Harley: Very easy rider

Harley-Davidson's Ultra Classic trike will cost $49,750. Photo / Supplied

Harley-Davidson will sell its 2010 Ultra Classic trike in New Zealand. This is Harley's first three-wheeler since the 1930-70s servicars, and the chassis has been specially designed and engineered to handle the steering forces and weight of a three-wheeled machine. The Tri Glide has longer forks than an equivalent two-wheeled Harley, with an increase in rake, and a steering damper fitted to ease rider input while cornering.

Belt drive transfers power from a 1.6-litre Harley twin with fuel injection, mated to the six-speed transmission used on touring bikes. There's now an electric reverse and there's a handbrake too.

Hopefully, the dual front discs and dual rear brakes have been beefed up, given spongy stoppers are a common complaint for the standard machines. The shocks have had attention, with air-adjustable units fitted to the rear.

As for the bike's looks, it borrows from the Ultra model, although there are adaptations other than the obvious; the rear guards are removable to ease servicing.

Luggage capacity is 186 litres - a generous 36 more than the Honda Goldwing. This is a bike built for two, with integrated audio with CB radio and passenger intercom, plus for cruising it has cruise control.

Harley-Davidsons are not cheap, and neither are bike-to-trike conversions, particularly in New Zealand with its strict codes of compliance.

Perhaps this trike's $49,750 retail price should not be unexpected then, although whether advance orders will repay Harleys' confidence given the present retail climate remains to be seen.