Harley-Davidson unveils 'Low' versions of tourers

Keeping with expectations of shorter riders and riders of the fairer sex, Harley-Davidson has unveiled the Ultra Limited Low and Electra Glide Ultra Classic Low for 2015.

The new bikes have been designed keeping in mind customer feedback and are made for riders 5’7” tall and shorter.  The Ultra Limited Low’s seat is at 685mm above the ground, compared to 740mm of the standard version.

The engine on both the standard and the Low versions are the same – a Twin Cam 103 1,690cc engine packing 138Nm of torque at 3,750 revs. A comprehensive dashboard includes analogue and digital displays, Boom Box 4.3 audio system that features Bluetooth capability and a 25-watt per channel amplifier driving four speakers.

Then there are additional features like rider and passenger floorboards, a heel-toe shifter, heated grips, premium seating, fairing lowers, one-touch opening for storage compartments and saddlebags, and air-adjustable suspension.

The Low models also come standard with Reflex Linked Brakes with ABS, Daymaker LED Lighting, electronic cruise control and the H-D Smart Security System.

The Electra Glide range from Harley-Davidson has garnered much popularity among the touring crowd since it was first launched with a fork mounted fairing in 1969 – officially known as the batwing fairing. The Electra Glide eventually made way into two options – the Ultra Limited and the Electra Glide Ultra Classic.

Set up for long distance riding and comfortable day-long rides in the saddle, these bikes were always bulky and set up taller – for riders whose average height would be about 5’8” or taller. Now, Harley-Davidson wants to target riders with a shorter stature and address issues with ergonomics. According to H-D, 20 per cent of current customers are 5’7” or shorter and so the need to address that segment with the Low versions.