessible start line for conversion tasks. In the end, the price relies on the model, high quality of supplies, and options included within the package. It is important to set a funds earlier than beginning your conversion course of to make sure you’re making a financially sound choice.
Advantages and Drawbacks of Every Sort
An entire package simplifies the conversion course of, offering a handy and complete resolution. The drawbacks, nevertheless, embody a scarcity of customization choices. Part-specific kits, however, provide exact management over the conversion, however they require extra coordination and probably higher time funding.
Conversion Equipment Model Overview
Model | Key Promoting Factors |
---|---|
Model A | Recognized for high-quality supplies and a variety of customization choices. |
Model B | Wonderful worth for cash, providing a dependable and inexpensive conversion expertise. |
Model C | Give attention to efficiency and superior expertise options. |
This desk highlights some outstanding manufacturers and their core strengths. Additional analysis into particular person manufacturers and their particular choices is essential for making a well-informed choice.
Technical Points of Conversion

Reworking your Road Glide right into a Street Glide is a rewarding journey, however meticulous consideration to element is essential. Correct planning and execution guarantee a seamless transition, maximizing your motorbike’s efficiency and longevity. The technical elements contain evaluating compatibility, modifying essential parts, and meticulously putting in the conversion package.The conversion course of is not nearly swapping components; it is about understanding how every component interacts.
Compatibility is paramount. A poorly chosen package can result in fitment points, efficiency issues, and even security hazards. Cautious choice, aware modification, and exact set up are very important.
Compatibility Concerns
Compatibility is paramount. Kits are designed for particular fashions and years. Mismatched kits can lead to part interference, incorrect fitment, or structural weak point. All the time confirm your Road Glide’s 12 months and mannequin to make sure the package’s compatibility. Consulting the producer’s specs is essential for a profitable conversion.
Cross-referencing mannequin numbers and half listings ensures an ideal match.
Body and Physique Modifications
Sure parts of the body and physique could require alterations to accommodate the Street Glide’s design. The brand new entrance finish meeting could necessitate changes to the headlight mount, fender, or fairing. Rigorously consider the package’s directions and modifications to make sure structural integrity. These modifications should adhere to security requirements and keep the motorbike’s authentic structural integrity.
Suspension, Brakes, and Electrical Methods
The conversion could require modifications to the suspension, brakes, and electrical methods to match the Street Glide’s traits. Suspension changes would possibly embody changing shocks or springs for optimum dealing with and journey high quality. Brake modifications would possibly embody upgrading calipers, rotors, or traces for improved stopping energy. Electrical modifications would possibly embody re-routing wires, including parts, or altering wiring harnesses for compatibility.
Set up Process
A methodical set up process is essential for achievement. Begin with a clear and arranged workspace. Observe the producer’s directions exactly. Take detailed notes throughout disassembly. Rigorously doc every step.
Guarantee correct torque settings for all fasteners. This minimizes the chance of injury or malfunction.
Instruments and Tools
Class | Particular Instruments |
---|---|
Mechanical | Socket wrenches, screwdrivers, torque wrench, pliers, adjustable wrench, wire strippers, wire connectors |
Electrical | Multimeter, wiring diagrams, electrical tape, crimping instruments, wire cutters |
Measuring | Measuring tape, calipers, degree |
Security | Security glasses, gloves, ear safety, work boots |
Thorough preparation and a well-equipped toolkit guarantee a easy and protected conversion. Correct use of instruments prevents unintended injury and ensures a professional-quality consequence.
Monetary Concerns
Changing your Road Glide to a Street Glide is not nearly aesthetics; it is a vital funding. Understanding the monetary implications is essential earlier than you begin wrenching. This part delves into the anticipated prices, potential financial savings, and total funds planning, making certain you are ready for the journey.
Detailed Value Breakdown
Conversion kits, like superb wines, differ in worth primarily based on options and high quality. Primary kits may be extra inexpensive, however these providing enhanced efficiency or customized options will command a better worth. Do not simply concentrate on the preliminary price; take into account the long-term worth and reliability of the package. A well-built conversion can improve the resale worth of your motorbike.
Keep in mind, meticulous planning and a sensible funds are paramount.
Potential Value Financial savings
You may considerably cut back the general price by tackling a few of the conversion duties your self. This strategy would possibly contain duties like portray, wiring, or putting in sure parts. Thorough analysis and a sensible strategy to DIY can yield substantial financial savings. Nonetheless, be lifelike about your expertise and the time dedication concerned. Should you lack expertise, it is advisable to seek the advice of a professional mechanic to keep away from pricey errors.
Estimating the Complete Price range
An entire conversion package, encompassing all vital parts, can vary from a couple of thousand {dollars} to considerably extra, relying on the model and options. Think about the value of the conversion package, the price of further components, and labor prices if you happen to select to outsource any work. A tough estimate of the whole conversion funds would possibly vary from $5,000 to $15,000.
It is essential to determine an in depth funds earlier than committing to the conversion.
Evaluating Equipment Elements and Manufacturers
Totally different conversion kits provide various ranges of customization and options. Some kits concentrate on a selected look, whereas others present extra complete options. Greater-end manufacturers would possibly embody superior expertise and supplies, leading to a better price ticket. Nonetheless, they may provide superior efficiency, longevity, and enhanced resale worth. Analysis completely different manufacturers and punctiliously take into account your must make an knowledgeable choice.
Comparability Desk: Full Equipment vs. Particular person Elements
Class | Full Conversion Equipment | Particular person Elements |
---|---|---|
Conversion Equipment | $5,000 – $10,000 | $2,000 – $8,000 (relying on parts) |
Labor (if outsourced) | $1,000 – $2,000 | N/A |
Extra Components (e.g., paint, equipment) | $500 – $1,500 | Variable |
Complete Estimated Value | $6,500 – $13,500 | $3,000 – $10,000 |
The desk above gives a normal comparability, and precise prices can differ considerably. Think about these estimates as beginning factors. Detailed quotes from distributors and mechanics are essential for an correct funds.
Efficiency and Aesthetics: Road Glide To Street Glide Conversion Equipment
The transformation from a Road Glide to a Street Glide is not nearly swapping chrome; it is about unlocking a brand new using expertise. This conversion package is not merely beauty; it is an opportunity to tailor your journey to your particular preferences, enhancing each efficiency and aesthetics. Think about a bike that effortlessly blends energy, fashion, and luxury. This part dives into the tangible enhancements and the hanging visible adjustments this improve delivers.
Anticipated Efficiency Beneficial properties
The Street Glide conversion package usually incorporates a extra highly effective engine, upgraded exhaust methods, and optimized air intakes, resulting in noticeable efficiency enhancements. These upgrades aren’t merely beauty; they straight translate to improved acceleration, high pace, and total responsiveness. Think about a bike fanatic who beforehand struggled to keep up tempo on the freeway. The conversion package permits them to cruise at larger speeds with higher ease and confidence, enhancing their using expertise.
Visible Influence of the Conversion
The conversion package drastically alters the motorbike’s look. The smooth traces and fashionable design of the Street Glide are evident within the revised entrance finish, rear finish, and sometimes, the bodywork. The motorbike’s profile is reworked, and the adjustments are readily obvious. This transformation can rework a bike from a basic, considerably cumbersome design to a extra streamlined and up to date one, interesting to a wider viewers.
Customization Choices
Customization choices abound for the transformed bike. Equipment like completely different handlebars, customized paint jobs, distinctive seat designs, and numerous equipment can additional personalize the motorbike to the proprietor’s preferences. Think about a biker who wishes a novel fashion. They’ll customise their bike with customized paint schemes, aftermarket components, and even add customized graphics to create a really customized journey.
Journey High quality and Dealing with
The journey high quality and dealing with traits of the transformed bike will differ from the inventory Road Glide. The Street Glide conversion package usually features a longer wheelbase, completely different suspension parts, and a redesigned body, all contributing to a extra snug and managed journey. This results in a extra relaxed and secure journey, particularly at larger speeds, in comparison with the unique Road Glide.
Think about a rider who prioritizes a easy and managed journey. The conversion package provides that superior journey high quality.
Comparability of Aesthetics
Function | Inventory Road Glide | Transformed Street Glide |
---|---|---|
Entrance Finish | Conventional, considerably cumbersome | Modern, fashionable |
Rear Finish | Standard | Fashionable, aerodynamic |
Bodywork | Basic design | Streamlined design |
General Impression | Basic, snug | Fashionable, highly effective |
The desk highlights the visible distinctions between the 2 fashions. The transformed bike is noticeably extra fashionable and aerodynamic, whereas the inventory mannequin retains a basic enchantment.
Upkeep and Troubleshooting
Reworking your Road Glide right into a Street Glide is an thrilling improve, however sustaining this tradition machine requires a bit extra consideration than a inventory bike. This part will equip you with the data to maintain your modified journey buzzing alongside easily, from routine checks to tackling potential issues. Correct upkeep is essential to longevity and pleasure.A well-maintained transformed bike won’t solely carry out higher but in addition maintain its worth and guarantee a smoother journey.
Understanding the precise wants of your transformed machine will stop pricey repairs down the highway. A proactive strategy to upkeep, mixed with a grasp of frequent points, will assist you get pleasure from your journey with out sudden surprises.
Potential Upkeep Necessities
Routine upkeep is essential for any motorbike, particularly a transformed one. The conversion package could introduce new parts or alter current methods, probably requiring changes to your upkeep schedule. Understanding the added necessities will assist you keep away from pricey and time-consuming repairs. Crucially, seek the advice of your conversion package’s documentation for particular directions and proposals.
Widespread Points After Conversion
A number of points can come up after a conversion. These vary from minor changes to extra complicated issues, equivalent to misaligned parts or electrical malfunctions. Thorough understanding of the conversion package and its results on the unique bike’s methods is important to figuring out and resolving these points successfully.
Troubleshooting Procedures
Troubleshooting is a essential ability for any motorbike proprietor. Earlier than resorting to skilled assist, systematically test for easy options. Begin with the fundamentals—guarantee all connections are safe, and search for any apparent indicators of injury or put on. Use a multimeter to test electrical methods, and seek advice from your conversion package’s troubleshooting information.
Common Upkeep Checks, Road glide to highway glide conversion package
Common checks are important to sustaining the well being and efficiency of your bike. This contains inspecting all parts, paying explicit consideration to these impacted by the conversion. A preventative strategy is essential to maintaining your journey working easily and effectively.
Detailed Information for Common Upkeep Checks
A scientific strategy is significant. Start with a visible inspection, noting any uncommon put on, injury, or fluid leaks. Subsequent, test all connections, together with wiring, hoses, and fasteners. Make sure the bike’s electrical system is functioning appropriately. Lastly, study the conversion package parts particularly, verifying that they’re in good situation and functioning as supposed.
Desk of Widespread Upkeep Duties and Frequency
| Activity | Frequency ||——————————————|——————————————–|| Visible Inspection (all parts) | Weekly || Fluid Checks (oil, coolant, brake) | Month-to-month || Tire Strain and Situation Examine | Weekly || Chain/Belt Lubrication (if relevant) | Weekly or as beneficial by the guide || Electrical System Checks (utilizing multimeter) | Month-to-month || Conversion Equipment Part Inspection | Month-to-month || Steering Alignment Examine | Each 5000 miles || Brake System Inspection | Each 2500 miles || Suspension Inspection | Each 5000 miles |
Authorized and Security Concerns
Reworking your Road Glide right into a Street Glide is not nearly aesthetics; it is about making certain the modifications adjust to native laws and prioritize rider security. This important step includes understanding the authorized panorama and implementing security precautions all through the method.A well-executed conversion, with consideration to element and adherence to laws, ensures a protected and authorized journey for you and different highway customers.
Correctly addressing authorized and security elements will defend you from potential points and guarantee your modifications are authentic and protected.
Authorized Necessities
Understanding the precise laws governing motorbike modifications is paramount. Native jurisdictions usually have particular necessities concerning alterations to automobile parts, together with the body, engine, and exhaust methods. Guarantee your modifications are in keeping with these native and nationwide laws. This includes consulting native authorities and related laws to grasp any potential limitations.
Security Precautions Throughout Conversion
Implementing complete security precautions throughout the conversion course of is essential. This contains correct dealing with of instruments, supplies, and parts. Following established security protocols and utilizing acceptable protecting gear is important. This reduces the chance of accidents or accidents throughout the conversion course of. Prioritizing security at each stage, from disassembling to reassembling the bike, will safeguard you and your atmosphere.
Security Modifications for Compliance
Modifications to a bike’s parts would possibly necessitate additional security enhancements. For instance, modifications to the braking system or suspension could require changes to make sure optimum efficiency and security. This contains evaluating the potential impression of modifications on security options like braking and dealing with.
Security Inspections and Certifications
Some jurisdictions could require particular security inspections or certifications for modified bikes. Seek the advice of your native Division of Motor Automobiles (DMV) or equal authority for the mandatory procedures. Acquiring the suitable certifications ensures compliance with security requirements. Understanding and adhering to native pointers is essential to keep away from any authorized problems.
Abstract of Security Rules and Requirements
Regulatory Space | Description | Instance |
---|---|---|
Automobile Modifications | Rules on altering automobile parts (body, engine, exhaust, and so on.). | Modifications should not compromise the structural integrity or security options of the motorbike. |
Braking System | Necessities for braking system modifications, making certain satisfactory stopping energy. | Modifications to brake traces, calipers, or rotors should be carried out by an authorized mechanic and meet security requirements. |
Exhaust System | Rules on exhaust modifications, addressing noise ranges and emissions. | Exhaust modifications may have to satisfy noise and emission requirements, usually involving particular muffler necessities. |
Suspension | Rules on suspension modifications, contemplating rider security and dealing with traits. | Modifications to springs or shocks could require testing to make sure correct dealing with and journey high quality. |
Lighting and Signaling | Necessities for correct lighting and signaling methods to keep up visibility. | Modifications to lighting methods must adjust to native laws on visibility and sign readability. |