Harley-Davidson Road Glide Makes European Debut at Catalunya Ahead of MotoGP Tests  

Harley-Davidson Factory Racing unleashes the power of its race-tuned 2024 Road Glide during a collaborative test with MotoGP at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

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The Harley-Davidson Factory Racing team completed a landmark demonstration test of its bagger-racing Road Glide motorcycle at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Held ahead of the MotoGP post-season tests, this marked the first time the Road Glide hit a European track, lapping the 2.894-mile (4.657 km) circuit during an off-day for MotoGP.  

The event also signalled the start of a new collaboration between Harley-Davidson and MotoGP promoter Dorna. While no official announcement of a Grand Prix bagger-racing series has been made, such an initiative seems to be a long-term goal.  

Harley-Davidson’s Factory Racing Road Glide bikes retain a stock frame and engine cases but are trimmed down to approximately 281 kg with carbon fibre bodywork and lightweight components. 

Powered by Screamin’ Eagle Milwaukee-Eight 131 Performance Crate Engines, the bikes feature enhanced performance parts, including Screamin’ Eagle/Öhlins remote reservoir rear shocks, competition intake and exhaust systems, and Dunlop race tyres.  

“Racing is a core pillar of the Harley-Davidson brand, showcasing our commitment to performance and innovation,” said Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, President, and CEO of Harley-Davidson. “Partnering with DORNA/MotoGP, we aim to expand our racing footprint globally, fueling the passions of our customers and fans. This MotoGP test is a pivotal step in realizing these ambitions and demonstrating our dedication to racing excellence.”  

Special Guests Join the Action  

The Catalunya demonstration featured Harley-Davidson Factory Racing riders Kyle Wyman and James Rispoli, who were joined by notable guest riders, including Simon Crafar, John Hopkins, Randy Mamola, and Marco Melandri—former MotoGP and World Superbike stars. 

Despite cool, overcast conditions, Wyman and Rispoli reached top speeds exceeding 275 km/h on the fastest sections of the 16-turn circuit.  

The guest riders eagerly took turns experiencing the Harley-Davidson Road Glide, each sharing glowing feedback about its performance. 

Simon Crafar noted, “It takes a lot to get your head around it. The engine is just amazing, and I really like the sound. I want one as a street bike.” 

John Hopkins described the ride as “so wild” and praised the bike’s handling, saying, “It handles so good. That was so fun.” Randy Mamola admired the bike’s power and refinement, stating, “The torque is amazing, and the smoothness. She’s just a big [bike], but everything is so sweet about it.” 

Meanwhile, Marco Melandri highlighted its agility and power, commenting, “It’s not so heavy or so big when you ride it. The engine and torque are amazing.”

Harley-Davidson’s Global Vision  

The test served as a showcase of Harley-Davidson’s racing ambitions, as the American brand continues to innovate and expand its motorsport footprint. Wyman reflected on the significance of the event, saying, “We were riding alongside our heroes and sharing our body of work with legends of the sport. These are special moments I’ll not soon forget.”  

Rispoli added, “To be on track at the same weekend as MotoGP was incredible. Sharing this project with some of the sport’s legends was unreal. Their reactions after riding our bikes were priceless.”  

Commitment Beyond Racing  

Harley-Davidson demonstrated its commitment to global issues by donating a Road Glide motorcycle for auction, with proceeds supporting MotoGP’s relief efforts after devastating flooding in Valencia forced the season-ending tests to relocate to Barcelona.  

As Harley-Davidson continues its partnership with Dorna and explores the potential for bagger racing on a global scale, the Road Glide’s Catalunya debut marks an exciting chapter for the brand and motorsports enthusiasts alike.