An all-new chassis underpins Harley-Davidson’s popular Touring models for 2009. Redesigned from the tires up for a responsive ride and enhanced capacity and comfort, the Motor Company claims that the seven 2009 Touring models ride like new motorcycles, while preserving the firm’s iconic styling.
“Under the skin, our 2009 Touring models are essentially new motorcycles,” said Bill Davidson, Harley-Davidson vice president of core customer marketing. “There is likely no profile on the American road more distinctive than that of a Harley-Davidson Touring motorcycle, and we were able to retain the character of each model while significantly improving the riding experience in many ways.”
Forming the core of the 2009 Touring chassis is a new frame with a single-spar, rigid backbone designed to sustain the demands of long-haul touring riders and today’s powerful engines. The new frame provides a strong foundation that supports a 70-pound increase in carrying capacity.
A separate bolt-on tail section isolates the main frame from the tail frame, improving the fit-and-finish of the rear area of the motorcycle through more-precise alignment of the rear fender over the rear wheel.
Front wheel diameter on all models except the Road King is increased to 17 inches from 16 inches, while the width of the 16-inch rear wheel is increased to five inches from three inches.
The wider rear wheel accommodates a new 180/65-16 rear tire that is wider and has a lower aspect ratio than the tire it replaces. The new front tire, a 130/80-17, also has a lower aspect ratio for a more modern look and improved handling response.
All 2009 Touring models will be equipped with new Dunlop D407 multi-tread rear tires designed specifically for the new touring chassis, which the Motor Company claims deliver up to 25 percent more rear-tire tread life than previous tires.
New Harley-Davidson touring chassis for 2009
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