First Ride on a 2025 Harley Tri Glide My Take

[oldschool]

Hey folks, it’s been a while since I’ve posted, but I’m still around soaking up info. Lately, I’ve been warming up to the idea of going three wheels. Been on two for 47 years, so yeah—it's a fight letting go.

Physically, I can still ride my Electra Glide Classic, but after two back surgeries and a weak right leg, holding that beast up is getting tougher. It's clear my riding days are changing—not the worst thing, just reality.

So I finally took a 2025 Tri Glide for a spin. First time ever on a trike. It felt different, but not in a bad way, something I can get use to fast. I rode it hard and was impressed with how it cornered. That part surprised me. But the seating? Uncomfortable as hell. Harley still doesn’t think about tall riders. Over bumps, it was a mixed bag—small ones were fine, but rough roads made it clear this setup isn’t for everyone.

Solo, I could probably deal with it. But for riding two-up? No way. My wife has her own back issues, and that rear ride wouldn’t work for her. I know many of you swear by DK Custom’s shocks and lift kit. I’ve seen their stuff in action in there video and it's solid, no doubt. A shock that can flow as independent was not available back the the day, only by a few performance companies. If I could test one with that setup, I’d reconsider. Too bad I don’t know anyone local with one.

Power-wise, that 114 didn’t impress me. The trike really shows its weight. I’m sure a Stage 1 or 2 would help, but that’s more cash on top of the $47K price tag. Honestly, my Stage 2 Twin Cam feels stronger in torque. I’m not chasing horsepower anymore, but I still love my torque. One thing I did like—the 6-speed gearing. I stayed in 3rd gear at 60 mph and it felt great.

I now see how different a trike really is from a two-wheeler. If it was just me, I could build it to fit. But as a 2-up machine for comfort? It’s not there. I told the salesman that by the time I got it right, it wouldn’t be worth the cost—and I was in serious pain by the end of the ride. My Twin Cam rides way better as-is.

Bottom line: the solid axle might not be for me. If I was younger, maybe. But now, comfort matters more. Still, I’m not totally ruling it out. I liked how it cornered, and the sales manager offered to let me try a trike demo with a different seat. A tall boy seat would help, but I’d still need floorboard relocation brackets like I have on my current bike to really be comfortable, currently I have the Tall Boys relocation bracket kit that lowers the floodboards. They help alot for us tall riders, but yeah—they’ll scrape in tight turns. Easy fix just replace a floorboard not and then.. LOL

I’m glad I took the ride though. I was seriously considering a DNA trike kit for my EGC. Now I’m looking into IRS options like Roadsmith. I like their product and that reverse setup. I’m exploring a few kits now. With the extra weight, I’d need to boost performance—maybe big bore, head work, and torquer cams. But even with that, it’s still cheaper than $47K plus mods.

The Tri Glide wasn’t bad. If I didn’t have my back issues, I might’ve gone for it. Just a broken-down old guy’s first impression. I’m keeping my options open and plan to test that demo again with a better seat. Meanwhile, I’ll be at bike nights hoping to talk to trike owners and see what they’ve done. I attached a picture of one that is similar to the one I rode.

Catch you next time! Ed

 

[pwhoever]

Very nice writeup!

 

[cycle7447]

Ed - I agree - great write up.

Curious, what year is your electric glide classic and, is it set up they way you like it (power, radio, etc).

If such is the case and the bike is in good shape, please consider something like the CSC conversion too.

Was on a ride the other day - buddy had a 2018 Ultra - said the bike had just 27,000 miles on it and runs perfectly. He had a 2014 and put about 125,000 miles on it. When that bike needed some additional work, he found this 2018 with almost no miles. Has had it for a year and a half now.

Now, considering a trike - he rode the TriGlide. Then he took mine for a spin and has almost decided that for about $18K, he can convert his.

 

[Peter A.]

Great write-up and totally agree-
Wife & I each have our own trike so we’ve set each to owr own specs……Solo rides are GREAT!

 

[HDUSA1]

Ed - I posted the below a year ago and was in a similar position you are in now. I’m exceptionally happy with my choice and would do it all over again. My only regret was not ordering the Aux fuel tank and the paint protection film when I ordered the kit, but I have since rectified that.

I was riding a 2020 Ultra Limited and was very happy with the bike and the setup on it, especially after I did a cam and exhaust. I’m getting older and my knee and hip joints hurt too much riding 2 up when stopping and trying to maneuver in a parking lot.

Several of our friends are riding trikes now and noticed they all ride at the back of the pack and are always slowing down whenever going over tracks or bumps in the road. I asked why and they said they’ll launch their wife off the seat and they both laugh about it.

We test road a new trike at our dealer and they were right. I liked the trike, but it road terrible and they wouldn’t negotiate a fair trade for my bike.

That’s when I started researching trikes and found this website. I spent all last winter reading everything I could on here and asked a few questions. I finally pulled the trigger and ordered a Roadsmith kit.

I installed it myself late summer along with their rake kit and wow, what a dream!!! It rides smooth and handles like it’s on a rail.

We have no problem keeping up with the 2 wheelers and our friends on trikes are asking questions now and our local HD dealer isn’t very happy with me.

We don’t have a Roadsmith installer (for Harley’s) anywhere close to us, nearest is 230 miles and they don’t like working on HD’s having to tear the primary apart. I’ve literally got 5 couples now begging me to build them a trike just like ours after letting them take ours for a spin.

 

[pwhoever]

More great info, Carl!

 

[Old Road Dog]

Ed - I posted the below a year ago and was in a similar position you are in now. I’m exceptionally happy with my choice and would do it all over again. My only regret was not ordering the Aux fuel tank and the paint protection film when I ordered the kit, but I have since rectified that.

I was riding a 2020 Ultra Limited and was very happy with the bike and the setup on it, especially after I did a cam and exhaust. I’m getting older and my knee and hip joints hurt too much riding 2 up when stopping and trying to maneuver in a parking lot.

Several of our friends are riding trikes now and noticed they all ride at the back of the pack and are always slowing down whenever going over tracks or bumps in the road. I asked why and they said they’ll launch their wife off the seat and they both laugh about it.

We test road a new trike at our dealer and they were right. I liked the trike, but it road terrible and they wouldn’t negotiate a fair trade for my bike.

That’s when I started researching trikes and found this website. I spent all last winter reading everything I could on here and asked a few questions. I finally pulled the trigger and ordered a Roadsmith kit.

I installed it myself late summer along with their rake kit and wow, what a dream!!! It rides smooth and handles like it’s on a rail.

We have no problem keeping up with the 2 wheelers and our friends on trikes are asking questions now and our local HD dealer isn’t very happy with me.

We don’t have a Roadsmith installer (for Harley’s) anywhere close to us, nearest is 230 miles and they don’t like working on HD’s having to tear the primary apart. I’ve literally got 5 couples now begging me to build them a trike just like ours after letting them take ours for a spin.

View attachment 132899

The only way I'd build a trike for "friends" is if they invested sweat equity and had a hand in it every step of the way.No exceptions! You build someone's bike and you own it.I learned the hard way about "friends ".

 

[Notgrownup]

I will probably consider a aftermarket trike converter later on but for now the modified Tri glide will suffice. I enjoy my bike but I do not like the solid axle it is limiting my comfort. I can understand someone test driving a new 25 TG and saying No. now with the low profile tires on top of all else. …

 

[HDUSA1]

The only way I'd build a trike for "friends" is if they invested sweat equity and had a hand in it every step of the way.No exceptions! You build someone's bike and you own it.I learned the hard way about "friends ".

Yes, you are right. I learned that lesson several years ago trying to be a good neighbor rebuilding motors and fixing farm equipment and got burned on it. I'll still help and offer others a hand, but I don't take on other peoples projects anymore.

 

[PanheadSteve]

Ed - very good write up of your first impressions. What you didn’t include is how you intend to use your trike. We do a lot of traveling on mine. I went with a triglide for the peace of mind knowing that I can take it to a dealer on the road. Plus I have an ESP that covers it even with engine mods and a tuner.

The new low profile tires do take away a lot of the comfort. Most of us run about 22 lbs in ours. I’l bet the dealer had the demo over inflated too.

I’ve got mine to an acceptable comfort level with shocks, lift kit, floorboard relocation and sheepskin covered gel pads. We can easily do all day in the saddle two up. I went with a used triglide to save some for the mods I knew were coming. It was one year old with 250 miles (yes two hundred fifty) and had some accessories already added. That was 6 years ago and I haven’t looked back. We were coming from an ultra classic so bar was set high to build the trike.

Good luck on your path to 3.

Steve

 

[Notgrownup]

Ed - very good write up of your first impressions. What you didn’t include is how you intend to use your trike. We do a lot of traveling on mine. I went with a triglide for the peace of mind knowing that I can take it to a dealer on the road. Plus I have an ESP that covers it even with engine mods and a tuner.

The new low profile tires do take away a lot of the comfort. Most of us run about 22 lbs in ours. I’l bet the dealer had the demo over inflated too.

I’ve got mine to an acceptable comfort level with shocks, lift kit, floorboard relocation and sheepskin covered gel pads. We can easily do all day in the saddle two up. I went with a used triglide to save some for the mods I knew were coming. It was one year old with 250 miles (yes two hundred fifty) and had some accessories already added. That was 6 years ago and I haven’t looked back. We were coming from an ultra classic so bar was set high to build the trike.

Good luck on your path to 3.

Steve

I resemble this post here.

 

[oldschool]

Thanks everyone,

cycle7447 –
My current ride is the 100th Anniversary TC88, which runs strong thanks to a Stage 2 upgrade and a Harley tune. To get the horsepower needed for pulling a trike, though, I'd need to take it up to a Stage 4. Other than that, it's already set up for a tall rider like me, which is great. The EGC currently has 5,000 miles on it, and it seems that I have added more miles on it in the last couple of years than I ever did, since I'm retired and finally have time to ride it more. I've always had multiple bikes at once though, but I sort of saved this one for retirement not realizing the age factor in retirement. I haven't rule out CSC and looking into all the independent rear suspension (IRS) kits available.

HDUSA1 –
That 2020 Ultra Limited is a great-looking bike, and I would’ve made the same choice. With the 114 engine and a Stage 2 upgrade, I’m sure the power delivery is solid for a trike. My own bike still needs a bit of work to be trike-ready, but it's definitely doable, and I know the results will be impressive. When I test rode the 2025 with a 114 engine, I wasn’t blown away by the power-to-weight ratio, but it was still adequate for a trike setup. I know that’s something I’ll have to get used to. One quick question for you—since you have a Roadsmith conversion, does the reverse lever on the side get in the way of the passenger’s leg?

PanHeadSteve –
The type of riding I do these days is a mix of a lot of back roads and some highway—not much long-distance like I used to. Comfort is a top priority now, especially since both my wife and I have back issues. Since retiring, I ride my Electra Glide Classic whenever the weather’s nice. I avoid riding in the rain, and anything above 95 degrees feels like having a blow dryer in my face—so I skip that too. Still, I find myself wanting to ride more often now, for whatever reason. Maybe it’s just the freedom of not working any longer. You've clearly done some great mods to your setup, and I can tell you're happy with the results. After riding hard for 47 years, I've learned a lot—and this time around, I want to start fresh and do things right from the beginning.

 

[HDUSA1]

Thanks everyone,

cycle7447 –
My current ride is the 100th Anniversary TC88, which runs strong thanks to a Stage 2 upgrade and a Harley tune. To get the horsepower needed for pulling a trike, though, I'd need to take it up to a Stage 4. Other than that, it's already set up for a tall rider like me, which is great. The EGC currently has 5,000 miles on it, and it seems that I have added more miles on it in the last couple of years than I ever did, since I'm retired and finally have time to ride it more. I've always had multiple bikes at once though, but I sort of saved this one for retirement not realizing the age factor in retirement. I haven't rule out CSC and looking into all the independent rear suspension (IRS) kits available.

HDUSA1 –
That 2020 Ultra Limited is a great-looking bike, and I would’ve made the same choice. With the 114 engine and a Stage 2 upgrade, I’m sure the power delivery is solid for a trike. My own bike still needs a bit of work to be trike-ready, but it's definitely doable, and I know the results will be impressive. When I test rode the 2025 with a 114 engine, I wasn’t blown away by the power-to-weight ratio, but it was still adequate for a trike setup. I know that’s something I’ll have to get used to. One quick question for you—since you have a Roadsmith conversion, does the reverse lever on the side get in the way of the passenger’s leg?

PanHeadSteve –
The type of riding I do these days is a mix of a lot of back roads and some highway—not much long-distance like I used to. Comfort is a top priority now, especially since both my wife and I have back issues. Since retiring, I ride my Electra Glide Classic whenever the weather’s nice. I avoid riding in the rain, and anything above 95 degrees feels like having a blow dryer in my face—so I skip that too. Still, I find myself wanting to ride more often now, for whatever reason. Maybe it’s just the freedom of not working any longer. You've clearly done some great mods to your setup, and I can tell you're happy with the results. After riding hard for 47 years, I've learned a lot—and this time around, I want to start fresh and do things right from the beginning.


View attachment 132917

View attachment 132918

Those are some impressive bikes!

To answer your question about the reverse lever, she doesn’t even know it’s there when riding. The only time it’s a problem is when she’s on the bike and I need to pull it up to reverse. After a couple times of trying it, she pulls her leg in a bit and I reach around it on the outside. The reverse is a bit slow, but it is very powerful and can back up a hill or over uneven parking spots.

The Harley was a little anemic with the M8 114 as a 2 wheel bike when I got it. After installing the Wood WM8-22XE cam, Catless headpipe, jackpot mufflers, PV tuner, etc, it really woke it up and sounds good now. I wasn’t sure how it would be as a trike, but Roadsmith uses a bigger rear pulley and I’ve got all the power I want. Gas mileage isn’t that great at 32 mpg or so, but I added the Aux fuel tank. I need to stop to pee before I run out of gas now.

When I was deciding on which trike kit to go with, I narrowed it down to CSC and Roadsmith. You can’t go wrong with either. I thought the CSC had a better looking body and the floorboards flow better. I think the drivetrain and suspension in the Roadsmith is a bit better, especially the differential & carrier. From a machinist viewpoint, it is a precision work of art. I spent a lot of time on this forum reading and there seemed to be less mechanical issues with the Roadsmith as well.

 

[Gorilla]

Good write up. Sounds like a conversion is in your future

 

[oldschool]

Good write up. Sounds like a conversion is in your future

Yes sir, I agree I see one in the future as well.

 

[oldschool]

Those are some impressive bikes!

To answer your question about the reverse lever, she doesn’t even know it’s there when riding. The only time it’s a problem is when she’s on the bike and I need to pull it up to reverse. After a couple times of trying it, she pulls her leg in a bit and I reach around it on the outside. The reverse is a bit slow, but it is very powerful and can back up a hill or over uneven parking spots.

The Harley was a little anemic with the M8 114 as a 2 wheel bike when I got it. After installing the Wood WM8-22XE cam, Catless headpipe, jackpot mufflers, PV tuner, etc, it really woke it up and sounds good now. I wasn’t sure how it would be as a trike, but Roadsmith uses a bigger rear pulley and I’ve got all the power I want. Gas mileage isn’t that great at 32 mpg or so, but I added the Aux fuel tank. I need to stop to pee before I run out of gas now.

When I was deciding on which trike kit to go with, I narrowed it down to CSC and Roadsmith. You can’t go wrong with either. I thought the CSC had a better looking body and the floorboards flow better. I think the drivetrain and suspension in the Roadsmith is a bit better, especially the differential & carrier. From a machinist viewpoint, it is a precision work of art. I spent a lot of time on this forum reading and there seemed to be less mechanical issues with the Roadsmith as well.

32 mpg? Well, hell — I average 33–34 mpg!


Of course, my riding style plays a big role in that fuel consumption. After riding the 2025 Harley trike, though, I can’t see myself riding a trike the same way I ride my bike. They're definitely two different beasts. That said, I probably need to slow down anyway. I’m still sharp, but I am of the age, LOL.

Unfortunately, Roadsmith only offers the auxiliary fuel tank for models from 2009 and up.

Now, with the bigger sprocket on the Roadsmith trike, that’s going to raise the RPM range. Since my EGC is a 5-speed, that could be a drawback. However, if I push my EGC to a Stage 4 build, it might not be an issue. Still, I have to ask—if you’ve noticed—what RPM are you running in 5th gear at around 70–75 mph?

These are just some things I need to consider when deciding if a trike kit will work on my platform. Out here in California, I usually run 75–80 mph. Not that I’d necessarily do that on a trike—but I need to know it could handle it.

I do like the simplexity of the Roadsmith IRS system, but I haven’t done enough research on the CSC IRS setup yet to understand the differences.

 

[dpete]

Hey folks, it’s been a while since I’ve posted, but I’m still around soaking up info. Lately, I’ve been warming up to the idea of going three wheels. Been on two for 47 years, so yeah—it's a fight letting go.

Physically, I can still ride my Electra Glide Classic, but after two back surgeries and a weak right leg, holding that beast up is getting tougher. It's clear my riding days are changing—not the worst thing, just reality.

So I finally took a 2025 Tri Glide for a spin. First time ever on a trike. It felt different, but not in a bad way, something I can get use to fast. I rode it hard and was impressed with how it cornered. That part surprised me. But the seating? Uncomfortable as hell. Harley still doesn’t think about tall riders. Over bumps, it was a mixed bag—small ones were fine, but rough roads made it clear this setup isn’t for everyone.

Solo, I could probably deal with it. But for riding two-up? No way. My wife has her own back issues, and that rear ride wouldn’t work for her. I know many of you swear by DK Custom’s shocks and lift kit. I’ve seen their stuff in action in there video and it's solid, no doubt. A shock that can flow as independent was not available back the the day, only by a few performance companies. If I could test one with that setup, I’d reconsider. Too bad I don’t know anyone local with one.

Power-wise, that 114 didn’t impress me. The trike really shows its weight. I’m sure a Stage 1 or 2 would help, but that’s more cash on top of the $47K price tag. Honestly, my Stage 2 Twin Cam feels stronger in torque. I’m not chasing horsepower anymore, but I still love my torque. One thing I did like—the 6-speed gearing. I stayed in 3rd gear at 60 mph and it felt great.

I now see how different a trike really is from a two-wheeler. If it was just me, I could build it to fit. But as a 2-up machine for comfort? It’s not there. I told the salesman that by the time I got it right, it wouldn’t be worth the cost—and I was in serious pain by the end of the ride. My Twin Cam rides way better as-is.

Bottom line: the solid axle might not be for me. If I was younger, maybe. But now, comfort matters more. Still, I’m not totally ruling it out. I liked how it cornered, and the sales manager offered to let me try a trike demo with a different seat. A tall boy seat would help, but I’d still need floorboard relocation brackets like I have on my current bike to really be comfortable, currently I have the Tall Boys relocation bracket kit that lowers the floodboards. They help alot for us tall riders, but yeah—they’ll scrape in tight turns. Easy fix just replace a floorboard not and then.. LOL

I’m glad I took the ride though. I was seriously considering a DNA trike kit for my EGC. Now I’m looking into IRS options like Roadsmith. I like their product and that reverse setup. I’m exploring a few kits now. With the extra weight, I’d need to boost performance—maybe big bore, head work, and torquer cams. But even with that, it’s still cheaper than $47K plus mods.

The Tri Glide wasn’t bad. If I didn’t have my back issues, I might’ve gone for it. Just a broken-down old guy’s first impression. I’m keeping my options open and plan to test that demo again with a better seat. Meanwhile, I’ll be at bike nights hoping to talk to trike owners and see what they’ve done. I attached a picture of one that is similar to the one I rode.

Catch you next time! EdView attachment 132896

Hi Ed, I quit riding back in 2014, due to 2 back surgeries. I started back up in 2020 and wanted to do a trike, since I would be afraid to pick up any bike, in the event of a drop. I may be able to (probably could), but absolutely should NOT.

So, I bought a Goldwing Trike w/ solid axle (champion). It was ok on the test ride, etc, but in after I had a few hundred miles on it ( I put about 1500miles total on it), I knew this bike was beating me up pretty badly.

I lowered the tire pressure, but that really didnt help. the seat on the goldwing is quite nice, especially the older 5th gen, which is what I had.

I ended up having to stand up crossing RR tracks, and other bumps.

I went to the Honda place and rode a 2-wheel version of the same 1800cc goldwing and bought it. My wife agrees that the 2-wheeler is much smoother on her as well, but she really liked the trike alot.

My view is that the two wheel machine is much easier on my back for the reasons you stated. I have not dropped it...yet. I have 12k on it now.

I am no expert in trikes, by any means, but I do miss some aspects of it, for sure. any concern of falling is gone . If I did a trike again, I would make sure that I get a long-wheel based independent rear end, built on a machine built originally for touring. At the time, the golding had a longer wheel base and was wider than the Harley, which made the Harley choppier than the goldwing on the road.

I also bought, for my son, a CB500X, which is an adventure-style bike. That thing has so much suspension travel, the bars are high and wide, and the feet are a bit under me to make standing easy. 500cc is too small for me, but it does make me think that a large adventure bike may be something for me to try.


just my $0.02.

 

[HDUSA1]

32 mpg? Well, hell — I average 33–34 mpg!


Of course, my riding style plays a big role in that fuel consumption. After riding the 2025 Harley trike, though, I can’t see myself riding a trike the same way I ride my bike. They're definitely two different beasts. That said, I probably need to slow down anyway. I’m still sharp, but I am of the age, LOL.

Unfortunately, Roadsmith only offers the auxiliary fuel tank for models from 2009 and up.

Now, with the bigger sprocket on the Roadsmith trike, that’s going to raise the RPM range. Since my EGC is a 5-speed, that could be a drawback. However, if I push my EGC to a Stage 4 build, it might not be an issue. Still, I have to ask—if you’ve noticed—what RPM are you running in 5th gear at around 70–75 mph?

These are just some things I need to consider when deciding if a trike kit will work on my platform. Out here in California, I usually run 75–80 mph. Not that I’d necessarily do that on a trike—but I need to know it could handle it.

I do like the simplexity of the Roadsmith IRS system, but I haven’t done enough research on the CSC IRS setup yet to understand the differences.

Sorry, I should have been more clear on the sprocket.

It is a bigger sprocket, but so are the rear tires. The net effect is it’s still turning about the same rpm’s as before. When I checked the speedometer calibration using the MPH/KPH free app on my phone, it’s actually spot on at 60 mph now. Before, it would actually be running 58 mph when showing 60 on the speedo.


If you are happy with the power in your bike the way it is set up now, I don’t think you’ll disappointed switching it to a trike.


I attribute the drop in mpg to several things. More mass with the differential & axles, 2 heavy rotating tires, large fenders catching the wind, but probably the biggest culprit is me. Can’t explain it but the trike is a lot more fun getting hard in to the throttle, kind of like ripping around on my quad.

 

[cycle7447]

On my 2021 Ultra - CSC conversion, I am still averaging about 40 mpg. It might be because I don't ride it hard. Given this, I didn't find the need for the aux gas tank.

There was also a question about the reverse. That's one thing that kept me away from Roadsmith - I wanted a smoother look for the reverse. Mine is right there on the dash (a simple button) that lights up when you click it for reverse.

Needless to say, the five-year warranty was a big seller for me too.

RPMs - bikes runs the best when around 3000. So, at 50 mph, I want to be in 4th gear. 50 - 65 or so, that's 5th gear. Don't usually hit 6th gear unless I am on the open highway.

 

[HDUSA1]

Looking at those rpm’s, I’m guessing you don’t have the performance gear sprocket set and might explain at least partially the difference in mpg?

When I was talking to Doug and Jim at Roadsmith before deciding which kit to go with, they brought up that they gear their kit purposely to keep the same performance in the bike.

Besides the differences in mechanicals under the body, I preferred the more traditional looks of the Roadsmith kit and I don’t mind seeing the reverse lever. It’s one less thing electrically to go wrong. What sealed the deal for me was when I priced them both out. Minus the Aux fuel tank, the Roadsmith kit was $15,600 with the rake kit and 2 tone paint. The same options in the CSC kit was $17,540.

The Roadsmith warranty while it isn’t 5 year is pretty impressive as well:

“Your trike comes with a full, 3-year-or-1-million-mile warranty on the entire ROADSMITH conversion kit.“

 

[pwhoever]

.....
The Roadsmith warranty while it isn’t 5 year is pretty impressive as well:

“Your trike comes with a full, 3-year-or-1-million-mile warranty on the entire ROADSMITH conversion kit.“

That is a really good warranty but a bit misleading if just looking at the "About" section of the website. It sounds like the warranty should be good for a million miles which isn't the case but still an excellent warranty. For whatever reason, that part leaves off the whichever comes first part. When downloading the owners manual and going to the warranty part, it does mention this.

"Roadsmiths warrants each new Roadsmith trike conversion manufactured by it to be free from defects in material and workmanship (under normal use and service) for a time period of 36 months or 1,000,000 miles, whichever comes first."

There are not too many riders capable of riding 1 million miles in less than 3 years. It seems more like a hype statement to counter the 5 year/ Unlimited mile warranty that CSC offers.

And just to be clear, I am not ripping on Roadsmith. They make a solid trike and are very popular with many happy owners. I just wanted to point out their little omission on the website.

 

[oldschool]

Thanks, everyone — I really appreciate all the conversation and different perspectives on trikes in general.

Hi Ed, I quit riding back in 2014, due to 2 back surgeries. I started back up in 2020 and wanted to do a trike, since I would be afraid to pick up any bike, in the event of a drop. I may be able to (probably could), but absolutely should NOT.

So, I bought a Goldwing Trike w/ solid axle (champion). It was ok on the test ride, etc, but in after I had a few hundred miles on it ( I put about 1500miles total on it), I knew this bike was beating me up pretty badly.

I lowered the tire pressure, but that really didnt help. the seat on the goldwing is quite nice, especially the older 5th gen, which is what I had.

I ended up having to stand up crossing RR tracks, and other bumps.

I went to the Honda place and rode a 2-wheel version of the same 1800cc goldwing and bought it. My wife agrees that the 2-wheeler is much smoother on her as well, but she really liked the trike alot.

My view is that the two wheel machine is much easier on my back for the reasons you stated. I have not dropped it...yet. I have 12k on it now.

I am no expert in trikes, by any means, but I do miss some aspects of it, for sure. any concern of falling is gone . If I did a trike again, I would make sure that I get a long-wheel based independent rear end, built on a machine built originally for touring. At the time, the golding had a longer wheel base and was wider than the Harley, which made the Harley choppier than the goldwing on the road.

I also bought, for my son, a CB500X, which is an adventure-style bike. That thing has so much suspension travel, the bars are high and wide, and the feet are a bit under me to make standing easy. 500cc is too small for me, but it does make me think that a large adventure bike may be something for me to try.


just my $0.02.

Danny, thanks for your input. I probably should’ve mentioned that I also have arthritis in my right hip, which adds to the limited mobility on that side. Just as an example: I blew the cobwebs off my mountain bike yesterday, for the 1st time since the last surgery. While I had some trouble getting on, the real challenge was getting off. My right leg just wouldn’t go high enough to dismount, and I ended up falling flat on my back—hard—right onto the cement.

Of course, my first instinct was to protect my back, so my tailbone took most of the impact. I’m licking my wounds today, but honestly, I don’t feel too bad. It was the first fall I’ve had since my last surgery, and in a weird way, I’m kind of glad it happened—just not quite like that! LOL. It reminded me that I’m still tough, which is something I’ve been wondering about lately.

That said, the mobility issue with my right leg does concern me when it comes to riding two wheels. I love my EGC for how comfortable it is, though. I’m still running the stock air shocks, and they work great for me at around 20–25 psi. I agree with your take on how much more comfortable two wheels are compared to a solid axle trike.

I still have a little bit left in me for 2-wheels and hasn’t got to the point to sound the alarm yet, ("yet" is the reality for me); I am planning to see my doctor in the near future, after this spill I need to find out where I stand with the hip, x-rays will tell the story. For the most part, I still exercise, weight lift, though not as heavier as I use too and try to eat correctly which are some of the ingredients to battling arthritis.

On my 2021 Ultra - CSC conversion, I am still averaging about 40 mpg. It might be because I don't ride it hard. Given this, I didn't find the need for the aux gas tank.

There was also a question about the reverse. That's one thing that kept me away from Roadsmith - I wanted a smoother look for the reverse. Mine is right there on the dash (a simple button) that lights up when you click it for reverse.

Needless to say, the five-year warranty was a big seller for me too.

RPMs - bikes runs the best when around 3000. So, at 50 mph, I want to be in 4th gear. 50 - 65 or so, that's 5th gear. Don't usually hit 6th gear unless I am on the open highway.

And hey Cycle7447, thanks for your input on the CSC conversion you’ve got. From what I’ve gathered so far, it sounds like both the Roadsmith and CSC IRS kits are top-tier choices in the trike world.

 

[ROAD DOG]

Another way to look at it your 03 is worth what 5 to $6000. add a $ 17000. kit to it, do a stage 4 if you make it a 103 your looking at $5000. Do a S&S 143 twin cam your at $12000. plus, whatever else you add you got $30000. into a 2003 ultra with a kit that would be hard to sell for $12000 to $15000. there's a lot of low mile Tri Glides out there that have had all the upgrades already done, Shocks, cam, exhaust, tune, rake kit, seat, chrome whatever, for $30000. The M8 motor can make a lot of power for cheap money, Cam, Exhaust, intake, & a tune you can be around 130 ft lbs. of torque. your twin is not 60 ft lbs.

 

[pwhoever]

Cost can be a big factor in deciding. But on the flip side, if you are comfortable with your bike, trust it, and have no intentions on selling it, a conversion can be a great choice. That's what I did with my 07 GL1800 back in 2016. Unfortunately the only option on Goldwings unlike Harleys is to do a conversion. I was in the same boat about looking at reading it in for a newer and doing a conversion or just having a conversion done on mine. I chose to keep mine and do the conversion. 8 years later I was still happy as a lark and had fully intended on many more years and miles on that trike. It is being replaced with one that is 5 years (2012) newer and a lot less miles on it. My plan is for this one to be the last trike I ever need to own so it's going to be toting my happy self around for many more years to come.

 

[oldschool]

Another way to look at it your 03 is worth what 5 to $6000. add a $ 17000. kit to it, do a stage 4 if you make it a 103 your looking at $5000. Do a S&S 143 twin cam your at $12000. plus, whatever else you add you got $30000. into a 2003 ultra with a kit that would be hard to sell for $12000 to $15000. there's a lot of low mile Tri Glides out there that have had all the upgrades already done, Shocks, cam, exhaust, tune, rake kit, seat, chrome whatever, for $30000. The M8 motor can make a lot of power for cheap money, Cam, Exhaust, intake, & a tune you can be around 130 ft lbs. of torque. your twin is not 60 ft lbs.

Road dog, I appreciate your take on the cost. However, you actually don’t know the torque figures on my twin, but I do — and it’s a lot more than 60 ft-lbs. If we're talking stock, then sure, I kind of agree with you on the lower torque numbers, though I still think you're underestimating a stock TC88 a bit.

That said, my EGC isn’t the stallion of my stable — I attached a picture to the post. I’m not new to the Harley performance game, and that bar-hopping hot rod chopper is way more powerful than the EGC.

Its sole purpose when I rode it was to humble any other Harley that thought it could hang — and she did that job well. Unfortunately, my last surgery pretty much took me out of the game with that one. The chopper’s been out of the action for a while too and Harley started pushing their engine past 95in. That’s where the continuous engine modifications ended for her. But back when we both ran, it was one hell of a ride and a big bear to handle once you roll on the power, a young man’s bike for sure, even today.

I also threw in a picture of her (before repaint), next to my brand-new Softail Deuce — which was in stock form and no match for that Shovel. A man can’t ride a hot rod all the time; if you’ve ever owned a real performance bike, you know that just isn’t practical. That’s why you need something reliable to ride when the hot rod’s on the lift

As for cost — well, your average Joe will spend that kind of money because most folks either don’t know how to wrench on their bikes or just don’t want to. Like Carl mentioned, he ordered his kit and installed it because he didn’t have a dealer nearby, and honestly, the price he quoted sounded fair. I was even surprised it included paint.

As for me, I’ve turned a lot of wrenches in my time, and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. Taking on a project doesn’t intimidate me in the slightest. That said, I’m still weighing the cost and looking at all my options — the kit included. It’s really not that difficult to pull the heads for porting, bore the cylinders to big bore, and take a TC88 to a solid Stage 4 setup to achieve the results I mentioned. There’s nothing more satisfying than doing the work yourself — it connects you to the machine on a personal level and builds real trust in what your ride can handle.

Cost can be a big factor in deciding. But on the flip side, if you are comfortable with your bike, trust it, and have no intentions on selling it, a conversion can be a great choice. That's what I did with my 07 GL1800 back in 2016. Unfortunately the only option on Goldwings unlike Harleys is to do a conversion. I was in the same boat about looking at reading it in for a newer and doing a conversion or just having a conversion done on mine. I chose to keep mine and do the conversion. 8 years later I was still happy as a lark and had fully intended on many more years and miles on that trike. It is being replaced with one that is 5 years (2012) newer and a lot less miles on it. My plan is for this one to be the last trike I ever need to own so it's going to be toting my happy self around for many more years to come.

I resemble that remark..LOL

 

[HDUSA1]

Oldschool quote of the day:

“There’s nothing more satisfying than doing the work yourself — it connects you to the machine on a personal level and builds real trust in what your ride can handle.”

Amen to that brother!

“As for me, I’ve turned a lot of wrenches in my time, and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. Taking on a project doesn’t intimidate me in the slightest. That said, I’m still weighing the cost and looking at all my options — the kit included.”

I’m right there with you. Unless it’s warranty, I don’t let dealers touch any of my stuff whether it’s vehicles, farm equipment, or putting up buildings on my farm.

I’ll be keeping an eye out for your posts to see how you progress or if you have questions.

 

[oldschool]

I’m right there with you. Unless it’s warranty, I don’t let dealers touch any of my stuff whether it’s vehicles, farm equipment, or putting up buildings on my farm.

I’ll be keeping an eye out for your posts to see how you progress or if you have questions.

Thank you, sir. I've always had that same attitude when it comes to dealers — warranty work is fine, but after that, it's "see ya!"

I’ll be floating around from time to time, soaking up information and figuring out which direction I want to take. I’m not opposed to a Goldwing either — in fact, one just popped up today for $13,500. It’s a beautiful blue model with a CSC conversion and all the bells and whistles you can pack onto a Goldwing. Although it's a 2002, it only has 21,000 miles on it and looks like it’s been well cared for. Of course, I’d need to do the same modifications I did to my EGC to make it fit a tall rider — new seat, lowered floorboards, and so on. Still doable, even if I had to throw a couple extra grand into it.

That said, it’s ten hours away from me, which makes it tough to jump on when I’m still in the research phase of figuring out which trike direction to go with.

In the meantime, I’m also in the process of selling off a few bikes. Two have sold so far, which leaves the EGC and the Shovelhead. The Shovel will be next on the chopping block as soon as I can get to her and get her ready to sell. Then it'll be decision time. Unfortunately, I’ve got a current project that isn’t bike-related but needs attention before I can move forward.

But hey, I’ll still be around and will pop in from time to time. While I may not own a trike yet and can’t offer advice from that angle, I’m always happy to share some common-sense tips or mechanical help if I can.

Peace!