Hot new CVO models from H-D

Harley Davidson has been producing their range-topping CVO models since 1999, and for 2023 the CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide are totally renewed.

Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, President and CEO of Harley-Davidson said at their launch “The new CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide break the mould and reset the bar for the pinnacle Harley-Davidson riding experience.”

The new batwing fairing on the 2023 CVO Street Glide is more aerodynamic with pronounced undercuts beneath the headlamp and new integrated turn signal lamps. An “Omega-shaped” signature headlight distinguishes this model.

The CVO Road Glide fairing comes in for a redesign of the “sharknose” concept. A single LED headlamp presents a wide, horizontal shape, with the appearance of twin elements. Indicator lamps are integrated within the outer portions of the signature lighting. Wind tunnel testing is claimed to reduce helmet buffeting by up to 60 per cent. Adjustable vanes and vents are standard and so too daytime running lights. Lighting is all-LED. 

Other design elements common to both include a reshaped front fender, fuel tank, side covers, saddlebags, and reconfigured alloy wheels (19-inch front/18-inch rear). There’s a new tyre pressure monitoring feature.

Both models also feature the new Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 engine, fresh suspension and an entirely rethought infotainment system. 

The 121-cubic-inch (1977cc) 45-degree V-Twin engine offers eight percent more torque and 10 per cent more horsepower than the Twin-Cooled Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine. It features variable valve timing (VVT), and a new intake tract. A single counter-balancer takes care of vibrations. 

Peak power of 86kW arrives at just over 5000rpm while optimum torque of 183Nm happens at 3500rpm. Fuel use thanks to VVT and a higher compression ratio is said to be slightly less than that of models using the 117 engine (the claim is 6L/100km and tank capacity is 23L). A new exhaust optimises performance, while neutral is said to be easier to select in the revised six-speed transmission. Overall kerb weight falls by 14-15kg for the two models (wet 380-396kg).

Both CVOs now have selectable ride modes, comprising Road, Sport, Rain and Custom. Cornering ABS (linked brakes) and Cornering TC are standard, as is Cornering Drag Torque Slip Control. Max lean angle for both machines is quoted at 32 degrees.

New suspension components are said to improve both ride and handling, with 47mm Shown USD forks and matching rear shocks that offer a 50 percent increase in travel. A remote adjustor facilitates preload adjustment while rebound is also variable.

Brakes by Brembo feature four-piston calipers up front acting on twin 320mm discs, while the rear is a similar unit but the rotor diameter is 300mm.

Improved thermal management and a redesigned seat shape are both aimed to improve long distance riding comfort. Seat height for both bikes is 678mm.

A 12.3-inch configurable TFT colour touchscreen is new, replacing most switches and is compatible with Apple and Android devices. Touch functionality is unaffected by gloves. Traffic, weather and navigation map updates are available with WiFi connectivity. Bluetooth for wireless headsets is also inbuilt.

Both models have phone receptacles with USB-C connections. 

Sound is by Rockford Fosgate and features a four-channel, 500-watt RMS amplifier.

Two paint finishes are available, the first comprising Dark Platinum with Bright Smoked Satin pinstriping and chrome highlights. A hand-applied Whiskey Neat/Raven Metallic paint job is a cost option.

Both 2023 CVO models kick off at $66,750 while the custom two-tone variants go for $75,980.