INTRODUCTION

The 2008 Harley-Davidson Street Glide is a premium touring motorcycle that blends classic Harley styling with modern comfort and performance. Positioned between the Electra Glide and the Road Glide, the Street Glide became popular for its sleek, low-profile look, iconic batwing fairing, and strong long-distance capability.

HISTORY & ORIGINS

Introduced in 2006, the Street Glide quickly gained traction as a stylish alternative within Harley-Davidson’s touring lineup. By 2008, the model had become a favorite among riders wanting touring comfort without the bulk of a full dresser. The 2008 model year represented the final run before the significant redesigns of 2009, making it a highly collectible transitional model.

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE OPTIONS

The 2008 Street Glide is powered by Harley-Davidson’s Twin Cam 96 engine:

• Engine: 1584cc (96 cu in) air-cooled V-twin

• Horsepower: Approx. 68–70 hp

• Torque: 92 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm

• Transmission: 6-speed Cruise Drive
  The Twin Cam 96 provided smooth, reliable power suitable for highway cruising and heavy touring loads. Fuel injection was standard, improving throttle response and consistency across varying conditions.

DESIGN & FEATURES

The 2008 Street Glide is known for its streamlined, aggressive touring appearance:

• Iconic batwing fairing with a short, smoked windscreen

• Low-profile rear suspension for a slammed stance

• Hard, color-matched saddlebags

• Chrome accents and signature Harley touring frame

• Comfortable two-up seating
  The cockpit included classic analog gauges and easy-access hand controls designed for long-distance comfort.

TRIM LEVELS & VARIANTS

The Street Glide was offered primarily as a single trim, but included optional packages and factory add-ons:

• Standard Street Glide (FLHX)

• Optional upgrades such as:

  • Security system

  • ABS (available in ’08 for many touring models)

  • Chrome packages

  • Audio system enhancements

  • Premium paint options
    Harley’s massive accessory catalog allowed owners to customize nearly every aspect of the bike.

SAFETY & TECHNOLOGY

The 2008 model included:

• Optional ABS braking

• Dual front disc brakes

• Cruise control (available in some configurations)

• Harley-Davidson’s Harman/Kardon Advanced Audio System with radio and CD compatibility

• Standard touring lighting and instrumentation
  While lacking modern rider aids like traction control, it delivered solid touring safety for its time.

FUEL ECONOMY & EFFICIENCY

The Twin Cam 96 engine offered decent fuel efficiency for a heavyweight touring motorcycle:

• Fuel Economy: Typically 40–45 mpg (U.S.) depending on speed and load
  A 6-gallon fuel tank provided strong highway range.

MARKET COMPARISON

In 2008, the Street Glide competed with:

• Honda Gold Wing (more tech-heavy)

• Yamaha Royal Star Venture (similar touring focus)

• BMW R1200RT (more performance-oriented)
  The Street Glide stood out with its unmistakable Harley styling, customizable nature, and iconic V-twin rumble, making it one of the most desirable touring cruisers of its era.

PRICING

• Original MSRP (2008): Approximately $18,000–$20,000 depending on options

• Current Used Market:

  • Good condition: $8,000–$12,000

  • Excellent, low-mileage examples: $12,000–$15,000+

  • Highly customized or upgraded models may vary widely

NOTABLE AWARDS & ACCOLADES

• Regarded as one of Harley-Davidson’s best-selling touring bikes of the late 2000s

• Frequently praised for its balance of style, comfort, and performance

• Became one of the most customized motorcycles in the Harley lineup, influencing future touring designs