Harley-Davidson has unleashed a new benchmark for custom luxury touring in India with the launch of the CVO Street Glide. Priced at ₹63.03 lakh (ex-showroom), this limited-production machine from Harley’s elite Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) division is now the brand’s second-most expensive offering in the country, sitting just behind its CVO Road Glide sibling.
Far more than a simple accessory pack, the CVO treatment represents Harley-Davidson’s absolute apex of craftsmanship, performance, and exclusivity. For the discerning rider, it transforms an already iconic motorcycle into a rolling statement of bespoke artistry.
Engineered for Dominance
At the heart of this machine lies an unmistakable CVO hallmark: the Milwaukee-Eight 121 V-Twin engine. This 1,982cc powerhouse dwarfs the standard Street Glide’s unit, churning out a formidable 115hp and a colossal 189Nm of torque that arrives low in the rev range, promising effortless, thunderous acceleration. It’s paired with a six-speed transmission featuring a slip-and-assist clutch for smoother gear changes under that immense torque load.
While the chassis remains familiar, the components attached to it receive a significant upgrade. The braking system is anchored by high-performance Brembo radial-mount calipers up front, offering confident stopping power. The rear suspension isn’t just premium—it’s conveniently adjustable for preload via a remote adjuster, allowing riders to tailor the setup for solo or two-up touring with ease.
A Study in Bespoke Detailing
The true soul of any CVO model, however, lies in its meticulous, hand-finished details. This is where the premium becomes personal. The CVO Street Glide features deep, multi-layered paint finishes that look poured-on, complemented by new, lighter aluminum wheels and a sprinkling of exquisite billet aluminum components. Every surface the rider touches or sees—from the handlebar controls to the dashboard—feels elevated, surpassing the already high standard of the regular model.
Buyers can personalize their machine with a choice of three striking colors, offered in two distinct themes: a bright, classic chrome finish or a modern, menacing “blacked-out” aesthetic. The chrome theme offers a single color option, while the dark finish provides two choices.
Built for the Long Haul
As a dedicated touring cruiser, the CVO Street Glide comes loaded for cross-continental comfort. The centerpiece is a massive 12.3-inch TFT touchscreen display, offering crisp navigation, ride data, and infotainment control. A premium audio system is integrated into the signature “batwing” fairing and saddlebags. A comprehensive electronics suite—including cornering-aware ABS and traction control, hill hold, and cruise control—is managed by a sophisticated Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), instilling confidence in all conditions.
Given its grand touring purpose, the CVO is a substantial machine. With its 22.7-liter fuel tank full, its kerb weight reaches 380kg. Yet, Harley-Davidson’s ergonomic mastery ensures it remains accessible, with a low 680mm seat height and a manageable 140mm of ground clearance that should navigate urban obstacles better than its size suggests.
The Ultimate Aspirational Tourer
Positioned as a halo product, the CVO Street Glide is an emblem of aspiration. It enters a rarefied segment, where its natural rivals include the tech-laden Honda Gold Wing (₹42.82 lakh) and the retro-infused BMW R 18 Transcontinental (₹34.73 lakh). For those seeking the ultimate expression of American V-twin touring luxury, the choice narrows to a family affair: this CVO Street Glide or its slightly more expensive sibling, the CVO Road Glide.
This launch reinforces Harley-Davidson’s commitment to the ultra-premium segment in India, offering not just a motorcycle, but a master-crafted experience on two wheels.
