Like many, my journey with Harley-Davidson wasn’t a straightforward love story. Coming from a background of AMF Sportsters in the 80s and 90s, reliability was a constant question mark. Long-distance touring on a Harley? That wasn’t even on my radar. Stranded in the middle of nowhere was not my idea of a good time. My 2002 Anniversary Deuce was meant to be a local hot rod, a weekend cruiser. Cross-country trips were for other bikes, other people. Or so I thought.
Then came the 100th Harley-Davidson anniversary celebration in Milwaukee. That ride changed everything. Suddenly, the open road beckoned. Summers transformed into two-week adventures in every direction, racking up Ironbutt certifications and a deep appreciation for the Deuce. It fit me perfectly, comfortable mile after mile, and surprisingly, utterly reliable. I genuinely loved that bike.
But solo touring, as exhilarating as it is, can get expensive. Motocamping became my solution, a way to stretch the budget and stay closer to the ride. Strapping all my camping gear onto the Deuce worked, in a fashion. Let’s just say I resembled Jed Clampett heading to Beverly Hills – functional, but not exactly elegant.
By 2007, the writing was on the wall. My next bike needed to be a Road Glide. A tour pak was a must, and fairing lowers? Definitely a plus, mostly for the extra storage, though the wind protection wouldn’t hurt. The plan solidified: 2013 would be the year. Retire the Deuce at 10 years and 100,000 miles, and echo 2003 with another Milwaukee anniversary ride, this time on a brand-new Harley touring machine.
Then 2010 rolled around, and Harley unveiled the 2011 Ultra. Suddenly, the Road Glide took a backseat. The Ultra was it. And unbelievably, it came in the exact color combination I wanted: Dallas Cowboys silver and blue. It felt like destiny.
The Ultra, now affectionately nicknamed “Danielle” or “Big D,” has exceeded every expectation. Initially, its size was a little intimidating for my 5’7″ frame. Maneuvering in the garage or backing up required some getting used to. But on the road? It handles like a dream, even fully loaded. Now equipped with heritage bars and an MCC lowered seat, the bike fits like a glove. It feels nimble, almost like a smaller machine, and the ride is pure Cadillac. After 50 years and nine bikes, the Ultra’s comfort is well-deserved and thoroughly appreciated.
“Annie,” my trusty Deuce, is still in the stable. The original plan was to keep her for local jaunts and shorter day trips, reserving the Ultra for the long haul. But since Danielle arrived, Annie has been somewhat neglected. Less than 1000 miles in her saddle since Big D joined the family.
If touring the USA is in your blood, if you crave the open road and the freedom of two wheels, look no further than a Harley-Davidson Ultra. It’s the ultimate machine for seeing the U.S.A. in comfort and style. And while mine started as an Ultra, the spirit of customization is always there, waiting to personalize your ride and make it truly your own – perhaps even creating your own version of a dream “Custom Street Glide” touring experience along the way.
