The winds of change have been blowing across Harley-Davidson, and this week they have unearthed a new Street Glide Special outfitted in a limited-edition paint scheme called Arctic Blast. While the name may evoke visions of blended ice cream or a refreshing energy drink, Arctic Blast is in fact a handcrafted paint scheme done in collaboration with Gunslinger Custom Paint out of Golden, Colorado. Harley-Davidson will be releasing 500 examples of this bold new bagger, each of which will be numbered to display the exclusive nature of this colorful campaign.
The Artistry On The Arctic Blast Street Glide
The batwing, bags, and tank on Harley-Davidson's touring models have always provided painters with a large canvas with which to render their artistic vision, but the partnership with Gunslinger has definitely upped the ante. Gunslinger has been a partner with Harley-Davidson for the past 18 years and has worked on many of the CVO (Custom Vehicle Operations) models. For the Arctic Blast, the creative team at Gunslinger was tasked with devising a paint scheme that embodied the Street Glide Special's muscle and attitude. To do that, Gunslinger opted for a blue and white pearl design that incorporates distinct details like pinstripes applied by hand. They also integrated a ghosted honeycomb pattern on the front fender and fairing that calls attention to itself in the right light.
The Arctic Blue paint is a sight to be seen, and the motorcycle wearing it ain't no slouch either. The Street Glide Special comes with the Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-Twin engine. The nearly 1,900cc (114 cubic-inch) engine cranks out 100 hp and 118 lb-ft of torque. While this is a big bike (792 lbs), it will get up and go thanks to that massive motor. Some may appreciate that power stoplight to stoplight, but Harley-Davidson intends for this to be a long-haul touring bike. As such, it has ample storage and the latest and greatest H-D infotainment system, the Boom! Box GTS, which is Apple and Android compatible. So, riders will look good and feel good while roaring down the road on this beautiful bagger.
Paint This Fine Comes At A Price
As with most of Harley-Davidson's CVOs and limited-edition models, the Arctic Blast Street Glide Special is not cheap. Prospective buyers can expect to shell out $38,899 (MSRP) if they want to own a bike with this cool custom paint. Should buyers have the means, they will also be part of a pretty rare group, as these 500 baggers are likely going to blast out of dealerships as soon as they arrive.