Quick Analysis
CVO Street Glide & Road Glide
10.0 pts
Unweighted: 9 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Street Glide
2.5 pts
Unweighted: 5 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air-cooled | Liquid-cooled heads, air-cooled cylinders |
| Displacement | 1,977 cc | 1,923 cc |
| Engine Type | Milwaukee-Eight® VVT 121 V-Twin | Milwaukee-Eight® 117 V-Twin |
| Power | 116.6 PS @ 5020 rpm | 107 hp @ 5,020 rpm |
| Torque | 189 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | 175 Nm @ 3,500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22.7 litres | 22.7 litres |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 380 | 368 |
| Seat Height | 715 | 715 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel | Dual-channel ABS (Cornering Enhanced) |
| Front Brake | Double Disc | Disc |
| Front Suspension | 47 mm Inverted 1x1 Front Forks | 47 mm Inverted 1x1 Front Forks |
| 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 | 3 in. (76.2 mm) Dual Outboard Emulsion with Preload Adjustability |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 130/60 B19 | 130/60 B19 |
| Rear Tyre | 180/55 B18 | 180/55 B18 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Cast aluminum | Cast aluminum |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED (signature lighting) | LED (integrated in Batwing fairing) |
Other Specifications |
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| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Poison-berry.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Billiard-gray.jpeg |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Raven-fade.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Blue-burst.jpeg |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Brilliant-red.jpeg |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Iron-horse-metallic.jpeg |
| Bike Image 5 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Mystic-shift.jpeg |
| Bike Image 6 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Vivid-black.jpeg |
| Cluster | 312 mm TFT touchscreen | 4-inch TFT touchscreen |
| Color Options | Raven Fade | #2C2C2E Poison Berry | #8A2F6B Blue Streak | #1F4FA3 | Atlas Silver Metallic | #B6B8BA Billiard Gray | #6B7074 Blue Burst | #1E4D8C Brilliant Red | #A01824 Iron Horse Metallic | #5A5A58 Mystic Shift | #4B4F59 Vivid Black | #0F0F10 |
| 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. | Heavy at Low Speeds – Despite improvements over the years, the Street Glide remains a large touring motorcycle, and its weight is noticeable during parking manoeuvres, U-turns, and stop-and-go traffic. Batwing Fairing Adds Steering Weight – Because the fairing is mounted to the forks, some riders may notice additional weight through the handlebars at lower speeds compared to a frame-mounted setup. Engine Heat in Urban Traffic – The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine can generate noticeable heat around the rider's legs during prolonged periods of slow-moving traffic. Premium Ownership Costs – Purchase price, insurance, servicing, tyres, and genuine accessories can make ownership significantly more expensive than most motorcycles on the road. Less Practical in Congested Cities – The motorcycle's width, weight, and large turning radius can make navigating crowded urban environments more demanding. Wind Management Not as Effective as the Road Glide – While the Batwing fairing provides substantial protection, some long-distance riders prefer the airflow management and highway stability offered by the Road Glide's frame-mounted fairing. Crosswinds Can Be More Noticeable – The fork-mounted fairing may transmit stronger wind effects to the handlebars in certain riding conditions, particularly on open highways. Limited Agility on Twisty Roads – The Street Glide is designed primarily for highway touring, and its size becomes apparent when riding aggressively through tight corners. |
| 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 Glide is one of the most recognizable touring motorcycles in the world, largely due to its distinctive Batwing fairing and long, low-slung silhouette. Positioned within Harley-Davidson’s Touring family, the motorcycle is built around the requirements of long-distance road travel while incorporating modern electronics, integrated luggage, and a large-capacity V-twin engine. Although its appearance is closely tied to Harley-Davidson’s heritage, the current generation combines traditional styling cues with contemporary technology and rider-assistance systems. Power comes from Harley-Davidson’s Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, a large-displacement V-twin that serves as the centerpiece of the motorcycle. Unlike high-revving engines commonly found in sport motorcycles, this powerplant is tuned to produce substantial torque at lower engine speeds. The result is a riding experience that emphasizes relaxed acceleration and effortless highway cruising rather than frequent gear changes or high-RPM performance. The engine is paired with a 6-speed transmission, allowing lower engine speeds during long-distance travel and helping maintain a comfortable cruising character. A defining feature of the Street Glide is its Batwing fairing. Mounted directly to the front forks, the fairing houses the motorcycle’s lighting system, instrumentation, and windscreen while also providing wind protection for the rider. The design has been a signature part of the Street Glide identity for decades and contributes significantly to its visual presence. Compared to naked motorcycles or smaller touring models, the fairing helps reduce wind pressure during extended highway riding, which can lessen rider fatigue over long distances. The chassis is designed to support touring duties while carrying passengers, luggage, and additional equipment. Suspension components are tuned to handle the motorcycle’s substantial weight and maintain stability during highway riding. The overall dimensions and wheelbase contribute to a planted feel at speed, while the riding position remains relaxed through the use of wide handlebars, floorboards, and a spacious seat. This layout places the rider in a comfortable upright posture intended for extended periods in the saddle. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes at both ends, supported by modern electronic safety systems. Recent generations of the Street Glide incorporate cornering-enhanced ABS, traction control, and additional rider-assistance technologies that work in conjunction with onboard sensors. These systems are designed to provide support under varying riding conditions and improve overall control during braking and acceleration. Technology has become a major part of the Street Glide package. A large TFT touchscreen display serves as the motorcycle’s primary interface, providing access to navigation, ride information, audio controls, smartphone connectivity, and vehicle settings. Riders can pair compatible devices through Bluetooth and access communication and entertainment functions directly through the system. The display also allows customization of various motorcycle settings depending on rider preference. Storage capacity is another important aspect of the motorcycle’s touring credentials. Hard saddlebags are integrated into the design and provide secure space for carrying luggage, riding gear, and travel essentials. The motorcycle is also designed to accommodate a passenger comfortably, with ample seating space and ergonomics suited to long-distance travel. The Street Glide combines a Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine, a fork-mounted Batwing fairing, modern rider-assistance technology, integrated luggage, and touring-focused ergonomics within a package developed primarily for highway travel. While its styling remains rooted in Harley-Davidson’s traditional touring identity, the underlying specifications reflect a modern grand touring motorcycle intended to cover long distances while providing comfort, storage capacity, and technology for both rider and passenger. |
| 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 Glide has always occupied an interesting place in Harley-Davidson's lineup because it combines the comfort and equipment of a full-size touring motorcycle with a riding experience that feels slightly more connected than some larger tourers. Much of that character comes from the Batwing fairing, which is mounted to the forks and gives the front end a more direct feel through sweeping bends and everyday riding. The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine suits the motorcycle's purpose well, producing strong torque from low revs and making relaxed highway travel feel effortless. The latest generation has also benefited from significant improvements in technology, with the large touchscreen display and rider-assistance systems bringing it closer to contemporary touring motorcycles. Its size is impossible to ignore in city traffic, and riders stepping up from smaller motorcycles will need time to adjust to the weight, but once moving, the Street Glide feels more manageable than its dimensions initially suggest. Rather than chasing outright performance, it focuses on comfort, road presence, long-distance capability, and the distinctive riding experience that has defined Harley-Davidson touring motorcycles for decades., 4.5, 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 Glide? A: The Street Glide is classified as a touring motorcycle, specifically a grand touring model designed for long-distance highway travel. Q: What engine does the Street Glide use? A: The latest Street Glide is powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine paired with a 6-speed transmission. Q: What is the difference between the Street Glide and Road Glide? A: The primary difference is the fairing design. The Street Glide uses a fork-mounted Batwing fairing, while the Road Glide uses a frame-mounted Sharknose fairing, resulting in different wind management and steering characteristics. Q: Does the Street Glide come with cruise control? A: Yes. Cruise control is standard and is particularly useful during long highway journeys. Q: Does the Street Glide have navigation? A: Yes. The motorcycle features a large touchscreen display with navigation, smartphone connectivity, and infotainment functions. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Street Glide? A: The motorcycle is equipped with a fuel tank of approximately 22.7 litres. Q: Are saddlebags included as standard? A: Yes. Lockable hard saddlebags are standard equipment and provide storage for touring and everyday travel. Q: Is the Street Glide suitable for two-up touring? A: Yes. The motorcycle is designed to comfortably accommodate both rider and passenger during long-distance journeys. Q: Does the Street Glide have riding modes? A: Yes. Recent models feature selectable riding modes that adjust throttle response and electronic intervention settings. Q: Is the Street Glide beginner-friendly? A: Due to its size, weight, and engine capacity, it is generally better suited to riders with experience on larger motorcycles. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Harley-Davidson Street Glide? A: Depending on specification and model year, the motorcycle weighs approximately 368–380 kg in running condition. Q: Can the Street Glide be used for daily commuting? A: It can be used in urban environments, but its touring-oriented dimensions make it more comfortable on highways and open roads than in dense city traffic. Q: Does the Street Glide support smartphone connectivity? A: Yes. Bluetooth connectivity allows integration with smartphones for calls, media, navigation, and other functions. Q: What makes the Batwing fairing unique? A: The Batwing fairing is one of Harley-Davidson's most iconic design elements and provides wind protection while contributing to the motorcycle's distinctive appearance and riding character. Q: Does the Street Glide have traction control and rider-assistance systems? A: Yes. Modern versions include traction control, cornering-enhanced safety systems, ABS, and multiple electronic rider aids designed to improve stability and control. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | STD | 6303142 | STD | 3929999 |
| 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. | Excellent Touring Comfort – The relaxed riding position, wide seat, floorboards, and touring-focused ergonomics make the Street Glide comfortable over long distances. Milwaukee-Eight 117 Engine Delivers Strong Torque – The large V-twin engine produces effortless low-end and mid-range pulling power, reducing the need for frequent gear changes. Batwing Fairing Improves Wind Protection – The iconic front fairing helps reduce wind fatigue during highway journeys while maintaining the motorcycle's distinctive appearance. Premium Build Quality and Finish – Paint quality, switchgear, body panels, and overall fit and finish reflect the motorcycle's premium positioning. Modern Infotainment System – The large TFT display supports navigation, smartphone connectivity, media functions, and ride information through an intuitive interface. Strong Highway Stability – The chassis feels settled at cruising speeds, making the motorcycle well suited to extended highway travel. Large Integrated Saddlebags – Hard luggage comes as standard, providing practical storage for touring and long-distance riding. Advanced Rider Assistance Features – Recent models include riding modes, traction control, cornering-enhanced safety systems, and other electronic aids. Comfortable for Two-Up Riding – The spacious seating arrangement accommodates both rider and passenger during long journeys. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6-speed manual |
