25th anniversary CVO Harley-Davidson
For 25 years, Custom Vehicle Operation™ (CVO) models have represented the pinnacle of Harley-Davidson styling and design. They are manufactured in limited numbers and feature the brand’s expertise and craftsmanship. Each CVO model features exceptional finishes, advanced features, exclusive components and obsessive attention to detail. The CVO Street Glide 2024 is no exception.
Although the model resembles last year’s, several small details have been revised and corrected. The Batwing fairing has been upgraded for improved airflow. An extra-large 12.3-inch display provides all the information we need. The cell phone drawer has also been redesigned. The previous year’s drawer was far too small to hold my phone. On this one, it’s so big I could almost fit my iPad in it. The small ventilation hatch has also been enlarged. What’s more, an adjustable air fin has been added. This removes any turbulence in the helmet that so annoyed me on previous models. Rear suspension adjustment is much more accessible now. No need to remove the saddlebag to do it. The wheel is just in front, near the passenger footrest.
Mechanical performance
As far as performance is concerned, this machine is equipped with the Milwaukee-eight 121 cubic inch (1983 cm3) engine. The largest engine ever factory-installed on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. It’s a big twin-cylinder that gives great thrust. No need to invest in a Stage 2 or Stage 3. Just twist the throttle and the power is there, I guarantee it. A six-speed transmission completes the mechanical package. It’s equipped with two Brembo discs and two Brembo four-piston calipers at the front and one Brembo four-piston caliper at the rear. The wheels are equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
Electronic equipment
The large 12.3” display provides a wealth of information. Speed, rev counter, GPS, odometer, trip A and B, fuel consumption, etc. Apple CarPlay connectivity is also available, provided you pair your communication system with the bike. The screen is touch-sensitive when stationary – a great option! All the controls on the grips are backlit, a practical detail come evening. It’s equipped with a top-of-the-range Rockford Fosgate™ Stage II sound system, featuring a four-channel 500 W RMS amplifier feeding speakers integrated into the fairing and saddlebags.
The CVO Street Glide is an eye-catcher. During my rides on it, I visited a lot of places. I’ve noticed that its presence leaves no one indifferent. The paintwork on a Harley-Davidson is always high-quality and eye-catching. The look seems timeless. It’s available in exclusive colors and finishes, including Copperhead and Legendary Orange, making it even more unique.
The conclusion of my test drive
I rode a good 6,000 kilometers and loved my test ride. The saddle is comfortable, and the bike transmits stability through its weight, fork angle and wheelbase configuration. The suspension is always the negative point. With this kind of low-set bike, there’s not a lot of travel left for the rear shock. With a slightly slack adjustment, it hits the bottom. If I stiffen the spring, the suspension becomes a bit dry. With Quebec roads, that’s a big negative. Having driven in the United States, it’s not the same thing. When the asphalt is smooth, it’s a real pleasure to ride the CVO Street Glide. I had a little trouble with the kickstand at the bottom of the Gaspé Peninsula. I can now confirm that Harley service is really on the ball. Everything was done to solve my little problem quickly and to my satisfaction.
Always a question of feeling
Riding a Harley-Davidson is a question of feeling, of feeling proud of the brand. There are more comfortable bikes on the market, but a Harley will put a broad smile on your face, filled with happiness. That’s the feeling I get when I ride this magnificent 121-cubic-inch CVO Street Glide 2024. The sound, the look, the bad-boy image, that’s what loyal Harley-Davidson customers are looking for. You won’t be disappointed if this is the kind of leisure activity you’re looking for. Its price tag of around $55,000 CAD will make your heart sink. What justifies such a price tag? Electronics, mechanics, paint quality and CVO customization are largely responsible. If you can afford it, go for it! And above all, enjoy life on the bike of your dreams.
Highlights :
- CVO customization
- The quality and beauty of the paintwork
- Bad boy look
- 121 cubic-inch engine
Areas for improvement :
- Rear suspension
- High weight (800 lb)
- High price ($54,499 starting CAD)
The 4Riders Magazine team would like to thank Harley-Davidson Canada and Léo Harley-Davidson for making this test ride possible. A special thanks to Florencia of Harley-Davidson Canada who coordinated remotely to solve my little mechanical problem, so that I could continue my tour of Quebec aboard this magnificent CVO Street Glide 2024 with its powerful 121 cubic-inch engine.
Equipment worn during this test ride :
- Oxford Montréal 4.0 coat
- CKX Atlas helmet
- Falco Liberty 3 boots
- Cardo PackTalk Edge communication system
