It isn’t every day you see a Harley-Davidson on the same track graced by MotoGP legends, but that’s exactly what happened at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in Spain.
Amidst overcast skies and cool temperatures, the Harley-Davidson Factory Racing team showcased its race-prepared Road Glide motorcycles.
Harley-Davidson collaborated with DORNA and MotoGP for this test session, expanding the brand’s racing footprint globally, a vision articulated by Jochen Zeitz, Chairman and CEO of Harley-Davidson.
“Racing is a core pillar of the Harley-Davidson brand,” Zeitz explained. “Partnering with MotoGP allows us to demonstrate our commitment to performance and innovation on a global stage.”
The Road Glide motorcycles, piloted by Harley-Davidson Factory Racing riders Kyle Wyman and James Rispoli, were joined by former MotoGP and World Superbike icons Randy Mamola, Marco Melandri, and Simon Crafar.
“These are special moments,” said Wyman. “Riding alongside legends and sharing the track with people we’ve looked up to, it’s an experience I won’t forget.”
“It’s not so heavy when you’re riding it,” Melandri shared. “The engine and torque are simply amazing.”
Beneath its carbon-fibre bodywork and lightweight frame, the Road Glide is powered by modified Screamin’ Eagle Milwaukee-Eight 131 Performance Crate Engines.
Upgraded suspension components and race-tuned Dunlop tyres add to the performance, making these bikes far more than just eye candy. On the track, Wyman and Rispoli achieved top speeds exceeding 275 km/h.
The Barcelona showcase reflects Harley-Davidson’s ambition to elevate its racing program on a global scale. The brand’s Mission Foods King Of The Baggers series has already made waves in the U.S., with Wyman winning six of the 18 races this season.
“This MotoGP test is a pivotal step in realizing our racing ambitions,” Zeitz emphasised.
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