Monti Smith

2018 Harley-Davidson Sport Glide In The Nude

The Motor Company’s new Softail bagger looks good naked

When I first picked up the newest addition to Harley-Davidson’s Softail line, I had no idea that the 2018 Sport Glide could convert to a stripped-down cruiser in seconds. It wasn’t until a week later as I was swapping out for a taller windshield when I noticed two quick-detach levers on the back side of the fairing. Five seconds later I was looking at a different bike!

The saddlebags unlock with one switch and quickly pull off, leaving only slightly longer fender mounting bolts to hint at what was once there. Once the front fairing is pulled off—exposing the classic round headlight and newer inverted forks—the Sport Glide has an entirely new vibe.

We love the look of this bike all stripped down and think it’s a great option for riders who want improved front suspension with a more traditional look than the Fat Bob. Stay tuned for more on this convertible cruiser!

The saddlebags and fairing of the 2018 Harley-Davidson Sport Glide pop off in seconds.Monti Smith
The contrast-cut front wheel features a single disc brake, and check out the "107" branding on the Milwaukee-Eight engine.Monti Smith
The classic H-D badge takes on a different look when this bike is all stripped down.Monti Smith
The Harley-Davidson Milwaukee-Eight engine and 2-1 exhaustMonti Smith
The 2018 Harley-Davidson Sport Glide and Fat Bob were the only two Softail models to come equipped with inverted forks.Monti Smith
The Sport Glide has on-the-fly adjustable suspension on the right side just below the seat.Monti Smith
2018 Harley-Davidson Sport Glide and its 107ci Milwaukee-Eight engineMonti Smith