2025 Harley-Davidson® Low Rider® ST vs 2025 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® near Frederick, MD
2025 Harley-Davidson® Low Rider® ST vs 2025 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide®
When riders ask for a comparison of power, personality, and long-haul potential, the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Low Rider® ST vs 2025 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® is a natural matchup. Both motorcycles embrace frame-mounted fairings, wind-tunnel-informed aerodynamics, and modern Rider Safety Enhancements, yet they channel distinct riding experiences. The Low Rider® ST leans into West Coast sport-touring attitude with a tall monoshock, a two-into-one exhaust, and a compact four-inch display. The Road Glide® elevates long-distance touring with a broad Sharknose fairing, refined chassis, and a bright, easy-to-read 12.3-inch screen that streamlines connectivity. At Eisenhauer's Chesapeake Harley-Davidson®, we help riders near Frederick, MD identify what matters most—performance edge, tech integration, or a particular feel from the cockpit—then match those preferences to the right platform. Whether the goal is carving canyon-like backroads or settling into day-after-day highway comfort, both machines deliver authentically Harley-Davidson® muscle, style, and confidence.
| Feature | Low Rider® ST | Road Glide® |
|---|---|---|
| Frame-mounted fairing | Yes | Yes |
| Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine | Yes | Yes |
| Ride Modes | Yes | Yes |
| Rider Safety Enhancements suite | Yes | Yes |
| Rigid saddlebags | Yes | Yes |
| 12.3-inch color display | No | Yes |
| Four-inch instrument display | Yes | No |
| USB-C charging port | Yes | Yes |
| LED lighting | Yes | Yes |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) | Yes | Yes |
Key Features
The design briefs diverge in purposeful ways, which is why 2025 Harley-Davidson® Low Rider® ST vs 2025 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® conversations quickly turn to riding style. The Low Rider® ST channels classic FXRT inspiration with a lightweight, frame-mounted fairing and mid-mount controls, then layers in a solo seat that locks the rider in under hard acceleration. Its LED lighting package, Heavy Breather intake, and symmetry-creating two-into-one exhaust underscore the bike’s clean, purposeful silhouette. The Road Glide® doubles down on distance and daily versatility with the iconic Sharknose fairing and integrated storage that’s built to be used, not babied. Cast wheels, improved aerodynamics, and weight reduction support stable, easy handling at a variety of speeds, while its 12.3-inch screen keeps the dash uncluttered and intuitive. Both bikes offer selectable Ride Modes and the latest Rider Safety Enhancements, including TPMS visibility, so you can tailor throttle response and traction intervention. At Eisenhauer's Chesapeake Harley-Davidson®, our team near Frederick, MD often points sport-oriented riders toward the Low Rider® ST’s elevated cornering clearance and aggressive stance, while riders craving full-featured touring gravitate to the Road Glide® for its connected cockpit and all-day ergonomics. Either way, the result is a modern Harley-Davidson® that suits the way you ride.
Dimensions
Ergonomics set the tone. The Low Rider® ST places the rider slightly higher and more compact within the bike, with mid-controls, a slim solo seat, and a tall rear monoshock that increases cornering clearance and sharpens turn-in. The frame-mounted fairing is narrow and aerodynamic, engineered via CFD to steady airflow around the rider without feeling bulky. The Road Glide® balances rider room and support for long hours in the saddle, pairing floorboards with a relaxed, upright posture and a broader fairing that smooths wind pressure across the chest and helmet. Both bikes integrate hard saddlebags for practical storage, with the Low Rider® ST’s setup preserving a sporty silhouette and the Road Glide® offering traditional touring bagger capacity. If your ideal fit means nimbleness first, the Low Rider® ST delivers; if it’s space and shelter over the long haul, the Road Glide® makes a compelling case.
Engine
Power delivery is the common thread. Each platform is anchored by Milwaukee-Eight® 117 performance, tuned to its mission. The Low Rider® ST debuts the Milwaukee-Eight® 117 H.O., emphasizing stronger mid- and top-end pull with a raised redline—pushed from 5,600 rpm to 5,900 rpm—so you can stay with the throttle longer during hard acceleration. Its Heavy Breather intake maximizes airflow, while the two-into-one exhaust enhances scavenging and keeps the lines tight. The Road Glide® employs Milwaukee-Eight® 117 muscle optimized for touring duty, where steady torque, smooth roll-on, and relaxed cruising are essential. Both engines underline Harley-Davidson® V-Twin character—deep reserves of torque, a satisfying exhaust note, and durability that keeps confidence high when the miles add up. From a stoplight sprint to a mountain pass, the 117 platform in each bike feels eager, responsive, and unmistakably Harley-Davidson®.
Performance
Ride dynamics are where the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Low Rider® ST vs 2025 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® truly diverge. The Low Rider® ST rides tall in the rear with a performance-minded monoshock that boosts lean angle and quickens the chassis, making it a standout for spirited riding. Ride Modes let you adjust throttle maps and traction intervention so the bike feels dialed on backroads or urban routes alike. The Road Glide® answers with poise—improved aerodynamics, reduced weight, and composed suspension work together for stability across crosswinds, traffic turbulence, and long interstate stretches. Selectable Ride Modes on the Road Glide® make transitions from rain-soaked pavement to dry, open highway seamless. In both cases, the steering remains neutral and predictable, with strong braking performance that inspires confidence. Our staff at Eisenhauer's Chesapeake Harley-Davidson® near Frederick, MD often frames the choice this way: the Low Rider® ST chases the apex, while the Road Glide® eats the horizon.
Drive Train
Both models rely on proven Harley-Davidson® architecture—six-speed gearboxes that shift with a satisfying mechanical feel and belt final drives that keep maintenance straightforward. On the Low Rider® ST, gearing complements the high-output tuning, letting the engine stretch its legs as the tach climbs while maintaining smooth low-speed manners in traffic. The Road Glide® pairs its six-speed with broad, usable torque that makes two-up riding and fully loaded touring feel effortless. Clutch action in both bikes is precise and progressive, and the integration of drag-torque management within the safety suite helps the rear tire stay composed during aggressive downshifts. Whether you prioritize snap off the line or relaxed cruising rpm at highway speed, each drivetrain is built for durability and consistency mile after mile.
Performance
Ride dynamics are where the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Low Rider® ST vs 2025 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® truly diverge. The Low Rider® ST rides tall in the rear with a performance-minded monoshock that boosts lean angle and quickens the chassis, making it a standout for spirited riding. Ride Modes let you adjust throttle maps and traction intervention so the bike feels dialed on backroads or urban routes alike. The Road Glide® answers with poise—improved aerodynamics, reduced weight, and composed suspension work together for stability across crosswinds, traffic turbulence, and long interstate stretches. Selectable Ride Modes on the Road Glide® make transitions from rain-soaked pavement to dry, open highway seamless. In both cases, the steering remains neutral and predictable, with strong braking performance that inspires confidence. Our staff at Eisenhauer's Chesapeake Harley-Davidson® near Frederick, MD often frames the choice this way: the Low Rider® ST chases the apex, while the Road Glide® eats the horizon.
Chassis
Chassis feel defines personality. The Low Rider® ST’s stout Softail foundation and tall rear suspension deliver crisp, connected feedback—especially when transitioning rapidly from upright to lean and back. A lighter, narrower fairing profile keeps steering inputs light, while the combination of mid-controls and a slim seat contributes to a commanding, locked-in posture. The Road Glide® capitalizes on a touring chassis that’s been refined for stability and comfort, with suspension tuned to absorb expansion joints, braking inputs, and cargo weight without drama. Its Sharknose fairing sits solidly because it is frame-mounted, minimizing bar shake in wind and buffeting, and the floorboards give your feet multiple positions to stay fresh on long legs. Both machines benefit from strong braking systems and modern tire compounds that translate to confident corner entry and predictable mid-corner grip.
Electric
Technology complements the ride rather than distracting from it. On the Low Rider® ST, a clean four-inch display pairs an analog speedometer with a multi-function digital screen that integrates Ride Modes, TPMS, gear position, and more—concise, essential, and easy to read at a glance. USB-C charging keeps your devices topped up, and LED lighting improves conspicuity and night visibility. The Road Glide® elevates cockpit tech with a bright 12.3-inch screen that’s intentionally uncluttered, presenting navigation, audio, and bike information without information overload. Bluetooth connectivity supports headset pairing for calls and turn-by-turn prompts, and USB-C charging adds flexibility for devices. Both motorcycles use modern electrical architectures to enhance reliability, and both are designed so that critical information—tire pressure, engine vitals, and ride settings—remains immediately accessible. The result is a confidence-inspiring interface that matches each bike’s mission.
Rider Safety Enhancements
Harley-Davidson® Rider Safety Enhancements operate in the background until you need them—exactly as safety technology should. Both the Low Rider® ST and the Road Glide® feature systems designed to help with traction, braking, and stability across varied conditions. Cornering awareness informs ABS and traction control intervention, while drag-torque management helps keep the rear tire planted during aggressive downshifts or slick-surface deceleration. TPMS provides live pressure readings so you can address changes before they become problems, and the intuitive Ride Modes blend throttle response with electronic oversight to suit conditions. The Road Glide® adds the composure of a touring chassis and linked braking feel tailored to long-distance travel, while the Low Rider® ST combines its tall rear stance and cornering clearance with safety systems that support spirited riding. For riders near Frederick, MD, our team spends time walking through how these systems work in real-world scenarios so you can tailor the bike’s behavior to your preferences with confidence.
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Choosing between the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Low Rider® ST vs 2025 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® comes down to where you find joy in the ride. If your heart leans toward a sharper, sport-touring rhythm—with a compact cockpit, high-output tuning, and FXRT-inspired style—the Low Rider® ST is a compelling match. If your plans revolve around long routes, a connected cockpit, and the grace of a refined touring platform, the Road Glide® is the standard-bearer. At Eisenhauer's Chesapeake Harley-Davidson®, we listen first—then guide you to the model that fits your vision, your routes, and the way you like to feel on the throttle. Riders throughout Annapolis and Laurel will recognize the distinct strengths in each platform, while those near Frederick, MD can count on our product knowledge and support to keep the experience personal and straightforward. With either motorcycle, you are stepping into modern Harley-Davidson® engineering, design, and capability—two different paths that lead to the same destination: an unforgettable ride.