The Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra is a premium touring trike known for its comfort and distinctive style. However, beyond the initial purchase price, owning this machine comes with significant long-term costs. This analysis breaks down the total expense of owning a Tri Glide Ultra in the U.S. over five years, including depreciation, maintenance, fuel, financing, and insurance.
Initial Investment and Market Positioning
The 2025 Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra starts at $37,999. Harley-Davidson currently offers five trike models, with the Tri Glide positioned as a slightly older but economically sensible option compared to newer models like the Street Glide 3 Limited (priced at $39,199). The Tri Glide Ultra’s Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine provides a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, potentially saving owners money in the long run.
Depreciation: A Significant Factor
Over five years, the Tri Glide Ultra is expected to lose approximately 20% of its value. Based on historical data—a 2021 model now lists for around $27,730 compared to its original $34,999 price tag—owners can anticipate a depreciation of around $7,600. This is comparatively moderate; typical motorcycles depreciate faster, losing 50-65% of their value over the same period.
Routine Maintenance and Unexpected Repairs
Maintaining a Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra isn’t cheap. Owners report average annual service costs around $1,000, totaling $5,000 over five years. This figure doesn’t include potential major repairs, such as suspension rebuilds or tire replacements. Trikes require three larger tires, which are generally more expensive than standard motorcycle tires. It’s prudent to budget an additional few thousand dollars for unforeseen issues.
Fuel Costs: A Predictable Expense
The Tri Glide Ultra’s M8 114 engine achieves around 42 miles per gallon. Assuming 5,000 miles driven annually at an average fuel price of $3 per gallon, annual fuel costs are approximately $357. This totals around $1,786 over five years.
Financing and Insurance: Variable Expenses
Financing the Tri Glide Ultra with a 20% down payment ($7,600) and a 5-year loan at 6.74% APR will incur approximately $5,494 in interest. Insurance costs vary widely based on credit, age, location, and driving history. While Harley-Davidson advertises rates as low as $15 per month, real-world premiums typically range from $300 to $450 annually, equating to $1,750 over five years.
The Bottom Line: A $60,000 Commitment
Over five years, owning a Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra will likely cost around $60,000. This includes the initial $37,999 purchase price, $7,600 in depreciation, $5,000 for maintenance, $1,786 for fuel, $5,494 in financing (if applicable), and $1,750 for insurance. While these are estimates, they provide a realistic overview of the financial commitment required to enjoy this high-end touring trike.
Ultimately, the Tri Glide Ultra represents a significant investment. Prospective buyers should carefully consider these long-term costs before making a purchase, ensuring they’re prepared for the financial realities of ownership.
