Harley Davidson CVO Road Glide: What's The Engine Size?

by Alex Braham 56 views

Hey there, motorcycle enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the iconic Harley Davidson CVO Road Glide, focusing particularly on its heart and soul – the engine. If you're anything like me, the engine size is one of the first things you want to know about a bike, and for good reason. It dictates power, performance, and the overall riding experience. So, let's get right into it and explore what makes the CVO Road Glide such a beast on the road.

Decoding the CVO Road Glide Engine

The Harley Davidson CVO (Custom Vehicle Operations) lineup represents the pinnacle of Harley-Davidson's craftsmanship, featuring exclusive designs, premium features, and, of course, powerful engines. The CVO Road Glide is no exception. To truly understand the engine, we need to delve into its specifications, performance, and what it means for the rider. Let's break down the engine that powers this magnificent machine.

Engine Size and Configuration

The most recent models of the Harley Davidson CVO Road Glide typically boast the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine. This translates to a 117-cubic-inch (1,923cc) displacement, making it one of the largest and most potent engines Harley-Davidson offers. This is a significant step up from the standard Road Glide, which often features the Milwaukee-Eight 107 or 114. The Milwaukee-Eight engine family is known for its smooth operation, impressive torque, and overall reliability, and the 117 variant takes these qualities to the next level. The V-Twin configuration, synonymous with Harley-Davidson, provides that classic rumble and feel that riders crave.

Performance and Power Output

Now, let's talk numbers. The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine in the CVO Road Glide delivers impressive performance figures. You can expect around 125 lb-ft of torque and horsepower figures typically in the range of 105-115 hp, depending on the specific model year and tuning. What do these numbers mean on the road? It means exhilarating acceleration, effortless passing power, and the ability to cruise comfortably at highway speeds, even with a passenger and luggage. The torque is particularly noteworthy, providing that strong pull from low RPMs that makes the CVO Road Glide such a joy to ride.

Engine Technology and Features

Beyond the sheer size and power, the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine incorporates several advanced technologies. These features enhance performance, reliability, and rider comfort. For example:

  • High-Performance Cam: The CVO Road Glide engine is equipped with a high-performance camshaft that optimizes the engine's breathing, resulting in increased power and torque throughout the rev range.
  • Precision Oiling System: Harley-Davidson's precision oiling system ensures that critical engine components are properly lubricated, even under demanding conditions. This enhances engine durability and longevity.
  • Counter-Balancing: The Milwaukee-Eight engine family incorporates a counter-balancing system that reduces vibrations, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride. This is especially important for long-distance touring.
  • Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI): The EFI system ensures precise fuel delivery, resulting in optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions control.

Riding Experience

The engine size and specifications translate directly into the riding experience. The 117-cubic-inch Milwaukee-Eight engine in the CVO Road Glide delivers a raw, visceral feel that's hard to match. The throttle response is crisp, the acceleration is immediate, and the engine's rumble is music to the ears of any Harley enthusiast. Whether you're carving through twisty roads or cruising down the highway, the CVO Road Glide provides a confident and engaging ride. The sheer power on tap makes overtaking a breeze, and the comfortable riding position allows you to enjoy those long-distance journeys.

Why Engine Size Matters

You might be wondering, why all the fuss about engine size? Well, there are several reasons why it's a crucial factor for many riders:

  • Power and Performance: A larger engine generally produces more power and torque, resulting in quicker acceleration, higher top speeds, and the ability to carry heavier loads (like passengers and luggage) with ease.
  • Riding Style: The engine size often dictates the bike's intended use. Smaller engines are suitable for city commuting and shorter rides, while larger engines are preferred for touring and long-distance riding.
  • Overall Experience: The engine's characteristics – its sound, its feel, and its responsiveness – contribute significantly to the overall riding experience. A larger engine can provide a more thrilling and engaging ride.

For a bike like the CVO Road Glide, which is designed for touring and long-distance comfort, a larger engine like the Milwaukee-Eight 117 is essential. It provides the power and torque needed to handle the bike's weight and the demands of the open road.

Other Key Features of the CVO Road Glide

While the engine is undoubtedly a highlight, the Harley Davidson CVO Road Glide offers much more than just a powerful motor. It's a complete package of premium features and exclusive design elements. Let's take a quick look at some of the other key aspects that make this bike so special.

Styling and Design

The CVO Road Glide stands out with its distinctive styling and attention to detail. It features unique paint schemes, premium finishes, and exclusive badging that set it apart from the standard Road Glide models. The iconic frame-mounted shark-nose fairing provides excellent wind protection and gives the bike its aggressive look. LED lighting, custom wheels, and other premium components further enhance the bike's visual appeal.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Comfort is a top priority for a touring bike, and the CVO Road Glide delivers in spades. It features a comfortable rider and passenger seat, ergonomic handlebars, and well-placed foot controls. The bike's suspension is tuned for a smooth ride, even on rough roads. Heated seats and grips are often included as standard equipment, adding to the comfort level in colder weather. The CVO Road Glide is designed to make those long rides enjoyable, not just bearable.

Technology and Features

The CVO Road Glide is packed with technology to enhance the riding experience. Modern infotainment systems with touchscreens, GPS navigation, and smartphone connectivity are common features. Advanced safety systems like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and traction control are also often included. The bike's electronic systems are designed to be intuitive and easy to use, allowing you to focus on the ride.

Overall Value

Of course, the Harley Davidson CVO Road Glide comes with a premium price tag. But for many riders, the combination of performance, styling, comfort, and exclusivity makes it worth the investment. It's a bike that's built to impress, both in terms of its performance and its appearance. If you're looking for the ultimate touring experience and want a bike that stands out from the crowd, the CVO Road Glide is definitely worth considering.

Comparing CVO Road Glide Engine Sizes Over the Years

It's worth noting that the engine size of the CVO Road Glide has evolved over the years. While the Milwaukee-Eight 117 is the most common engine in recent models, earlier versions may have featured the Twin Cam 110 or other engine variants. This evolution reflects Harley-Davidson's commitment to continuous improvement and innovation. Let's briefly look at how the engine size has varied in past CVO Road Glide models.

Twin Cam Era

Before the Milwaukee-Eight engine family, the Twin Cam engine was the mainstay of Harley-Davidson's lineup. CVO Road Glide models from the Twin Cam era often featured the Twin Cam 110 engine, which offered a displacement of 110 cubic inches (1,803cc). While the Twin Cam 110 was a powerful engine in its own right, the Milwaukee-Eight 117 represents a significant step up in terms of performance and refinement.

Milwaukee-Eight Era

The introduction of the Milwaukee-Eight engine family marked a new chapter for Harley-Davidson. The Milwaukee-Eight engines offer improved performance, reduced vibration, and enhanced reliability compared to the Twin Cam engines. As mentioned earlier, the Milwaukee-Eight 117 is the most common engine in recent CVO Road Glide models, providing a substantial increase in power and torque.

Why the Upgrade?

The move to larger engines like the Milwaukee-Eight 117 reflects the evolving demands of riders. As touring bikes become more sophisticated and riders expect more performance, manufacturers like Harley-Davidson respond by offering larger and more powerful engines. The Milwaukee-Eight 117 delivers the kind of power and torque that touring riders demand, making it an ideal choice for the CVO Road Glide.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – a comprehensive look at the engine size and performance of the Harley Davidson CVO Road Glide. The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine is the heart of this beast, delivering impressive power, smooth operation, and that unmistakable Harley-Davidson rumble. Combined with the bike's other premium features and striking design, the CVO Road Glide offers a truly exceptional riding experience. Whether you're a seasoned touring rider or simply a fan of high-performance motorcycles, the CVO Road Glide is sure to impress. Guys, if you're looking for a bike that can handle long-distance rides with ease and style, this might just be the one for you. Just remember to always ride responsibly and enjoy the journey! What are your thoughts on the CVO Road Glide? Let me know in the comments below!