Breaking Down the Batwing: Why the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide® Ultra is Built for Anderson’s Open Roads
Few things compare to the feeling of gliding down Anderson, South Carolina’s open highways, the roar of a Milwaukee-Eight® 117 engine beneath you, and the road stretching endlessly ahead. But long-haul comfort, stability, and aerodynamics separate an ordinary ride from an unforgettable one.
That’s where the batwing fairing on the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide® Ultra comes into play. More than just an iconic piece of design, this wind-tunnel-tested fairing is engineered for precise wind management, reduced fatigue, and a smoother ride. Planning to cruise along Highway 11’s scenic mountain views or heading out for a long weekend ride down Savannah River Scenic Byway? This fairing makes every mile more comfortable and controlled.
Here’s why the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide® Ultra’s batwing fairing is one of the most essential elements of H-D®’s touring lineup—and why it’s the perfect companion for Anderson’s diverse roads.
What Makes the Batwing Fairing Essential for Touring?
The batwing fairing has been a signature element of H-D®’s touring motorcycles for decades, but it’s not just about looks. This carefully engineered front-end design is built to manage wind resistance, improve aerodynamics, and reduce rider fatigue on long journeys.
Let’s break down exactly how it enhances comfort, control, and performance for riders in Anderson, SC, and beyond.
1. Aerodynamic Design That Deflects Wind and Enhances Stability
Not all fairings are created equal. The batwing fairing on the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide® Ultra is shaped using advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and real-world wind tunnel testing to ensure optimal airflow management.
- Minimizes Wind Buffeting – Riding at highway speeds, especially on open roads like Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway, means dealing with unpredictable wind gusts. The batwing’s design channels airflow around the rider, reducing helmet buffeting by up to 60 percent compared to standard windshields.
- Keeps the Bike Steady in Crosswinds – South Carolina’s long stretches of road can mean exposure to strong crosswinds and gusts from passing trucks. The aerodynamic profile of the fairing helps keep the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide® Ultra planted, providing greater stability and less handlebar resistance.
- Improves Fuel Efficiency – By reducing wind resistance, the batwing fairing helps the bike cut through the air more efficiently, meaning less drag and potentially better fuel economy on long-haul rides.
2. The Tall Windshield: Comfort for Endless Miles
A fairing alone isn’t enough—it works in tandem with the right windshield to fully protect the rider. That’s why the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide® Ultra comes with a windshield that is four inches taller than the standard Street Glide® model.
- Reduces Direct Wind Impact – A lower windshield might block some wind, but this taller windshield directs airflow over and around the rider, preventing excessive windblast to the chest and face.
- Protects Against Road Debris – Long-distance rides often mean encountering bugs, dust, and debris from passing vehicles. The 2025 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide® Ultra’s taller windshield deflects these obstacles, keeping the rider more comfortable and focused on the road.
- Lowers Fatigue on Long Rides – Less wind pressure means less strain on your neck and shoulders, so when you're on a 200-mile ride through Sumter National Forest, you’ll feel just as refreshed at the end as you did at the start.
3. Adjustable Airflow for Changing Conditions
Not every ride has the same weather, temperature, or conditions. That’s why the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide® Ultra’s batwing fairing includes adjustable vents that let riders control how much airflow enters the cockpit area.
- Need cooling on a hot summer ride? Open the vents to let air flow through, providing a refreshing breeze.
- Riding in colder temperatures? Close the vents to block out wind chill and keep warm.
These small details make a big difference in rider comfort, especially when exploring South Carolina’s diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to coastal routes.
Technology Built Into the Batwing Fairing
The batwing fairing is a shield against the wind, but it’s also the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide® Ultra’s technology hub, packed with state-of-the-art features to enhance the touring experience.
4. 12.3-Inch TFT Display with Skyline™ OS
Mounted directly within the fairing, the 12.3-inch color touchscreen display is the largest H-D® has ever put on a Street Glide® model.
- Full GPS Navigation – Explore Anderson’s backroads and find scenic detours without checking your phone.
- Seamless Connectivity – Bluetooth integration lets you take calls, stream music, and control audio hands-free.
- Customizable Ride Modes – Adjust traction control, power delivery, and braking settings for different riding conditions.
5. Premium Sound System Designed for the Open Road
A great touring bike needs an exceptional audio system, and the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide® Ultra delivers.
- Fairing-mounted speakers pump out high-quality sound, allowing you to hear music, podcasts, or directions without distortion at highway speeds.
- Automatic Volume Adjustments – The system adjusts based on your speed, ensuring consistent sound quality without constant manual adjustments.
How the Batwing Fairing Enhances Anderson’s Best Rides
The batwing fairing’s wind management, stability, and technology make it the perfect touring companion for some of the most scenic rides near Anderson, SC.
Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway (Highway 11)
- Offers expansive views of the Blue Ridge Mountains with long, sweeping curves.
- The aerodynamic fairing reduces wind resistance, making for a smooth, fatigue-free ride.
Savannah River Scenic Byway
- Follows the river with stunning landscapes and gentle turns.
- The tall windshield and airflow adjustments provide extra comfort, especially during seasonal weather shifts.
Moonshiner 28
- Known for its sharp turns and elevation changes.
- The 2025 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide® Ultra’s fairing-integrated display helps navigate tight corners without taking your eyes off the road.
Visit Timms Harley-Davidson® for a Test Ride
The batwing fairing isn’t something you just read about—it’s something you need to experience for yourself. Visit Timms Harley-Davidson® in Anderson, SC, and take this touring machine out on the road. Test rides are available now, but demand is high. Don’t miss your chance to experience the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide® Ultra in its element.