Another significant Rushmore update is what Harley calls its Reflex braking system. Essentially, what this means is that in addition to ABS, the front and rear brakes are electronically linked to provide optimum braking power. While their performance is nothing to write home about (it is a big bike, after all), they have more feel and are considerably less grabby than in previous Harleys. Plus, given that the front and rear brakes are linked, they offer more control and stability.
But don’t read too much into that, or how the Ultra now has beefier forks (49mm, up from 43mm) as well as stiffer springs. That’s because the Ultra handles just like how you’d imagine a near-400kg, two-wheeled armchair would, meaning dumpy and slightly unnerving.
Regardless, it just about manages to scrape through corners with its dignity intact, although if you try to corner too hard, that’s exactly what you’ll be doing (scraping), owing to the Ultra’s almost laughable ground clearance.
However, like most Harleys, the Ultra wasn’t built for such pursuits. It really shines when you find yourself on a long and straight stretch, especially given the Project Rushmore improvements.
Our favourite feature is the new closeable air vent in the bike’s front fairing. When open, it does nothing to keep you cooler, but it manages a remarkable job of reducing buffeting at higher speeds.
Its ride has been improved, but the Ultra still doesn’t quite like to be hurried.
Coming a close second for our favourite new feature is the new infotainment system, which incorporates satellite navigation, voice commands and Bluetooth connectivity, all controlled via a 6.5-inch colour touchscreen. Best of all, there’s a superb audio system, too.
Other thoughtful Project Rushmore-dictated touches include LED daytime running lights, reshaped side panniers that offer the passenger more legroom, and an easy-to-open locking mechanism for the bike’s panniers and top box.
It may sound like an exercise in blind (and bland) customer-centricity, but Project Rushmore has made Harley’s best cruiser a serious contender in the luxury touring segment. The Ultra might be a Johnny-come-lately, since rivals such as the Honda Goldwing and BMW K1600 GTL had their own “Project Rushmore” moment years ago, but like they say, it’s better late than never.
The Ultra may not be the fastest, the most refined or the most sophisticated bike out there, but this is Harley’s best effort at a touring motorcycle yet. The most significant change brought about by Project Rushmore might be how Harley riders no longer have to endure the “sufferers for their art” tag that has haunted them for so long.
Ridden at the right pace (read: slowly), it’s pretty difficult not to be charmed by the Ultra’s combination of classic Harley-Davidson charisma and 21st-century technological updates.
Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Limited 1.7
ENGINE 1690cc, 4-valves, V-twin
MAX POWER 86bhp at 5010rpm
MAX TORQUE 138Nm at 3750rpm
GEARBOX 6-speed manual
0-100KM/H 6 seconds (estimated)
TOP SPEED 180km/h (estimated)
FUEL CONSUMPTION 17.8km/L (estimated)
Click here to check out our review of Harley-Davidson’s Softail motorcyles
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