Quick Analysis
CVO Street Glide & Road Glide
13.5 pts
Unweighted: 9 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Aprilia RS 457
17.0 pts
Unweighted: 15 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air-cooled | Liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 1,977 cc | 457 cc |
| Engine Type | Milwaukee-Eight® VVT 121 V-Twin | 2 parallel forward-facing cylinders, 4 valves per cylinder |
| Power | 116.6 PS @ 5020 rpm | 47.6 PS (≈ 35 kW) at 9,400 rpm |
| Torque | 189 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | 43.5 Nm at 6,700 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22.7 litres | 13L |
| Mileage | — | 30 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 380 | 175 |
| Seat Height | 715 | 800 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel | Dual Channel |
| Front Brake | Double Disc | Disc 320 mm 4 Piston |
| Front Suspension | 47 mm Inverted 1x1 Front Forks | 41mm upside-down fork, adjustable preload, 120mm travel |
| Rear Brake | Disc | Disc 220 mm 1 Piston |
| Rear Suspension | Dual adjustable emulsions suspension with remote preload adjustment on the left shock, and threaded preload on the right shock | Monoshock, adjustable preload, 130 mm wheel travel |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 130/60 B19 | 110/70 - 17 |
| Rear Tyre | 180/55 B18 | 150/60 - 17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Cast aluminum | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED (signature lighting) | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | — | 12v MF |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Poison-berry.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Prismatic-Dark.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Raven-fade.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Opalescent-light.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/GP-Replica.avif |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Coral-Snake-blue.avif |
| Bike Image 5 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Arsenic-yellow.avif |
| Cluster | 312 mm TFT touchscreen | — |
| Color Options | Raven Fade | #2C2C2E Poison Berry | #8A2F6B Blue Streak | #1F4FA3 | Racing Stripes | #0F0F10, #C1121F Prismatic Dark | #1C1C1E, #6E6E73 Opalescent Light | #F5F5F5 GP Replica | #0B0B0C, #5A2CA0 Coral Snake blue | #1F3A93, #C1121F Arsenic yellow | #D4AF37, #6E6E73 |
| Cons | Weight Is Always Part of the Experience – Despite refinements to the chassis and engine, these remain large touring motorcycles that require effort when manoeuvring at walking pace or parking. Purchase Price Places Them in a Very Exclusive Segment – The CVO range sits at the top of Harley-Davidson's lineup and costs significantly more than standard touring models. The Size Can Be Limiting in Urban Environments – Dense traffic, narrow roads, and tight parking spaces highlight the physical dimensions of the motorcycles. Premium Paint Requires Care – The complex paint finishes are a major part of the motorcycles' appeal, but they can also make owners more cautious about scratches, chips, and cosmetic damage. Engine Heat Is Still Noticeable in Slow Traffic – Although modern engine management has improved thermal control, a large-capacity V-twin still generates noticeable heat during prolonged stop-and-go riding. Most of Their Strengths Are Best Appreciated on Open Roads – Features such as the fairing, luggage capacity, and touring ergonomics become less relevant during short urban rides. Replacement Parts and Accessories Can Be Expensive – Premium components and model-specific parts typically cost more than those used on standard motorcycles. The Feature List Can Feel Overwhelming to Some Riders – Compared with traditional Harley-Davidsons, the amount of technology and menu-based customization is considerably greater. | Seat height is a bit tall, may be challenging for shorter riders to place feet flat at stops. Mileage tends to be modest (around 30–35 kmpl), especially if ridden hard not ideal for those seeking fuel economy. Fuel tank capacity is moderate may require frequent refuelling on long rides or at high speeds. You'll need regular maintenance (for twin-cylinder engine, etc.) more involved than simple commuter bikes. Riding posture and engine character lean sporty less relaxed comfort compared to cruiser-style bikes or scooters. Insurance, maintenance, and running costs will be higher compared to smaller, entry-level bikes. |
| Detailed Overview | The CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide sit at the top of Harley-Davidson’s touring range. While they share their foundations with the standard Street Glide and Road Glide, the CVO versions are built around a more extensive specification list, additional equipment, and exclusive finishes. Mechanically, the two motorcycles are very closely related, with the main distinction continuing to be the fairing design. The Street Glide uses Harley-Davidson’s Batwing fairing, mounted directly to the forks, while the Road Glide uses the Sharknose fairing that is attached to the frame. That difference affects the appearance of the motorcycles and contributes to subtle changes in steering feel and wind management, but the overall purpose remains the same. At the centre of both motorcycles is the Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 engine. With a displacement of 1,977cc, it is one of the largest engines currently used in Harley-Davidson’s production motorcycles. Unlike earlier generations of large-capacity V-twins that relied on a relatively fixed valve setup, this engine incorporates Variable Valve Timing (VVT). The system continuously adjusts valve timing depending on engine speed and load, allowing the engine to operate differently across various riding conditions. A six-speed transmission transfers power to the rear wheel, and the engine remains a defining part of the motorcycles’ overall character due to both its size and configuration. The touring chassis underneath is designed around stability, passenger accommodation, and luggage carrying capability. Large dimensions and a substantial wheelbase contribute to the motorcycles’ presence on the road, while suspension components are tuned to support the weight of the machine, rider, passenger, and luggage. The setup is intended to maintain composure during extended highway use rather than prioritize rapid direction changes or sporty handling characteristics. One of the most visible differences between the CVO models and Harley-Davidson’s smaller motorcycles is the level of equipment integrated into the design. Both motorcycles feature hard saddlebags that form part of the bodywork rather than appearing as separate accessories. These storage compartments are designed to carry luggage while maintaining the motorcycles’ touring-focused appearance. Passenger accommodation is also a significant consideration, with large seats and ergonomics developed around long-distance travel. Technology plays a much larger role than it did on Harley-Davidson touring motorcycles of previous generations. A large TFT display serves as the central interface for navigation, vehicle information, media controls, and smartphone connectivity. Riders can interact with various settings through the display, while multiple electronic rider-assistance systems operate in the background. These include cornering-sensitive ABS, traction control, drag-torque slip control, hill-hold control, tyre-pressure monitoring, and selectable ride modes. Rather than existing as isolated features, these systems are integrated into the motorcycle’s broader electronic architecture. The motorcycles carry a fuel tank with a capacity of approximately 22.7 litres, reflecting their intended use as long-distance touring machines. Lighting systems use modern LED technology throughout, while premium audio components are incorporated into the fairing. These audio systems form part of the touring experience and are integrated directly into the motorcycles rather than being added as aftermarket accessories. Although the CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide share most of their major specifications, the Batwing and Sharknose fairings remain the defining visual and functional distinction between them. Beyond that difference, both motorcycles combine a large-capacity V-twin engine, touring-oriented chassis, integrated luggage, extensive electronic rider aids, and a substantial amount of onboard technology. Their specifications are arranged around the requirements of long-distance road travel, carrying both rider and passenger while accommodating luggage and electronic conveniences within a single touring platform. | The Aprilia RS 457 is a fully faired motorcycle built around a 457cc parallel-twin engine. This engine produces around 47 PS of power and 43.5 Nm of torque, and it uses liquid cooling to maintain stable temperatures during regular riding. The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox, and the overall power delivery is designed to be smooth and predictable, which helps riders manage it in both city and highway conditions. The bike also comes with ride-by-wire throttle, which allows different riding modes to adjust how the engine responds. In terms of design, the RS 457 follows a typical supersport layout with a full fairing, a sharp front section, and a slightly aggressive riding posture. The aluminium frame helps keep the overall weight low, with a kerb weight of around 175 kg. The fuel tank capacity is about 13 litres, which is practical for daily use as well as weekend rides. The seat height is around 800 mm, making it accessible for a wide range of riders, although the forward-leaning position may take some getting used to. The suspension setup includes upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock, both tuned to provide stability at higher speeds. The setup leans slightly towards the firmer side, which can make bumps and uneven roads more noticeable, especially on typical Indian road conditions. The braking system includes a front disc and a rear disc, supported by dual-channel ABS, which helps maintain control during braking. The bike also uses wide radial tyres that offer grip in different riding situations. The Aprilia RS 457 comes with a modern electronics package that includes traction control and multiple riding modes. These features adjust parameters like throttle response to suit different riding conditions. All important information is displayed on a digital TFT screen, which shows speed, gear position, fuel level, and other details in a clear format. Some variants also offer a quickshifter as an option, allowing clutchless gear changes. The riding position is slightly committed, with clip-on handlebars and rear-set foot pegs, which gives it a sporty feel. At the same time, the overall size and weight make it manageable compared to larger supersport bikes. The bike is designed to offer a balance between performance and everyday usability, although factors like traffic conditions, road quality, and riding style will influence how it feels in regular use in India. |
| Expert Review | The CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide are less about introducing a fundamentally different riding experience and more about showing what Harley-Davidson's touring platform looks like when fitted with the company's highest-specification components and finishes. Beneath the exclusive paintwork, upgraded audio systems, and model-specific details, both motorcycles retain the core characteristics of Harley-Davidson's touring family. The Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 engine brings a broader spread of performance than earlier touring engines, while the latest electronics package introduces a level of rider assistance and connectivity that would have been uncommon on Harley-Davidson motorcycles a decade ago. The distinction between the two models still comes primarily from their fairing designs. The Street Glide's fork-mounted Batwing fairing contributes to a different steering feel than the Road Glide's frame-mounted Sharknose setup, and riders often have strong preferences between the two approaches. Beyond that, both motorcycles are shaped by the same priorities: long-distance travel, rider comfort, luggage capacity, and highway stability. Their size, weight, and cost remain significant parts of the ownership experience, and those characteristics are difficult to separate from the motorcycles themselves. Rather than redefining the touring formula, the CVO models refine it through additional equipment, upgraded finishes, and a more comprehensive feature set., 4.7, MotoAutiv Team | The Aprilia RS 457 fits into the entry-level performance segment in India, where many riders are moving from smaller bikes to higher capacity machines. Its 457cc twin-cylinder engine feels smooth and manageable, but in daily city traffic, the riding posture and heat can still be noticeable. The suspension and chassis are set up for sporty riding, which means rough roads may feel slightly uncomfortable. It also comes with modern electronics that may take some time for new riders to fully understand. The service network is still growing, which can affect ownership experience in some cities. It is more suited for riders looking for performance-oriented riding rather than regular commuting., 4.1, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What does CVO stand for? A: CVO stands for Custom Vehicle Operations, Harley-Davidson's factory-custom division responsible for producing limited-production, premium-specification motorcycles. Q: What is the difference between the CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide? A: The primary difference is the fairing design. The CVO Street Glide uses a fork-mounted Batwing fairing, while the CVO Road Glide uses a frame-mounted Sharknose fairing. The engine, electronics package, and overall touring purpose are largely similar. Q: Which engine powers the CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide? A: Both motorcycles use the Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 V-twin engine with a displacement of approximately 1,977cc. Q: What does VVT mean? A: VVT stands for Variable Valve Timing, a system that adjusts valve operation to improve performance, efficiency, and torque delivery across different engine speeds. Q: Are the CVO models more powerful than standard Street Glide and Road Glide models? A: Yes. The CVO models receive the larger Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 engine, while standard models use smaller versions of the Milwaukee-Eight engine. Q: Do the CVO models come with navigation? A: Yes. Both motorcycles feature a large TFT display with integrated navigation, smartphone connectivity, and infotainment functions. Q: Do they have cruise control? A: Yes. Electronic cruise control is standard equipment. Q: Are saddlebags included as standard? A: Yes. Integrated hard saddlebags are part of the standard touring package. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: The fuel tank capacity is approximately 22.7 litres. Q: Do the motorcycles have ride modes? A: Yes. Multiple ride modes are available, allowing riders to alter throttle response and electronic intervention settings. Q: Are the CVO models comfortable for two-up touring? A: Yes. The seating layout, passenger accommodations, luggage capacity, and touring ergonomics are designed with long-distance two-up riding in mind. Q: Do they include rider-assistance systems? A: Yes. Features include cornering-enhanced ABS, traction control, drag-torque slip control, hill-hold control, tyre-pressure monitoring, and other electronic rider aids. Q: What is the approximate kerb weight? A: Depending on specification, the motorcycles weigh approximately 380–400 kg in running condition. Q: Can they be used for daily commuting? A: They can be ridden daily, but their size, weight, and touring-focused design make them better suited to open roads and highway travel than dense urban traffic. Q: What body type do the CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide belong to? A: Both are classified as Touring Motorcycles, more specifically Luxury Grand Touring Motorcycles. Q: Are CVO motorcycles limited-production models? A: Yes. CVO motorcycles are produced in smaller numbers than Harley-Davidson's standard models and typically feature exclusive paint schemes, finishes, and equipment packages. | Q: What mileage does the Aprilia RS 457 give in real riding conditions? A: Most riders can expect around 25–30 km/l depending on traffic and riding style. Q: Is the Aprilia RS 457 a good upgrade from bikes like R15 or RC 200? A: Yes, many riders consider it as a next step because of the twin-cylinder engine and higher power, but the jump in performance is noticeable. Q: Is the Aprilia RS 457 beginner-friendly? A: It can be handled by beginners with care, but it may feel powerful for someone with no prior riding experience. Q: Does the Aprilia RS 457 heat up in traffic? A: Yes, like most sport bikes, engine heat is noticeable in slow-moving traffic. Q: Is the Aprilia RS 457 comfortable for long rides? A: It is manageable on highways, but the sporty seating position may cause discomfort on longer trips. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel injection |
| Price Variants | STD | 6303142 | STD | 422229 GP Replica | 437228 |
| Pros | Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 Engine Adds Another Layer of Performance – The 1,977cc engine delivers strong torque throughout the rev range, but the addition of variable valve timing broadens the power delivery compared to Harley-Davidson's previous large-capacity touring engines. Extensive Factory Equipment – Unlike standard touring models that are often customized after purchase, the CVO models arrive with premium audio systems, upgraded finishes, advanced electronics, and exclusive components already fitted. Premium Paint and Finish Quality – The multi-layer paint schemes, intricate graphics, and detailing are among the most elaborate finishes Harley-Davidson applies to production motorcycles. Advanced Touring Technology – Features such as the large TFT display, navigation, ride modes, adaptive rider aids, premium audio systems, and smartphone connectivity form a substantial part of the ownership experience. Long-Distance Comfort Remains a Core Focus – The seating position, wind protection, and touring ergonomics are designed around spending extended periods on the road. Strong Highway Stability – Both motorcycles are developed primarily for highway use, where their weight, chassis, and fairing designs contribute to a planted feel. Integrated Luggage and Touring Practicality – Saddlebags are part of the design rather than an accessory, providing useful storage without altering the motorcycle's appearance. Distinctive Presence Compared With Standard Models – Beyond the paintwork, the wheels, trim pieces, finishes, and component choices make the CVO models visually different from standard Street Glide and Road Glide variants. | Powerful 457 cc parallel-twin engine delivers strong acceleration and good mid-range punch. Smooth 6-speed gearbox with slipper clutch makes shifting crisp and rider-friendly. Dual-channel ABS and strong disc brakes (front + rear) give good stopping confidence, even in wet or tricky conditions. Upside-down front forks and adjustable rear suspension provide a good balance of comfort and handling, suitable for both city streets and open roads. 17" alloy wheels with wide tyres give excellent grip and stability during cornering or highway cruising. Full-LED lighting and 5" TFT digital instrument cluster offer modern feel and better visibility / readouts. Riding modes and traction control add versatility for different road conditions (city, rain, highways). Relatively manageable wet weight for a twin-cylinder bike makes it more nimble in traffic than heavier big bikes. |
| Starter | Electric | Self start |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6-speed manual |
