Custom-Tuned Harley CVO Road Glide Has Superbike Power
Motorcycles & ATVs
Motorcycles
Since 1999, Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) has developed machines in-house for owners who want something extra from their Harley-Davidsons. The 2019 Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glide, recently listed on eBay, is a stellar example of a tourer enhanced by CVO for speed and style.
For Discerning Customers
Every year, CVO comes up with something new. For 2019, the CVO Limited models included:
- Tomahawk 19-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels
- The Kahuna Collection (shifter pegs, brake pedal cover, muffler end caps, heated grips - opens in new window or tab., and rider and passenger footboards)
- A Blaze Red band on the engine rocker boxes
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These features complement the wild factory paint and celebrated Milwaukee-Eight engine - opens in new window or tab.. But the real story here is this Harley engine and its ability to produce superbike levels of power and truck-like torque.
When it left the factory, the CVO Road Glide's 117-cubic-inch Milwaukee-Eight (“Eight” denoting two four-valve cylinder heads) in this bike produced about 95 horsepower and 124 pound-feet of torque to the wheel. These are substantial numbers for a Harley-Davidson. But as the eBay listing states, this one was boosted.
Bryan Barron at R&R Cycles, American V-twin specialists, said:
It features factory CNC-machined heads, and with the T-Man camshafts, D&D exhausts, Thundermax tuner, and 131-cubic-inch kit, power will be significantly increased from stock. Bump up the compression a bit on these M8 motors as well, and you’ll be in the 155 to 160-horsepower range, with the peak torque figure being similar.
Looks to Match
Every CVO bike comes from the factory looking like it’s just been on display at a show, with laser-sharp paint and graphics. At first glance, this one appears stock, but it has received subtle alterations.
The wider front wheel and tire fill out the front fender perfectly. A set of very sleek Arlen Ness mirrors - opens in new window or tab. sits atop the aftermarket Drag Bars - opens in new window or tab.. The mirrors are powder-coated black to match the frame. Similarly, the D&D exhausts - opens in new window or tab. look purposefully finished in black.
The CVO Road Glide’s overall visual impact is further enhanced via a complete air ride system - opens in new window or tab. by Hampton’s Design. This gives it a smooth ride as well as the ability to select the exact desired ride height. That naturally includes slamming it on the ground and resting it on the frame’s center section at a show.
With fewer than 5,000 recorded miles and in exemplary condition, this CVO Road Glide will impress crowds for years to come. The riding experience should also be a thrill.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.