Table of Contents
Introduction
Why You Need a Reverse Gear for Harley Davidson
Top 5 Reverse Gears for Harley Davidson
1. Eagleking Harley Touring Electric Reverse Kit
2. Baker Drivetrain Reverse Kit
3. MotorTrike Electric Reverse Gear
4. Champion Trikes Reverse Kit
5. TriGlide Electric Reverse System
How to Choose the Best Reverse Gear
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Introduction
Harley Davidson motorcycles are symbols of power and road dominance—but when it comes to parking or maneuvering a heavy bike in reverse, riders face challenges. This is where reverse gear kits come into play. These devices provide a practical, safe, and efficient solution to push your touring bike backward, especially on inclines or tight spots.
In this guide, we review the top 5 reverse gears available in the market today, with a detailed focus on the Eagleking Harley Touring Electric Reverse Kit, known for its durability and precision engineering.
Why You Need a Reverse Gear for Harley Davidson
Harley touring bikes like the Street Glide, Road Glide, and Ultra Limited weigh anywhere from 800 to 950 pounds. Maneuvering them in reverse is difficult without assistance.
Top Reasons to Install a Reverse Kit
- Ease of Movement: Helps back out of parking spots, garages, or trailers.
- Rider Safety: Prevents slips and strain when trying to push manually.
- Improved Control: Offers more stability and control in tight spaces.
- Essential for Touring Models: Especially critical for 2014+ Harley Touring bikes.
Top 5 Reverse Gears for Harley Davidson
Let’s explore the five best-performing and most reliable reverse gear systems tailored for Harley motorcycles.
1. Eagleking Harley Touring Electric Reverse Kit
The Eagleking Electric Reverse Kit is a leader in performance, weight savings, and installation simplicity.
Key Features 🔧
- Precision Engineering: Aerospace-grade 4140 chromoly steel gears, hardened to 58–60 HRC for over 200,000 cycles.
- Compact Design: Dimensions of 41×36×32cm make it perfect for tight frames.
- Lightweight Construction: Weighs only 3.5 kg—40% lighter than conventional kits.
- Plug-and-Play Compatibility: Designed for 2014–2025 Road Glide, Street Glide, and Ultra Limited.
Technical Specifications
Parameter Specification
Weight 3.5 kg (7.7 lbs)
Dimensions 41 × 36 × 32 cm
Material CNC-machined 4140 chromoly steel
Surface Treatment Black oxide (corrosion-resistant)
Torque Capacity 650 Nm max
Temperature Range -40°C to 150°C
Pros:
- Engineered for longevity
- Plug-and-play install
- Perfect fit for 2014+ Touring bikes
2. Baker Drivetrain Reverse Kit
Baker Drivetrain is known for its premium transmissions and aftermarket performance parts.
Features:
- Mechanical lever-actuated reverse gear
- OEM-like fitment with minimal frame interference
- Heavy-duty bearings and housing for reliability
Pros:
- Strong brand reputation
- Reliable mechanical construction
- Smooth shifting with minimal friction
3. MotorTrike Electric Reverse Gear
A popular choice among Harley riders converting to trikes or heavy touring configurations.
Features:
- Quiet motor-driven reverse functionality
- Minimal battery drain (uses 12V DC)
- Integrated kill switch and safety override
Pros:
- Safe for all weather use
- Plug-and-play for newer Harley models
- Sturdy motor housing and gearing
4. Champion Trikes Reverse Kit
Built for both Harley trike conversions and two-wheelers needing extra maneuverability.
Features:
- Compact design optimized for tight installs
- Uses belt-driven reverse gear system
- Lightweight aluminum casing
Pros:
- Easy to maintain
- Efficient torque delivery in reverse
- Good aftermarket support
5. TriGlide Electric Reverse System
Specifically designed for the Tri Glide Ultra and similar heavy Harley-Davidson trikes.
Features:
- Factory-designed to integrate with Harley electrical systems
- Sturdy build with anti-vibration mounts
- OEM-level support and updates
Pros:
- Best fit for Tri Glide and touring trikes
- Highly reliable in steep gradients
- Integrated design avoids custom wiring
How to Choose the Best Reverse Gear
When selecting the ideal reverse gear system for your Harley, consider the following:
Key Factors to Evaluate
- Compatibility: Ensure the kit fits your Harley’s model year and frame design.
- Weight: Lighter kits reduce overall load.
- Installation Type: Choose plug-and-play for easy DIY or go mechanical for custom builds.
- Durability: Look for hardened steel components with high HRC ratings.
- Torque Rating: Must match or exceed your bike’s torque output.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Installation Tips
- Follow manufacturer instructions strictly
- Use proper torque settings and alignment tools
- Consider professional installation for electric kits
Maintenance Guidelines
- Inspect gears every 6,000 miles
- Check for signs of wear or corrosion
- Apply appropriate gear lubricant
Summary Table
| Reverse Gear Kit | Type | Weight | Compatibility | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eagleking Harley Touring Kit | Electric | 3.5 kg | Road Glide, Street Glide, Ultra Limited (2014–2025) | Aerospace-grade steel, compact size |
| Baker Drivetrain Kit | Mechanical | ~6 kg | Touring Models | High-performance manual actuation |
| MotorTrike Reverse Gear | Electric | ~4.2 kg | Touring & Trike Models | Quiet electric motor |
| Champion Trikes Reverse Kit | Mechanical | ~5 kg | Touring & Trikes | Belt-driven, compact design |
| TriGlide Electric Reverse System | Electric | ~4.5 kg | Harley Trike Models | OEM-integrated electrical system |