Quick Analysis
CVO Street Glide & Road Glide
15.0 pts
Unweighted: 11 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE T120 BLACK
14.0 pts
Unweighted: 9 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air-cooled | Liquid cooled |
| Displacement | 1,977 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Type | Milwaukee-Eight® VVT 121 V-Twin | SOHC, 270° crank angle parallel twin |
| Power | 116.6 PS @ 5020 rpm | 80 PS / 78.9 bhp (58.8 kW) @ 6550 rpm |
| Torque | 189 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | 105 Nm @ 3500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22.7 litres | 14.5 L |
| Mileage | — | 21 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 380 | 236 |
| Seat Height | 715 | 790 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel | Dual channel |
| Front Brake | Double Disc | Twin 310mm discs, Brembo 2 piston floating caliper, ABS |
| Front Suspension | 47 mm Inverted 1x1 Front Forks | Ø41mm cartridge forks |
| Rear Brake | Disc | Single 255mm disc, Nissin 2 piston floating caliper, ABS |
| Rear Suspension | Dual adjustable emulsions suspension with remote preload adjustment on the left shock, and threaded preload on the right shock | Twin RSU’s, with pre-load adjustment |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 130/60 B19 | 100/90-18 |
| Rear Tyre | 180/55 B18 | 150/70 R17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Cast aluminum | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED (signature lighting) | DRLs LED |
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/2025/12/Jet-Black.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Raven-fade.avif | — |
| Cluster | 312 mm TFT touchscreen | — |
| Color Options | Raven Fade | #2C2C2E Poison Berry | #8A2F6B Blue Streak | #1F4FA3 | Jet Black | #0A0A0A Graphite and Matt Graphite | #3A3A3A |
| 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. | Weight and low-speed handling: The T120 is comparatively heavy and some riders find it less nimble in slow manoeuvres or tight traffic. Engine heat and comfort concerns in traffic: In stop-and-go city conditions, the engine and radiator heat can become noticeable and reduce comfort. Not a high-end sport performer: While competent, it lacks the aggressive performance or sport-bike handling of more focused machines, which may disappoint those seeking sharp cornering thrills. Premium cost and ownership aspects: As a premium modern-classic, it comes with higher pricing and possibly higher maintenance/spare costs compared to more mainstream 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 Triumph Bonneville T120 Black is a modern classic bike that mixes an old-school design with updated mechanical parts. It runs on a 1200 cc parallel-twin engine that makes around 80 PS and 105 Nm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox. The engine is tuned for strong low-end and mid-range pull, so in daily riding you don’t need to change gears too often, whether you are in city traffic or cruising on the highway. It is not meant for aggressive riding, but more for smooth and steady use. The bike uses a steel frame along with conventional front forks and twin rear shock absorbers. This setup is mainly for comfort, so it works well on normal roads, although sharp bumps and bad patches can still be felt. It gets disc brakes at both ends with dual-channel ABS, which gives controlled and predictable braking. The 18-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels also add to its stable and planted feel while riding. In terms of size, the T120 Black is on the heavier side at around 236 kg, which can be noticeable at low speeds and while handling it in tight spaces. The seat height is about 790 mm, so most riders can manage it easily. It comes with a 14.5-litre fuel tank, and in real use, mileage usually stays between 18 to 22 km/l. Ground clearance is around 140 mm, which is fine for regular roads but requires slowing down on bigger speed breakers. For features, the bike keeps things simple. It has a twin-pod semi-digital display that shows basic information like speed, fuel level, gear position, and trip details. It also includes riding modes, traction control, and a torque-assist clutch, but there is no focus on advanced connectivity. Overall, the T120 Black is set up for relaxed riding with simple features, where the focus stays on smooth engine performance and a straightforward riding experience. |
| 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 | In India, the Triumph Bonneville T120 Black fits more into the category of a relaxed, easy-going motorcycle rather than something built for speed. It runs on a 1200 cc twin-cylinder engine that produces strong pull at low speeds, so you don’t have to keep changing gears in traffic or while cruising on highways. The seating position is straight and comfortable, but the overall weight of the bike is quite noticeable, especially in slow city riding or while handling it in tight spaces. The suspension setup is tuned for a softer feel, which works fine on normal roads, but sharp bumps can still be felt. It gets disc brakes on both ends with ABS, which offer steady and controlled braking. The bike also includes features like riding modes, traction control, and a simple digital-analogue display, without going too heavy on electronics. In Indian conditions, it makes more sense for calm rides and weekend use, as daily usage in traffic can feel demanding due to its size and weight., 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 is the engine specification of the Bonneville T120 Black? A: It features a 1,200 cc liquid-cooled, 8-valve, parallel-twin engine with a 270° crank, delivering around 80 PS at 6,550 rpm and 105 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm. Q: What is the seat height and wet weight of the T120 Black? A: The seat height is approximately 790 mm and the wet weight is around 236 kg. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity and expected mileage of the T120 Black? A: The tank capacity is 14.5 litres, and official fuel consumption is listed as about 4.7 L/100km (~21 km/l) though real-world mileage may vary. Q: What features and rider aids are included on the T120 Black? A: Key features include LED lighting, twin-pod analogue instruments with LCD display, ride-by-wire throttle, switchable traction control, ABS, two riding modes (Road & Rain), and cruise control. Q: What is the ex-showroom price of the T120 Black in India (recent model)? A: The 2023 edition of the T120 Black has a starting ex-showroom price of approximately ₹ 11.85 lakh. Q: What wheels and suspension does the T120 Black come with? A: The bike uses 18″ front and 17″ rear wire-spoked wheels. Suspension is 41 mm cartridge front forks and twin RSU rear shocks with preload adjustment. Brakes include twin 310 mm front discs (with Brembo 2-piston floating calipers) and 255 mm rear disc. Q: Is the T120 Black suitable for both city rides and longer road trips? A: Yes, thanks to its high torque engine, comfortable ergonomics, manageable seat height, and modern features (such as cruise control and two riding modes) it’s well-suited for both everyday use and relaxed longer rides. Q: What are the major differences between the T120 Black edition and the standard T120? A: The Black edition retains the same mechanical and specification elements as the standard T120, but offers a darker styling theme (blacked-out engine covers, black rims, black exhaust, dark trims) and sometimes exclusive colour options and finishes. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | STD | 6303142 | |1235000 |
| 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. | Torquey, refined engine: The 1,200 cc parallel twin delivers strong mid-range torque and smooth power delivery, making the bike easy to ride and relaxed in every-day use. Excellent build quality & classic styling: With its retro aesthetics (spoke wheels, twin-pod instruments, brushed metal finishes) combined with modern touches, it stands out and carries good craftsmanship. Good ergonomics for many riders: Its relatively low seat height (~790 mm) and relaxed upright riding posture make it accessible and comfortable for commuting or relaxed rides. Modern features despite classic looks: It includes ride-by-wire throttle, dual riding modes, switchable traction control, ABS, and USB charging point, all unintrusive yet present. |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6-speed Manual |
