Quick Analysis
CVO Street Glide & Road Glide
14.0 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TRIUMPH TIGER 900 GT
17.5 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air-cooled | Liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 1,977 cc | 888 cc |
| Engine Type | Milwaukee-Eight® VVT 121 V-Twin | DOHC, inline 3-cylinder |
| Power | 116.6 PS @ 5020 rpm | 108 PS / 106.5 bhp (79.5 kW) @ 9,500 rpm |
| Torque | 189 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | 90 Nm @ 6,850 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22.7 litres | 20 L |
| Mileage | — | 21 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 380 | 219 kg |
| Seat Height | 715 | Adjustable 820 - 840 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Double Disc | Twin 320mm floating discs, Brembo Stylema 4 piston Monobloc calipers. Radial front master cylinder, Optimised Cornering ABS |
| Front Suspension | 47 mm Inverted 1x1 Front Forks | Marzocchi 45mm upside down forks, manual rebound and compression damping adjustment, 180mm travel |
| Rear Brake | Disc | Single 255mm disc. Single piston sliding caliper. Optimised cornering ABS |
| Rear Suspension | Dual adjustable emulsions suspension with remote preload adjustment on the left shock, and threaded preload on the right shock | Marzocchi rear suspension unit, manual preload and rebound damping adjustment, 170mm wheel travel |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 130/60 B19 | Metzeler TouranceTM Next, 100/90-19 |
| Rear Tyre | 180/55 B18 | Metzeler TouranceTM Next, 150/70R17 |
| 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/2025/11/tiger900graphitesapphireblack.webp |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Raven-fade.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/tiger900snowdoniawhitesapphireblack.webp |
| Cluster | 312 mm TFT touchscreen | — |
| Color Options | Raven Fade | #2C2C2E Poison Berry | #8A2F6B Blue Streak | #1F4FA3 | Carnival Red and Sapphire Black | #B11226, #0F0F0F Graphite and Sapphire Black | #5A5A5A, #0F0F0F Snowdonia White and Sapphire Black | #F5F5F5, #0F0F0F |
| 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. | Vibrations at higher speeds - Some vibrations can be felt on the handlebar and footpegs when riding at higher speeds for long durations. Expensive ownership and service - Service and spare parts costs are on the higher side, especially compared to Japanese rivals. Missing features for the price - A quickshifter is not standard on some variants, which feels like a miss in this segment. Wind buffeting at high speeds - Despite the adjustable windscreen, some riders experience helmet buffeting on highways. Not very sporty handling -The handling is stable and predictable but not as sharp or aggressive as some competitors. Tyres and braking feel limitations (as reported by some) - Stock tyres may not offer the best grip at the limit, and braking feel can feel slightly nervous under hard braking. |
| 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 Tiger 900 GT is a middleweight adventure-touring motorcycle designed to handle a mix of everyday riding and long-distance travel. It is powered by an 888cc inline three-cylinder engine that produces around 95 bhp and 87 Nm of torque. This engine is known for its smooth and consistent power delivery, which makes it easy to ride at low speeds in city traffic while still providing enough performance for highway cruising. The power builds in a linear manner, so the bike does not feel sudden or difficult to control, which helps in maintaining confidence across different riding conditions. The 6-speed gearbox works smoothly and allows the bike to adapt well to both slow and fast riding situations. The chassis is built using a steel frame that balances strength and flexibility, helping the bike stay stable while riding on different types of roads. The Tiger 900 GT uses a 19-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel, which gives it a road-focused character compared to more off-road-oriented motorcycles. This setup improves stability on highways and makes the bike feel more predictable while cornering. The suspension includes upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock, both designed to absorb bumps and uneven surfaces effectively. It performs well on rough roads and helps maintain comfort during longer rides. The riding position is upright and relaxed, which is important for reducing fatigue over long distances. The handlebar is wide and positioned to offer better control, while the seat is well-cushioned and spacious. The seat height is adjustable, allowing riders to choose a more comfortable position based on their height. The bike also comes with an adjustable windscreen, which helps reduce wind pressure when riding at higher speeds. This makes highway rides more comfortable, especially over longer distances. The fuel tank capacity of around 20 litres supports extended rides with fewer stops for refuelling. In terms of features, the Triumph Tiger 900 GT comes with a range of modern electronics that improve both safety and convenience. It includes riding modes, traction control, cornering ABS, and cruise control, which can be useful during long highway journeys. The TFT display provides clear information such as speed, fuel level, gear position, and navigation-related details. The lighting system is fully LED, offering better visibility during night riding. The overall weight of the bike is over 200 kg, which gives it a stable feel at higher speeds but can make it feel slightly heavy at low speeds or while manoeuvring in tight spaces. The design follows a functional approach, with minimal bodywork and a tall stance that reflects its touring capability. Overall, the Triumph Tiger 900 GT is built to provide a comfortable and stable riding experience across a variety of road conditions, focusing on usability, smooth performance, and long-distance capability rather than aggressive or extreme off-road performance. |
| 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 Triumph Tiger 900 GT is a middleweight adventure-touring motorcycle that focuses on comfort and versatility for both daily riding and long-distance travel. It is powered by an 888cc three-cylinder engine that delivers smooth and predictable performance, with strong low and mid-range torque that makes it easy to ride in city traffic as well as on highways. The upright riding posture, wide handlebar, and well-cushioned seat provide a comfortable experience over longer rides, while the adjustable windscreen helps reduce wind pressure at higher speeds. The suspension setup is tuned to absorb rough roads effectively, offering a stable and composed ride, though the handling feels more neutral than sporty. The bike also comes with features like riding modes, traction control, cruise control, and a TFT display, adding to its practicality. In everyday use, mild vibrations at higher speeds and engine heat in traffic can be noticeable, and the overall cost of ownership is relatively higher. Overall, the Tiger 900 GT is designed to offer a balanced riding experience with a focus on comfort, stability, and usability across different riding conditions., 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: Is the Triumph Tiger 900 GT good for long-distance touring? A: Yes, the Triumph Tiger 900 GT is well-suited for long-distance touring due to its comfortable seating, upright riding posture, cruise control, and large fuel tank. Q: What is the mileage of the Triumph Tiger 900 GT in real-world riding? A: The Triumph Tiger 900 GT typically delivers around 18–22 km/l depending on riding conditions, traffic, and riding style. Q: Is the Triumph Tiger 900 GT suitable for off-road riding? A: The Triumph Tiger 900 GT is mainly road-focused and can handle light off-road conditions, but it is not designed for serious off-road use like the Rally variant. Q: What is the seat height of the Triumph Tiger 900 GT? A: The Triumph Tiger 900 GT has an adjustable seat height ranging from approximately 810 mm to 830 mm. Q: Does the Triumph Tiger 900 GT have cruise control? A: Yes, the Triumph Tiger 900 GT comes with cruise control, which is useful for highway riding. Q: How is the engine performance of the Triumph Tiger 900 GT? A: The Triumph Tiger 900 GT has an 888cc triple-cylinder engine that offers smooth and strong performance, especially in the low and mid-range. Q: Is the Triumph Tiger 900 GT comfortable for pillion riders? A: Yes, the Triumph Tiger 900 GT offers a comfortable pillion seat with good space, making it suitable for two-up touring. Q: What is the weight of the Triumph Tiger 900 GT? A: The Triumph Tiger 900 GT has a wet weight of around 219–224 kg, depending on the variant. Q: Does the Triumph Tiger 900 GT have a quickshifter? A: A quickshifter is not standard on all variants of the Triumph Tiger 900 GT and may be available as an optional accessory. Q: What makes the Triumph Tiger 900 GT different from the Tiger 900 Rally? A: The Triumph Tiger 900 GT is more road-focused with 19-inch front wheels and lower suspension travel, while the Rally version is more off-road oriented with a 21-inch front wheel and longer suspension travel. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | STD | 6303142 | GT | 1440000 |
| 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. | Very comfortable for long rides - The upright posture, wide seat, and adjustable windscreen make it one of the more comfortable bikes for touring. Smooth and tractable engine - The 888cc triple engine is refined and easy to ride, with strong low and mid-range performance that reduces frequent gear shifts. Strong suspension and ride quality - The suspension handles bad roads and uneven surfaces well, making it suitable for Indian road conditions. Balanced handling and stability - The bike feels stable on highways and easy to manage in corners despite its size. Premium build quality and finish - Fit and finish, switchgear, and overall materials feel solid and well-built. Good electronics and features - Comes with riding modes, traction control, cruise control, and a TFT display that improves usability. |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start Only |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6 speed |
