What is a Harley-Davidson CVO?

CVO stands for Custom Vehicle Operations. But, what does that actually mean? 

To make a long story short, CVOs are limited-edition factory motorcycles with custom designs, exclusive features and the latest technology. 

To get the full scoop on what CVOs have to offer, continue reading below!

1. Limited Edition

Harley-Davidson manufactures a limited number of CVOs each year. And, each model has a maximum production value.

Harley doesn’t always share these numbers with the public. However, CVO fanatics suspect that only a few hundred to a few thousand of each model are produced each year.

This may seem like a lot of bikes, but it’s actually a small number compared to 100,000+ Harleys sold every year. 

So, if you couldn’t get your hands on a CVO this year, you’ll have to wait for next year’s release. Or, you could purchase a used CVO online via private sale (which could save you thousands of dollars).  

2. Custom Style and Luxury Design 

A perk to buying a CVO is that you get the custom look on a factory bike. Each CVO model has an exclusive custom-inspired paint job and luxury design. 

Due to all the custom elements, CVOs are some of the most expensive Harleys. They currently range between $40,000 and $45,000. 

You could opt to purchase a cheaper bike and customize it. However, you may be better off buying a CVO. 

For example, it’s more cost-effective to purchase a CVO Street Glide than to customize a Street Glide Special to be just like it. This is because the cost of the parts and labor will be significantly greater than the difference in price. 

The little things also make a huge difference. The level of attention to detail on CVOs far surpasses that of the standard models (or even the Specials). For example:

• Nuts and bolts are chrome (not machine metal). 
• Forks are either full chrome (not raw metal) or blacked out.
• Exposed hardware is covered with trim. 
• Features a custom chin spoiler.
• Features ergonomic, leather driver and passenger seats (with heated grips).
• Features premium floorboards and passenger pegs.
• Features remote locking saddlebags. 
• Has CVO logo accents all over.
• Comes with a high-quality keyfob that is exclusive to CVO models. 

3. Advanced Technology and Exclusive Features 

CVOs often have a more advanced infotainment system and a sound system with better quality speakers. 

For instance, the 2021 CVO lineup features the Boom!™ Box GTS infotainment system and the Stage II Rockford Fosgate audio system.

CVOs also feature ABS (Automatic Braking System), RDRS (Reflex™ Defensive Rider Systems) and ride modes. 

And, for an even safer ride, this year’s CVO lineup includes the all-new adaptive Daymaker™ headlight. 

The 2021 models also include Harley’s most powerful engine, the Milwaukee-Eight 117. It has a 117 cubic-inch displacement and 126 foot-pounds of torque at 3750 rpm. 

In Conclusion 

Want to learn more? Well, the best way to understand a Harley CVO is to ride one! So, check these out, and let us know what you think!

By the way, did you know that CVOs used to be called Screamin’ Eagles? The first one made its debut in 1999.

For more fun facts, check out this post on the history of Harley-Davidson CVOs!