Quick Analysis
CVO Street Glide & Road Glide
18.0 pts
Unweighted: 12 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Street Bob 117
8.0 pts
Unweighted: 8 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
||
| Cooling System | Air-cooled | Air-cooled |
| Displacement | 1,977 cc | 1,923 cc |
| Engine Type | Milwaukee-Eight® VVT 121 V-Twin | Milwaukee-Eight™ 117 Classic |
| Power | 116.6 PS @ 5020 rpm | 91 hp @ 5,020 rpm |
| Torque | 189 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | 156 Nm @ 2,750 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
||
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22.7 litres | 13.2 litres |
| Mileage | — | 18.18 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
||
| Kerb Weight | 380 | 293 |
| Seat Height | 715 | 680 |
Brakes & Suspension |
||
| ABS | Dual Channel | Dual Channel |
| Front Brake | Double Disc | Disc |
| Front Suspension | 47 mm Inverted 1x1 Front Forks | Dual-bending valve 49 mm telescopic with aluminum fork triple clamps; dual rate spring; gaiter covers |
| Rear Brake | Disc | Disc |
| Rear Suspension | Dual adjustable emulsions suspension with remote preload adjustment on the left shock, and threaded preload on the right shock | Hidden, free piston, coil-over monoshock; 43mm stroke; cam-style preload adjustment |
Tyres & Wheels |
||
| Front Tyre | 130/60 B19 | 100/90 B19 |
| Rear Tyre | 180/55 B18 | 150/80 B16 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless (blackwall bias) |
| Wheel Type | Cast aluminum | Cast Aluminum |
Features & Technology |
||
| Headlight | LED (signature lighting) | All LED, low beam, high beam and signature position lamp |
Other Specifications |
||
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Poison-berry.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Black.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Raven-fade.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Centerline.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Horse-Metallic.avif |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Purple.avif |
| Cluster | 312 mm TFT touchscreen | — |
| Color Options | Raven Fade | #2C2C2E Poison Berry | #8A2F6B Blue Streak | #1F4FA3 | Billiard Gray | #6B7074 Vivid Black | #0F0F10 Centerline | #D8A628 Iron Horse Metallic | #5A5A58 Purple Abyss Denim | #4B3A63 |
| 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. | Limited Touring Comfort – The minimalist approach means there is no wind protection, luggage system, or touring-focused equipment as standard. Single Front Disc Brake Feels Basic for the Performance Available – While adequate for normal riding, some riders may expect a stronger braking setup given the motorcycle's weight and engine output. Minimal Pillion Accommodation – Passenger comfort is limited compared to cruisers and touring motorcycles designed with two-up riding in mind. Wind Fatigue at Highway Speeds – Without a fairing or windscreen, riders are exposed directly to airflow during long highway journeys. Rear Suspension Travel Is Limited – Sharp bumps and poor road surfaces can sometimes be felt more noticeably than on motorcycles with longer-travel suspension. Premium Ownership Costs – Servicing, insurance, accessories, and replacement parts can be expensive compared to middleweight motorcycles. Ground Clearance Limits Aggressive Cornering – Footpegs can touch down relatively early when cornering enthusiastically. Feature List Remains Relatively Simple – The Street Bob focuses more on mechanical character than technology and lacks some of the advanced electronics available on similarly priced motorcycles. Not Ideal for Long-Distance Touring in Standard Form – Riders planning extensive highway travel often add accessories such as windscreens, saddlebags, and upgraded seats. Engine Heat Can Be Noticeable in Traffic – The large air/oil-cooled V-twin can generate noticeable heat during prolonged stop-and-go riding. |
| 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 Harley-Davidson Street Bob is part of the company’s Softail family and follows a traditional bobber-inspired design philosophy. Compared to Harley-Davidson’s touring motorcycles, the Street Bob adopts a much simpler layout, with minimal bodywork, a compact fuel tank, and fewer touring-oriented components. Its design emphasizes exposed mechanical elements and a stripped-back appearance, characteristics that have long been associated with the bobber style of motorcycle. The result is a motorcycle that appears visually lighter and less complex than many other large-capacity cruisers in the Harley-Davidson range. Power comes from the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, a large-displacement V-twin that serves as the centerpiece of the motorcycle. The engine is designed to produce strong torque at relatively low engine speeds, which influences the motorcycle’s riding characteristics. Rather than relying on high engine revolutions to generate performance, the power delivery is concentrated lower in the rev range. The engine is paired with a six-speed transmission that allows relaxed cruising at highway speeds while keeping engine speeds relatively low. Fuel injection is used to manage fuel delivery and throttle response across different riding conditions. The Street Bob is built around Harley-Davidson’s Softail chassis architecture. A key feature of this platform is the hidden rear monoshock suspension, which allows the motorcycle to retain the appearance of a traditional hardtail frame while still providing rear suspension travel. Front suspension duties are handled by conventional telescopic forks. This combination contributes to the motorcycle’s low-slung profile while maintaining the suspension functionality expected from a modern road-going motorcycle. Braking is managed through a single disc brake at the front and a rear disc brake at the back. Modern versions of the Street Bob also incorporate electronic rider-assistance systems, including ABS and traction control. Depending on market and model year, additional rider aids such as selectable riding modes and cornering-sensitive electronic systems may also be available. These systems are designed to assist with braking and traction management under different riding conditions. One of the defining characteristics of the Street Bob is its riding position. The motorcycle uses mid-mounted foot controls and mini ape-hanger handlebars, creating an upright seating posture that differs from the feet-forward layout commonly found on some larger cruisers. The seat height is relatively low, allowing many riders to place their feet comfortably on the ground when stationary. This low seating position also contributes to the motorcycle’s overall visual stance. The Street Bob uses a 13.2-litre fuel tank integrated into its compact design. While smaller than the fuel tanks found on dedicated touring motorcycles, the tank size is consistent with the motorcycle’s bobber-inspired layout. The minimalist approach extends to the bodywork, where components such as the front fender, rear section, and side panels are kept relatively compact. Lighting is provided through LED units, contributing to visibility while maintaining a modern specification. Instrumentation is intentionally simple compared to Harley-Davidson’s touring motorcycles. Instead of a large infotainment system or touchscreen display, the Street Bob uses a compact digital display for essential riding information. This setup aligns with the motorcycle’s stripped-back character and keeps the focus on core riding functions rather than extensive electronic interfaces. With its Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine, Softail chassis, hidden rear suspension, low seat height, and minimalist bodywork, the Harley-Davidson Street Bob represents a modern interpretation of the traditional bobber concept. The motorcycle combines contemporary engineering and electronic safety systems with a design approach that emphasizes simplicity, exposed mechanical components, and classic cruiser proportions. |
| 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 Street Bob is arguably one of the purest motorcycles in Harley-Davidson's current lineup. Unlike the company's touring models that surround the rider with screens, luggage, and electronics, the Street Bob keeps the experience relatively simple. The focus here is on the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine and the riding character that comes with it. The motor produces effortless torque from almost any rpm, which means the bike rarely feels like it's working hard, whether it's pulling away from a traffic light or cruising on an open road. Its lighter weight compared to Harley's larger cruisers and tourers also makes it feel more approachable and easier to live with on a daily basis. At the same time, the stripped-back design brings compromises. Wind protection is nonexistent, passenger comfort is limited, and longer highway rides can become tiring in stock form. The Street Bob isn't trying to be a do-everything motorcycle, it leans heavily into the traditional bobber formula. For riders who value engine character, simplicity, and customization potential over technology and touring equipment, that focused approach is exactly what defines the motorcycle., 4.4, 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 type of motorcycle is the Harley-Davidson Street Bob? A: The Street Bob is classified as a bobber-style cruiser motorcycle, featuring minimalist styling, a low stance, and a torque-focused V-twin engine. Q: Which engine powers the Street Bob? A: The latest model uses the Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Q: Is the Street Bob suitable for beginners? A: While the low seat height can make it approachable, the engine size, torque output, and overall weight mean it is generally better suited to riders with some experience. Q: What is the seat height of the Street Bob? A: The seat height is approximately 680 mm, making it one of the more accessible motorcycles in Harley-Davidson's lineup. Q: Does the Street Bob have cruise control? A: Depending on model year and market specification, cruise control may be available as standard or optional equipment. Q: Is the Street Bob comfortable for long-distance touring? A: It can handle longer rides, but the lack of wind protection and limited touring equipment means many owners add accessories such as windscreens and luggage. Q: Does the Street Bob have riding modes? A: Recent versions include selectable ride modes and modern electronic rider-assistance systems. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Street Bob? A: The motorcycle is equipped with a fuel tank of approximately 13.2 litres. Q: Is the Street Bob good for city riding? A: Its low seat height and strong low-end torque make urban riding manageable, although its weight can still be noticeable in congested conditions. Q: How is the Street Bob different from the Fat Bob? A: The Street Bob follows a minimalist bobber philosophy, while the Fat Bob features more aggressive styling, dual front disc brakes, wider tyres, and a more performance-oriented character. Q: Does the Street Bob have a passenger seat? A: Some variants are sold with a solo-seat appearance, though passenger seating can be fitted depending on specification and accessories. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Harley-Davidson Street Bob? A: The motorcycle weighs approximately 290–300 kg in running condition, depending on specification. Q: Does the Street Bob support smartphone connectivity? A: The feature set is intentionally simple compared to Harley's touring models, so smartphone integration varies by market and model year. Q: What makes the Street Bob popular among custom builders? A: Its stripped-back design, exposed mechanical components, and extensive aftermarket support make it a common platform for personalization and custom builds. Q: Is the Street Bob a cruiser or a touring motorcycle? A: It is a cruiser, more specifically a bobber-style cruiser, designed around simplicity, styling, and V-twin character rather than touring-focused comfort and equipment. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | STD | 6303142 | STD | 2023000 |
| 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. | Authentic Bobber Character – The stripped-back styling, mini ape-hanger handlebars, solo-style look, and minimal bodywork give the Street Bob a traditional bobber personality without excessive visual clutter. Strong Milwaukee-Eight 117 Engine – The large V-twin produces substantial torque from low revs, allowing relaxed acceleration and effortless overtakes without needing to constantly work through the gearbox. Lighter Than Harley's Touring Models – Compared to motorcycles such as the Street Glide or Road Glide, the Street Bob feels noticeably less intimidating and easier to manage. Simple, Rider-Focused Design – The motorcycle avoids excessive bodywork and touring equipment, resulting in a cleaner and more direct riding experience. Comfortable for Short and Medium-Distance Riding – The relaxed ergonomics and low seat height make the motorcycle approachable and easy to ride in a variety of conditions. Strong Customisation Potential – The Street Bob is often used as a starting point for custom builds thanks to its minimalist design and extensive aftermarket support. Good Low-Speed Rideability – The torque-rich engine and predictable throttle response make city riding and low-speed manoeuvres easier than the motorcycle's engine size might suggest. Distinctive Harley-Davidson Presence – The combination of styling, engine character, and riding position gives the Street Bob a personality that is immediately recognizable. |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6-speed manual |
